How are age groups set, and can my child play up or down?

Question

Accepted Answer

Under the 2026 USA Field Hockey Regulations: Age groups are determined using an August 1 to July 31 year. A player may play up in an older age division if the coach thinks it's appropriate. A player may not play down an age division. USA Field Hockey recommends playing up only one age division, in line with its American Development Model. A player can play for only one club and can't play for more than one team in the same age group at an event.