PCU's Transition to Grade-Based Teams

PCU will transition teams to a grade-based format starting with upcoming tryouts for the 2026/27 season in May, as mandated by US Soccer governing bodies. All teams will now follow an August 1 – July 31 age-group cycle, replacing the previous January 1 – December 31 birth-year structure.

This transition will bring new opportunities, with the nationwide alignment helping to simplify pathways, strengthen team connections, and create an even better experience for players across the country. Thank you for trusting us as we navigate this step forward in youth soccer. PCU will remain committed to what matters most: supporting every player’s growth, development and love for the game.

Please see the FAQ for more details.

If you have additional questions, PCU’s Director of Coaching, Ashton Betts is happy to review individual circumstances and provide guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why the Change?

The decision, made by US Soccer governing bodies, mandates that all clubs return to grade-based team organization starting in 2026/27. USYS, US Club Soccer and USSSA have all implemented this nationwide alignment for all teams including:

• State Leagues

• ECNL Regional Leagues

• Girls Academy Aspire Leagues

• Development Player Leagues

This change better aligns soccer teams with school grade years, allowing more players to be grouped with classmates more consistently, strengthening friendships and team chemistry while increasing long-term participation. A uniform, nationwide system allows for clearer pathways and competitive balance across leagues.

• More equitable competition

• Focused long-term development

• Targeted instruction and clearer pathways

How Will This Affect My Child?

During tryouts, age-groups and rosters will be adjusted as players move to their new grade-based team.

As with every tryout cycle, rosters transitions are normal. While there may be short-term movement within your players age-group, we are confident our club will continue to provide a strong developmental home for every player. PCU directors, administrators, coaches and staff are committed to making the transition a smooth and positive experience for both our athletes and families navigating this change.

When are Tryouts?

U8-10 Tryouts: May 4 & 6th, 2026

U11-19 Tryouts: May 11-14, 2026

Registration and more information, coming soon!

What Age-Group is My Player for the 2026/27 Season?

8/1/2007 – 7/31/2008	U19	12th Grade	Competitive	11v11
8/1/2008 – 7/31/2009	U18	12th Grade	Competitive	11v11
8/1/2009 – 7/31/2010	U17	11th Grade	Competitive	11v11
8/1/2010 – 7/31/2011	U16	10th Grade	Competitive	11v11
8/1/2011 – 7/31/2012	U15	9th Grade	Competitive	11v11
8/1/2012 – 7/31/2013	U14	8th Grade	Competitive	11v11
8/1/2013 – 7/31/2014	U13	7th Grade	Competitive	11v11
8/1/2014 – 7/31/2015	U12	6th Grade	Competitive	9v9
8/1/2015 – 7/31/2016	U11	5th Grade	Competitive	9v9
8/1/2016 – 7/31/2017	U10	4th Grade	Development	7v7
8/1/2017 – 7/31/2018	U9	3rd Grade	Development	7v7
8/1/2018 – 7/31/2019	U8	2nd Grade	Development	4v4
8/1/2019 – 7/31/2021	U6/U7	1st Grade	Pre-Development	No Games

Who’s My Player’s Coach?

Coaching staff for the 2026/27 season will be released in early March. To ensure a smooth and positive transition, current PCU players will have opportunities during March and April to meet any new coaching staff in their respective age groups. Stay tuned for additional details.

My Player Has an August Birthday and Is in a Higher School Grade. What Happens?

Please reach out to Ashton Betts, Director of Coaching at atb.pcusc@gmail.com for options.

What’s PCU’s Play Up Policy?

Playing up at PCU is about readiness, opportunity, and long-term development. Every decision will center around one question: Is this the best environment for this player to grow?

To ensure the experience benefits the player:

• Players must attend at least one (1) official tryout session in both age groups

• For a majority of players, selection to play up requires evaluation as a first team starter in the older age group

• Ongoing check-ins will ensure the player continues to thrive in that environment. If at any point the placement no longer serves the player’s development, we will work collaboratively with the family to determine the best next step.

Families looking to explore this option are encouraged speak with their coach or to reach out to:

Ashton Betts, Director of Coaching at atb.pcusc@gmail.com

We are happy to review individual circumstances and provide guidance.

My Player Repeated a Grade in School. Can They Play With Their School Grade Team?

Team eligibility is determined by the official age-group calendar for league registration and compliance purposes. If your player repeated a grade, they would be unable to play with a lower age-group because of national league requirements. Players must participate in the age group that corresponds with their birthdate over actual current grade, as they can not “play-down.”