US Soccer Age Group Update & What It Means for Greenburgh United
US Youth Soccer has announced an update to youth soccer age group eligibility, shifting the cutoff date from January 1 to July 31 to better align with the school year.
We know changes like this can raise questions for families, so we want to clearly explain what’s changing nationally and, most importantly, how Greenburgh United plans to approach this transition.
What’s Changing
Under the previous system, age groups were determined by calendar year. Moving forward, age groups will align with the school-year calendar using a July 31 cutoff. This adjustment is intended to better reflect how kids experience school, friendships, and development stages.
U.S. Soccer Federation has shared that the goal of this change is to support player development, social connection, and long-term participation in the sport.
Greenburgh United’s Approach
At Greenburgh United, our priority has always been the player experience, team continuity, and community.
While we will align with the updated U.S. Soccer guidelines, our intention is to keep teams intact as much as possible. Where players have trained together and built strong chemistry, we will prioritize maintaining those groups and avoid unnecessary disruption.
Any adjustments that are required will be made thoughtfully and on a case-by-case basis, with clear communication from the club.
Our goal is to ensure players continue to train, compete, and grow alongside their teammates at appropriate skill levels, while staying aligned with the broader structure of U.S. youth soccer.
What Families Can Expect
As we move into upcoming seasons:
Some age group labels may change, even if rosters remain largely the same
Coaches and directors will communicate directly if any changes affect your child
Families will have ample notice and support throughout the process
Our focus remains on development, enjoyment, and keeping soccer a positive and consistent part of our players’ lives.
Looking Ahead
Aligning age groups with the school year is a meaningful shift, but how it’s implemented at the club level matters. At Greenburgh United, we will continue to lead with common sense, flexibility, and a community-first mindset.
We appreciate your trust and partnership as we navigate this transition together, and we’re always happy to answer questions as they come up.
Age Group — Birthdate Range Starting Fall 2026 Seasn
U8 — August 1, 2017 – July 31, 2018
U9 — August 1, 2016 – July 31, 2017
U10 — August 1, 2015 – July 31, 2016
U11 — August 1, 2014 – July 31, 2015
U12 — August 1, 2013 – July 31, 2014
U13 — August 1, 2012 – July 31, 2013
U14 — August 1, 2011 – July 31, 2012