Age Group Update for the 2026–2027 Season

Beginning with the 2026–2027 seasonal year, youth soccer organizations across the country will transition to a new age group formation model. This change affects all clubs participating in U.S. Youth Soccer (USYS), US Club Soccer, ECNL, and affiliated leagues, including Chicago Soccer Academy (CSA).

At CSA, our priority throughout this transition is to support our players, families, and coaches with clear communication, thoughtful planning, and a player-first approach. We understand that changes like this can raise questions, and we want to be proactive, transparent, and reassuring as we move forward together.

This update is designed to explain what’s changing, why the change is happening, who it impacts, and how CSA is preparing to ensure a smooth transition for the 2026–2027 season.

What is changing?

Starting with the 2026–2027 season, age groups will shift from a calendar-year model (January 1 – December 31) to a seasonal-year model that runs from August 1 through July 31 of the following year.

Currently, players are grouped strictly by birth year. Under the new system, age groups will be formed in a way that more closely aligns with school-year timelines.

This change was originally mandated by U.S. Soccer in 2017 to align with FIFA international standards, and it is now being implemented across youth soccer platforms nationwide.

Who is making this change and why?

This change is being enacted by U.S. Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, and AYSO, following extensive review, discussion, and analysis.

The collective decision was made based on:

• Feedback from clubs and families
• Developmental and participation data
• Expert input from youth development leaders

The goal is to better align players with their school-grade peers, create more inclusive team environments, and support long-term player development.

CSA believes this age group formation model has the potential to be more inclusive and to increase participation, while maintaining appropriate competitive standards.

Who will be affected?

All current competitive programs at Chicago Soccer Academy will be affected by this systemic change.

Because of the shift to a seasonal-year model:

• Some players may move into a different age group
• Team formations may look different for the 2026–2027 season

CSA is working diligently to ensure that player development remains the top priority, and all decisions will be made with each athlete’s best interests in mind.

How is CSA preparing?

Our club leadership and coaching staff are already actively preparing for the transition. Current efforts include:

1. Reviewing all rosters and birthdates to project how teams may be affected at each level
2. Designing a process for school-year-based group trainings, tryouts, and evaluations for the 2026–2027 season
3. Communicating early and clearly so families understand the timeline, reasoning, and next steps

We are committed to ensuring families have the information they need well in advance.

Age Group Alignment for the 2026–2027 Season

Below is the new age group alignment under the seasonal-year model:

U6 players are born between August 1, 2020 and July 31, 2021.

U7 players are born between August 1, 2019 and July 31, 2020.

U8 players are born between August 1, 2018 and July 31, 2019.

U9 players are born between August 1, 2017 and July 31, 2018.

U10 players are born between August 1, 2016 and July 31, 2017.

U11 players are born between August 1, 2015 and July 31, 2016.

U12 players are born between August 1, 2014 and July 31, 2015.

U13 players are born between August 1, 2013 and July 31, 2014.

U14 players are born between August 1, 2012 and July 31, 2013.

U15 players are born between August 1, 2011 and July 31, 2012.

U16 players are born between August 1, 2010 and July 31, 2011.

U17 players are born between August 1, 2009 and July 31, 2010.

U18/19 players are born between August 1, 2007 and July 31, 2009.

What happens next?

CSA will continue to monitor updates from U.S. Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, and state associations to ensure full compliance and to provide the best possible experience for our members.

As details are finalized, we will share:

• Additional timelines
• Tryout and evaluation information
• Team formation updates

In the meantime, please know that no immediate action is required from families.

Our coaches will work closely with club leadership to evaluate each player holistically — considering technical, physical, psychological, and social development — and will communicate individual recommendations once planning is complete.

Our commitment to families

At Chicago Soccer Academy, we recognize that change can feel uncertain. We view this transition as an opportunity to make thoughtful, developmentally sound decisions that support each player’s long-term growth — both on and off the field.

We are committed to helping every player continue to grow, develop, and thrive within CSA.

Thank you for your continued trust and for being part of the Chicago Soccer Academy community.