Challenger Recreation FAQ
Fall 2026 / Spring 2027 Season
If the automatic early bird discount does not apply at checkout, please use promo code EB10off26.
Registration Dates
- Open registration begins: April 27, 2026
- $10 early bird discount ends: May 17, 2026
- Registration closes: June 26, 2026 at 11:59 PM
- Waitlist begins: June 27, 2026
- Late/waitlist fee: $15 beginning June 27
New Age Group Format
Beginning with the Fall 2026 season, age groups are based on a fixed August 1 – July 31 birth date cycle. This often aligns more closely with school grades, but it is not strictly based on grade level.
Because of this change, some players may move up or down an age group compared to previous seasons.
Registration
How do I register?
Go to NorthUtahCountySoccer.com during open registration and click the registration link. Follow the instructions to register your player for Challenger Recreation soccer.
What does registration include?
- A full uniform: team-colored jersey, shorts, and socks
- A soccer ball
- A fall season and a spring season
- Access to extremely discounted summer soccer camps
- Free specialty soccer skill clinics during the summer
- Ability to request a buddy and/or coach during registration (requests are considered but not guaranteed)
Can I register for spring only?
Spring is not open registration. The spring season is a continuation of the fall season with the same teams and players. Players who missed fall registration may join the waitlist. If space is available, an age group coordinator may contact families before spring begins.
Can I register after the deadline?
After registration closes on June 26, 2026, players may join the waitlist beginning June 27, 2026. Waitlist placement is not guaranteed. If we are able to place your child on a team, you will be contacted by late August or before games begin.
Age Groups
What are the age groups for Fall 2026 / Spring 2027?
Age groups are based on the player’s birth date using the new August 1 – July 31 cycle. Players may generally play up an age group, but may not play down.
| Age Group | Birth Date Range | Format | Typical Team Size | Co-ed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U4 | Aug. 1, 2022 – July 31, 2023 | 4v4 | 8 | Yes |
| U5 | Aug. 1, 2021 – July 31, 2022 | 4v4 | 8 | Yes |
| U6 | Aug. 1, 2020 – July 31, 2021 | 4v4 | 8 | Yes |
| U7 | Aug. 1, 2019 – July 31, 2020 | 4v4 | 8 | No |
| U8 | Aug. 1, 2018 – July 31, 2019 | 6v6 | 10–12 | No |
| U9 | Aug. 1, 2017 – July 31, 2018 | 7v7 | 10–12 | No |
| U10 | Aug. 1, 2016 – July 31, 2017 | 7v7 | 10–12 | No |
| U11/U12 | Aug. 1, 2014 – July 31, 2016 | 9v9 | 12–15 | No |
| U13–U15 | Aug. 1, 2011 – July 31, 2014 | 11v11 | 14–18 | No |
| U16–U19 | Aug. 1, 2007 – July 31, 2011 | 11v11 | 14–18 | No |
Note: U19 players must still be high school eligible.
Field & Equipment by Age Group
| Age Group | Format | Ball Size | Field Size (approx.) | Goal Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U4–U7 | 4v4 | Size 3 | ~25 x 15 yards | Small pop-up goals |
| U8 | 6v6 | Size 3 | ~35 x 25 yards | 6' x 12' |
| U9–U10 | 7v7 | Size 4 | ~55 x 35 yards | 6.5' x 18.5' |
| U11–U12 | 9v9 | Size 4 | ~70 x 45 yards | 7' x 21' |
| U13+ | 11v11 | Size 5 | Full-size field | 8' x 24' |
Team Placement
Can my child request a coach or friend?
Yes. During registration, there is a field to request a buddy or coach. We do our best to honor requests, but they are not guaranteed.
Can my child play up or down?
A player may generally play up an age group if appropriate, but players may not play down into a younger age group.
Can we form a neighborhood team?
You may request the same coach or group during registration, but all players must be in the correct age group and register on time. Team placement depends on age group numbers, coach availability, field space, and roster balance.
When will I know my child’s team and coach?
Teams are formed over the summer. Coaches usually contact families by late August. Please wait for your coach to contact you, as rosters are being built during the summer.
Cost and Discounts
How much does Challenger Recreation soccer cost?
Registration fees vary by age group because field, equipment, and referee costs vary by age. Current pricing is listed during online registration.
Is there an early bird discount?
Yes. There is a $10 early bird discount through May 17, 2026. If the automatic discount does not apply, use promo code EB10off26.
Is there a sibling discount?
Yes. Families receive $5 off each additional child after the first. The additional child discount ends when regular registration closes on June 26, 2026.
What other equipment does my child need?
Each player needs cleats, shin guards, a water bottle, and transportation to practices and games.
Season and Games
When does the season start?
Fall games begin after Labor Day on September 12, 2026. The spring season is a continuation of the fall season with the same teams and players.
When are games played?
Games are usually played on Saturdays. Some weeknight games may be scheduled when needed because of weather, field availability, or scheduling constraints.
Where are games played?
Games are usually played at local schools and parks in the North Utah County area. Younger teams are generally placed as close to their neighborhood as possible.
Where and when are practices?
Practice times and locations are determined by each volunteer coach. Coaches will communicate practice details after teams are formed.
Volunteering
How can I volunteer to coach or help?
You can indicate your willingness to volunteer during registration. Volunteer coaches are essential to forming teams, especially when age groups are full.
Other Common Questions
Can my child play Challenger and AA Competition?
It may be allowed under current rules, but it is not generally recommended because of scheduling conflicts and player workload.
What if my child plays another sport in the fall or spring?
We recommend registering during open registration so your child has a spot on a team. Let your coach know about any schedule conflicts once teams are formed.
Are summer camps available?
Yes. Registered players have access to discounted summer soccer camps and free specialty clinics during the summer.
Can I get a refund if we move or have a medical issue?
Refunds may be available for moves, medical issues, or transfers within NUCS, depending on timing and expenses already incurred. Families must complete the refund form to request a refund.