MLS Next 2 Clubs in Kentucky

Kings Hammer Cincinnati is a prominent youth soccer organization operating in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area. The club was established in 2013 through the merger of Kings Soccer Academy and Hammer FC, with its roots tracing back to 1993. Kings Hammer provides comprehensive training and development for players across various age groups, from U4 through U19 for its youth programs, and U20 to U23 for its pre-professional divisions. The club is recognized for its commitment to player development, community engagement, and creating a clear pathway to collegiate and professional soccer. Kings Hammer Cincinnati is distinguished as the only club in the Greater Cincinnati area offering a full player development pathway for both men and women, including a pre-professional side. Their teams compete in top competitive leagues and programs such as MLS Next, Girls Academy (GA), USL Academy, and the National Academy League. The pre-professional men's team participates in USL League Two, and the women's team competes in the USL W-League. Kings Hammer boasts a successful history, including two national championships, four regional championships, and 71 state championships, with thousands of alumni advancing to college programs. Notable alumni include US Women's National Team and NWSL goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury.

Leagues: MLS Next 2

Javanon FC is a prominent youth soccer club based in Louisville, Kentucky. Established in 1989 by Ali Ahmadi, the club has operated for over 30 years as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Javanon FC is dedicated to creating an optimal environment for young athletes to develop their passion and reach their full potential in soccer. The club serves a wide range of age groups, from U-7 through U-19, providing high-level instruction. Javanon FC is distinguished by its impressive record, including two USYS national championships, 11 regional titles, and 177 state titles. Hundreds of its alumni have advanced to play at collegiate and professional levels. The club competes in top-tier leagues such as MLS Next and the US Youth Soccer National League Spring Great Lakes Conference. Javanon FC is committed to attracting top youth players regardless of financial background, race, faith, or color, fostering a supportive and family-oriented atmosphere.

Leagues: MLS Next, MLS Next 2

Lexington Sporting Club (LSC) Youth Soccer Club is based in Lexington, Kentucky. The youth club was established in March 2022 through the merger of Lexington F.C. and Commonwealth Soccer Club, as part of the broader Lexington Sporting Club founded in 2021. LSC offers programs for a wide range of age groups, from Lil' Kickers for children aged 18 months to 9 years, up to competitive youth teams for U13 through U19, and a U20 USL Academy team. A key distinguishing feature is its direct affiliation with a professional soccer organization, including a men's team in the USL Championship and a women's team in the USL Super League, providing a clear player pathway to the professional level. The club emphasizes holistic player development, focusing on flair, creativity, confidence, and essential life skills. For girls, LSC fields teams in the Girls Academy (GA league) for U13 through U19 age groups and participates in the USL Academy Girls Cup. Boys' teams compete in the MLS Next Academy Division, USL Academy League, USL Academy Boys Cup, and the USL League Two for the U20 team. The club utilizes a dedicated youth complex and indoor facilities for training and games.

Leagues: MLS Next 2