U9 Youth Soccer
U9 soccer for the 2026-27 season covers players born August 1, 2017 through July 31, 2018 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, 2016 - July 31, 2017 |
| 2026-27 | August 1, 2017 - July 31, 2018 |
Canada Soccer and MLS NEXT Homegrown use a January 1 - December 31 window. For U9 in 2026-27, that means players born in 2018.
Game format for U9
| 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 U9
- First year with goalkeepers and a build-out line.
- Introduce 7v7 shape and simple positional roles.
- Encourage building from the back.
Frequently asked questions
What birthdates qualify for U9 soccer in 2026-27?+
Players born August 1, 2017 through July 31, 2018 qualify for U9 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 U9?+
U9 plays 7v7. With goalkeeper and build-out line. Games are Two 25-minute halves.
What ball size is used for U9?+
U9 uses a size 4 soccer ball.
What are the U9 field dimensions?+
Recommended U9 field size is 55-65 x 35-45 yd.
How many players are on a U9 team?+
A U9 roster typically carries 10-12 players.
How is U9 different under the new US age system?+
Under the old birth-year system, U9 covered players born in one calendar year (2018). Under the 2026-27 seasonal system, U9 covers August 1 to July 31.