Welcome to AYSO Region 922

Oro Valley • American Youth Soccer Organization

We’re excited to have you join AYSO Region 922! Below is an overview of our programs, seasons, and how our divisions work.

Soccer Seasons

We run two main soccer seasons each year (similar to school semesters):

• Fall Season: August through early December (registration opens in May)
• Spring Season: February through April/May (registration opens in November)

Additional Programs

• Summer Nights: A summer program running Wednesday nights during the summer
• Soccer Camps: The region hosts various Soccer Camps run by Challenger Sports (challengersports.com) and UK International (uksoccer.com) 
• AYSO Alliance and Club Soccer: Our competitive programs allow options for players as they advance in skill (see Alliance tab)

Age Divisions

After the 6U division, AYSO forms teams based on age groups that include two birth years.

Divisions include:

• 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 18U

There are no odd-numbered divisions (7U, 9U, 11U, etc.). For example:

• 7U players are part of 8U
• 9U players are part of 10U

Soccer Year & Placement

The AYSO soccer year runs from August 1 through July 31. This means Fall and Spring seasons are part of the same soccer year.

Players will not change divisions mid-year. The system automatically assigns players to the correct division based on birth year.

You will be asked to provide proof of age (birth certificate).

Players may be allowed to "play up" an age group if appropriate. Requests to play down require special approval.

Questions? Email [email protected]

Before You Register

Please review the AGE GROUPS section below before registering. You may be surprised to find that your player is in a different division than expected.

Area League (10U and Up)

Starting at 10U or 12U, teams may participate in the Area League, which includes games against other AYSO regions in the Tucson area. This may require some travel.

Additional registration instructions and details are provided below.

Register Now

Age Groups & Registration Information

Age Determination

Player placement is based on their age as of December 31 of the membership year.

Example: For the 2024–2025 season, divisions are determined based on the player’s age as of December 31, 2025.

Note: This age determination does not apply to Playground or Schoolyard programs.

Soccer Year

The AYSO soccer year runs from August 1 through July 31.

Example: The 2024–2025 season runs from 8/1/2024 to 7/31/2025.

Division Structure

AYSO divisions are grouped by even-numbered age brackets:

• 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 18U

There are no odd-numbered divisions. Players are grouped into the next highest even division:

• 7U players are placed in 8U
• 9U players are placed in 10U

Players in 11U through 18U may participate in Area play, and divisions may be adjusted based on registration numbers.

Playground Program (Ages 3–4)

Playground is designed for young children to develop fundamental motor skills that prepare them for soccer and other sports.

• Players must be 3 years old by the date of the first region activity
• Minimum age is calculated based on the activity start date

Example: If the first activity is 9/2/2017, the minimum birthdate would be 9/2/2014.

Schoolyard Program (Age 4)

Schoolyard continues development of fundamental motor skills while introducing basic soccer skills.

• Players must be 4 years old by the date of the first region activity
• Minimum age is calculated based on the activity start date

Example: If the first activity is 9/2/2017, the minimum birthdate would be 9/2/2013.

Both Playground and Schoolyard programs align with US Soccer's Player Development Initiatives.

What is AYSO?

The American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) is one of the largest youth soccer organizations in the United States. AYSO is organized into Sections, Areas, and Regions across the country.

• Area 12A: Tucson and Southern Arizona
• Region 922: Oro Valley

AYSO is a 100% volunteer-run organization. Coaches, referees, and administrators are all volunteers. Across the country, over 220,000 volunteers help create a positive soccer experience for kids.

Powered by Volunteers

Everything you see in AYSO is made possible by volunteers. This foundation keeps the focus where it belongs — on what’s best for kids — while also keeping the program affordable for families.

Even a few hours each season can make a meaningful difference for your team and your community.

Training & Support

AYSO provides training for coaches, referees, and administrators — even for those with little or no prior soccer experience.

Introductory training can be completed in just a few hours, with additional clinics and workshops available for those who want to grow their skills.

AYSO Philosophies

Every AYSO program follows these core principles:

• Everyone Plays®
• Balanced Teams
• Positive Coaching
• Good Sportsmanship
• Open Registration
• Player Development

Want to learn more? Visit the national AYSO website: ayso.org

A Game For Kids. A Game For Life.

AYSO is a child-first, player-focused organization. Every decision, rule, and program is designed with one goal: what’s best for kids.

While winning is fun, AYSO’s priority is developing confident players and strong individuals — both on and off the field.

Why Soccer?

Soccer is a global sport that can be played anywhere and enjoyed for a lifetime. It builds on children’s natural love of running and kicking, while developing coordination, teamwork, and decision-making skills.

It’s also a fast-paced game that keeps players engaged — and in AYSO, everyone plays.

Small-Sided Games

AYSO uses age-appropriate small-sided games, meaning fewer players on the field for younger divisions.

This allows for more touches on the ball, better skill development, and a more enjoyable experience for players.

These games mirror the “street soccer” environment where players of all skill levels learn, play, and grow together.