MLS Next and ECNL Clubs List

Here are the MLS NEXT and ECNL Boys Clubs for the 2023-2024 season.

About MLS NEXT

MLS NEXT is an elite youth development platform created by Major League Soccer (MLS). It was launched in 2021 and replaced the U.S. Soccer Development Academy as the top level of youth soccer competition in the United States and Canada.

MLS NEXT aims to provide a clear pathway for talented young soccer players to develop their skills and progress to the professional level. It consists of elite youth soccer clubs and academies that are affiliated with MLS teams, as well as independent academies that meet the league’s standards for player development.

MLS NEXT features age-group competition from U13 to U19. It also includes a variety of programming and resources for players, coaches, and clubs, such as training and development sessions, scouting and recruiting events, and player education and welfare initiatives.

About ENCL Boys

The ECNL Boys is a top-tier youth soccer league in the United States that was created in 2017 to provide elite-level competition and player development opportunities for boys aged U13 to U19. The league is a counterpart to the established ECNL Girls league, which has been operating since 2009.

ECNL Boys member clubs are selected based on their commitment to player development and their ability to provide a high-quality soccer experience. The league currently has over 100 member clubs, including MLS academies and top-tier youth soccer clubs from across the country.

ECNL Boys competition is designed to challenge players and teams at every level, with a focus on creating a developmentally appropriate environment that supports long-term player growth. The league also provides a range of resources and opportunities for players, including college recruitment assistance, coaching education, and exposure to professional scouts.

In addition to regular-season competition, the ECNL Boys hosts national showcases and tournaments throughout the year, providing opportunities for players to compete against top teams from across the country and gain exposure to college and professional scouts.