MLS NEXT NEW TIER
MLS NEXT announced a new competition tier that will increase the number of clubs in MLS NEXT and deepen the overall pool of players and coaches. Starting in September 2025, clubs in the program will compete in regular season games, regional tournaments, and various MLS NEXT national events as well as coaching development and education programs, talent identification, and high-performance opportunities.
In the expanded tier of MLS NEXT, clubs will participate in one of eight regional tournaments each season in addition to the option for eligible age groups to attend MLS NEXT Fest in December. The regional tournaments will serve as qualifying for a championship event at MLS NEXT Cup later in 2026. These events will be marquee talent identification opportunities for college, professional, and national team scouts to evaluate players. Players competing in the new tier will also be eligible to play high school soccer.

MLS NEXT New Tier Director
Scott Duhl
Email: elduhl@yahoo.com
2025-26 Coaches
2013 - Joe Zawacki
2012 - Scott Duhl
2011 - Ken Shingledecker
2010 - Scott Duhl
2009 - Ed McCarthy
2008-07 - Ken Shingledecker