U.S. Soccer has released an updated framework for age groups. Both our competitive and recreational leagues, along with all other clubs, follow suit. We will use this framework, in collaboration with your coaches, for placement in the Fall. To read more, click here.

Playing Up or Down an Age Group — What Parents Should Know

At Ancient City Soccer, age group placements are determined by US Soccer's official birth date guidelines, which assign every player to a division based on when they were born — not their grade, size, or skill level. This system exists to promote fair competition, appropriate physical development, and a positive experience for all players.

We understand that parents sometimes feel their child would benefit from playing in a different age group, whether that means playing up with older kids or down with younger ones. While we recognize that every child develops differently, moving a player outside their designated age group is not something we are able to accommodate as a general practice. Playing up can expose younger players to physical and emotional demands they may not be ready for, while playing down can limit a child's development by removing the challenge that helps them grow.

Players who showcase talent commensurate with a more challenging bracket will be encouraged to progress through our player pathways at Ancient City, moving from AC Rec to Academy in which they will engage in age-appropriate and more technically-developed sessions with a different set of coaches. The solution for a more challenging environment is following the player pathway to Academy, not playing up an age bracket in AC Rec.

As always, any questions can be directed to recreation@ancientcitysoccer.com. Thank you for understanding as we construct a fair and equitable program for over 500 kids, 55 teams, and 12 divisions!