New Age Groups
Transition to New Age Groups for 2026-27 Seasonal Year
Arsenal Colorado Families,
Last fall we shared that U.S. Soccer has announced a national change to how youth soccer age groups will be formed beginning with the 2026–27 seasonal year. As we approach the upcoming tryout season, we want to revisit this topic, reinforce what it means for our players, and help families prepare for the transition.
Beginning with the 2026–27 seasonal year, competitive teams across the United States will once again be formed using a school-year style age grouping (August 1–July 31) rather than the birth-year system that has been in place since 2016.
This is a U.S. Soccer initiative that all leagues and clubs must follow, including those in our region. While the change is not being driven locally by Arsenal Colorado, we support the overall intent of the shift and are committed to implementing it thoughtfully and in a way that best supports our players and families.
Why This Change Is Happening
The goal of this adjustment is to better align soccer teams with players’ school classmates and social groups, something that many families and coaches have felt was lost under the birth-year system.
When teammates are closer in grade level, it often helps strengthen friendships, improve team chemistry, and create a more natural development pathway for players both socially and athletically.
There are several practical benefits that U.S. Soccer hopes this shift will address:
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Better alignment with classmates and friends, allowing players to grow and compete alongside their school peers.
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Reduced “trapped player” situations during high school years, where some players are left without a team when older teammates move on to high school soccer.
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Improved showcase and recruiting alignment for players pursuing opportunities beyond youth soccer.
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Stronger long-term team cohesion, as players move through the game alongside familiar peers.
While any structural change brings adjustments, we believe this alignment will ultimately support a healthier and more connected environment for youth players.
What This Means for Arsenal Colorado
2025–26 Spring Season
Players will remain on their current teams for the remainder of the spring season.
During this time our staff will begin reviewing potential future groupings internally so that we are well prepared for the upcoming transition.
2026–27 Seasonal Year and Beyond
Beginning with spring 2026 tryouts, players will be evaluated and placed into teams based on the new August 1–July 31 age group structure.
These groupings will more closely align with school grades and classmates.
What Families Should Expect
Some Players Will Shift Age Groups
Because the age structure itself is changing, some players will move slightly older or younger relative to their current team depending on where their birthday falls within the new August–July range.
In some cases, many current teammates may remain together. In others, teams may split into different groupings. This is a natural outcome of moving from one system to another.
Thoughtful Team Formation
Our coaching and technical staff will approach this transition thoughtfully and carefully, with the goal of maintaining positive team environments and strong developmental pathways for every player.
As new groupings are formed, teams will continue progressing through the same developmental framework, coaching standards, and playing philosophy that guide our club. Our decisions will remain grounded in Arsenal Colorado’s vision, values, and commitment to long-term player development.
“Grandfathering” Teams Is Not Possible
Because the age group structure itself is changing nationally, maintaining current rosters exactly as they exist today would not allow teams to align with the new system. As a result, restructuring of teams will be necessary across the club.
What Families Can Do Right Now
While there is nothing families need to do immediately, there are a few helpful ways to begin preparing for the transition.
Talk with Your Player About the Change
For many players, the biggest question will simply be who their teammates will be next year. When discussing the change with your player, it can help to focus on the positive aspects:
• They may have the opportunity to play with more classmates or school friends.
• They will meet new teammates and build new friendships.
• They will continue developing with players who are at a similar stage both socially and athletically.
Framing the change as a new opportunity rather than a disruption can help players approach the transition with excitement.
Focus on Development and Enjoyment
Regardless of how teams shift, our core mission remains the same: helping players grow, improve, and love the game of soccer. The most important factor in a player’s experience will always be their commitment to learning, competing, and supporting their teammates.
Tryout Information
We will distribute full tryout information in the coming weeks, including registration details, dates, and additional guidance related to the new age group structure. For more information on the process, please see our Tryouts page.
Reach Out with Questions
We understand that families may have questions as they process how the new structure will affect their player. Our staff will continue to provide information as details become available and we are always happy to help clarify anything along the way.
We appreciate your partnership and trust as we implement this nationwide change in a way that supports the best possible experience for our players.
Thank you for being part of the Arsenal Colorado community.
Arsenal Colorado
970-226-4253
office@soccerfortcollins.org
