Sac United’s MLS Next Academy Program
Welcome to the home of Sac United’s MLS Next Academy (Tier 2) Program, a cutting-edge initiative that elevates youth soccer development in Northern California. As a founding member of the newly launched MLS Next Academy (Tier 2) platform in the 25/26 season, Sac United is committed to providing our players with unparalleled opportunities to excel on and off the field.
The MLS Next Academy program is designed for existing MLS NEXT and participating Clubs, offering a player development pathway that mirrors the highest standards and expectations of North American soccer. Our involvement in this elite platform ensures that our players are consistently challenged by top-tier competition, helping them reach their full potential.


Key Features of the MLS Next Academy Program:
Elite Competition: Compete against the best teams in Northern California through a club vs. club format that promotes high-level play and fosters growth.
Comprehensive Player Development: Our program focuses on nurturing well-rounded athletes, emphasizing both skill development and personal growth.
Optimized Resources: The MLS Next Academy platform is designed to eliminate coaching conflicts and enhance player movement, ensuring that each player receives the attention and training they need to succeed.
Ages U11 to U19: Our program spans across multiple age groups, providing a consistent developmental experience from early stages through advanced levels of play.
Pathway to Higher Levels: The MLS Next Academy Program serves as a direct pathway to college and professional opportunities, with players regularly scouted by top programs and organizations.
MLS Next Academy Teams:
Sac United fields 8 development teams, including U11, U12, U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, and U19 teams.

Our MLS Next Academy Program:
- 3 to 4 practices per week. Players are expected to attend all practices to be considered for competition in games
- Each team plays approximately 30 league games, including games at Tournaments, and may participate in NorCal Premier League & NPL/NorCal State Cups
- Seasons: Fall & Spring
- Individual Player Development Plans (IDP)
Outside Competitions:
MLS Next Academy players and teams can play in any outside competitions. This includes any other leagues, middle/high school season, tournaments, or State Cup competitions.
Traveling:
MLS Next Academy Teams can expect to travel. Exact travel distances will vary depending on their geographic proximity to their opponents and events.
Cost:
Financial Commitments can be seen here
Additional Cost:
Uniforms and travel.