U8 Youth Soccer
U8 soccer for the 2026-27 season covers players born August 1, 2018 through July 31, 2019 under the new US seasonal-year system, playing 4v4 with a size 3 ball.
Birth windows
| Season | Birth window (US Aug 1 - Jul 31 system) |
|---|---|
| 2025-26 | August 1, 2017 - July 31, 2018 |
| 2026-27 | August 1, 2018 - July 31, 2019 |
Canada Soccer and MLS NEXT Homegrown use a January 1 - December 31 window. For U8 in 2026-27, that means players born in 2019.
Game format for U8
| Format | 4v4 |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | No goalkeeper |
| Ball size | 3 |
| Field size | 25-35 x 15-25 yd |
| Goal size | 4 x 6 ft (mini) |
| Game length | Four 10-12 minute quarters |
| Roster | 6-8 players |
Source: US Soccer 2026-27 age group and format guidance.
What to expect at U8
- Last year before goalkeepers appear.
- Build dribbling confidence in tight spaces.
- Teach receiving with the inside of the foot.
Frequently asked questions
What birthdates qualify for U8 soccer in 2026-27?+
Players born August 1, 2018 through July 31, 2019 qualify for U8 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 U8?+
U8 plays 4v4. No goalkeeper. Games are Four 10-12 minute quarters.
What ball size is used for U8?+
U8 uses a size 3 soccer ball.
What are the U8 field dimensions?+
Recommended U8 field size is 25-35 x 15-25 yd.
How many players are on a U8 team?+
A U8 roster typically carries 6-8 players.
How is U8 different under the new US age system?+
Under the old birth-year system, U8 covered players born in one calendar year (2019). Under the 2026-27 seasonal system, U8 covers August 1 to July 31.