The NCYSA Classic Program is a state-wide competitive league administered by the NCYSA State Office, the VP of Classic and the Classic Council. It is the highest level of play offered within NCYSA
The Program is for the serious player, seeking a higher level of competition and training. Teams are selected through an annual tryout process. Tryouts are generally held in late May. Games are played against other Challenge teams through the administration of the North Carolina Youth Soccer Association. Travel time is generally limited to two hours drive from home.
Classic is organized into several divisions, Premier, First Division, Second Division, and Third Division. Placement in these divisions is done through a promotion and relegation process. Generally, a team begins in the Second division, then if they finish first in their division they move to the First Division and the last place team in the First Division drops to the Second Division. Premier consists of the top eight to ten teams in the State. Third division, formerly known as the Challenge League, is an open division with a less competitive atmosphere.
Who These Programs Are For
These programs are designed for players who have a solid soccer foundation and are ready for a more competitive environment. Most practices will focus on team tactics with some advanced technical training. Players are encouraged to continue developing their individual skills outside of scheduled practices to get the most out of the program.
Game Time
In the Classic Program, game time is based on skill level and is not guaranteed. Coaches will provide feedback on specific areas players can work on to earn more time on the field.
Practice & Travel Commitment
The Classic program practices at least twice per week and requires travel on some weekends for games, up to 2 hours away.
Tryouts
Tryouts take place in May for the upcoming season each year.
Registration
Do not register through the Lenoir Youth Soccer website — it is set up for the recreation league only. Registration forms are be distributed and completed at tryouts.
Costs (Includes Uniform Fees)
U11-U12 Teams: $400/per year
U13-U14 Teams: $450/per year
U15+ Teams: $300/season (Girls Fall or Boys Spring)
Official NCYSA Birth Date Chart (2026–27 Season)
| Age Group | Birth Date Range | Playing Format |
| U19 | 8/1/2007 to 7/31/2008 | 11v11 |
| U18 | 8/1/2008 to 7/31/2009 | 11v11 |
| U17 | 8/1/2009 to 7/31/2010 | 11v11 |
| U16 | 8/1/2010 to 7/31/2011 | 11v11 |
| U15 | 8/1/2011 to 7/31/2012 | 11v11 |
| U14 | 8/1/2012 to 7/31/2013 | 11v11 |
| U13 | 8/1/2013 to 7/31/2014 | 11v11 |
| U12 | 8/1/2014 to 7/31/2015 | 9v9 |
| U11 | 8/1/2015 to 7/31/2016 | 9v9 |
| U10 | 8/1/2016 to 7/31/2017 | 7v7 |
| U9 | 8/1/2017 to 7/31/2018 | 7v7 |