The ultimate goal for MLS Next clubs is to qualify for MLS Next Flex in May, then advance to the MLS Next Cup Tournament in June.
But the fall portion of the season is all about best positioning yourself for the spring.
Across New England, several clubs enjoyed success during the 11-week fall season, which ended on Sunday. The New England Revolution and NEFC reside near the top of the Northeast U19 Division. Beachside of Connecticut leads the Northeast U17 Division, with NEFC and the FC Greater Boston Bolts behind them. In the U16 Division, the Revolution posted a dominant 13-1-1 record, while NEFC and IFA New England are currently on the right side of the cut line for Flex.
Regular season games don’t resume until February, so this was a good time to highlight standout teams from the fall. Since starting with the New England Soccer Journal in October, I spent the last eight weekends traveling across Massachusetts – from Mendon to Lancaster, to Newton, and to Weymouth - to see as many teams as possible
I will also be heading to Indio, Calif. next weekend for MLS Next Fest, a six-day showcase featuring every MLS Next club in the country from the U16, U17, and U19 age groups.
As we enter the winter, here are four standout teams from the MLS Next fall season.
