Definition
Age categories organise grassroots competition by grouping players by birth year so competition is balanced. In Spanish football the most widespread categories are: Prebenjamín (6-8), Benjamín (8-10), Alevín (10-12), Infantil (12-14), Cadete (14-16), Juvenil (16-18). Some federations add intermediate subcategories (Querubines 4-6, amateur Sub-23) and adjust limits to regional needs.
Category is determined by birth year at the end of the current calendar year. So in the 2025/26 season a player born in 2014 turns 12 in 2026 and plays Infantil (ages 12-13). Exact criteria are published by each federation at season start.
When does it apply?
Applies when enrolling each player into their team and planning team composition. Clubs typically have one team per category (or several when there are many players) and respect the principle of competing in the corresponding category — except for specific 'category jump' requests.
Practical example
Common mistakes
- Fielding a player in an incorrect category without authorisation: ineligible fielding.
- Mixing two birth years in the same category without knowing the criteria: each federation has fine rules.
- Forcing a jump up for non-sporting reasons: can create tension and inequality.
- Forgetting the federation calendar when planning teams in April/May: official categories change every season.
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