Seasonal Year Age Grouping -- Effective Fall 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is changing?
Beginning Fall 2026, U.S. Youth Soccer, AYSO, and U.S. Club Soccer will move from birth-year age groups (January–December) to a Seasonal Year system (August 1–July 31).
Why is this change happening?
This change is intended to support long-term player development, better aligning youth soccer with high school and college age groupings; and the majority of school-year cutoffs across the country.
Did South Huntington SC make this decision?
No. This change was made at the national level. South Huntington SC is required to follow the new guidelines, just like all other clubs across the country.
How does this affect the Recreational Program (U4–U8)?
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All recreational players will be grouped by Seasonal Year, not birth year. Some players may be reshuffled to align with the new age groups. Going forward, all teams will be formed using the Seasonal Year system. Players will be discouraged from playing up an age group to support proper development.
How does this affect Travel Soccer?
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Starting Fall 2026, new U9 travel teams will be formed using Seasonal Year age groups.
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Players eligible for U9 will be those born between August 1, 2017, and July 31, 2018.
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Players born after July 31, 2018 may try out for U9, but would be playing up an age group.
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The natural U9 travel tryout year for players born after July 31, 2018 would be Fall 2027.
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Travel players may play up an age group but may not play down.
What about current travel teams?
Players on existing travel teams may remain with their current team. If a player is eligible and interested in moving to a team aligned with the new Seasonal Year age group, they may try out for that team.
Will my child be forced to switch teams?
Not necessarily. Recreational teams will be reorganized to align with age groups, but current travel players can remain with their teams if they choose.
Why discourage playing up an age group?
This change is designed for the long-term benefit of players. Starting at the correct age group—especially at younger ages—supports development, confidence, and consistency over a player’s soccer career.
Is this change permanent?
Yes. The Seasonal Year system is intended to be a long-term structure across youth soccer in the United States.
Is this affecting other clubs?
Yes. This change impacts all clubs nationwide, including those across New York State and Long Island.
Read more here!
Who can I contact with questions?
If you have questions about your child’s specific situation, please contact South Huntington SC directly for guidance at SouthHuntingtonSoccer@gmail.com
