There has been much anticipation about how the age change for US soccer will affect our club.  Please see below the message from our Leadership in regards to how Madisonville United will move forward with the change.  Also, utilize the Age Group Calculator Link that will help you determine where your child will fall next season.

Message from Madisonville United

School-Year Age Group Transition

Effective: 2026 Fall Season

What is changing?

US Youth Soccer currently groups players into age groups based on the calendar year (Jan 1 - Dec 31).

Beginning with the 2026 Fall season, USYS will group players into age groups based on the school year (August 1 to July 31).

Will every player move automatically?  NO

At Madisonville United, placement decisions are guided by what is developmentally appropriate for each player and team. Our placement process is focused on long-term development, appropriate challenge, and the quality of the developmental environment.

Individual circumstances will receive careful review.

How will this affect team formation?

Teams will follow the new age guidelines while maintaining focus on:

• Player development
• Competitive balance
• Positive team environments

Evaluation and placement processes will remain consistent with club standards.

 Why is this change taking place?

This change reflects a national decision centered on player development and participation.

The school-year model places players with their academic peers. This alignment supports:

• Social comfort
• Emotional confidence
• Team continuity
• Long-term player development
• Increased participation and retention

Players train and compete with classmates and friends. This structure promotes consistency, belonging, and engagement across all levels of play.

How does this benefit player development?

The school-year model provides:

• Stronger peer connection
• Improved team chemistry
• Greater training consistency
• Reduced social pressure
• Increased enjoyment of the game

These factors support learning, confidence, and long-term growth.

Additional information regarding tryouts and player placement will be communicated in the coming months. If you have any further questions, please reach out.

Thank you for your continued support of Madisonville United!

Coach Mo

Melissa Quilio

Madisonville United, Director

melissa@madisonvilleunited.com

• Strengthen competitiveness across ALL U13–U19 teams
  
• Expand development opportunities for our most committed players
  
• Enhance coaching collaboration and align our development curriculum
  
• Provide clearer pathways for high school and collegiate advancement
  
• Maintain the strong community identity that defines Madisonville United
  

With recent U.S. Soccer age-group changes and the start of a new uniform cycle, this is the right time to take this step to ensure a smooth transition for our teams and families.

We believe this partnership represents a significant opportunity to elevate the experience for our players while staying true to the values and community that make Madisonville United special.

The partnership will impact only the 11v11 competitive age groups (U13–U19). All recreational and youth programs will continue to operate within their respective clubs, maintaining local access and community-based programming.

“Our goal is simple,” said Mo Quilio, Director of Madisonville United. “This partnership strengthens our pathway for player development, expands competitive opportunities, and ensures every athlete has access to the resources, coaching, and support needed to reach their full potential.

“This partnership represents an exciting step forward for our players and families,” said Shane Jeanfreau, Executive Director of Mandeville Soccer Club. “By uniting our U13–U19 programs, we are creating a stronger, more competitive environment while preserving the values and community identity that makes both clubs special.”

Additional details regarding tryout dates, team structure, and program logistics will be released in the coming weeks and thank you for your continued support and commitment to our club.