U12 Youth Soccer
U12 soccer for the 2026-27 season covers players born August 1, 2014 through July 31, 2015 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, 2013 - July 31, 2014 |
| 2026-27 | August 1, 2014 - July 31, 2015 |
Canada Soccer and MLS NEXT Homegrown use a January 1 - December 31 window. For U12 in 2026-27, that means players born in 2015.
Game format for U12
| 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 U12
- Full 9v9 season with more tactical demands.
- Introduce roles: holding midfielder, wide players.
- Heading in games is permitted but limited in training (US Soccer guidance).
Frequently asked questions
What birthdates qualify for U12 soccer in 2026-27?+
Players born August 1, 2014 through July 31, 2015 qualify for U12 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 U12?+
U12 plays 9v9. With goalkeeper and build-out line. Games are Two 30-minute halves.
What ball size is used for U12?+
U12 uses a size 4 soccer ball.
What are the U12 field dimensions?+
Recommended U12 field size is 70-80 x 45-55 yd.
How many players are on a U12 team?+
A U12 roster typically carries 12-14 players.
How is U12 different under the new US age system?+
Under the old birth-year system, U12 covered players born in one calendar year (2015). Under the 2026-27 seasonal system, U12 covers August 1 to July 31.