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Writer's pictureRoger Hampel

MLS NEXT Announces New Competition Tier, Expanding Youth Soccer Opportunities.

Roger Hampel

MLS NEXT

Photo Credit: MLS


The MLS NEXT program is set to introduce a new competition tier, beginning in September 2025, marking a significant expansion in its mission to develop youth soccer in North America. With the inclusion of additional clubs, the platform aims to deepen its pool of talented players and coaches, offering enhanced opportunities for growth and development.


Expanded Opportunities for Youth Soccer MLS NEXT


Currently home to 151 member clubs and over 16,000 players, MLS NEXT serves as the premier youth development platform across the U.S. and Canada. The new tier will provide additional pathways for aspiring athletes and coaches by incorporating regular season games, regional tournaments, national events, and comprehensive coaching education programs. This move reflects Major League Soccer's commitment to fostering talent from the grassroots level to the professional stage.


Kyle Albrecht, General Manager of MLS NEXT, emphasized the significance of this development:


“MLS NEXT is elevating soccer across North America for players, coaches, and referees. This expansion, alongside our strategic alliance with the Girls Academy, brings together top-tier resources to continue building a clear pathway for more players to reach their highest potential.”

Regional Focus and Talent Identification


Clubs participating in the new competition tier will have the opportunity to compete in one of eight regional tournaments each season. These tournaments will serve as qualifiers for the MLS NEXT Cup Championship in 2026. Notably, players in this tier will still be eligible to play high school soccer, ensuring a balance between local and national-level competition.


Additionally, events like the MLS NEXT Fest in December will act as key talent identification showcases, drawing scouts from colleges, professional teams, and national programs. The expanded tier is expected to attract a wide range of talent, broadening the pipeline for future professional players and national team contributors.


Luis Robles, MLS NEXT Technical Director, highlighted the initiative’s broader impact:


“The addition of a new tier to MLS NEXT reflects Major League Soccer’s continued dedication to growing the game at the youth level. We are excited to deepen the talent pool and welcome more players and coaches.”

Key Partnerships and Collaboration


To ensure the success of this expansion, MLS NEXT has partnered with experienced league operators including:


  • - National Academy League (NAL), operated by 3Step Soccer

  • - Elite Academy League (EAL)

  • - Sporting Development League (SDL)

  • - Cobalt Sports

  • - Cal North Soccer Association


These organizations will adhere to the high technical standards set by MLS NEXT, ensuring a consistent and professional environment across all levels of play.


Brent Erwin of Cobalt Sports expressed enthusiasm for the new tier:


“The opportunity for more players to join the Major League Soccer pyramid is important and exciting. Cobalt Sports is proud to be a part of this new MLS NEXT competition.”

Clubs interested in joining the new tier can apply now, with participation beginning in September 2025. This expansion underscores MLS NEXT’s commitment to uniting the youth soccer landscape and providing a clear developmental pathway for future generations of players and coaches.

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