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MLS NEXT Pro Chattanooga FC

Chattanooga FC Academy to Join MLS NEXT in 2025-26 Season

April 24, 2024 - MLS NEXT Pro (MLS NEXT Pro)
Chattanooga FC News Release


CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - Chattanooga FC (CFC) announced today the launch of two elite youth teams - U13 (2012 birth year) and U14 (2013 birth year) - entering MLS NEXT, the top youth soccer development league in North America, starting in the 2025-2026 season.

MLS NEXT provides the best player development experience in North America. Founded on a collaborative approach to governance and a commitment to innovation, MLS NEXT players have access to the highest levels of competition and to training to prepare them for their futures, both in soccer and in life.

Chattanooga FC is committed to fostering elite player development with a local community framework aimed at nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Chattanooga Football Club CEO Alton Byrd, said:

"Chattanooga Football Club is truly excited by the opportunity to enter MLS NEXT in 2025. We are planning in 2024 for entry in the league and MLS NEXT will give us a further platform for excellence that has already been created by our existing Chattanooga Football Club infrastructure. We are really looking forward to entrance and active participation in MLS NEXT representing the City of Chattanooga!"

Chattanooga Football Club Sporting Director and men's first team head coach Rod Underwood, said:

"Joining MLS NEXT is a critical next step for the growth of the entire club. We continue to look at pathways for players and MLS NEXT provides those opportunities. We are truly excited to be joining the league."

MLS NEXT annually executes a rigorous expansion process to select new clubs to compete in the upcoming season. Several factors were considered, including top-notch training plans, experienced coaching, effective player ID and recruitment, high-quality facilities, cutting-edge technological opportunities, and defined player pathways. Off the field, clubs were required to demonstrate a mission-aligned culture with core values, overall community engagement, holistic development strategies, a strong commitment to access and representation, robust financial aid and scholarship programs, and a forward-thinking leadership team. These characteristics ensured that chosen clubs aligned with MLS NEXT's standards for accessibility, representation, and player development within North America's most elite platform for youth soccer.

For more information on MLS NEXT and its member clubs, please visit MLSsoccer.com/MLSNEXT.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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