Birth Year Registration
Youth & DevelopmentThe system used by most federations (including US Soccer since 2016) where age groups are determined by the calendar year (Jan 1 - Dec 31) rather than the school year.
Related Terms in Youth & Development
Rec Soccer
Recreational soccer; generally less competitive, community-based leagues focusing on participation.
ODP
Olympic Development Program; a US Youth Soccer program established to identify and train the top players in each state and region.
Joystick Coach
A derogatory term for a coach who constantly yells specific instructions to players ('pass there', 'shoot now') rather than letting them make their own decisions.
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Latest Youth Soccer News and Articles
The U.S. Girls Youth Soccer Pyramid: A Parent's Guide to League Tiers in 2025/2026
November 6, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A parent's guide to understanding the tiered leagues in U.S. girls' youth soccer, from ECNL to recreational leagues.
Guide to the New MLS Next Divisions: MLS Next Homegrown and MLS Next Academy Divisions Explained
August 2, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A clear breakdown of the different divisions within MLS NEXT, explaining the homegrown player rule and the academy structure.
Youth Soccer Birth Year vs School Year Change Explained
August 1, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
The age group cut-off date is moving from a January 1st birth year to an August 1st school year system.