MLS Next 2 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

FC Harlem is a youth soccer organization operating in Upper Manhattan, the Bronx, and Washington Heights, New York City. Established in 1991 as Harlem Youth Soccer, the club focuses on providing a competitive player development pathway for youth to pursue professional soccer careers both on and off the field. The club serves boys and girls from ages 5 to 18, with specific programs for various age groups. A distinguishing feature of FC Harlem is its commitment to offering a 100% free program for selected participants, addressing the inaccessibility of high-cost youth soccer. The club emphasizes holistic player development, encompassing wellness, leadership, academic achievement, and career development. FC Harlem has partnered with Toulouse FC, a top-ranked academy, to enhance its technical and coaching development methodology. FC Harlem offers elite competitive opportunities, including participation in MLS Next for boys' U13 and U14 teams starting in September 2025. The club also fields boys' and girls' USL Academy teams as early as 2024, establishing a youth-to-professional pathway for both men and women. Furthermore, FC Harlem holds exclusive rights to launch a USL League One expansion club by 2026, creating a direct professional pathway within its ecosystem. The organization boasts a strong track record, with 97% of its high school participants graduating and 80% attending college.

Leagues: MLS Next 2