New York – MLS NEXT has formed a strategic alliance with Girls Academy (GA), a leading youth development platform for female soccer players in the United States, to work together on technical standards, innovation, membership opportunities and event integration to enhance player development throughout the North. America.
“Our strategic alliance with the Girls Academy fosters an aligned development pathway for aspiring boys and girls to reach their highest potential,” said Kyle Albrecht, General Manager of MLS NEXT. “We believe this is an important step in growing the sport in North America, as the alignment of both programs will greatly benefit players, families and clubs.”
Founded in 2020, the Girls Academy provides elite competition and player development opportunities for female athletes, and includes 114 clubs and more than 16,000 players (including 48 clubs that have a boys team in MLS NEXT). GA member clubs compete in age groups from U13 to U19 divided into 11 conferences across the country. MLS NEXT will combine select GA clubs into a girls' competition in the 2025 adidas Generation Cup, creating a high-profile bid in the prestigious international tournament.
“The Girls Academy is pleased to partner with MLS NEXT on a shared vision to raise player standards and standards to the highest level,” Girls Academy Commissioner Patricia Hughes said. “MLS NEXT is the leader in the North American ecosystem and together we will focus on moving the game forward. Our collaboration will prioritize player-centered development, with an emphasis on the individual growth of each athlete. This alliance represents an important step towards ensuring players, coaches and clubs have the resources they They need it to achieve their full potential.
MLS NEXT and GA will also work together to coach education and innovation programs as well as host regional showcase events that will be attended by teams from MLS NEXT and GA. These regional events will simplify scheduling and travel for players, families and clubs and ensure boys' and girls' teams compete in front of college and pro scouts and the national team.
2024-12-17 21:22:10
