Beginning with the 2026-2027 season,
AYSO is changing its age group formation from a calendar year (Jan 1-Dec 31) to a school-year cycle (
Aug 1-July 31). This shift aligns players with classmates, reducing "trapped players" and boosting retention. Age is determined by the child’s age on August 1.
Key Details of the AYSO Age Change:
Effective Date:
The new system applies to the 2026-2027 season (starting in fall 2026).
- New Cut-off Date: The age group formation cycle will be August 1 – July 31.
- Why the Change: This transition moves away from birth-year registration (Jan-Dec) back to a school-year model to better align with grade levels, increasing participation for older players.
- Impact on Registration: A player's age group is determined by their age on August 1 of the new season, regardless of their birth year.