Beginning with the 2026-2027 soccer season, Cal North will be transitioning to a School Year age grouping method for all programs—with the exception of our Olympic Development Program (ODP) and National Platforms (e.g., MLS Next Tier 2).

For National Platforms, including MLS Next Tier 2, Cal North Member Organizations will defer to the National Platform’s governing body to adhere to their required age grouping method.

What's Changing?

For the 2026-2027 seasonal year and beyond, member organizations participating in Cal North will use the School Year age grouping method (September 1 – August 31) instead of the Calendar Year method (January 1 – December 31). This means players will be grouped based on their school year rather than their birth year alone.

Why the Change?

This update ensures that all players, both competitive and recreational, have a greater opportunity to play with their friends from school. By aligning with the school year, we’re fostering stronger team chemistry, a better player experience, and a more inclusive playing environment!

What Does This Mean for My Club?

All member organizations participating in Cal North will transition to the School Year age grouping method by August 1, 2026 which marks the beginning of the 2026-2027 soccer season.

For clubs using GotSport, transitioning is simple! When setting up registration, just select the "School Year" Age Grouping Method instead of "Calendar Year."

Click here for a step-by-step tutorial to build a program registration within GotSport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): What You Need to Know

1. What effect will this have on my organization’s families?
Most players will be thrilled to compete alongside their classmates and friends! This change enhances player enjoyment and social connection on and off the field.

2. What, if anything, does my organization need to do when registering players?
If you are using GotSport, simply set up registration with the "School Year" Age Grouping Method instead of "Calendar Year." (Click here for a tutorial.)

3. Why doesn’t ODP follow this change like other Cal North programs?
The Olympic Development Program (ODP) follows the National Team Pathway for both the U.S. Men’s & Women’s National Teams. With all international-level youth competitions adhering to Calendar Year grouping, ODP must remain aligned with this structure.

4. Will this affect Cal North’s State Cup and US Youth Soccer’s National Championship Series?
Yes. The School Year age grouping will be applied to the US Youth Soccer National Championship Series, including Cal North’s State Cup and District Cup events that serve as qualifiers for the National Championship Series.

5. How should I communicate this to my membership?
We recommend making a formal announcement to your membership summarizing this change. You can also share this blog post with an explanation to ensure your players and parents stay informed.

6. Will late developers benefit from this change?
Yes! Players with later birthdates in the year will have a more even playing field by competing with their classmates, reducing the age gap disparities seen under the calendar year system.

Cal North will continue using the School Year age grouping method in the 2027-2028 season and beyond. This transition is intended to be permanent, though it remains subject to future adjustments as we strive to align with the leading soccer organizations nationwide.

What's Next?

Mark your calendars! This change will go into effect August 1, 2026, for the 2026-2027 season. Clubs should prepare for this transition early to ensure a smooth registration process.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Cal North Member Services.

We look forward to this exciting step forward and can’t wait to see the benefits it brings to all our players!