COMPETITION PATHWAYS
WHERE PREPARATION MEETS OPPORTUNITY
RECREATION
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MLS NEXT
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U13 – U19 age groups
The most elite platform for player development
Youth Soccer Reimagined
Launched in 2020, MLS NEXT is the most elite platform for youth player development in North America. With a commitment to innovation and providing access and representation, MLS NEXT players receive the best training and coaching as they prepare for their futures, both in soccer and in life.
GIRLS ACADEMY LEAGUE
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U13 – U19 age groups
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Elite Level Competition
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National platform with showcases across the US
The Girls Academy(GA) is the leading youth development platform for the best female soccer players in the United States. The GA is the only national youth soccer platform that represents the collective vision of member clubs and actively engages the voice of players to take real ownership in the GA. This collaborative philosophy creates a culture guided by a shared set of core values, which produces an unparalleled experience uniquely designed in the best interest of the players. The GA embraces the desire of club members and GA players alike to maintain an unrivaled standard of excellence in coaching, competition, and regional and national showcase events throughout the year.
Lastly, the GA is committed to cultivating an environment that empowers each player to reach their best potential as an exceptional athlete and human being.
NATIONAL 1 LEAGUE
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National 1 League is the top team-based competition in US Club Soccer and US Youth Soccer, elevating teams across the country into a unified national platform integrated with the ECNL.
Formerly referred to as NewComp, this new competition is the result of bringing together US Club Soccer’s National Premier Leagues and US Youth Soccer’s National League, beginning with the 2026-27 season. The new league ushers in an era of collaboration in youth soccer that benefits players and families across the country.
NorCal
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U8 – U19 boys and girls teams
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Competitive training and competition
The NorCal Youth Premier League includes regionally-based leagues for Premier, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Copper level teams.
RECREATION
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U6 – U19 boys and girls.
Almaden FC’s recreational program is a great way for players of any ability aged 4 to 19 to develop skills, compete as a team, and play with friends in a low pressure fun environment. The teams are volunteer-led with each team receiving one professional coach session by one of our AFC coaches. All players will receive a uniform, photo and medal for participating.