MLS Next Clubs in New York, New York

Downtown United Soccer Club (DUSC) is a comprehensive youth soccer organization established in 1982 and based in New York City, primarily serving Downtown Manhattan and the greater NYC area. The club is organized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity dedicated to educating, training, and inspiring youth soccer players of all ages and abilities. DUSC aims to foster a community that reflects the diversity of New York City, helping children develop a lifelong love for soccer and realize their full potential. They offer a wide range of programs for players from age 3 (Mini Ballers Classes) up to highly competitive U23 Men's and Women's teams. DUSC is distinguished by its commitment to providing programs for all stages of development and interest, serving approximately 5,000 participants annually. The club offers top competitive programs, including MLS Next and Girls Academy (GA), providing a full pathway for advanced players. DUSC also emphasizes community impact, offering scholarships and partnering with organizations to increase access to soccer.

Leagues: MLS Next, Girls Academy, MLS Next 2

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.

Leagues: MLS Next