MLS Next Clubs in Colorado

The Colorado Rapids Academy is an elite youth soccer development program based in Colorado, operating as part of the Major League Soccer club, Colorado Rapids. The Colorado Rapids Soccer Club was established on October 17, 1995, with the Academy launching in the spring of 2007 as part of MLS's Homegrown Player Initiative. The Academy serves players across various age groups, including U-13, U-14, U-15, U-16/17, and U-18/19. It is a fully funded program, covering administrative, coaching, facilities, equipment, and travel costs for its teams. A key distinguishing feature is its direct pathway for youth players to progress through the Academy levels to potentially sign professional Homegrown Player contracts with the Rapids First Team. The Academy's teams train and play their home games at DICK's Sporting Goods Park, a world-class sports complex. The program emphasizes player development from an early age and offers additional support through a Futures Program for skill development and a College Center program for collegiate soccer aspirations. The Colorado Rapids Academy currently competes in MLS NEXT, an elite youth development platform established by Major League Soccer.

Leagues: MLS Next

Real Colorado Soccer Club, established in 1986 as the Douglas County Soccer Association, operates across Highlands Ranch, Parker, Castle Rock, and the greater St. Vrain Valley in Colorado. The club is recognized for its comprehensive player development programs, emphasizing technical skills and sportsmanship, and consistently ranks among the top 20 clubs in the U.S. Real Colorado offers unparalleled opportunities for player growth, distinguishing itself from other clubs in the state. The club has a strong history of developing players who advance to collegiate, professional, and international levels, including notable national team players. Real Colorado is an original member of and participates in top competitive leagues such as MLS Next, Elite Clubs National League (ECNL), ECNL-RL, and USL Academy for boys, and ECNL (with two teams per age group) and ECNL-RL for girls. They also compete in the Colorado Soccer Association (CSA) and have achieved success in USY National Championships Series State Cup and USY Presidents Cup Finals. The club maintains agreements with professional teams like the Colorado Rapids, CS Switchbacks FC, and Hailstorm FC to facilitate professional pathways for players. As a non-profit, community-based organization, Real Colorado is dedicated to fostering character, integrity, and personal growth in youth players.

Leagues: MLS Next, ECNL Girls, ECNL Boys, ECNL RL Girls, ECNL RL Boys