Development Academy (DA)
Youth & DevelopmentA now-defunct top-tier youth league in the USA run by US Soccer. It was replaced by MLS NEXT and Girls Academy.
Related Terms in Youth & Development
Uniform Kit
The mandatory package of gear parents must buy, usually including home/away jerseys, shorts, socks, and sometimes warm-ups and backpacks.
Club Soccer
Competitive soccer played outside of school programs, often requiring travel, tryouts, and fees. Known as 'Travel Soccer' in the US.
Showcase Tournament
A youth tournament specifically designed for players to be seen by college recruiters and scouts.
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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.