New competitive age groups

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What is happening

Starting in the Fall 2026-2027 season
US Soccer is shifting nationwide youth soccer to a school-year based calendar (August 1 – July 31) 
All U.S. youth soccer organizations, including Soccer RI and South County Youth Soccer Club, are making the shift

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why it's happening

Align team rosters with school grades
Reduce "trapped player" issues
Allow players to compete with classmates

Learn more

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New age group breakdown

DIVISION	START
U7	AUG 1, 2019	JULY 31, 2020
U8	AUG 1, 2018	JULY 31, 2019
U9	AUG 1, 2017	JULY 31, 2018
U10	AUG 1, 2016	JULY 31, 2017
U11	AUG 1, 2015	JULY 31, 2016
U12	AUG 1, 2014	JULY 31, 2015
U13	AUG 1, 2013	JULY 31, 2014
U14	AUG 1, 2012	JULY 31, 2013
U15	AUG 1, 2011	JULY 31, 2012
U16	AUG 1, 2010	JULY 31, 2011
U17	AUG 1, 2009	JULY 31, 2010
U18	AUG 1, 2008	JULY 31, 2009

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Frequently asked questions

Does the change apply to all age groups, or are existing Competitive age groups grandfathered in?

The change applies to all age groups.

Will it be possible to keep existing teams together?

Yes, that will technically be possible. If a team consists of players in the same birth year, kids born on or after August 1st would be "playing up" a year if they stayed with same teammates.

Does this change align with school grade?

It roughly aligns, but not perfectly.  School grade in Rhode Island is determined by age on September 1st whereas the soccer will anchor on August 1st.  In addition, some children may be up or down a school year.

How will SCYSC handle the changes?

We are embracing the change and are excited for the opportunity to play with new teammates and old friends at both the Rec and Competitive levels.  With regard to our competitive program, our goal continues to be to form the strongest teams in each age group while encouraging individual player development.
In an effort to obtain as much evaluation data as possible in this transition year, we will also be recording in-season games to help us understand the range of skillsets to be reviewed by our technical and competitive directors and select members of the competitive sub-committee.

Still have questions?

email competitive director