MLS Next 2 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

Chicago Fire Youth SC (CFYSC) is a prominent youth soccer organization based in Chicago, Illinois, serving as the official youth club affiliate of Major League Soccer's Chicago Fire FC. Established in 2004, the club provides a direct pathway to professional soccer through its affiliation with the MLS club. Its purpose is to create an environment that offers opportunities for Chicago's youth to learn and develop through sport and become lifelong soccer fans. CFYSC offers comprehensive programming for boys and girls aged 5 to 19, including Sparks (6U-7U), 8U In-House, Foundation (8U-10U), Developmental (11U-14U), and Performance (15U-19U) phases. The club operates with professionally licensed coaches and dedicated full-time staff at premier facilities, including the Endeavor Health Fire Pitch. Teams compete in top-tier competitive platforms such as MLS Next and the USYS National League, alongside various regional and national league events. CFYSC is an integral part of the Chicago Fire Player Development Program, offering a progressive developmental structure from introductory play to elite youth play and into professional academy formats. The club emphasizes preparing players for college soccer and provides a clear pathway to the Chicago Fire Academy and potential professional debuts. A holistic player development model, focusing on technical skills, tactical understanding, and personal growth, distinguishes the club.

Leagues: MLS Next 2

Galaxy Soccer Club (Galaxy SC) is a youth soccer organization based in Naperville, Illinois, serving the greater Naperville area. The club was established in 1998 as a parent-coached organization, evolving to utilize nationally licensed professional coaches. Galaxy SC is dedicated to creating a positive soccer experience and providing high-quality soccer education for developing athletes. The club offers programs for youths aged 18 and under, including an Academy program for younger players. Their vision is to be recognized as the elite soccer club in Northern Illinois and Region II for excellence in program and player development. Galaxy SC emphasizes developing smart players who value teamwork and sportsmanship. The club competes in top-tier leagues and programs, including the Girls Academy League, Boys Elite 64, and USL-Youth.

Leagues: ECNL RL Boys, Pre-ECNL Boys, Girls Academy, MLS Next 2

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