Dear Soccer Club of Guilford Families,
U.S. Soccer, US Club Soccer, and AYSO, are reverting to the 2017 “Seasonal-Year”/”Grade-Year” Model. Therefore, this applies across the leagues and platforms in which SCOG participates (SCD and CJSA).
Age Level Model Change Beginning in Fall 2026
From Current "Birth-Year" Model (January 1 – December 31)
To "Seasonal-Year"/"Grade-Year" Model (August 1 – July 31)
Why the Change?
This change is designed and intended to better align soccer teams with school grade levels, support social-emotional development, and reduce the number of "trapped" players who are in a different grade than their teammates. This is a return to a system commonly used prior to 2017 to improve retention and team cohesion.
Exception Consideration/Rule:
While this is a national mandate, individual clubs may have discretion for "playing up" policy to play among current grade peers, however, “playing down” in age will not be permitted (i.e. born prior to the Aug 1st for the age level).
Playing Up” Exception Example:
"Seasonal-Year"/"Grade-Year" Model (August 1, 2015 – July 31, 2016)
Player(s) born August 2016 through December 2016 who are in Grade 4 can “play up” with Grade 4 (among their Grade peers), rather than playing in Grade 3 (which is below their Grade and peers). Their birth date is younger than the new date model, however they are in the same Grade as the players in this Age Level.
Note: this can only be considered if there is a spot available in the age level for a player to do so. A player seeking to "play up" to be amongst their peers and current grade level may not take the last spot in an age level from a player following the age matrix.
Potential Additional Exception:
Under extenuating circumstances, SCOG may consider an additional exception for existing travel age group teams.
Soccer Club of Guilford's Commitment
We understand that changes to age structures can cause uncertainty. Please know that we are analyzing and planning for a smooth transition.
Our goal is to ensure:
Player development
Challenge both individually and team: Competition