Resources for Upcoming Age Group Changes
Age Group Changes
Starting for the 2026–2027 seasonal soccer year (August 1, 2026 – July 31, 2027), youth soccer programs across the country will adopt a new age-group cut-off date of August 1 instead of January 1. Below are more details about the change, an age group calculator, and FAQ's about how this may affect your player and family.
Why the change?
– Helps reduce the number of “trapped players” (those separated from classmates due to the calendar-year cutoff).
– Better aligns youth soccer teams with the school-year cycle.
– Belief that reverting to the pre-2017, Aug. 1–July 31 age group format will best support player development and improve overall balance and participation across youth soccer.
– Three of the major soccer governing bodies, including US Club, US Youth Soccer, and the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), are all following the adjusted age group cutoff dates.
This calculator is intended for informational purposes only. Final placement may vary. Please confirm your player’s official age group with your local Rush club. Find your Rush club here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Under the new age group structure, my player does not move up. Does this mean they have to repeat an age group?
Not necessarily. The updated age group structure is designed to better align soccer age groups with school-year cutoff dates, ensuring players are grouped more closely with their classmates and peers. While it may appear that some players are “repeating” an age group, this realignment simply adjusts the calendar to match the school year. In fact, the additional time in an age group can be highly beneficial — it allows players to further develop their skills, confidence, and leadership before moving to the next level.
Will my player be allowed to ``move up`` with their friends/teammates if they fall into the lower age group?
We generally encourage players to participate within their designated age group to ensure appropriate development, competition balance and alignment with the new age group cutoff dates. However, we understand every circumstance is different. Requests for players to “play up” with an older age group will be reviewed on an individual basis and considered in collaboration with coaches and club leadership.
My 8th grader falls into the older age group due to an earlier summer birthday, will there be a place for them to play in the spring?
Yes. We understand that some 8th graders with earlier summer birthdays may fall into the older age group under the new structure. There will be opportunities for these players to participate in the spring season. We are currently awaiting additional details and guidance from the leagues we participate in regarding what will be permitted for spring play, and we’ll share updates as soon as that information is available.
I have a high school senior that falls into the U19 age group, can they play under the new age group calendar?
Yes. High school seniors who fall into the U19 age group will be eligible to play under the new age group calendar. We will provide additional information from the leagues we participate in as it becomes available, including any guidance or restrictions regarding U18 versus U19 participation.
I believe my player should be evaluated to ``play-up`` even though the new age group dates have them repeating an age group. Will this be allowed?
Requests for players to “play up” will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. In general, all players should attend the first tryout with their designated age group based on the new calendar. Coaches and club leadership will review individual circumstances and communicate directly with players and families if a player is recommended to try out with an older age group.