USYS AGE GROUP CHANGE
In June, US Youth Soccer announced changes taking effect in the 2026/27 seasonal year to its age group classification system for youth players participating in their programs.
These changes will apply only to Girls Academy (GA) players; MLS NEXT teams, as of this posting, have elected to remain with the current calendar-year system.
To help our families understand how these policies will affect NVA player and teams, we have prepared some frequently-asked questions to help address the most common concerns.
Should you have additional questions not answered by our FAQ below, please email
Girls Director Phil Liversedge for assistance.
What is the "age group transition"?
Starting in the 2026/27 competitive season, Girls Academy (GA) teams will be organized by school year (Aug 1- July 31) rather than by calendar year (Jan 1-Dec 31).
As of this publication, MLS NEXT will continue to observe the Jan-Dec birth year system.
Does this affect all NVA players?
No. Only GA (i.e., Girls) teams will transition to the new Aug 1-Jul 31 system. MLS NEXT currently intends to remain with the Jan-Dec age group classification.
What is the purpose of the change?
To align soccer teams with the school year, helping reduce "trapped" players (usually with birthdates in the last quarter of the year) who continue in high school after the rest of their cohort has moved on to college.
Will it affect the current (2025/26) season?
No, GA teams will remain under the calendar year system through the end of the 2025/26 seasonal year.
Will registration now be based on the player's grade in school?
Not exactly. While age groups will continue to be determined by birth date, the birth date window will shift from Jan-Dec to Aug-Jul. Players attending a grade outside of their age cohort will play in the group that corresponds to their date of birth.
Which players are most likely to be affected by the change?
Players with birthdays in August through December are most likely to shift age groups, as they will probably remain in their current age group for 2026/27. For example, a player with an October 2012 birth date (current U14) will likely remain a U14 for the 2026/27 season.
Can my player play up an age group to remain with her current team?
Approval for play ups are a coach and technical staff decision based on what is best for the individual player. Skill level, maturity, and overall development needs are the main factors considered. Generally, play ups will be approved only in exceptional circumstances
Can younger players born in August and September play up to remain with players in their grade?
Again, approval for playups will be a technical staff decision made in the player’s best developmental interest. Grade alone will not guarantee a play up approval.
What will my child's age group be next year under the new system?
You can calculate your player’s age group for 2026/27 by using the Age Group Calculator provided by US Soccer. Note the “August-July” listing for your player’s new age group. (You can also find an updated age group chart for 2026/27 below.)
How will GA Talent ID be affected?
GA ID sessions for 2026/27 will follow the new age group classification. Players and families will receive guidance and updates ahead of tryout registration to help promote clarity.
When will 2026/27 Talent ID take place?
Information on Talent ID registration and dates will be published in early 2026.
I have more questions. Whom do I contact?
We are here to help every family understand and feel understood. Recognizing that change can be difficult, and that families may have additional questions, please direct any further questions or concerns to Girls Director Phil Liversedge at philip.liversedge@nvasoccer.com.
2026/27 GIRLS ACADEMY AGE GROUP MATRIX
| U13 | Aug 1, 2013 – July 31, 2014 |
|---|---|
| U14 | Aug 1, 2012 – July 31, 2013 |
| U15 | Aug 1, 2011 – July 31, 2012 |
| U16 | Aug 1, 2010 – July 31, 2011 |
| U17 | Aug 1, 2009 – July 31, 2010 |
| U18 | Aug 1, 2008 – July 31, 2009 |
| U19 | Aug 1, 2007 – July 31, 2008 |
