December 17, 2024 – A landmark partnership has been announced between two of North America’s premier youth soccer platforms: MLS NEXT and the Girls Academy (GA). This strategic alliance sets the stage for an integrated player development pathway, ensuring that both boys and girls have access to elite training and competition.

The collaboration will focus on raising technical standards, fostering innovation, and providing expanded opportunities for players, clubs, and families. A highlight of this partnership is the introduction of a girls’ competition at the 2025 Generation adidas Cup, an international showcase that has traditionally been reserved for top boys’ teams.

Atlético Santa Rosa’s Commitment to Girls’ Development
At Atlético Santa Rosa, we are proud to be a part of this transformative moment for youth soccer. Our girls’ academy teams embody the values of development and excellence that the Girls Academy strives to promote. This partnership will provide our players with even greater opportunities to grow and compete at the highest levels.

Our club has a history of supporting young female athletes who dream big and work hard. Players like Zoe Valenzuela, who recently debuted with our U13 team, and others like Nataly Mendoza, who broke barriers with the 2008 Boys MLS NEXT team, exemplify the talent and dedication that exists within our program. The new alliance between MLS NEXT and the Girls Academy promises to open doors for more stories like theirs, where girls from our club can shine on even bigger stages.

Key Benefits of the Partnership

• Unified Player Pathways: By aligning their efforts, MLS NEXT and GA will create clear routes for young athletes striving for excellence in soccer and beyond.
• Enhanced Development Opportunities: Coaching education, regional showcases, and innovation programs will be central to the collaboration.
• Streamlined Travel and Scheduling: Joint events will reduce logistical challenges for families while ensuring players are seen by scouts from colleges, professional clubs, and national teams.

Kyle Albrecht, General Manager of MLS NEXT, described the alliance as a critical step in growing the sport in North America, saying, “The alignment between both programs will greatly benefit players, families, and clubs.”

GA Commissioner Patricia Hughes echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their shared vision of prioritizing player-centric development. “Together, we will focus on driving the game forward, ensuring players and clubs have the resources they need to reach their full potential,” Hughes said.

About MLS NEXT and Girls Academy
Both organizations are leaders in youth soccer, boasting thousands of talented players and top-tier clubs across the United States and Canada. While MLS NEXT supports over 16,000 athletes through its expansive network of teams, the Girls Academy focuses on empowering female players to grow as exceptional athletes and individuals.

As Atlético Santa Rosa continues to grow its girls’ academy program, this partnership signals an exciting future for our players and club. We look forward to the new possibilities and opportunities this alliance will bring.

For more information, visit:
MLS NEXT | Girls Academy