General Information
EMSSC will be implementing the mandated USYS/IYSA age group changes for the 2026/2027 competitive season. The primary change is a move away from the current calendar year age group model to one aligned more closely with the school year, utilizing a birthdate range of August 1st through July 31st for division placement. We acknowledge that this requires adjustment, but we are committed to providing a stable environment; therefore, we will follow our normal process, utilizing tryouts in June, to finalize and solidify teams based on these new guidelines. This webpage will provide answers to common questions. If you have additional questions, please reach out to your head coaches are DOCs.
You can read our official statement below:
Dear EMSSC Families,
As a competitive club, we are committed to providing the highest level of stability and continuity for our players. However, we must also align with the structure set forth by the national and state governing bodies, US Youth Soccer (USYS) and the Illinois Youth Soccer Association (IYSA).
We are releasing this statement to confirm that EMSSC will be implementing the mandated change to the age group cut-off dates for the upcoming 2026/2027 competitive season. Instead of age groups being determined by birth year, the updated birth range will be from August 1st - July 31st.
We understand that structural changes can sometimes be challenging, but we are confident that our club's leadership and coaching staff will navigate this transition smoothly, ensuring the best possible environment for player development and team formation.
Despite these structural changes, our commitment to player evaluation and team formation remains constant. Just as we do every year, EMSSC will utilize information from tryouts in June to finalize and solidify all competitive teams. We will assess talent and team needs based on the new age groupings at that time.
We encourage all competitive families to review the new age guidelines and be prepared for these changes as we approach the tryout window. We appreciate your patience and trust as we continue to provide a high level competitive experience.
You can find more information at our website regarding this change and we will continue to closely monitor any updates from the national and state level. Thank you for your continued support of EMSSC.
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is EMSSC making this change?
This change is mandated by USYS/IYSA to align with the school year and national standards. Compliance is required for EMSSC teams to participate in sanctioned leagues and tournaments.
USYS has made this structural change for the following primary reasons:
- Improve social cohesion by keeping players with their schoolmates
- Support collegiate recruitment by aligning soccer teams with graduate classes
- Enhance the youth soccer experience
When will this change take effect?
This change will begin in the upcoming 2026-2027 season. After tryouts in June 2026, teams will be aligned with the new requirements at that time.
Is there any flexibility on the cut-off date for my child?
No. The birth date range must be strictly followed for team formation and league sanctioning.
Why is the cut off August 1 instead of September 1 like most schools?
August 1 was decided by the national organization and we must follow that date. They reviewed feedback from all over the country to make this decision.
What if my player is “playing up”? Will they still get to?
Decisions regarding all team formations and player placements will take place based on evaluations during the June 2026 Tryouts. While it is always our primary goal to maintain team cohesion and keep existing teams together, we acknowledge that the mandated change to the age structure means this will be a year of transition and adjustments.
League rules allow players to continue "playing up" up to two years above their determined age group based on their ability and skill; however, players can never play down into a younger age group.
When will tryouts be and when can we register?
Final tryout dates will be announced shortly and will take place early June. It is essential to register for tryouts as early as possible. Watch for announcements on our social media pages and website.
Will anything change for recreational soccer?
There will be no changes to our recreational soccer program at this time.
Where should I direct personal questions regarding my child and how this change may impact them?
Parents can reach out to their head coaches or the DOCs if they have questions.