Birth Year Registration is also part of U.S. Soccer’s new player development initiatives. Birth Year Registration applies to all players regardless of age and this change will align with the international standard.

The practice of using the school calendar for age groups is practiced only in the United States and Canada; as all other FIFA members go by the calendar year.Previously, age groups were determined based on players born between Aug. 1 and July 31. The change to calendar year age groups will reflect the calendar year, or Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. Players are still allowed to “play up” or play in...

Standardized Small-Sided Format

A key component for the new Player Development Initiative is to create small-sided standards and institute a birth year registration process. The rationale for the changes is simple; U.S. Soccer wants to develop players with more individual skill, intelligence, creativity and confidence. These standards were created based on the needs of the players and provide a consistent approach across the country. In 2016 the HDYSL will be adopting these new standards in the Spring season.

Here are some frequently asked questions from their website;

What are Small-Sided Games?
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