US Soccer Age Group Change FAQ

Beginning in Fall 2026, U.S. Soccer is changing how youth age groups are formed. This change will affect all SWMO Rush teams and players. Below is everything our families need to know.

What is changing?

Starting with the 2026–2027 season, SWMO Rush will transition from the current calendar-year age groups (January 1 – December 31) to seasonal-year age groups based on the period: August 1 – July 31. This change is being adopted nationwide by U.S. Soccer, US Youth Soccer, and US Club Soccer.

When does this take effect?

• The remainder of the 2026 season will still use the current system.
  
  
• The new system begins with Fall 2026 tryouts and registration.
  
  

Why is U.S. Soccer making this change?

This adjustment:

• Better aligns soccer teams with school grade levels
  
  
• Helps keep classmates and friends together
  
  
• Reduces roster disruption long-term
  
  
• Improves overall player development and retention
  
  

How will this affect my SWMO Rush player?

Age groups will now be determined by a player’s birthdate in relation to August 1 – July 31.

Example: 2026–27 Season

Birthdate  New Age Group

Aug 1, 2017 – Jul 31,2018            U9

Aug 1, 2016 – Jul 31,2017            U10

Aug 1, 2015 – Jul 31,2016            U11

What families will notice:

• Players born August–December may appear to “move down” one age group compared to today.
  
  
• Players born January–July may appear to “move up.”
  
  
• Most players will now play with teammates in the same school grade.
  
  

Will my child’s team change?

In some cases yes, but SWMO Rush will prioritize continuity and development.

Our Directors of Coaching will:

• Evaluate each age group individually
  
  
• Work to keep teams together when developmentally appropriate
  
  
• Communicate clearly with families about any changes
  
  

Who determines final placement?

Final roster placement decisions will be made by SWMO Rush’s coaching staff and leadership team, following U.S. Soccer’s new age group framework.

Each player’s development, experience, and team needs will be carefully considered.

Can my child play up or stay with their current team?

• Playing up is allowed when it is in the best developmental interest of the player and approved by SWMO Rush.
  
  
• Playing down will generally not be permitted except in rare circumstances.
  
  

Will leagues and tournaments follow this change?

Yes, all major leagues and competitions that SWMO Rush participates in will transition to the new seasonal-year model beginning Fall 2026.

What should families do now?

For now:

• Nothing changes for the spring 2026 season.
  
  
• Watch for communications from SWMO Rush about Fall 2026 registration and age group placement.
  
  
• Reach out to your Director of Coaching if you have individual questions about your player.
  
  

Final Thoughts from SWMO Rush

Our goal is to ensure this transition is smooth, organized, and always centered on player development. We will continue to communicate proactively and support every family through the process.