Does not have to be January 1st obviously. In fact I think that would be dense. Should pick August 1st or Sept 1st as the cutoff. So most kids playing would be the same grade. Real benefit to the holdback is access to the limited best coaching for being the best player while younger. They take a space of someone on age for the best coaching/ training that year. Hurts more in niche sport like lacrosse as good training/ coaching is in limited supply. Same with Hockey etc. If USA lacrosse was serious this would be a top point of concern. Also expanding better training and coaching, which they are trying to do. Under current rules/ norms if lacrosse is super important then holdback is smart.