The article just keeps going, and I absolutely love that. 5, maybe 6, set for 2025. 3, maybe 4, already seemingly in place for 2026. Then about a dozen that could be 26-28. Those are just the ones we know about. Really hoping L1 continues to grow, and USL does the right thing and splits up the league completely in order to cut down on travel.
I believe the regional split is the goal. Now if they can keep bringing on new teams at a higher rate than those folding or moving up, that'd be great!
No need to be so pessimistic, Alex! The few USL-L1 clubs that may fold have had fundamental weaknesses for quite some time, such as haphazard, itinerant venues, or shady financing. We have reached an inflection point in the U.S. regarding the popularity of soccer, that sport that is NUMBER ONE preferred among those younger than 30, so demographics will be a major tailwind. The USL also recognizes that having ownership or control of a soccer-specific stadium is pivotal, so USL-L1 clubs that have such are practically immunized from failing.
Great article Alex! As for "At this point it’s hard to tell which of the expansion sides will have the loudest supporter’s group between Antelope Valley, FC Naples and Portland Hearts of Pine." Its going to be Portland! UP THE HEARTS!
The article just keeps going, and I absolutely love that. 5, maybe 6, set for 2025. 3, maybe 4, already seemingly in place for 2026. Then about a dozen that could be 26-28. Those are just the ones we know about. Really hoping L1 continues to grow, and USL does the right thing and splits up the league completely in order to cut down on travel.
I believe the regional split is the goal. Now if they can keep bringing on new teams at a higher rate than those folding or moving up, that'd be great!
No need to be so pessimistic, Alex! The few USL-L1 clubs that may fold have had fundamental weaknesses for quite some time, such as haphazard, itinerant venues, or shady financing. We have reached an inflection point in the U.S. regarding the popularity of soccer, that sport that is NUMBER ONE preferred among those younger than 30, so demographics will be a major tailwind. The USL also recognizes that having ownership or control of a soccer-specific stadium is pivotal, so USL-L1 clubs that have such are practically immunized from failing.
Great article Alex! As for "At this point it’s hard to tell which of the expansion sides will have the loudest supporter’s group between Antelope Valley, FC Naples and Portland Hearts of Pine." Its going to be Portland! UP THE HEARTS!
❤️ 🌲
It’s going to be a sell out every week at Fitzpatrick Stadium. UP THE HEARTS!!!
Finally had to chance to enjoy this great piece of work.
You covered an awful lot of geography with your breakdown of all of these projects in motion.
I honestly did not realize that there were so many in the works for the USL League One across the country.
Thanks a lot!
Alex: a lot of excitement tonight about Springfield, MO getting a USL1 team! Hope the link works (link at the top of the subreddit links to the city meeting tomorrow that will vote on $75 million --presumably for the new stadium! https://www.reddit.com/r/USLPRO/comments/1h55re7/possible_future_usl1_team_in_springfield_mo/