Philadelphia Union

About the Club

The Philadelphia Union Academy is an elite youth development program that provides a pathway for talented young players to reach the professional level. It includes age groups from Under-9 through Under-17, with a professional pathway to Union II, the club's second team. The Academy emphasizes technical ability, tactical understanding, and game intelligence. The Union Academy competes in MLS Next starting with the Under-13 age group, while younger age groups participate in various regional leagues and tournaments. The Academy has a strong track record of producing players for the Philadelphia Union, Union II, top collegiate programs, and professional clubs globally. Notable Homegrown players who have come through the Academy include Brenden Aaronson and Mark McKenzie, who became record European transfers for the club. A key component of the Philadelphia Union Academy is its partnership with YSC Academy, a soccer-specific school for student-athletes in grades 7 through 12. Located at the Union's training complex in Chester, Pennsylvania, YSC Academy integrates academic rigor with elite soccer development. This allows student-athletes to train in a high-level environment while pursuing their education. The training facilities include grass and turf fields, a performance center, and indoor facilities at the WSFS Bank Sportsplex. The integrated environment at the Chester campus allows Academy players to train alongside Philadelphia Union and Union II professional players.