U18 Youth Soccer
U18 soccer for the 2026-27 season covers players born August 1, 2008 through July 31, 2009 under the new US seasonal-year system, playing 11v11 with a size 5 ball.
Birth windows
| Season | Birth window (US Aug 1 - Jul 31 system) |
|---|---|
| 2025-26 | August 1, 2007 - July 31, 2008 |
| 2026-27 | August 1, 2008 - July 31, 2009 |
Canada Soccer and MLS NEXT Homegrown use a January 1 - December 31 window. For U18 in 2026-27, that means players born in 2009.
Game format for U18
| Format | 11v11 |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Full-sided game |
| Ball size | 5 |
| Field size | 110-130 x 65-80 yd |
| Goal size | 8 x 24 ft |
| Game length | Two 45-minute halves |
| Roster | 18-22 players |
Source: US Soccer 2026-27 age group and format guidance.
What to expect at U18
- Transition year: high school seniors and college freshmen.
- Adult league integration is common in Canada.
- Peak physical development.
Frequently asked questions
What birthdates qualify for U18 soccer in 2026-27?+
Players born August 1, 2008 through July 31, 2009 qualify for U18 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 U18?+
U18 plays 11v11. Full-sided game. Games are Two 45-minute halves.
What ball size is used for U18?+
U18 uses a size 5 soccer ball.
What are the U18 field dimensions?+
Recommended U18 field size is 110-130 x 65-80 yd.
How many players are on a U18 team?+
A U18 roster typically carries 18-22 players.
How is U18 different under the new US age system?+
Under the old birth-year system, U18 covered players born in one calendar year (2009). Under the 2026-27 seasonal system, U18 covers August 1 to July 31.