Phoenix Premier FC will be playing in the NEW TIER of MLS NEXT. 

(The below all pertains the the NEW TIER of MLS NEXT)

What is MLS Next?

MLS NEXT is the elite platform for youth development in North America – currently with 151 member clubs and over 16,000 players – and this expansion will provide opportunities for thousands of additional players and coaches, allowing member clubs greater flexibility to align team travel and scheduling, optimize player pools, and more effectively allocate club resources. This new competition tier, along with the recently announced strategic alliance with the Girls Academy, will play a pivotal role in continuing to raise the overall performance and competition level across youth soccer in the U.S. and Canada.

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Is the MLS Next only for Boys?

Yes, MLS Next is a boys only league.

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What age groups will Phoenix Premier FC field in MLS Next?

In 2025-2026 PPFC will have teams competing in the U13, U14, U15, U16, U17 and U18/U19 age groups.

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Will PPFC's MLS Next teams still compete in an Arizona based league?

PPFC MLS Next teams will not play in local AZ leagues. 

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Will PPFC's MLS Next teams participate in State Cup / Presidents Cup? 

This will be determined on a team by team basis.  Directors will work closely with team coaches to determine the best option for each team, whether it be to participate in State Cup, Presidents Cup, or another alternative.

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What is the MLS Next Player Identification Process?

PPFC will be hosting MLS Next Identification sessions soon. Please check back for dates!

MLS Next player identification will also take place in line with traditional Phoenix Premier FC tryouts.  Non-current PPFC (players at other clubs) players may express interest in playing for PPFC by contacting Boys Director of Coaching, Bobby Smith - bobby.smith@phoenixpremierfc.com   

Current and external interested PPFC players will go through player placement in May tryouts as normal. 

All players will need to register for and attend PPFC tryouts.

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When will MLS Next roster decisions be made?

Typically roster spots will be offered throughout the tryout process at the discretion of the coaching staff. 

If you are unsure as to where you stand with a roster spot please contact the team coach and Boys Director of Coaching, Bobby Smith - bobby.smith@phoenixpremierfc.com   

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Are the uniforms different for MLS Next?

In 2025-2026 will be entering year 1 of a new 2 year uniform cycle. MLS Next teams and players will be provided with the MLS Next patch that will be ironed onto the PPFC uniform. 

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Can MLS Next players play for their HS teams?

Yes - PPFC has always supported it's players participating in their HS seasons. That will remain the same in the MLS Next. 

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Will there be one or two teams for the U18/U19 age group in MLS Next?

There will be one combined team for the MLS Next program that will compete at U19 level.