February 19 – Women’s and girl’s youth soccer continues to be the fastest growing sector in the sport of soccer in the United States. With many different pathways available it is sometimes confusing to know which route to take, however, today the pathway is starting to look a little clearer.
The Girl’s Academy (GA) has introduced ASPIRE, a two-tier league designed to create an unparalleled development structure within elite girl’s soccer. ASPIRE aims to serve as a bridge between the GA’s top tier league establishing a structured path of performance-based advancement for clubs and players.
This expansion is enhanced through a strategic collaboration with the development player league which will manage aspires league operations.
“The launch of aspire marks a significant step forward in our commitment to player development and competitive success by promising the same GA standards of excellence to a much larger ecosystem. By introducing a two-tier league, we are expanding opportunities for young women to challenge themselves, grow within a structured pathway, and prepare for the highest levels of play,” said Patricia Hughes, Girls Academy commissioner.
“ASPIRE will not only elevate the standard of competition but also strengthen the foundation of youth soccer by fostering long term sustainability and creating new opportunities for players, coaches, and clubs. We are excited to see the impact the Girls Academy ASPIRE pathway will have in shaping the future of the game.”
With the GA as a full member of US soccer, ASPIRE clubs and players will also benefit from enhanced player safety protocols, and alignment with national development standards, which will potentially make ASPIRE the most structured and competitive tier two league in the country.
This groundbreaking structure hopes to create an environment where ambitious clubs have place to develop, compete, and succeed at the highest level possible. The GA and Development Player League’s shared vision is clear: to build the strongest, most competitive, and sustainable model for the next generation of female athletes.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1740152254labto1740152254ofdlr1740152254owedi1740152254sni@o1740152254fni1740152254