Age Group Changes

SWFL Premier FC to Move to a Seasonal-Year Age Group Structure (2026–27)

This is a US Soccer / US Club mandate

Beginning with the 2026–27 season, a US Soccer mandate will implement a seasonal-year age group formation model. This adjustment mirrors the structure currently used by major leagues and platforms throughout the U.S. Soccer landscape, including ECNL, NPL, and other US Club Soccer organizations.

What’s Changing

• Updated formation window: August 1 through July 31 (registration and roster formation aligning with school calendar)
• No change for 2025–26: The Birth Year model (January 1 – December 31) will remain in effect for the current season
• Transition process: Rosters for the 2026–27 season will begin forming during scheduled tryouts for each age group

Why This Change

• Better alignment with the academic calendars followed by most school systems nationwide
• Creates consistency across registration, competition timelines, and player development pathways
• Minimizes calendar conflicts while offering families a clearer, more predictable seasonal flow
• Reflects broader shifts currently taking place across U.S. youth soccer organizations

Leadership Statements

“Transitioning to a seasonal-year structure is an exciting step toward putting players and families first. It creates a more consistent, predictable rhythm that better aligns with school schedules and reduces unnecessary conflicts. Most importantly, it allows us to focus on what maters most – long-term player development, enjoyment of the game, and a positive experience for everyone involved.”
— Nate Bender, Florida Premier FC CSO

Implementation Highlights

• May 1, 2026: Registration opens and team formation begins for the 2026–27 season
• April 30, 2027: Conclusion of the 2026–27 seasonal-year cycle
• 2025–26 season: Birth Year structure (January 1 – December 31) remains unchanged

Quick Q&A

Q: Does this change impact players competing during the 2025–26 season?
A: No. All teams will continue under the Birth Year model for the 2025–26 season. The seasonal-year structure will apply starting with August 2026 registrations for the 2026–27 season.

Q: What does this mean for tryouts?
A: Tryouts will serve as the starting point for roster formation under the new August 1 seasonal-year timeline for 2026–27.

Q: Is this transition consistent across all SWFLPFC programs?
A: Yes. The updated age group structure will be used across all SWFL Premier FC platforms, including ECNL, NPL, and other US Club Soccer leagues.

Q: Is this only affecting SWFL Premier?
A: No. Other clubs in Florida and across the country will be impacted as well and must comply with these changes.