December 9, 2025
The League for Clubs (TLfC) has announced today intentions to launch a new league that will aim to bridge the gap between amateur and professional soccer in the United States. The league, which will be sanctioned through USASA, will complement TLfC’s existing National Amateur League structure.
With plans to kick off in 2027, TLfC “Pro/Am” will deliver competition standards above the highest levels of amateur play while offering a more sustainable operating budget than what is typically required at the lower tiers of professional soccer.
The league calendar is expected to run from April through October. Regular-season play will be regionally based to help reduce travel expenses. Regional champions will advance to a National Finals event, where the winning club will receive a cash prize. Participating clubs will be permitted to roster both compensated and non-compensated players.
“We are excited to introduce a new competitive tier above standard amateur play, helping bridge a long-standing gap in the U.S. soccer landscape on the pathway to the professional level,” said Casey Cantor, TLfC Commissioner. “We look forward to the potential opportunities this pro/am league can provide for clubs, their players and staff, referees and fans who have the desire to compete in, work at, or support a local club at the highest levels of soccer in America.”
Updates will follow in the next weeks and months as clubs sign letters of intent to participate and regional structures take shape.
