• As of the 2026–27 season, the new standard will shift to a seasonal model, with age groups defined from August 1 to July 31.
• We currently use birth-year model (January 1 – December 31) to define age groups, which was mandated by U.S. Soccer in 2017 to align with FIFA international standards.
• To create a unified path forward in player development and age groupings, the largest youth soccer governing bodies (i.e., US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, and AYSO) agreed to move to the “school year” model. 
• In order to be eligible to participate in US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, NPL, and ECNL league play & competitions, NCFC Youth must be compliant with this change.
• This change will be enacted by US Youth Soccer, AYSO, and US Club Soccer following extensive review and discussion and made, “…based on additional critical feedback, data, and expert input to better align players with their school-grade peers. Our associations feel that this age group player formation will be the most inclusive and help increase participation.” (US Youth Soccer)
• The change will apply to all USYS-sanctioned league and cup competitions (National Championships, Presidents Cup, National League, etc.) and US Club-sanctioned league and competitions (ECNL, ECNL-RL, NPL, USYS, etc.).

• The Recreation program will remain aligned with the school-year calendar, using grade level and date of birth to determine player placement for each season.
• All of our current competitive programs will be affected: Challenge (current U9 players & new players to the Challenge program only; current U10-U19 players will not be affected unless they would like to be evaluated in their age-appropriate group), Juniors, Classic, NPL, ECNL / ECNL-RL, Academy
• Because this is a systemic change, some players will experience a shift into a different “age group” than they would under the old model. This new parameter will influence how we form our teams. We are working diligently to ensure a smooth transition for the 2026-27 season and will take all player development needs into consideration.

We understand that transitions like this can bring questions and concerns, and we want to assure you that our staff is already working through the details to develop the best processes to support players and families.

Our club leadership and coaching staff are:

• Reviewing all current rosters and birthdates to project how the shift will affect teams at each level
• Designing a process for new school year group trainings, tryouts & evaluations for the 2026-27 season 
• Communicating clearly and early so all families know the timeline and rationale 
• Providing support tools and resources, including a birth range calculator and FAQs (please see below). Each program will also have a designated page for their individual timeline as we get closer to tryouts
• Monitoring updates from US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, and state associations to ensure we remain compliant with new rules and provide the best experience

We will share more information, timelines, and next steps as soon as they are finalized. In the meantime, please know that we are committed to helping every player continue to grow, develop, and thrive within NCFC Youth.