Tryout FAQ’s
LA Surf Tryouts – FAQ & 2026/27 Season Updates
Important Information on New Age Group Alignment and Player Placement
As LA Surf continues to lead the way in youth soccer development across Los Angeles, the 2026/27 Season marks an important update to our player age group structure.
Beginning with this tryout cycle, LA Surf will fully adopt the new school-year birth-year alignment — designed to group players more naturally with their classmates, creating smoother transitions between recreational, school, and competitive soccer environments.
This adjustment aligns with national standards across U.S. youth soccer and reflects our ongoing commitment to creating the best possible environment for player growth, social connection, and development continuity.
Understanding the Change
Starting in the 2026/27 Season, player age groups will shift to reflect a school-year cutoff (August 1–July 31) rather than the traditional calendar-year cutoff. For example:
U6: August 1, 2020 – July 31, 2021
U7: August 1, 2019 – July 31, 2020
U8: August 1, 2018 – July 31, 2019
U9: August 1, 2017 – July 31, 2018
This change allows teammates to move together through the academic year, strengthening both player relationships and long-term developmental planning.
Playing Up Policy
While we understand that every player develops differently, LA Surf maintains a selective “Playing Up” policy.
Players may request to try out for an older age group; however, placement is granted only when a player demonstrates the physical, technical, and tactical ability to impact the game at that higher level.
Historically, only a small number — approximately 12 players club-wide each year — qualify to play up following a thorough evaluation during tryouts. This policy ensures that each player is challenged appropriately without compromising confidence, safety, or overall development.
For the vast majority of players, we strongly recommend trying out within their correct age group under the new guidelines. Doing so ensures optimal competition, progression, and player enjoyment.
In summary:
LA Surf’s adoption of the new age group format reflects our mission to deliver the Best of the Best Opportunities and Experiences for youth players.
We encourage families to embrace these changes as part of a unified pathway forward for the 2026/27 season and beyond.
Why does LA Surf use tryouts to identify and select players?
At LA Surf, our mission is to ensure every child is placed in the best environment to develop their skills and grow as a player. Open tryouts allow us to evaluate players’ abilities and potential in a structured LA Surf training session, led by our professional coaching staff.
What is an Open Tryout?
An Open Tryout is a scheduled event open to all players within specific birth years. These tryouts are held annually and align with the SOCAL tryout windows, offering every player an equal opportunity to showcase their talent.
Upcoming Open Tryouts can be found here: https://wearelasurf.com/portfolios/upcoming-tryouts/
If my child played at LA Surf last season, do they still need to register for tryouts?
Yes, all players, including returning players, must register for tryouts for the 2025/26 season. Registration is available on our website: http://www.JoinLASurf.com.
Can returning players be invited before tryouts?
Yes, coaches and directors may extend invitations to returning players before tryouts. However, the majority of player selections are finalized during the tryout process.
How many tryout sessions should my child attend?
We recommend attending as many sessions as possible. This provides more opportunities for coaches to evaluate your child and helps your family get familiar with the LA Surf program and level of play.
Can my child attend tryouts at multiple LA Surf locations?
Yes, players are welcome to attend tryouts at any LA Surf location. They will be considered for teams across all programs and locations.
Does LA Surf have teams at every level and age group in all locations?
No, team availability varies by location, age group, and level. While LA Surf continues to grow, some locations may offer limited team options based on demand and capacity.
What is the Elite Boys/Girls Program?
The Elite Program represents the highest level of competition at LA Surf and is designed for highly skilled and competitive players.
Locations: Primarily based in Pasadena and DTLA.
Commitment: Additional weekly training sessions, regional travel for games, and participation in national events out of state.
Leagues:
Boys: Compete in MLS Next and EA leagues.
Girls: Compete in the Girls Academy, ASPIRE and DPL leagues.
What happens if we miss Open Tryouts?
You can register at any time for an In-Season Tryout through http://www.JoinLASurf.com.
Players will be evaluated during team training sessions to determine their fit.
What is an In-Season Tryout?
An In-Season Tryout is an evaluation process for families interested in joining LA Surf outside the Open Tryout period. After registering, your information will be reviewed, and you may be invited to a training session for assessment. If a spot is unavailable, you may be redirected to another team or program.
Is every player guaranteed a place at LA Surf if they attend a tryout?
No, not all players are guaranteed a spot. However, we offer alternative programs and support for families whose children are not placed on a competitive team.
Our Onboarding Specialist, Marjorie Kellerman (m.kellerman@wearelasurf.com), is available to guide you to the best option for your child.
What is the time commitment for playing at LA Surf?
Commitments range from 12 to 14 months, depending on the player’s age group.
Training: Teams practice 2–3 times per week.
Breaks:
Non-high school players: Breaks in winter and summer.
High school players: Break during the high school soccer season (except for MLS Next players, as they are not permitted to play high school soccer).
When will we hear back from LA Surf after tryouts?
Our coaching staff follows a systematic process to evaluate and place players. Team invitations are sent in tiers (A, B, C, or D levels), and this process can take 4–10 days.
How long do we have to accept a roster spot once offered?
Families have 48 hours to accept an invitation. If no decision is made within this timeframe, the coach will follow up to address any concerns. *In exceptional cases, the window can be extended to 96 hours before the spot is offered to another player.
What is the financial commitment to play at LA Surf?
Costs vary by program, age group, and location. For the most accurate pricing information, please contact our office after registering for tryouts and receiving an offer.
Does LA Surf offer financial aid?
Yes, LA Surf awards over $250,000 annually in need-based scholarships. Documentation is required, and scholarship funds are allocated per team. For more information, please contact our corporate office.
Are uniforms required?
Yes, uniforms are mandatory and purchased through our partners, Nike and Surf Soccer Post. Families order directly from the Surf Soccer Post website, and uniforms are shipped to their homes. Costs vary each year; contact our office for the most current pricing details.
At LA Surf, our mission is to ensure every child is placed in the best environment to develop their skills and grow as a player. Official tryouts allow us to evaluate players’ abilities and potential in a structured LA Surf training session, led by our professional coaching staff.