TIER 1

MLS NEXT Homegrown Division

The top tier of competition and the most elite platform for youth development in North America. This division includes all 30 MLS club academies and the highest-level non-MLS clubs, known as MLS NEXT Elite Academies.

• Season: Rigorous, 10-month, pro-style regular season.
• Focus: Preparing players for professional contracts, national team selection, and top-tier college recruitment.
• Pathway: Direct and proven route to professional soccer through MLS NEXT Pro, Major League Soccer first teams, and foreign pro clubs.