MLS Next Clubs in Illinois

Chicago FC United is an elite youth soccer program based in suburban Chicago, Illinois, with facilities in Glenview. The club was established in 2003, providing over two decades of experience in youth soccer development. Chicago FC United offers programs for both boys and girls, serving a wide range of age groups from U-8 through U-18. The club is recognized for its strong focus on player development and college placement, evidenced by its college showcase events and numerous college commitments. Chicago FC United's academy teams are founding members of top competitive leagues, including MLS Next and the Girls Academy. The club's commitment to excellence is highlighted by its ranking as a top youth club nationally by Soccer Wire. In 2021, their U-19 Boys Pre-Academy Red team secured a USYS National Championship. Chicago FC United also maintains an academy affiliation with Chicago Fire FC, further enhancing player pathways.

Leagues: MLS Next, Girls Academy, MLS Next 2

The Chicago Fire FC Academy is the youth development arm of the Major League Soccer (MLS) club, Chicago Fire FC, operating in the Chicago area. The Academy focuses on developing elite youth soccer talent. They field teams across various age groups, including Under-13, Under-14, Under-15, Under-16, and Under-18. A key competitive program for the Chicago Fire Academy is MLS NEXT, as evidenced by their players being named MLS NEXT Rising Stars and competing against other MLS academy teams. The Academy is distinguished by its direct affiliation with a professional MLS club, providing a clear pathway for talented youth players to potentially advance to the professional level. Their players are regularly called up to U.S. Youth National Teams, highlighting the high caliber of talent developed within the program. The Academy also emphasizes performance, advisory, and support services for its players.

Leagues: MLS Next

Sockers FC Chicago is a nationally recognized youth soccer club founded in 1986. Located in the Chicagoland area, the club focuses on developing players at all performance levels while instilling important life skills such as commitment, discipline, perseverance, and respect. Sockers FC aims to provide an environment where young players can reach their maximum potential through quality instruction and a holistic approach to personal and soccer development. They offer various programs and platforms for players to excel, including participation in leagues like the MLS Next and Girls Academy League. The club has a history of developing players who have gone on to play at collegiate and professional levels, including in FIFA World Cups and various professional leagues. Sockers FC also emphasizes values like unity, a winning mentality, versatility, presence, discipline, and commitment.

Leagues: MLS Next, Girls Academy, MLS Next 2