Soccer, or football as it’s known in most countries, is one of the most popular sports in the world. In the United States, soccer has been gaining popularity in recent years, with more and more people getting involved in the sport. With the growth of soccer in the US, many people are curious about the different leagues and divisions that exist. So, how many soccer leagues are there in the US? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the soccer leagues landscape in the United States, providing an overview of the different levels and divisions that exist. Whether you’re a seasoned soccer fan or just starting out, this article will give you a better understanding of the sport in the US.
The Structure of Soccer Leagues in the United States
National Leagues
The national leagues in the United States are comprised of professional and semi-professional soccer teams that compete at the highest level of the sport in the country. These leagues attract some of the best players from around the world and offer a high level of competition for fans to enjoy.
Major League Soccer (MLS)
Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. The league was founded in 1993 and currently has 26 teams, with expansion plans to add more teams in the future. MLS has a strong commitment to developing homegrown talent and has implemented rules to encourage the signing of domestic players. The league also attracts top international talent, with many players from Europe and South America choosing to ply their trade in MLS.
United Soccer League (USL)
The United Soccer League (USL) is a semi-professional soccer league that operates in the United States and Canada. The league was founded in 1986 and currently has 36 teams, including both independent teams and affiliates of MLS teams. The USL is known for its strong emphasis on development and has a reputation for being a stepping stone for players looking to reach the professional level.
National Independent Soccer Association (NISA)
The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) is a new professional soccer league that was founded in 2019. The league is made up of 10 teams that are independently owned and operated, with a focus on providing a high level of competition for players and fans alike. NISA has a unique structure in that it operates outside of the traditional soccer pyramid, allowing it to offer a more flexible and innovative approach to the sport.
Overall, the national leagues in the United States provide a strong foundation for the sport of soccer, offering high-level competition and opportunities for players to develop their skills. Whether you are a fan of MLS, USL, or NISA, there is no shortage of exciting soccer action to be found in the United States.
Amateur Leagues
United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA)
The United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA) is a national organization that governs adult soccer leagues across the country. The USASA is comprised of over 500 member organizations and serves as the umbrella organization for these groups. The USASA promotes the growth and development of adult soccer through its national tournaments and leagues.
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is a governing body for small college athletics programs in the United States. The NAIA has over 250 member institutions and is divided into 24 conferences. The NAIA sponsors 18 sports, including men’s and women’s soccer. The NAIA is known for its emphasis on academic excellence and the integration of athletics into the overall college experience.
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is a non-profit organization that regulates college athletics in the United States. The NCAA has over 1,200 member institutions and is divided into three divisions based on school size and resources. Division I soccer programs have the highest level of competition and offer scholarships to student-athletes. Division II and Division III programs also offer scholarships, but the levels of competition are lower than Division I. The NCAA holds national championships in men’s and women’s soccer.
Professional Leagues in the United States
Major League Soccer (MLS)
Overview of the Top Professional League in the United States
Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. It was founded in 1993, and its headquarters are located in New York City. The league consists of 26 teams, 23 of which are based in the United States, and three in Canada. The teams are divided into two conferences: the Western Conference and the Eastern Conference. The regular season runs from March to October, and the playoffs culminate in the MLS Cup, which is held in late November or early December.
Teams, Players, and Competitions
MLS has a mix of American and international players, with a limit of 10 international players per team. The league also has a salary cap, which helps to maintain competitive balance among the teams. The league is known for its high-quality players, including some of the best players from around the world.
The MLS regular season consists of 34 games per team, with each team playing every other team twice, home and away. The top seven teams from each conference qualify for the playoffs, which are a single-elimination tournament. The MLS Cup is the championship game, and the winner earns a spot in the CONCACAF Champions League.
Popularity and Fan Culture
MLS has experienced significant growth in popularity over the years, with increasing attendance and viewership. The league has a dedicated fan base, with many supporters groups known for their passionate support of their teams. MLS has also attracted attention from international investors, with several foreign clubs owning MLS teams. The league has also seen the emergence of soccer-specific stadiums, which have helped to enhance the overall fan experience.
Despite the growth in popularity, MLS still faces challenges in competing with other professional sports leagues in the United States. However, the league continues to invest in player development and infrastructure, with the goal of becoming one of the top soccer leagues in the world.
United Soccer League (USL)
Overview of the Second Tier Professional League in the United States
The United Soccer League (USL) is the second tier professional league in the United States, serving as a bridge between the lower divisions and the top-flight Major League Soccer (MLS). The league was founded in 2010 as the USL Pro, later rebranded as the USL in 2017. The USL operates in a multi-level structure, encompassing three tiers: USL Championship, USL League One, and USL League Two.
The USL Championship is the highest tier of the USL, featuring 26 teams across the United States. The league operates with a regular season running from March to October, with each team playing 34 matches. The top six teams qualify for the playoffs, culminating in the USL Cup Final.
The USL League One and USL League Two are the second and third tiers, respectively. USL League One was founded in 2017 and consists of 10 teams, mostly based in the southeastern United States. USL League Two, previously known as the Premier Development League (PDL), was established in 1990 and has 98 teams across the country, primarily focusing on player development and providing a pathway to the professional ranks.
The USL has gained significant popularity over the years, attracting large crowds and fostering passionate fan bases. Many USL teams have built strong relationships with their local communities, organizing supporters’ groups and hosting family-friendly events. The league has also made strides in player development, with numerous homegrown players earning opportunities in MLS and international leagues.
In addition to its domestic success, the USL has forged partnerships with international clubs, allowing for player exchanges and the creation of hybrid teams. These initiatives have further bolstered the league’s reputation and contributed to its growth.
Despite facing challenges and competition from other soccer leagues in the United States, the USL has firmly established itself as a crucial component of the American soccer landscape. Its diverse structure and commitment to player development make it an attractive option for aspiring professionals and fans alike.
National Independent Soccer Association (NISA)
Overview of the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA)
The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) is a relatively new professional soccer league in the United States, having been established in 2017. The league is comprised of independent teams that operate outside of the traditional soccer hierarchy in the country. The NISA aims to provide a platform for high-level soccer competition for teams that may not have access to more established leagues.
The NISA currently has ten teams competing in the league, including the Detroit City FC, New Amsterdam FC, and Chattanooga FC. These teams come from various regions across the United States, and each team is owned and operated independently. The league operates on a regional basis, with teams competing in their respective conferences.
The NISA season runs from September to November, with each team playing a total of 28 games. The league employs a single-table format, with the top teams qualifying for the playoffs. The playoffs are held in November, with the NISA Cup being awarded to the winning team.
The NISA has gained a dedicated following among soccer fans in the United States. Many of the teams in the league have developed a strong fan culture, with supporters groups that provide enthusiastic support throughout the season. The league has also attracted attention from former professional players, who have been drawn to the independent and innovative nature of the NISA.
The NISA has established itself as a viable option for teams looking to compete at a high level in the United States. Its independent nature and commitment to providing a platform for teams that may not have access to more established leagues has made it a popular choice among soccer fans and teams alike.
Amateur Leagues in the United States
United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA)
Overview of the Largest Amateur League in the United States
The United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA) is the largest amateur soccer league in the United States, providing a platform for adult players to participate in competitive soccer matches at various levels. With thousands of teams and hundreds of thousands of players participating annually, the USASA is a crucial component of the soccer landscape in the United States.
The USASA comprises men’s, women’s, and co-ed teams competing in different age groups and skill levels. The league offers divisions ranging from recreational to highly competitive, allowing players to choose a level of play that suits their abilities. Teams compete in local, regional, and national tournaments, providing opportunities for players to showcase their skills and win championships.
The USASA is a popular league, with many games drawing significant crowds of passionate fans. The league’s popularity can be attributed to its emphasis on providing opportunities for adult players to participate in competitive soccer and the strong sense of community that exists within the league. Many teams have dedicated fan bases, with supporters regularly attending games to cheer on their favorite teams and players.
Overall, the USASA is a vital component of the soccer landscape in the United States, providing opportunities for adult players to participate in competitive soccer and fostering a strong sense of community and fan culture.
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)
Overview of the Second Largest Amateur League in the United States
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is the second largest amateur league in the United States, serving as a governing body for collegiate athletics. It comprises a diverse range of member institutions, including Christian-affiliated schools, community colleges, and small liberal arts colleges.
The NAIA features men’s and women’s soccer programs across various divisions, with Division I being the highest level of competition. Teams participate in conference championships and the NAIA National Championship, which is held annually at the end of the season.
The NAIA soccer scene is characterized by passionate fan bases and a strong sense of community. With smaller student populations and a more intimate atmosphere, games often attract dedicated supporters who showcase their school spirit through creative chants, cheers, and organized fan groups.
Although the NAIA does not offer athletic scholarships for soccer, it provides opportunities for talented players to showcase their skills and compete at a high level while also emphasizing the importance of academics and personal growth.
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is the largest amateur league in the United States, governing intercollegiate athletics for both men and women across various sports, including soccer.
The NCAA soccer landscape comprises three divisions: Division I, Division II, and Division III. Each division has its own set of rules, regulations, and competition formats. Division I is the highest level of intercollegiate athletics and features top-tier programs with robust budgets and high-level coaching staffs.
The NCAA holds championship events for both men’s and women’s soccer, with the men’s tournament being known as the College Cup and the women’s tournament as the Women’s College Cup.
NCAA soccer games often attract large crowds and boast passionate fan bases, with many universities having dedicated supporters groups known as “soccer clubs” or “soccer fans.” These fan groups help create a lively atmosphere, fostering school spirit and enthusiasm for the sport.
The NCAA emphasizes the importance of balancing academics and athletics, with student-athletes receiving athletic scholarships to assist with their educational expenses. This provides opportunities for talented players to compete at a high level while also focusing on their academic pursuits.
Overview of the Amateur Adult Soccer Scene in the United States
The United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA) is a governing body for adult soccer leagues across the United States. It caters to players of all skill levels, from beginner to elite, and serves as a platform for community engagement and social interaction.
The USASA features local, regional, and national tournaments, as well as state and regional leagues. Teams can range from casual pickup games to highly competitive squads, providing opportunities for players to engage in friendly matches or to strive for championship titles.
Adult soccer leagues in the USASA foster a strong sense of community and camaraderie among players, with many teams developing close-knit relationships and social networks. Although these leagues may not attract the same level of fan support as collegiate or professional soccer, they provide a fun and accessible environment for players to enjoy the sport.
The USASA also helps facilitate the growth of soccer culture in the United States by offering opportunities for players to participate in local and national events, contributing to the overall soccer landscape in the country.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is the largest amateur league in the United States, with over 1,200 member institutions across the country. The league is divided into three divisions based on the level of athletic scholarships and financial aid offered to student-athletes.
The NCAA hosts championships in 24 men’s and 18 women’s sports, including soccer. Division I, II, and III each have their own championships, with Division I hosting the most high-profile and competitive events. In Division I, the men’s soccer championship consists of 48 teams, while the women’s soccer championship has 32 teams.
In addition to the championships, the NCAA hosts regular-season competitions, such as the Men’s and Women’s College Cup. The Men’s College Cup is held at the end of the season and features the top 16 teams in the country. The Women’s College Cup features the top 32 teams in the country and is held in the fall.
The NCAA is a popular organization in the United States, with many of its events drawing large crowds and extensive media coverage. College soccer games often have a unique atmosphere, with passionate fan bases and intense rivalries. Some of the most notable rivalries in college soccer include the Duke-North Carolina matchup in the women’s game and the Akron-Kent State matchup in the men’s game.
Overall, the NCAA plays a significant role in the development of soccer players in the United States, providing opportunities for talented players to compete at a high level and receive scholarships to attend college. Many of the top professional players in the United States have played at the collegiate level, including former national team players Claudio Reyna and Clint Dempsey.
Developmental Leagues in the United States
United States Soccer Development Academy (USSDA)
Overview of the top youth development league in the United States
The United States Soccer Development Academy (USSDA) is a highly competitive youth soccer league that serves as the top level of youth development in the United States. It is considered one of the best youth soccer leagues in the world, and it is the primary feeder system for the United States Youth National Teams.
The USSDA is composed of 245 teams from across the country, with each team typically representing a United States Soccer Federation (USSF) member club. These teams are divided into three divisions based on geography, with each division consisting of regional conferences. Teams compete against each other in a home-and-away format, with the top teams from each conference advancing to the playoffs.
The USSDA is open to male and female players between the ages of 13 and 19, with the vast majority of players being between 15 and 19 years old. The league features some of the top youth talent in the country, with many players going on to play college soccer and professional soccer both domestically and internationally.
The USSDA is a popular league with both players and fans, with many games drawing large crowds of passionate supporters. The league has a strong following on social media, with many fans engaging with teams and players on platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Additionally, the league has a dedicated following of youth soccer coaches, scouts, and analysts who closely follow the league’s action and provide coverage and analysis of the league’s games and players.
Premier Development League (PDL)
The Premier Development League (PDL) is the second tier youth development league in the United States. It serves as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring professional soccer players looking to make it to the next level. The PDL is made up of teams from across the country, and it provides an opportunity for players to showcase their skills and compete against top-level competition.
The PDL is comprised of 72 teams, which are divided into 19 divisions. These teams are made up of elite players who are either in college or have recently graduated. The league is highly competitive, and the level of play is quite high. The PDL season runs from May to July, and the league is known for its fast-paced and exciting style of play.
The PDL has a strong following among soccer fans in the United States. The league has a dedicated fan base, and matches are often well-attended. The atmosphere at PDL games is electric, and the passion of the fans is palpable. The league has a strong presence on social media, and it has a growing following among young soccer fans in the United States.
The PDL has produced many successful players over the years. The league has been a springboard for many players who have gone on to play professionally in the United States and abroad. The PDL has also been a proving ground for many coaches, who have used the league as a stepping stone to advance their careers.
In conclusion, the Premier Development League (PDL) is a crucial component of the soccer landscape in the United States. It provides a vital stepping stone for aspiring professional soccer players and has a strong following among soccer fans in the United States. The PDL has a rich history and has produced many successful players and coaches over the years.
Super Y-League
The Super Y-League is a highly regarded youth development league in the United States, serving as the third tier of soccer leagues for players aged 13 to 19. It was established in 1998 with the goal of providing a more competitive and challenging environment for young soccer players to develop their skills and prepare for college or professional play.
Teams and Players
The Super Y-League comprises of elite teams from various states across the country. These teams are typically affiliated with established clubs that have a proven track record of producing high-level players. The league features some of the best young talent in the United States, with many players going on to play at the collegiate or professional level.
Competitions
The Super Y-League season typically runs from June to August, with teams competing in a series of weekend tournaments. The tournaments are held in various locations throughout the country, providing players with the opportunity to travel and compete against different opponents. The league is known for its high level of competition, with many of the top college coaches and scouts attending games to identify potential recruits.
Popularity and Fan Culture
The Super Y-League has gained a significant following among soccer fans in the United States. Games are often well-attended, with passionate supporters cheering on their favorite teams. The league has also cultivated a strong sense of community among its participants, with many players and families forming close bonds through their shared love of the sport.
Overall, the Super Y-League plays a crucial role in the development of young soccer players in the United States, providing a competitive and supportive environment for them to hone their skills and pursue their dreams of playing at the highest level.
Other Leagues in the United States
Women’s Professional Soccer League (WPSL)
The Women’s Professional Soccer League (WPSL) is the top women’s professional league in the United States. The league was founded in 2001 and has since become a leading force in women’s soccer, providing a platform for the country’s best female players to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level.
Teams, Players, and Competitions
The WPSL currently consists of eight teams, each with its own unique history and identity. These teams are based in various cities across the United States, including Chicago, New York, and Washington D.C. Each team is made up of a mix of experienced international players and rising stars from the U.S. national team program.
The league operates on a seasonal basis, with each team playing a regular season schedule that runs from April to August. The regular season is followed by a playoff tournament, which culminates in the WPSL Championship game. The league’s playoff format is designed to provide an exciting and unpredictable postseason, with the top teams from each conference facing off in a knockout-style tournament.
The WPSL has gained a significant following over the years, with matches regularly attracting large crowds of passionate fans. The league’s popularity can be attributed to a number of factors, including the high level of play, the dedication and skill of the players, and the growing interest in women’s soccer in the United States.
Fan culture in the WPSL is vibrant and diverse, with supporters groups and fan clubs springing up across the country. These groups play an important role in promoting the league and providing a sense of community and support for fans. They often organize events, such as tailgate parties and watch parties, and create unique chants and songs to support their teams.
Overall, the Women’s Professional Soccer League (WPSL) is a vital part of the soccer landscape in the United States, providing a platform for the country’s top female players to compete at the highest level and a source of entertainment and inspiration for fans across the country.
National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL)
Overview of the second tier women’s professional league in the United States
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is the second tier women’s professional league in the United States. It was founded in 2012 and is currently composed of nine teams. The NWSL is a summer league that runs from April to August, with each team playing a 24-game regular season schedule. The league is owned and operated by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), and its teams are owned by a combination of individual owners and investment groups.
The NWSL has nine teams, with each team representing a different city in the United States. The teams are: the Houston Dash, the Chicago Red Stars, the Washington Spirit, the Orlando Pride, the Boston Breakers, the North Carolina Courage, the Portland Thorns FC, the Seattle Reign FC, and the Utah Royals FC. The league features a mix of national and international players, including members of the United States women’s national team and players from other countries.
The NWSL has a playoff format, with the top four teams in the regular season standings qualifying for the playoffs. The playoffs are a single-elimination tournament that culminates in the NWSL Championship game. The championship game is played in September and determines the league champion for that year.
The NWSL has seen significant growth in popularity since its founding in 2012. The league has a dedicated fan base, with many fans attending games and supporting their favorite teams. The league has also gained media attention and has been featured on various platforms, including ESPN and FOX Sports. The league has also signed partnerships with various sponsors, including Budweiser and Coca-Cola. The NWSL has also seen the growth of fan culture, with supporters’ groups and fan clubs forming across the league.
National Premier Soccer League (NPSL)
The National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) is the largest men’s amateur league in the United States. It was founded in 2011 and has since grown to include teams from all over the country. The league is divided into nine regions, with each region having its own champion.
The NPSL is home to a diverse range of teams, including both traditional soccer powers and newcomers to the sport. Teams in the NPSL compete in a spring and summer schedule, with each team playing a maximum of 16 games. The regular season is followed by a playoff format, culminating in a national championship game.
The NPSL also offers opportunities for international players to compete in the United States. These players bring a unique skill set and cultural experience to the league, adding to its overall diversity.
The NPSL has gained a loyal following of fans across the country. Matches are often held in community stadiums and parks, providing a unique and intimate atmosphere for fans. Many teams also have dedicated supporters groups, known for their passionate support and creative chants.
The NPSL has also become a breeding ground for up-and-coming talent, with many players using the league as a stepping stone to professional soccer. The league’s popularity has only continued to grow, making it a significant player in the American soccer landscape.
The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) is a professional soccer league in the United States that was founded in 2019. The league is composed of eight teams, each of which is independently owned and operated. The teams are located in various cities across the country, including Detroit, Michigan; Oakland, California; and Jacksonville, Florida.
One of the unique features of the NISA is that it is designed to be independent of the United States Soccer Federation’s (USSF) hierarchical structure. This means that the league is not subject to the same rules and regulations as other professional leagues in the country, such as Major League Soccer (MLS). As a result, the NISA is able to operate with a level of autonomy that is not available to other leagues.
The NISA is also known for its focus on player development. The league has a limit on the number of foreign players that can be on a team’s roster, which encourages the development of American players. Additionally, the league has a minimum age requirement for players, which ensures that the league is composed of experienced and skilled players.
In terms of popularity and fan culture, the NISA has been well-received by soccer fans in the United States. The league has a strong social media presence and has been able to attract large crowds to its games. Additionally, the league has a reputation for being fan-friendly, with low ticket prices and a focus on community engagement.
Overall, the National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) is a unique and innovative professional soccer league in the United States. With its focus on player development and autonomy, the league has been able to carve out a niche for itself in the country’s soccer landscape.
Other Local and Regional Leagues
In addition to the well-known national leagues, there are numerous local and regional soccer leagues throughout the United States that cater to players of all ages and skill levels. These leagues provide an opportunity for players to compete at a more local level and to develop their skills in a more accessible environment.
One example of a local and regional league is the California State Soccer League, which is comprised of multiple divisions and serves as a feeder system for the USL and other national leagues. The league is open to both amateur and semi-professional teams and features matches throughout the state of California.
Another example is the Maryland Major Soccer League, which is a state-wide league that includes both men’s and women’s divisions. The league is comprised of teams from various parts of Maryland and features a mix of amateur and semi-professional players.
In addition to these examples, there are countless other local and regional leagues throughout the United States that serve similar purposes. These leagues provide an opportunity for players to compete at a local level and to develop their skills in a more accessible environment.
Despite their local nature, these leagues are often highly competitive and attract dedicated fan bases. In many cases, the level of play is on par with or even exceeds that of some national leagues, making them a valuable part of the soccer landscape in the United States.
FAQs
1. How many U.S. Soccer leagues are there?
There are several U.S. Soccer leagues at different levels and divisions. The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) oversees all soccer leagues in the country, from the professional level to the amateur level. The professional leagues in the United States include Major League Soccer (MLS), the North American Soccer League (NASL), and the United Soccer League (USL). At the amateur level, there are several leagues, including the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), the United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA), and the National Interstate Soccer League (NISL).
2. What is the difference between the professional and amateur leagues?
The main difference between the professional and amateur leagues is the level of compensation for the players. In the professional leagues, such as MLS, NASL, and USL, players are paid to play, while in the amateur leagues, players typically play for free or receive minimal compensation. Additionally, the level of competition is generally higher in the professional leagues, as the players have more experience and training.
3. How do I know which league is right for me?
The right league for you will depend on your level of skill and experience, as well as your goals for playing soccer. If you are a highly skilled player with aspirations of playing professionally, you may want to consider joining a professional league. However, if you are playing for fun or to stay active, an amateur league may be a better fit. It’s also important to consider the time commitment and level of competition when choosing a league.
4. How do I join a U.S. Soccer league?
To join a U.S. Soccer league, you will need to find a team in your area and contact the coach or manager. Many leagues have websites where you can find information about teams and how to contact them. You may also want to reach out to local soccer clubs or organizations for information about leagues and tryouts. Some leagues may require you to attend a tryout or meet certain eligibility requirements before being accepted onto a team.
5. Are there any age restrictions for playing in U.S. Soccer leagues?
There are generally no strict age restrictions for playing in U.S. Soccer leagues, although some leagues may have age requirements or restrictions for certain divisions. Many leagues offer divisions for adults, as well as youth divisions for players under a certain age, such as 18 or 21. Some leagues may also offer co-ed divisions or women’s-only divisions. It’s important to check with the specific league you are interested in joining for information about age requirements and restrictions.
