MLS Next & Girls Academy
MLS NEXT and Girls Academy Announce Strategic Alliance to Advance Youth Soccer Development
December 17, 2024 – MLS Next and the Girls Academy (GA), both leading youth development platforms for soccer players in the United States, have announced a strategic alliance to enhance youth soccer development across North America. This collaboration aims to elevate technical standards, foster innovation, expand membership opportunities, and integrate events to benefit players, families, and clubs.
As part of this partnership, MLS Next and the Girls Academy will collaborate on coaching education initiatives, innovation programs, and the organization of regional showcase events. These showcase events will bring together teams from both MLS Next and the Girls Academy, simplifying scheduling and travel logistics while creating opportunities for boys and girls to compete in front of college, professional, and national team scouts.
The Girls Academy currently includes 48 clubs with teams in MLS Next, including Nashville United Soccer Academy (NUSA). This alliance reflects the shared commitment of MLS Next and the Girls Academy to provide equal opportunities for young athletes, regardless of gender, and to ensure clear pathways for reaching the highest levels of the sport.
Racheal Foxley, Girls Academy Director at NUSA expressed her enthusiasm about the alliance:
“I think the alliance between MLS Next and the Girls Academy is a huge testament to the evolving direction of youth soccer in the U.S. There are now clear pathways and real opportunities for boys and girls to get to the highest level. I’m excited to be part of a club that already has both pathways for our players, ensuring equal opportunities regardless of gender. I’m excited to work closely alongside Alan O’Connor, Technical Director at NUSA, and staff to see all the positives that will come with this alliance.”
This partnership represents a significant step forward in youth soccer development, providing young athletes with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed both on and off the field. NUSA is proud to be part of this initiative and looks forward to supporting its players as they strive for excellence.
About MLS Next: MLS Next is Major League Soccer’s elite youth development platform for male soccer players, providing a pathway to professional and collegiate opportunities. Established to revolutionize youth soccer in North America, MLS Next emphasizes player development, innovation, and high technical standards.
About the Girls Academy (GA): The Girls Academy is the leading youth development platform for female soccer players in the United States, offering top-tier competition and development opportunities. The GA is committed to advancing the game and creating pathways for female athletes to reach their full potential.
For more information, visit: https://www.mlssoccer.com/