Long Island Pro Soccer

MLS NEXT FAQs

MLS NEXT is the youth player development platform of Major League Soccer (MLS). MLS NEXT provides the most comprehensive and effective player development experience in North America. With a commitment to development, innovation and providing access and representation, MLS NEXT players receive the best training and coaching as they prepare for their futures, both in soccer and in life.

Since its introduction in 2020, MLS NEXT has experienced rapid growth and expansion in membership. The 2025-26 season includes 29 MLS Academies, 123 Elite Academies (152 total clubs), over 700 teams and more than 15,000 players across the U.S. and Canada competing in six age groups: U13, U14, U15, U16, U17 and U19. MLS NEXT players also make up a majority of the U.S. and Canadian Youth National Teams.

MLS NEXT teams do not hold traditional tryouts. All players are evaluated through invite-only trial training sessions as part of our scouting and talent identification processes. However, players who wish to be considered may submit an application, which will be reviewed by our technical staff. Selected applicants may then receive an invitation to attend an upcoming trial event.

The Island FC will host six age groups – U13 through U18/19 – competing in MLS NEXT.  These teams will begin play in the Fall of 2025 (2025-26 season).

The MLS NEXT program is a year-round program that includes scheduled breaks around public school calendars, holidays, developmental soccer breaks and end-of-the-season play. A full yearly schedule is supplied by the club after rosters are formed. Yearly plans serve as guidelines and may be adjusted throughout the year.

The club will select 15-18 MLS NEXT Academy players and 15-20 MLS NEXT Academy II players. The player pool will plan to train at similar times and locations for development and logistical purposes. MLS NEXT Academy players will train up to 4 times per week during the regular season and MLS NEXT Academy II players will train up to 3 times per week during the regular season.

MLS NEXT Academy players will focus solely on MLS NEXT league play and affiliated events. MLS NEXT Academy II players may split time between MLS NEXT and MLS NEXT Tier 2 league games (or other league play), practices and events based on performance, attendance and availability. The MLS NEXT Tier 2 program provides players access to play full matches outside of MLS NEXT league play.

MLS NEXT announced the launch of a “Tier 2” competition for Fall 2025. The expanded program will allow players to compete in marquee talent identification events, with scouts from colleges, professional clubs, and national teams in attendance. Players in the new tier will also be eligible to play high school soccer. The Long Island SC Academy II teams will participate in this new league in the U13 to U19 age groups.

The Island F.C. in Suffolk County. We will plan MLS NEXT training sessions and game day locations to accommodate our membership as best as possible.  Access to top facilities in both Nassau and Suffolk County ensures the MLS NEXT platform is available for Long Island’s top-level players.

Uniforms are ordered through Soccer.com. 

The uniform kit includes:

  • Two game jerseys
  • 1 game short 
  • 2 game socks
  • Practice Kit: shorts, numbered jersey, socks
  • Warm up Top & Pants

Uniform costs range between $350 and $500. Uniforms run on a two-year cycle and are not included in the program fees. New players will receive an email once rosters are formed with instructions regarding the uniform ordering process.

MLS NEXT requires travel from New Hampshire to New Jersey for league matches in the Northeast division. There are typically one to two longer away matches per month during league play (3+ hours). The Club plans to participate in all MLS NEXT events which may require travel outside of the Northeast region. We will also participate in nationally ranked events and invite-only showcases.

Information on tuition & fees for the upcoming 2025-2026 season will be provided in the coming weeks. 

The tuition payment schedule will be outlined along with the tuition fees in your club information packet. Families may pay in full or register for the installment plan/payment schedule. These are not monthly fees. Installment plans are provided to alleviate fewer/higher payments.

The Island F.C. is committed to ensuring that all potential players have the opportunity to receive the benefits of participation regardless of economic status. The Island F.C. registration process includes an option to apply for an The Island F.C. Scholarship/Financial Aid. Applications are then submitted along with the necessary financial documentation and reviewed by The Island F.C. Scholarship Committee.

The Island F.C. boasts access to the top facilities in the region. MLS NEXT teams will train and play at the most pristine fields in Suffolk County, Long Island.

The Island F.C., an official MLS NEXT member in Suffolk County, partners with Long Island Soccer Club (LISC) as a key player development affiliate. This relationship provides LISC athletes with a direct pathway to MLS NEXT through The Island F.C., offering access to elite training, national competition, and opportunities for advancement to college and professional levels.

Yes. LISC Nassau is an MLS NEXT member and serves as a strategic partner of The Island F.C. This collaboration strengthens the player development pathway across Long Island by uniting two MLS NEXT programs.

Through this partnership, players gain access to advanced training, competitive opportunities, and a clear route for progression—including the ability to advance to The Island F.C.’s MLS NEXT Pro team, scheduled to begin play in 2027. In addition, this pathway opens doors for players aspiring to compete professionally overseas.