Important Update: Age Group Changes & WSA Player Considerations
Starting in Fall 2026 and as previously announced, U.S. Soccer will be shifting the dates for team/age group formation from the current calendar year system (Jan 1–Dec 31) to one more closely aligned with your player’s school year (Aug 1–July 31). Note it is not a “grade based” system, but rather a shifting of the 12-month window to more closely align with player school year.
This does not affect your current team for Spring 2026.
WSA, along with all our peer clubs in CJSA and nationally, will also adopt this new system beginning in Fall 2026
Benefits of the Change
Better aligns teams around classmates which is important factor for young players interest and ongoing participation
Locally / for Wilton, will help us to align teams of players all from one school (eg Cider Mill) rather than having teams comprised of players from two schools (MD/CM or CM/MB)
Having players all from one school will allow our practice schedules to best align with school dismissal times
Who’s Eligible for Travel Soccer in Fall 2026
Players born after July 31, 2019
Younger players born after July 31, 2019 (and before December 31, 2019) may try out as well, but will only be allocated roster spots if WSA determines they are ready and slots available
Team Placement Notes
WSA’s goal will be to minimize disruption of its current teams while also improving development environments for all
Players may always play up an age group if WSA believes that is best for the player first and their team next
We’ve already started planning for this change and will share more details early in 2026 - we believe overall this will greatly benefit the program and the youth soccer landscape