How do players join the MNUFC Academy?
- Players can join the Academy through a few different avenues, all of which involve targeted selection by MNUFC staff:
- Pre-Academy participation can lead to Academy selection (link to Pre-Academy page)
- Player stands out in an Academy tryout (link to tryout page)
- Player is identified by one of our talent scouts
Once I’m in the Academy, do I have to try out for new age groups in the following years?
- Roster spots in the Academy are season-long commitments. Players are reevaluated every six months to discuss their current and future status as members of the Academy.
How long does the Academy season run? What’s the playoff format like?
- The MLS NEXT season runs from August to July, with preseason starting in early August and the playoffs running through late July. Teams can qualify for the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs through either League standings or Flex standings, making regular season performance a crucial part of extending the season and fighting for trophies.
If I join the MNUFC Academy, can I still play with my local club / school?
- Up through our Pre-Academy teams, players are encouraged to continue playing with their local clubs. Once they join the ranks of one of our MLS NEXT teams, we require that they be fully committed to the MNUFC Academy, meaning they can no longer play for their local club/school.
How does the Academy interact with other local clubs?
- Our Academy is increasingly integrated with the local soccer landscape, in part thanks to our Alliance Program [link]. This program was started to create an intentional community of soccer leaders, bringing together local clubs, schools, and organizations to push the game forward. Through this program, as well as through many personal relationships, our club is proud to work with and within the vibrant soccer culture of the Upper Midwest.
