October 25, 2024
In 2017, US Soccer, the national governing body for soccer in the United States, changed age group classifications ( U5, U6, .... through U19) from a school-year basis (August 1 to July 31) to a birth-year basis (January 1 to December 31). This shift caused an immediate decline in recreational registrations as it separated teams and friend groups. Over time, the birth-year model has become the standard, with teams now including players across multiple school grades.
Recently, however, several associated governing bodies have approached US Soccer in hopes to revisit this decision, evaluating whether the current system best serves players or if a return to the pre-2017 model—or a new approach—would be more beneficial.
Contrary to some circulating rumors, no decision has been made. This week, key leaders from these associated governing bodies, including US Youth Soccer (under which Colorado Soccer Association operates), US Club Soccer (which includes ECNL), AYSO, and others, will meet to discuss and share insights on potential directions with US Soccer. We are closely connected to the leadership in these discussions and expect to be kept informed about potential changes, timelines, and any implementation plans if a change is decided upon.
At this point, no changes are certain, and the earliest any adjustment could take effect would be Fall 2025 with an announcement coming months earlier to allow for planning. Until more information is available, discussing transition details or planning for adjustments would be premature. As before, our decisions will prioritize the best interests of our players, teams, club, and the sport.
The entire staff at Real Colorado is committed to providing the best possible experience for our players. Whatever the outcome of this age-group discussion, we will work diligently to ensure a smooth transition and maintain our high standards of player development and enjoyment.
Factual updates will be recorded below.
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In our promise to keep you informed about recent developments regarding the potential age group change under consideration by U.S. Soccer, please see the following update.
Our CEO recently attended a Colorado Soccer Association (CSA) executive committee meeting to gain insights into the process that U.S. Soccer plans to follow.
At this meeting, CSA’s CEO and President shared information from recent discussions held in Chicago, where they had the opportunity to ask questions and receive updates. They learned that U.S. Soccer has now tasked its Technical Development Committee with investigating this matter. The committee will report their findings to the U.S. Soccer Board on November 22.
We anticipate that, as part of this review process, a survey will be issued early next week by US Soccer for associations and possibly clubs to complete. If the survey is sent directly to clubs, we will certainly participate.
U.S. Soccer has emphasized that this is a complex topic requiring a formal and thorough review process. We expect the next significant update to be available following the November 22nd board meeting.
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Real Colorado sets the standard for the youth soccer experience, offering the most comprehensive program available from the youngest player to the elite athlete at the highest levels of soccer competition in the country.