How is soccer organized in the United States ?

The structure of soccer divisions in the United States can be quite different from many other countries, and it might seem complex to those unfamiliar with the system. Unlike most soccer nations, the U.S. has a somewhat unique model for its top-tier and lower divisions. In simple terms, the U.S. system is structured in a way that includes both professional leagues and semi-professional or amateur leagues. This article will break down the different levels of soccer in the U.S. and explain the objectives at each tier. From Major League Soccer (MLS) to the lower divisions and regional leagues, here’s a clear overview of this structure:

Major League Soccer (MLS) : The Top Tier of U.S. soccer.

Major League Soccer (MLS) represents the highest level of soccer in the United States. For the 2024 season, MLS consists of 30 teams, divided into two conferences—Eastern and Western. These teams compete throughout the season for the MLS Cup, which is awarded to the league champion at the end of the playoffs. The top teams from each conference also qualify for international competitions like the CONCACAF Champions League. At the end of the regular season, the teams finishing in the lower half of the table must compete in the playoffs for a chance to win the championship. No teams are relegated in the MLS system, which is different from most other countries.

Main objectives in MLS :

• Win the MLS Cup (league championship).
• Qualify for international competitions like the CONCACAF Champions League.
• Secure a playoff spot to compete for the title.

The USL Championship : The Second Tier.

The USL Championship is the second level of professional football in the United States. It currently features 24 teams (as of 2024), and much like MLS, it is divided into Eastern and Western Conferences. Teams in the USL Championship compete for the USL Cup, with the top teams advancing to the playoffs at the end of the season. While the USL is considered the second tier, it’s a fully professional league, and several clubs aspire to join MLS in the future.

Main objectives in the USL Championship :

• Win the USL Cup (league championship).
• Earn a promotion to MLS (though there is currently no direct promotion/relegation system in place).
• Secure a playoff spot and advance to the championship game.

USL League One : The Third Tier.

USL League One is the third level of professional soccer in the U.S. As of 2024, it includes 12 teams that compete for promotion to the USL Championship. The top team at the end of the season is automatically promoted, and there is a playoff system to determine the league champion. However, like MLS and the USL Championship, there is no official relegation system in place, which is a distinctive feature of the American soccer pyramid.

Main objectives in USL League One :

• Earn promotion to the USL Championship.
• Win the USL League One Championship.
• Secure a playoff spot at the end of the season.

National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) : The Fourth Tier.

The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) is a professional third-division league in the U.S., and it’s considered the fourth tier overall. While it operates under the USSF (U.S. Soccer Federation) as a recognized professional league, it has a smaller footprint compared to MLS or the USL leagues. NISA offers clubs the opportunity to compete at a high level of professionalism without being in direct competition with the larger leagues.

Main objectives in NISA :

• Compete for the NISA Championship.
• Maintain professional status in the league.
• Develop clubs with the potential to move up the pyramid.

USL League Two and National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) : The Semi-Professional and Amateur Levels.

Both USL League Two and the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) are considered the semi-professional tiers in U.S. soccer. These leagues feature teams that operate with a mix of professional and amateur players, and many serve as developmental leagues for younger talent. USL League Two has 70+ teams, while the NPSL features around 100 teams, with both leagues divided into regional conferences. These leagues are not fully professional, but they play a crucial role in the development of players, coaches, and clubs in the U.S.

Main objectives in USL League Two and NPSL :

• Develop young talent and provide a stepping stone to higher professional leagues.
• Compete for league championships within their respective regions.
• Represent local communities and clubs, and provide opportunities for players to break into professional football.

The United Soccer League (USL) & Regional Leagues : Grassroots and Local soccer.

Below the semi-professional leagues, there are numerous regional leagues that feature amateur clubs. These leagues, including state and local leagues, are vital for grassroots soccer in the U.S. They allow players to develop their skills while representing local communities. While not formally linked to the professional tiers, many players from these leagues eventually make their way to the higher levels. These leagues help nurture local talent and provide opportunities for players to progress through the pyramid system.

Main objectives in regional and local leagues :

• Represent their local communities with pride.
• Offer opportunities for player development and progression into higher divisions.
• Provide accessible and competitive football for all ages and skill levels.

A System That Promotes Growth and Opportunity

The structure of U.S. soccer is unique compared to many countries due to the absence of relegation and promotion between most leagues. However, this system provides clubs at all levels with opportunities to grow, develop, and thrive. The absence of relegation means that teams can focus on long-term development without the immediate threat of dropping to a lower tier, while still maintaining competitive ambition through playoffs and league championships.

Understanding how soccer is organized in the United States provides insight into the growth of the sport, which is rapidly expanding in popularity and influence. Whether you’re following the top teams in MLS or local clubs in lower divisions, each tier plays an important role in developing the talent, passion, and spirit of American soccer. This system, while different from traditional soccer pyramids in other countries, creates pathways for players, coaches, and clubs to achieve success at every level of the game.