Brentwood

Brentwood

Our Brentwood Academy serves as the central hub of the NUSA player pathway, supporting youth players from u7 through u19. This is our home base, where players of all ages and levels, from beginners to future college and professional athletes, develop within a unified club philosophy.

The Brentwood location brings together every stage of our pathway, including Pre-Academy, Lower Academy, Upper Academy, and our Player Development Program (PDP). Players benefit from full access to our licensed coaching staff, advanced training environments, and high-level competitive platforms.

Whether training in Brentwood or within one of our satellite locations, all players are connected through the same NUSA curriculum, standards, and long-term development model.

Learn more about each program below and how they work together to support your player’s journey.

u7-u8

Pre-Academy

Where the journey begins. A fun, supportive environment that introduces young players to soccer through creative play and skill-building games. Perfect for developing motor skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of the game.

Coaching Staff

Our youngest players are guided by coaches who specialize in early development, blending soccer basics with age-appropriate fun.

Why NUSA?

Learn what sets NUSA apart – our values, development model, and mission to grow players of character on and off the field.

Cost Structure

We believe in clarity. Explore what’s included in your program fees – and how our structure supports quality training and competition.

u9-u12

Lower Academy

Focused on individual technical development and small-sided competition. Players learn how to compete, solve problems on the field, and grow as teammates, all while building a strong technical base.

Coaching Staff

Lower Academy coaches focus on individual skill development while fostering teamwork and game awareness in a positive setting.

Why NUSA?

We combine structured technical training with lessons in sportsmanship, responsibility, and teamwork.

Cost Structure

We believe in clarity. Explore what’s included in your program fees – and how our structure supports quality training and competition.

u13-u19

Upper Academy

Designed for committed players ready to take their game to the next level. This is where advanced training, competitive leagues (MLS NEXT, Girls Academy), and college/pro development come together.

Coaching Staff

Upper Academy players work with highly qualified coaches who prepare them for advanced levels of play, including college and beyond.

Why NUSA?

Whether your goal is college soccer, pro development, or personal growth, NUSA’s Upper Academy is where commitment meets opportunity.

Cost Structure

Our Upper Academy pricing reflects the advanced training, league access, and support provided at this level of development.

u9-u14

PDP (Player Development Program)

For players who have either not been offered a position in one of NUSA’s academy teams or prefer the flexibility of training-only. PDP participants train with our experienced, licensed coaching staff while continuing to play in local recreational leagues.

Coaching Staff

PDP players train with our experienced staff in a smaller setting, allowing for more personal attention & technical refinement.

Why NUSA?

PDP gives players the chance to grow through professional coaching while continuing to play in their local recreational league.

Cost Structure

PDP offers a cost-effective option for high-quality training without the full commitment of an academy season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Brentwood Academy?

The Brentwood Academy is NUSA’s home base, offering a complete developmental pathway for players ages u7-u19. Players of all levels, from beginners to aspiring college and professional athletes, train under a unified philosophy with access to our full coaching staff and advanced training environments.

How does MLS Next fit into the Brentwood Academy?

MLS Next is an elite pathway within our Upper Academy for boys starting at the u13 age group. Players are among the top in their age group and are selected through our annual tryouts. MLS Next offers advanced coaching, high-level competition, and exposure to college and professional opportunities while following NUSA’s unified development philosophy.

How does Girls Academy (GA) fit into the Brentwood Academy?

The Girls Academy (GA) is an elite pathway within our Upper Academy for girls, beginning at u13. Players are assessed at yearly tryouts and represent the top performers in their age group. GA provides advanced training, competitive opportunities, development in technical, tactical, and character aspects of the game, and exposure to college and professional opportunities.

What is the Player Development Program (PDP)?

The Player Development Program (PDP) is designed for players who want to continue training with NUSA’s licensed coaches but may not be part of a competitive NUSA team. This includes players who want to complement recreational play or those who did not make a team at tryouts but still want to train and develop in a structured, professional environment.

Can players move between programs?

While placement in Pre-Academy, Lower Academy, and Upper Academy is determined by your player’s birth year, one of NUSA’s core philosophies is player movement within our pathways. Players are regularly assessed and can move into programs like MLS Next or GA based on their development, performance, and readiness, ensuring they are always challenged and supported.

What leagues and competitions do Brentwood NUSA teams play in?

Teams compete in a mix of local, regional, and national leagues, including TSSA (Tennessee State Soccer Association), SCCL (Southeasterns Club Champions League), MLS Next, Girls Academy competitions, and high-level tournaments. These platforms provide both developmental and competitive experiences. For a more in-depth explanation of this, please visit:

How does the Brentwood Academy support player development off the field?

NUSA emphasizes character, leadership, and personal growth. Players are guided to develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and confidence, ensuring they grow as people as well as athletes.