Here are the best summer leagues for college soccer players.
National Premier Soccer League (NPSL)
The National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) is a prominent summer league in the United States. Comprised of teams from various regions, the NPSL offers college players a highly competitive environment to refine their skills during the off-season. With a focus on player development and a growing reputation, the league provides an excellent opportunity for college players to test their abilities against talented opponents. Many NPSL teams have strong connections to professional clubs, increasing the potential for players to attract attention from scouts and further their soccer careers.
United Soccer League Two (USL League Two)
Formerly known as the Premier Development League (PDL), USL League Two is a prestigious summer league in the United States. It offers college players a chance to compete at a high level and gain valuable experience in a professional setting. With a vast network of teams across the country, USL League Two provides a platform for aspiring soccer players to showcase their talent and potentially transition to professional soccer. The league’s competitive nature and strong organizational structure make it an attractive choice for college players looking to elevate their game and pursue a career in the sport.
Super Y-League
The Super Y-League is a summer league in the United States that caters to youth and college players. It offers a competitive platform for players to develop their skills and gain valuable experience during the off-season. With clubs from various regions participating, the league provides a high-quality environment where players can enhance their technical abilities and tactical understanding. The Super Y-League has gained recognition for its player development focus and has seen many participants progress to higher levels of soccer, making it an appealing choice for college players looking to continue their growth and stand out in the sport.
W-League
The W-League is a premier women’s summer league in the United States, known for its high-level competition and player development opportunities. With a strong reputation for nurturing talent, the league provides an ideal setting for college players to hone their skills and gain exposure in front of professional scouts. The W-League’s commitment to promoting women’s soccer makes it an attractive choice for aspiring female players looking to showcase their abilities and pursue a professional career. Participating in the W-League during the summer months can offer invaluable experience and potentially open doors to higher-level opportunities.
Canadian Premier League (CPL)
The Canadian Premier League (CPL) is the top professional league in Canada. While it operates during the regular season, the CPL may provide opportunities for college players during the summer months through reserve teams or affiliate programs. These arrangements offer college players a chance to train and compete alongside professional players, gaining valuable exposure and experience in a professional setting. The CPL’s growing reputation and commitment to developing Canadian talent make it an appealing option for college players looking to further their soccer careers and potentially transition to the professional ranks.
Professional Development League (PDL) (United Kingdom)
The Professional Development League (PDL) in the United Kingdom is a summer league that provides an ideal platform for college players and young professionals to gain valuable experience in a competitive environment. Affiliated with various professional clubs, the PDL offers an opportunity to showcase skills, enhance tactical understanding, and catch the attention of professional scouts. The league’s structure and professional connections provide college players with a stepping stone towards higher-level soccer, making it an attractive choice for those seeking to further their development and potentially secure professional contracts in the United Kingdom.
National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)
While the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is a professional league, college players may have the opportunity to participate during the summer months, either through allocated roster spots or on a temporary basis. Joining the NWSL as a college player offers a unique chance to compete against top-level professionals and gain exposure in a highly competitive environment. The league’s commitment to developing women’s soccer and its strong reputation make it an appealing choice for college players aiming to elevate their game, learn from experienced players, and potentially secure professional contracts in the future.
USL League One
USL League One is a professional soccer league in the United States that operates during the regular season but may offer opportunities for college players during the summer through reserve teams or affiliate programs. It serves as a stepping stone to higher-level soccer and provides a competitive environment for players to showcase their abilities and gain valuable experience.
NPSL Founders Cup
The NPSL Founders Cup is a competition within the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) that takes place during the summer. It features top NPSL teams and provides an additional opportunity for college players to compete against high-level opposition and showcase their skills in a competitive setting.
Elite Development Program (EDP)
The Elite Development Program (EDP) is a regional youth soccer league in the United States. While it primarily caters to youth players, it may offer summer programs or divisions for college players seeking to stay active and compete at a high level during the off-season.
Collegiate Summer Leagues
Various collegiate summer leagues operate across the United States, providing college players with the opportunity to continue playing and developing their skills during the summer months. These leagues often comprise teams from local colleges and universities, creating a competitive environment while allowing players to represent their schools during the off-season.
European Development Leagues
Several European countries have summer development leagues designed to provide opportunities for college players and young professionals to gain experience in a European soccer environment. These leagues often have connections to professional clubs and offer a unique chance to compete against talented players from different countries.
International Soccer Camps and Tournaments
Numerous international soccer camps and tournaments take place during the summer months, attracting college players from around the world. These events provide a platform for players to test their skills against international competition, learn from experienced coaches, and potentially catch the attention of scouts from professional clubs.
Local Amateur Leagues
In addition to organized summer leagues, many local amateur leagues exist in different regions. These leagues may not have the same level of competition as the previously mentioned leagues, but they provide opportunities for college players to stay active, maintain their fitness, and continue playing the sport they love during the summer break.
