Growth seems to be the only constant for the National Women’s Soccer League. Launched with just eight teams nearly 13 years ago, the league is now on track to feature over 16 teams by 2026—with “no reason” not to expect that number to surpass 30 eventually. But the evolution isn’t limited to just the NWSL. Its stakeholders have now unveiled bold, innovative plans that could be the perfect step toward filling the long-standing youth soccer void in the U.S. women’s domestic scene.
That project, ladies and gentlemen, is none other than the creation of a Division II league below NWSL. As per the latest reports from ESPN FC, Commissioner Jessica Berman-led league has sent a formal proposal to the US Soccer Federation regarding the creation of a second-tier-based league by the beginning of 2026. Seeing themselves as a “global leader in the women’s soccer landscape both on and off the pitch,” the NWSL and its member clubs view this as a prime opportunity to grow the women’s game in “meaningful ways.”
“The demand for professional soccer has never been higher. We look forward to working to build a strong foundation for future generations of players, officials, and coaches and ensure the continued advancement of the women’s game,” a spokesperson from the NWSL commented.
(This is a developing story…)
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