CT United Academy to Compete in the Pro Player Pathway Bracket at MLS NEXT Fest
MLS NEXT Pro Connecticut United FC

CT United Academy to Compete in the Pro Player Pathway Bracket at MLS NEXT Fest

Published on January 22, 2026 under MLS NEXT Pro (MLS NEXT Pro)
Connecticut United FC News Release


CT United's U16 academy team is gearing up for its debut appearance at the prestigious MLS NEXT Fest December 6 - 11 in Indio California. Joining as the 30th MLS Academy, CT United will compete in the Pro Player Pathway bracket, the highest division in the country against exclusively MLS academies-a testament to the rapid growth and competitiveness of this program in just our inaugural year.

CT United is set to face elite competition, including San Jose Earthquakes, Vancouver Whitecaps, and Austin FC, in pool play. The Academy's U16 team, which went undefeated in October and November, enters the event in excellent form. Most recently, the U16 team had a hard-fought 1-1 draw against NYCFC at home and a 3-0 victory over Valeo away.

Founded in 2024, CT United Academy has quickly become a destination for top soccer talent from across Connecticut. In its debut season, the U16 academy team has already climbed to a #6 ranking in the Northeast, making it the highest-ranked team in the state.

Chief Sporting Advisor, Robin Fraser, expressed his pride in the team's progress, "Competing at MLS NEXT Fest as one of 30 MLS academies in the top division is an incredible opportunity for our players. It's a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our players and the foundation we're building here at CT United. This accomplishment wouldn't be possible without the outstanding efforts of our coaching staff, who are instrumental in developing these young athletes and preparing them to compete at the highest level. Facing teams like San Jose, Vancouver, and Austin will test us and help us grow further."

Steve Hutton, Director of Player Development, highlighted the broader significance of this event, "In just our first year, we've established ourselves among the top programs in the region. MLS NEXT Fest is not just a chance to showcase our talent, but also to set the stage for future successes. It's an exciting moment for our academy and Connecticut soccer as a whole."

This event highlights the Academy's dedication to developing players by competing against top talent, an essential step in preparing them for professional careers and paving the way for the launch of our MLS NEXT Pro team in 2026.

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