What age categories apply at U16, U17 and U18?
Rule- Canada
- Volleyball Canada
- Club volleyball
- U16
- U17
- U18
- 2026-27
- Coaches
Volleyball Canada's 2026-27 Indoor Nationals age categories (updated August 26, 2026) use a 16-month birth window. A player is eligible if born:
- 16U: September to December 2010, or any time in 2011
- 17U: September to December 2009, or any time in 2010
- 18U: September to December 2008, or any time in 2009
18U only, at 2027 Nationals: up to two athletes born January 1 to August 31, 2008 may be on a roster, provided they are not part of any U SPORTS, CCAA or other post-secondary volleyball program for October 1, 2026 to May 1, 2027. A maximum of two current U SPORTS, CCAA or other post-secondary athletes born September 1 to December 31, 2008 may also be on a roster; the club and post-secondary coach should agree this is developmentally appropriate. Athletes born in 2009 have no post-secondary restriction. RSEQ Division 2 and 3 collegiate athletes, intramural and club programs inside a post-secondary institution do not count as post-secondary, and RSEQ Division 1 first-year collegiate athletes and CCAA athletes are not considered post-secondary athletes in this document. The 18U head coach or club president must provide verification on request.
Exemptions for athletes born before the window are only for extraordinary circumstances, requested by the head coach or team manager through the PTA, based on Long-Term Development principles, and cost $50. A PTA may set different age category requirements.
Added 25 Oct 2026