MLS NEXT II
U13-U19 Boys
(Eligible to play High School)


Program Overview

MLS NEXT II is a new tier within the MLS NEXT program, expanding the pathway for youth soccer players and providing a larger platform for development. It's designed for affiliated clubs with second-level teams, offering a structured environment under the MLS umbrella. 

 

The regular season play will begin in September 2025, which will be accompanied by regional tournaments and an opportunity to attend MLS NEXT national events, as well as coaching development and education programs. The regional tournaments will serve as qualifying for a championship event at the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs later in 2026. These events will be marquee talent identification opportunities for college, professional, and national team scouts to evaluate players. Players competing in the new tier will also be eligible to play high school soccer.

 

Key Features of MLS NEXT II:

Expansion of the MLS NEXT system:

  • MLS NEXT II aims to broaden the reach of the MLS NEXT program by incorporating more clubs and teams. 

Second-level competition:

  • It's specifically for clubs' second-level teams, often referred to as "B" teams. 

MLS NEXT standards:

  • Teams in MLS NEXT II will adhere to the same standards, guidelines, and technical best practices as the main MLS NEXT league. 

Regional divisions:

  • The new tier is structured into regional divisions, with leading youth league operators managing each division. 

Regional and national events:

  • Players will compete in regional leagues and tournaments, with opportunities to participate in MLS NEXT national events. 

Pathways to MLS NEXT Cup:

  • The regional tournaments will serve as qualifying rounds for the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs. 

Talent identification:

  • MLS NEXT II provides a platform for college, professional, and national team scouts to identify talent. 


High school eligibility:

  • Players in MLS NEXT II are also eligible to play in high school soccer. 

Coaching development:

  • MLS NEXT II includes coaching development and education programs. 


Heartland Conference

Operated by Sporting Development League

  • Lou Fusz Athletic
  • Lou Fusz Athletic 2
  • Sporting Blue Valley
  • Sporting City
  • Sporting Springfield
  • Sporting Wichita
  • St. Louis Development Academy
  • St. Louis Scott Gallagher
  • St. Louis Scott Gallagher St. Charles
  • Sting Nebraska


For More Information: https://www.mlssoccer.com/mlsnext/