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New York City FC

New York, NY

About the Club

New York City FC is dedicated to youth soccer development, offering a clear pathway for young players through their youth programs and MLS NEXT Academy. The club's youth initiatives include Regional Hubs with programs like "City Roots" for players aged 5-8, focusing on fundamental skills in a fun environment. For players aged 9-11, NYCFC offers Boys Select Teams and Girls Teams that provide advanced training and competitive play, aiming to identify and develop talent. These teams compete in leagues such as EDP and the Girls Academy - Aspire league. The NYCFC Boys Academy is a free-to-play program for players U12 and older, operating with the goal of identifying, developing, and producing top local youth players in the New York Metropolitan area. The Academy operates across multiple age groups (U12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 19) and provides coaching, guidance, and evaluation with direct contact to Academy and first-team staff. The Academy emphasizes a development philosophy that includes technical skill, possession-based play, and high pressing, aligning with the first team's style. Players in the Academy have opportunities to compete in top-level tournaments, including MLS NEXT Fest and the Generation Adidas Cup. NYCFC's Academy has a track record of developing players who have gone on to play for the first team and in Europe. NYCFC also has Youth Affiliate Clubs, providing technical support and a pathway for players within these partner clubs to potentially reach the highest levels of competition. The club's youth programs and Academy prioritize player welfare, well-being, and education both on and off the field.

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Latest Youth Soccer News and Articles

Youth Soccer Birth Year vs School Year Change Explained
Youth Soccer Birth Year vs School Year Change Explained
August 1, 2025
Play Club Soccer Staff
The age group cut-off date is moving from a January 1st birth year to an August 1st school year system.
Youth Soccer Pyramid Explained: A Tier List of the Best Boys Leagues in the USA in 2025
With a dizzying array of acronyms, overlapping leagues, and varying levels of competition, its easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not, this guide is your game plan to understanding the complex U.S. Boys Youth Soccer Pyramid in 2025.
Youth Soccer Pathway to the United States National Teams
Youth Soccer Pathway to the United States National Teams
September 16, 2024
Play Club Soccer Staff
The pathway to playing for the United States National Teams, particularly at the youth levels, is structured through a comprehensive talent identification system and a new strategic philosophy aimed at fostering cohesive player development.