AA / District Competition FAQ
2026–2027 Season
Information for families interested in NUCS AA soccer.
New Age Group Change
Beginning with the 2026–2027 season, age groups are based on an August 1 – July 31 age-year instead of the old calendar-year model.
This means your player’s AA age group may be different from their current team age group. Please use the age group chart below when determining your player’s correct age group.
2026–2027 Age Group Chart
| Age Group | Birth Date Range | Game Format | Game Length | Ball Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U9 | Aug. 1, 2017 – July 31, 2018 | 7v7 | 25-minute halves | Size 4 |
| U10 | Aug. 1, 2016 – July 31, 2017 | 7v7 | 25-minute halves | Size 4 |
| U11 | Aug. 1, 2015 – July 31, 2016 | 9v9 | 30-minute halves | Size 4 |
| U12 | Aug. 1, 2014 – July 31, 2015 | 9v9 | 30-minute halves | Size 4 |
| U13 | Aug. 1, 2013 – July 31, 2014 | 11v11 | 35-minute halves | Size 5 |
| U14 | Aug. 1, 2012 – July 31, 2013 | 11v11 | 35-minute halves | Size 5 |
| High School | Aug. 1, 2007 – July 31, 2012 | 11v11 | 40-minute halves | Size 5 |
What is District Competition or AA?
District Competition, also called AA, is NUCS’s first level of competition soccer.
AA is more competitive than Challenger/Recreation and is available for players ages 8–18. Teams are formed by coaches and through a draft process. Players on a team may come from different cities within the league, and games may be played against teams from other leagues in Utah County.
AA is popular because it offers a step above recreation while still being run locally by a group of leagues. This gives teams, coaches, and families more flexibility with scheduling, game locations, and fees.
How much does AA cost?
NUCS AA registration is typically between $180 and $230, depending on the age group and referee fees.
This includes a 7–8 game fall season and a 6–7 game spring season, followed by an end-of-season tournament.
Uniforms, bags, warm-ups, optional tournaments, indoor soccer, futsal, and other team expenses are not included in the NUCS registration fee. Each AA team manages those items separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get on an AA team?
Players can get on an AA team by attending tryouts, being selected through the draft process, or being invited by a coach who has roster openings.
When are AA tryouts?
AA tryouts for the 2026–2027 season will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 and Thursday, May 14, 2026, depending on age group.
Do I need to register for tryouts?
Yes. Pre-registration is required so we have your player’s information and know how to contact you after tryouts.
Should current AA players attend tryouts?
Current AA players may not need to attend tryouts. Please speak with your current coach first. If you are already on a team, confirm with your coach that the team is continuing and that your player has a spot before attending tryouts.
Will every player who attends tryouts make a team?
Not automatically. Coaches attending tryouts select players based on the needs of their teams. Some coaches may only need a few players, while others may be forming a new team.
Our goal is to find a team for every player when possible. If your player does not receive a call within the first few days, please do not be discouraged. Because of the number of players, placements can take time, and additional roster spots may open over the following few weeks.
Should I also register for Challenger just in case?
If your player is trying out for AA, you may choose to wait until after tryouts before registering for Challenger. If your player is not placed on an AA team, they are encouraged to register for Challenger/Recreation.
If a player registers for Challenger and is later placed on an AA team, Challenger fees will transfer 100% toward AA.
What is the time commitment?
AA teams typically have 1–2 games per week and 1–2 practices per week. Practice time and location are set by each coach.
Games are generally played in Utah County and may require more travel than Challenger/Recreation.
Will my player get equal playing time?
Not necessarily. Unlike Challenger/Recreation, AA does not have an equal playing time rule. Playing time is determined by each coach.
Most coaches consider practice attendance, effort, commitment, attitude, and team needs when making playing time decisions. NUCS encourages coaches to give players meaningful playing time whenever possible.
Who will coach my player?
AA coaches are usually parent volunteers who are committed to teaching and developing players. Many have coaching licenses or have completed coaching education courses.
Your player’s coach depends on which team selects or invites your player. Parents are encouraged to ask questions and make sure they are comfortable with the coach, team expectations, and schedule.
I Want to Coach an AA Team
If you want to start a new AA team, coach an existing team, or move a Challenger team into AA, please complete the coach interest form.
Coaches should plan to attend tryouts in May if they need additional players. Teams should be organized by the end of June so players can complete registration and required documents.
Club Teams
NUCS/UCSC also has club-level teams. Club team tryouts are handled separately by each team.
AA is different from club soccer. AA is a locally run competition program, while club teams usually involve a higher level of competition, travel, and cost.