ECNL moving to school year part 2

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

All clubs are like this. They're just not as honest as MTA.

No, the real honest ones are playing BOTH sides, where these kids actually can do both, like the Nationals.

You're not though.

Theres a limited amout of roster spots and playing time. Thers not magically more of either if an Aug birthday plays in the same age group 2 years in a row.

All they're doing is stealing minutes in front of college coaches from players on younger teams.

Its the same logic that nobody is affected when older players play down on younger teams. Yes someone is affected you just dont see who they are because they're not there.

They’re the same age. What’s dumb is trying to make all about grade when development is far more complicated.

Has nothing to do with age or grade.

If a single player is playing in the same level 2x in a row someone else is getting screwed.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

All clubs are like this. They're just not as honest as MTA.

No, the real honest ones are playing BOTH sides, where these kids actually can do both, like the Nationals.

You're not though.

Theres a limited amout of roster spots and playing time. Thers not magically more of either if an Aug birthday plays in the same age group 2 years in a row.

All they're doing is stealing minutes in front of college coaches from players on younger teams.

It’s the same logic that nobody is affected when older players play down on younger teams. Yes someone is affected you just dont see who they are because they're not there.

Forcing younger kids to play up isn’t fair, either. Can’t you see in both cases players are being told to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

I'm sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

US Soccer literally stated that having misaligned players playing up in BY was a huge issue for college recruiting. Its one of the major reasons for changing to SY. Playing on a grade down team and being misaligned is presumably even worse for college recruiting.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

All clubs are like this. They're just not as honest as MTA.

No, the real honest ones are playing BOTH sides, where these kids actually can do both, like the Nationals.

You're not though.

Theres a limited amout of roster spots and playing time. Thers not magically more of either if an Aug birthday plays in the same age group 2 years in a row.

All they're doing is stealing minutes in front of college coaches from players on younger teams.

It’s the same logic that nobody is affected when older players play down on younger teams. Yes someone is affected you just dont see who they are because they're not there.

Forcing younger kids to play up isn’t fair, either. Can’t you see in both cases players are being told to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps?

No players have a team to play on and someone from an older team isnt playing down stealing their opportunities.

On top of everything else everyone on the team is the same grade in school.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

All clubs are like this. They're just not as honest as MTA.

No, the real honest ones are playing BOTH sides, where these kids actually can do both, like the Nationals.

You're not though.

Theres a limited amout of roster spots and playing time. Thers not magically more of either if an Aug birthday plays in the same age group 2 years in a row.

All they're doing is stealing minutes in front of college coaches from players on younger teams.

It’s the same logic that nobody is affected when older players play down on younger teams. Yes someone is affected you just dont see who they are because they're not there.

Forcing younger kids to play up isn’t fair, either. Can’t you see in both cases players are being told to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps?

No players have a team to play on and someone from an older team isnt playing down stealing their opportunities.

On top of everything else everyone on the team is the same grade in school.

That will never be true. Because of different states, there will always be misaligned players. Helping them where possible makes sense.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

I'm sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

US Soccer literally stated that having misaligned players playing up in BY was a huge issue for college recruiting. Its one of the major reasons for changing to SY. Playing on a grade down team and being misaligned is presumably even worse for college recruiting.

Still sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

All clubs are like this. They're just not as honest as MTA.

No, the real honest ones are playing BOTH sides, where these kids actually can do both, like the Nationals.

You're not though.

Theres a limited amout of roster spots and playing time. Thers not magically more of either if an Aug birthday plays in the same age group 2 years in a row.

All they're doing is stealing minutes in front of college coaches from players on younger teams.

It’s the same logic that nobody is affected when older players play down on younger teams. Yes someone is affected you just dont see who they are because they're not there.

Forcing younger kids to play up isn’t fair, either. Can’t you see in both cases players are being told to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps?

No players have a team to play on and someone from an older team isnt playing down stealing their opportunities.

On top of everything else everyone on the team is the same grade in school.

That will never be true. Because of different states, there will always be misaligned players. Helping them where possible makes sense.

Do you not understand how a calendar works?

Yes Aug/Sept birthdays playing on their correct grade in school team does solve everything. Some will play up and some will play "down" it all depends on their grade in school.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

All clubs are like this. They're just not as honest as MTA.

No, the real honest ones are playing BOTH sides, where these kids actually can do both, like the Nationals.

You're not though.

Theres a limited amout of roster spots and playing time. Thers not magically more of either if an Aug birthday plays in the same age group 2 years in a row.

All they're doing is stealing minutes in front of college coaches from players on younger teams.

It’s the same logic that nobody is affected when older players play down on younger teams. Yes someone is affected you just dont see who they are because they're not there.

Forcing younger kids to play up isn’t fair, either. Can’t you see in both cases players are being told to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps?

No players have a team to play on and someone from an older team isnt playing down stealing their opportunities.

On top of everything else everyone on the team is the same grade in school.

That will never be true. Because of different states, there will always be misaligned players. Helping them where possible makes sense.

And some kids play up an age group because of skill and some kids were held back in school and some kids graduate in 3 years. Not going grade year, it is school year, Aug1 to Jul 31.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

I'm sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

US Soccer literally stated that having misaligned players playing up in BY was a huge issue for college recruiting. Its one of the major reasons for changing to SY. Playing on a grade down team and being misaligned is presumably even worse for college recruiting.

Still sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

Yep, because you get the age advantage in your favor instead of against you.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

I'm sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

US Soccer literally stated that having misaligned players playing up in BY was a huge issue for college recruiting. Its one of the major reasons for changing to SY. Playing on a grade down team and being misaligned is presumably even worse for college recruiting.

Still sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

Yep, because you get the age advantage in your favor instead of against you.

In SY, in the long run Aug birthdays playing on grade down teams screw themselves when it comes time for college recruiting.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

All clubs are like this. They're just not as honest as MTA.

No, the real honest ones are playing BOTH sides, where these kids actually can do both, like the Nationals.

You're not though.

Theres a limited amout of roster spots and playing time. Thers not magically more of either if an Aug birthday plays in the same age group 2 years in a row.

All they're doing is stealing minutes in front of college coaches from players on younger teams.

It’s the same logic that nobody is affected when older players play down on younger teams. Yes someone is affected you just dont see who they are because they're not there.

Forcing younger kids to play up isn’t fair, either. Can’t you see in both cases players are being told to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps?

No players have a team to play on and someone from an older team isnt playing down stealing their opportunities.

On top of everything else everyone on the team is the same grade in school.

That will never be true. Because of different states, there will always be misaligned players. Helping them where possible makes sense.

Do you not understand how a calendar works?

Yes Aug/Sept birthdays playing on their correct grade in school team does solve everything. Some will play up and some will play "down" it all depends on their grade in school.

Only thing is solves is kids forced up cut their chances to play in college by half and double the chances they quit around age 12. Just a bad idea to play up unless you are picked based on skill. And around a quarter of all teams will be not the same grade because of holdbacks, playing up, etc

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

I'm sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

US Soccer literally stated that having misaligned players playing up in BY was a huge issue for college recruiting. Its one of the major reasons for changing to SY. Playing on a grade down team and being misaligned is presumably even worse for college recruiting.

Still sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

Yep, because you get the age advantage in your favor instead of against you.

In SY, in the long run Aug birthdays playing on grade down teams screw themselves when it comes time for college recruiting.

In SY, in the long run Aug birthdays playing on grade and age group up screw themselves when it comes time for college recruiting because they always were the youngest.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

I'm sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

US Soccer literally stated that having misaligned players playing up in BY was a huge issue for college recruiting. Its one of the major reasons for changing to SY. Playing on a grade down team and being misaligned is presumably even worse for college recruiting.

Still sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

Yep, because you get the age advantage in your favor instead of against you.

In SY, in the long run Aug birthdays playing on grade down teams screw themselves when it comes time for college recruiting.

Just can't choose to play up in DMV. So can't shaft yourself around here

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

I'm sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

US Soccer literally stated that having misaligned players playing up in BY was a huge issue for college recruiting. Its one of the major reasons for changing to SY. Playing on a grade down team and being misaligned is presumably even worse for college recruiting.

Still sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

Yep, because you get the age advantage in your favor instead of against you.

In SY, in the long run Aug birthdays playing on grade down teams screw themselves when it comes time for college recruiting.

Just can't choose to play up in DMV. So can't shaft yourself around here

We will soon see when rosters are released.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Ha-ha JINX ... That's right, there are many people against Aug age.

Many, many. I didn't realize that you were replying for the team otherwise I wouldn't have said anything. I just try to jump in when others aren't available to point out Aug grade guy's constant errors and misleading posts.

Directly from MTAs website

https://mnthunderacademy.org/age-group-change-2026-2027-season/

All youth soccer Clubs, including MTA will be transitioning from calendar-year (birth year) age grouping to grade-level age grouping, starting in the 26-27 season. This means players will now be primarily placed on teams based on their grade level in school.

The FINE PRINT ...

We believe aligning players with their correct grade is an important factor to consider at tryouts. At MTA, we are taking the extra step of providing the opportunity to submit a Grade Alignment Application to Aug/Sept born players who do not align with their grade. This will allow them to play and try out with their correct grade.

Please review your player’s alignment carefully on the new age group grids below. If your child is already in the “correct” grade for their age group, no action is needed. If your player is a ‘trapped player’ (typically July birthdays), unfortunately this is out of our control as players cannot legally “play down”. However, if your player is now on a team of the grade below them (typically August birthdays), please read the information below carefully.

Consider filling out this optional application if BOTH of these apply:

Your player has a August or September birthdate
Your player’s grade does not align with their birthyear group (e.g. early school start)
If your application is accepted, you will be evaluated only in that age group and will not be placed or considered for a team at the lower age group.

Note that this Grade Alignment Application is not a “play up” request based on skill, but a formal request to place a player on a team that matches their academic grade level.

So not forced into grade year and letting lower level teams go grade.

Well ... This club does lay out they think playing on your grade is better for recruiting. ... So, they basically don't care about late developers other than fend for yourselves OR learn to like the B OR C team.

I'm sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

US Soccer literally stated that having misaligned players playing up in BY was a huge issue for college recruiting. Its one of the major reasons for changing to SY. Playing on a grade down team and being misaligned is presumably even worse for college recruiting.

Still sticking with ECNL dude saying playing on age is better for recruiting except for getting a shot at multiple showcases and college coaches saying they don't care what age group you are in as long as you are eligible to matriculate.

Yep, because you get the age advantage in your favor instead of against you.

In SY, in the long run Aug birthdays playing on grade down teams screw themselves when it comes time for college recruiting.

Just can't choose to play up in DMV. So can't shaft yourself around here

We will soon see when rosters are released.

GA doesn’t release their rosters publicly. ECNLs are often left blank.