UPSL Academy (U13-U17)
The United Premier Soccer League, a National Affiliate member of the US Soccer Federation, is now established as the dominant year-round pro development league within the U.S. Soccer infrastructure. Occupying the 4th tier of the pyramid, just below the professional ranks, the UPSL is serving both clubs and players who are still developing or simply wish to continue playing at an elite level. The league, with an average player age of 22 years, fits into a unique spot in the development pathway, sandwiched by elite youth (up to 18) and full professional (average age 27). In 2024, there were 600 clubs that competed in the UPSL across 32 conferences. Over 20 MLS clubs have included their U19 Academy team in the UPSL.
Now the UPSL is adding an Academy pathway which is creating new opportunities for clubs, their coaches and their players to be part of an established national brand and network, one which is professionally operated, enforces high standards, and provides extensive marketing. Most importantly, the UPSL Academy framework will not allow any club territorial rights, will not impose unnecessary club size requirements, will limit travel needs and will be affordable. The Academy Division is operating U17, U15 and U13 age groups. Both fall and spring seasons will be available. They will be supplemented with shorter summer league programs and Regional Cup competitions. Employing maximum flexibility, the calendar will cater to the needs specific to each region and conference and take high school commitments into account. The emphasis will be on player development and the playing year will climax with recruiting combines. The very first east coast and west coast regionals were just held in Georgia and California. In the Summer of 2025, two regional (East & West) championship tournaments will take place featuring the top teams in each age group (U13, U15, & U17) representing their respective conferences as a mean to both determine the best academy teams within the league along with an opportunity to showcase individual player talent.