AGE GROUP TRANSITION
2026-2027 SEASON
In June, it was announced there would be updates to the age group classification system, taking effect beginning with the 2026–2027 season. Age groups will no longer be formed by birth year, they will be formed by a seasonal year of August 1-July 31 to better align with the school year. These changes will apply to all youth players across the country, including those within our club.
To help our families understand what this means and how it may impact their player(s), we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions addressing the most common topics related to the update.
AGE GROUP TRANSITION FAQS
Who made this decision?
Transitioning to an August 1-July 31 age group classification was a decision made by US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer and AYSO, the governing bodies of soccer in the US.
What age group will my player be for the 26/27 season?
Please see Lexington Sporting Club’s 2026-2027 Age Group Matrix linked below.
What is the purpose of this change?
To better align youth soccer teams with the school calendar, reducing the number of “trapped” players — typically those born late in the calendar year — who remain in high school with limited playing options, after most of their age group has moved on to college.
My player is impacted by the change, can they play up?
Our current process remains in place- decisions regarding playing up are made by the coaching and technical staff, with the individual player’s best interests as the priority. All factors that influence a player’s development are carefully considered. Our goal is to maximize every player’s full potential. Playing up is determined and approved by the technical staff.
Will registration now be based on a player’s school year?
Not exactly. Age groups will still be based on birth year, but the eligibility window will shift from January–December to August–July. Players who are in a different school grade than their age cohort will compete in the age group that aligns with their date of birth.
What does this mean for 2026-2027 player placements?
For the 2026–2027 season, player placements will reflect the new age group calendar. We’ll continue to share clear guidance and updates ahead of registration to help families navigate the process with confidence.
Who will be impacted by this change?
Players born between August and December are most likely to be impacted by this change, as many will remain in their current age group for the 2026–2027 season. For example, a player born in September 2015 who is currently U11 would continue to compete at the U11 level in 2026–2027.
2026-2027 Season Information Timeline
Below you will find an outline of when information will be available for the 2026-2027 season. This information will be distributed via email to current players/families.
March 23, 2026 – Club wide virtual information session with Club Technical Leadership.
By April 10, 2026 – Age Group Director of Coaching Announcements and Player Placement Process Announcement
By May 4, 2026 – Team Coach Announcements, 2026-2027 Programming and Club Dues
By May 15, 2026 – Club wide virtual Q&A session for the 2026-2027 season.
By June 1, 2026 – All Player Placements Announced
By June 8, 2026 – Player commitment for 2026-2027 must be completed and deposit received.
Interested in joining or learning more about our club? Complete our player interest form and we will be in touch!
You will need to create a PlayMetrics account if you do not have one already.
