2025/26 League Plan - Boys Program
The Stage Is Set For DME
The MLS NEXT recently announced a new competition tier that will increase the number of clubs in MLS NEXT and deepen the overall pool of players and coaches. Starting in September 2025, the expanded tier of MLS NEXT will be managed by leading league operators across the youth landscape with a strong commitment to player development. The operators will follow mandated program guidelines and technical standards set by MLS NEXT to ensure a high-quality product. Operators will include the National Academy League (NAL) operated by 3Step Soccer, Elite Academy League (EAL), Sporting Development League (SDL), Cobalt Sports, and Cal North Soccer Association.
How Will It Work at DME?
Due to the numbers of tryout registrations and our success to date, the boys program is BOOMING. We will offer NAL and EAL leagues next season for our top player pool (25 players). Additionally we will have access to leagues like NPL and Sunshine for our next level (lower) teams ensuring localized competition for the players that need more development time but still demand a competitive environment.
Roster decisions based on NAL and EAL league play will be based on performance, attendance, attitude and effort and matchups. This competitive environment will raise the level of play of our athletes for black and blue player pools.
National Academy League - DME Academy Black Teams
Elite Academy League - DME Academy Blue Teams
Other Leagues and Competition Plans
That We Have Access To:
TOP LEAGUE FAQ
Both the EA and NAL will now focus on Florida travel only. Previously, the EA had teams traveling to Georgia for games. This will not be the case in 25/26
We expect to field both Black and Blue teams across 2013-2007/08 age groups in 2025/26.
If we are not able to do so, we will create larger player pools and assign games to players based on performance, need, skill, attitude and effort. It is possible to play both NAL and EA games for said player with fluidity.
Competition is good.
Tryouts begin in April and end the first week of May.
2013-2007/08
It is possible that we will have a PRE-EA for 2014 and 2015 age bands, we are waiting on league decisions.
