Starting with the 2026–2027 seasonal year (August 1, 2026 – July 31, 2027), youth soccer across the country will move to a new age-group cut-off date of August 1 instead of January 1.

Why is the United States Soccer Federation making the change?

Helps reduce the number of “trapped players” (those separated from classmates due to the calendar-year cutoff).
Better aligns youth soccer teams with the school-year cycle.
Belief that reverting to the pre-2017, Aug. 1–July 31 age group format will best support player development and improve overall balance and participation across youth soccer.
Three of the major soccer governing bodies, including US Club, US Youth Soccer, and the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO), are all following the adjusted age group cutoff dates.
This is not just a Coastal Rush change.

All Gulf Coast United Teams  will be using this new August 1 birth-year format.
All leagues, tournaments, and showcase events we attend will also be using this same format.
That means all the players in our network will be aligned on the same national standard for team formation and age groups with our opponents. Coaches and Directors of Coaching will be responsible for selecting teams.

All players will try out in their new age group. After evaluations, Coaches together with the Directors of Coaching will review and determine whether any players are appropriate candidates to move up.

Below you’ll find:

A simple age-group matrix chart with Age Group References listed

Our goal is to make this transition as clear and stress-free as possible for players and parents. If you have questions after reviewing the information, please reach out to your home club director.