U11 Youth Soccer
U11 soccer for the 2026-27 season covers players born August 1, 2015 through July 31, 2016 under the new US seasonal-year system, playing 9v9 with a size 4 ball.
Birth windows
| Season | Birth window (US Aug 1 - Jul 31 system) |
|---|---|
| 2025-26 | August 1, 2014 - July 31, 2015 |
| 2026-27 | August 1, 2015 - July 31, 2016 |
Canada Soccer and MLS NEXT Homegrown use a January 1 - December 31 window. For U11 in 2026-27, that means players born in 2016.
Game format for U11
| Format | 9v9 |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | With goalkeeper and build-out line |
| Ball size | 4 |
| Field size | 70-80 x 45-55 yd |
| Goal size | 7 x 21 ft |
| Game length | Two 30-minute halves |
| Roster | 12-14 players |
Source: US Soccer 2026-27 age group and format guidance.
What to expect at U11
- Transition to 9v9 with more tactical structure.
- Start teaching pressing and cover angles.
- Balance skill development with team shape.
Frequently asked questions
What birthdates qualify for U11 soccer in 2026-27?+
Players born August 1, 2015 through July 31, 2016 qualify for U11 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 U11?+
U11 plays 9v9. With goalkeeper and build-out line. Games are Two 30-minute halves.
What ball size is used for U11?+
U11 uses a size 4 soccer ball.
What are the U11 field dimensions?+
Recommended U11 field size is 70-80 x 45-55 yd.
How many players are on a U11 team?+
A U11 roster typically carries 12-14 players.
How is U11 different under the new US age system?+
Under the old birth-year system, U11 covered players born in one calendar year (2016). Under the 2026-27 seasonal system, U11 covers August 1 to July 31.