U10 Youth Soccer
U10 soccer for the 2026-27 season covers players born August 1, 2016 through July 31, 2017 under the new US seasonal-year system, playing 7v7 with a size 4 ball.
Birth windows
| Season | Birth window (US Aug 1 - Jul 31 system) |
|---|---|
| 2025-26 | August 1, 2015 - July 31, 2016 |
| 2026-27 | August 1, 2016 - July 31, 2017 |
Canada Soccer and MLS NEXT Homegrown use a January 1 - December 31 window. For U10 in 2026-27, that means players born in 2017.
Game format for U10
| Format | 7v7 |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | With goalkeeper and build-out line |
| Ball size | 4 |
| Field size | 55-65 x 35-45 yd |
| Goal size | 6.5 x 18.5 ft |
| Game length | Two 25-minute halves |
| Roster | 10-12 players |
Source: US Soccer 2026-27 age group and format guidance.
What to expect at U10
- Consolidate 7v7 principles: width, support, and combination play.
- Introduce basic 1v1 defending.
- Individual technique remains the priority.
Frequently asked questions
What birthdates qualify for U10 soccer in 2026-27?+
Players born August 1, 2016 through July 31, 2017 qualify for U10 soccer under the US 2026-27 seasonal-year system (US Youth Soccer, US Club Soccer, AYSO, MLS NEXT Academy).
What is the game format for U10?+
U10 plays 7v7. With goalkeeper and build-out line. Games are Two 25-minute halves.
What ball size is used for U10?+
U10 uses a size 4 soccer ball.
What are the U10 field dimensions?+
Recommended U10 field size is 55-65 x 35-45 yd.
How many players are on a U10 team?+
A U10 roster typically carries 10-12 players.
How is U10 different under the new US age system?+
Under the old birth-year system, U10 covered players born in one calendar year (2017). Under the 2026-27 seasonal system, U10 covers August 1 to July 31.