Academy
Youth & DevelopmentA youth development program run by professional clubs to train young players with the aim of promoting them to the senior team.
Related Terms in Youth & Development
ECNL
Elite Clubs National League; widely considered the top level of competition for girls' youth soccer in the US, and a high tier for boys.
Soccer Mom / Soccer Dad
A cultural term (especially in North America) for parents who spend a significant amount of time driving their children to practices and games.
LTPD
Long Term Player Development; a framework used by many federations (like Canada Soccer) emphasizing age-appropriate training over winning.
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Latest Youth Soccer News and Articles
The U.S. Girls Youth Soccer Pyramid: A Parent's Guide to League Tiers in 2025/2026
November 6, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A parent's guide to understanding the tiered leagues in U.S. girls' youth soccer, from ECNL to recreational leagues.
Guide to the New MLS Next Divisions: MLS Next Homegrown and MLS Next Academy Divisions Explained
August 2, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
A clear breakdown of the different divisions within MLS NEXT, explaining the homegrown player rule and the academy structure.
Youth Soccer Birth Year vs School Year Change Explained
August 1, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
The age group cut-off date is moving from a January 1st birth year to an August 1st school year system.