Blog 3. A New Tryout Era: What Soccer Families Need to Know
Upcoming 2026–2027 Tryouts
In this new blog, I’d like to talk about the upcoming 2026–2027 tryouts, which are just a few weeks away.
These are not typical tryouts. US Youth Soccer is returning to a calendar aligned with the school year, with the age chart running from August 1 to July 31.
I say “return” because when I founded SP Soccer Academy more than 15 years ago, this was the system all clubs followed. In 2017, it changed to a January 1 - December 31 calendar, which impacted many long-standing teams as players were moved into new age groups, often separating them from teammates they had played with for years.
This new shift will once again affect our academy, our players, and our families but it will also impact every club across Ohio and throughout the United States. This is a nationwide change that everyone in youth soccer will experience.
Uncertainty, Concerns, and Questions
Since the announcement of the new age chart, many families have had questions about the upcoming season. I’ve also seen ongoing conversations on social media, which is completely understandable.
Some players who have been with the same team for years will now move into new groups. I know this won’t be easy but it’s something all players will go through.
I’ve spoken with many parents who are unsure how their children will handle the transition, joining new teams, meeting new teammates, and working with new coaches.
My perspective is simple: children are often more adaptable than we think. As parents and I include myself, having had kids in youth soccer we tend to worry more than they do.
We see this every year when players join us from other clubs. It may take a few weeks to adjust, but they do. Every player is different, some adapt quickly, others take more time and that’s completely normal.
The Role of Parents and Players
In some cases, parents tell me their child is making the final decision about where to play. While I respect that, it’s important to remember that as parents, we bring a broader perspective and play a key role in guiding our children.
Listening to them is essential. Giving them a voice matters. But there are also moments when we, as adults, need to step in and make decisions that we believe are in their best interest.
Young players don’t always have a clear understanding of their level or development. That’s where coaches and directors play an important role, providing honest feedback and helping guide their growth.
At the same time, decisions should not be one-sided. Open and honest communication between players, parents, and coaches is key.
For older players (15, 16, 18) it’s natural that they take more ownership of decisions. But for younger players (9, 10, 11) guidance is essential.
Adapting to New Teams
Some families have shared concerns about their child joining a new team where they don’t know anyone.
My response is always the same: whether it’s at our academy, where they are already familiar with the environment, or at a completely new club, the reality is similar. They will need to adapt either way.
As an academy, we are committed to being transparent and honest with every family. This transition affects everyone, players, parents, coaches, and clubs, as many teams will need to be rebuilt.
Some players will also experience coaching changes. While this can be challenging, it can also be a positive opportunity for growth.
Playing “Up” or “Down”
A common question we receive is whether players can “play up” in an older age group.
The answer is yes, if it supports the player’s development. However, moving up is not always the best decision if the player is not ready for that level of competition.
In general, I believe players benefit most from competing within their own age group. That said, there are situations where a greater challenge is appropriate, and those decisions are made carefully in collaboration with the family.
Playing “down” to remain with a current team is not permitted under US Youth Soccer rules.
As parents, it’s natural to want the best opportunities for our children. But it’s important to ask:
- Does this truly support their development right now?
- Will they grow more with confidence and playing time at their level?
- Are we making this decision for them, or for ourselves?
Often, enjoyment, confidence, and consistent development matter more than simply playing at the highest level.
A Personal Reflection
I remember from my own childhood that what mattered most wasn’t the level we played at, it was the joy of the game and the friendships we built.
We stayed together as a team for years, supporting each other through wins, losses, and everything in between. Even when opportunities came to move to higher levels, many of us chose to stay because we valued that experience.
Looking back, we continued to improve, and most importantly, we never lost our love for the game.
A Perspective on Change
During my professional career, I experienced constant change. In one season alone, I had multiple coaches, each with different styles and expectations.
My mindset was always to adapt quickly, earn my place, and stay ready.
Change is part of sports and life. Not every coach will favor every player, and that’s part of the challenge.
Playing in different teams, countries, and cultures helped me grow, not just as a player, but as a person. It wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it.
The Coaching Perspective
This time of year is always challenging for directors and coaches, but these tryouts will be especially demanding.
Many teams will need to be restructured due to age changes. Long-standing rosters may shift, and in some cases, we will be building teams from the ground up again.
As coaches, this is not easy. We invest years into developing teams, and now we must adapt once again.
But just like players, we will adjust and continue working to provide the best possible environment.
Final Thoughts
I hope this transition is as smooth as possible for everyone.
The most important message for players is this: new challenges are a natural and valuable part of the game.
The first few months may require adjustment, but with effort, respect, and commitment, players will adapt and grow.
I also hope this is the last major change to the age chart, allowing clubs to build long-term plans with more stability moving forward.
Thank you for taking the time to read Blog #3. If you would like to share your thoughts or have a conversation, please feel free to do it.
Warm regards,
Gino Padula