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GLA MDL Division announces league additions for 2021-22 season

By US Club Soccer, 06/18/21, 11:15AM EDT

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The GLA MDL Division will head into its second season competing in the National Premier Leagues with an expanded membership.

Founded in 2011, the Midwest Developmental League joined the Great Lakes Alliance beginning with the 2020-21 season. For the 2021-2022 season, the GLA will be a U-10 through U-19 regional soccer league for both boys and girls. 

The league is welcoming four clubs which will field U-13 through U-18/19 boys and girls teams, beginning with the 2021-22 season:

The GLA MDL is a club-based league with quality local competition, increased college recruiting exposure and a predictable calendar model. U-10 through U-14 age groups begin play in the fall, with U-15 through U-19 age groups starting at the conclusion of the high school season. This structure was designed to provide flexibility to clubs, establish an appropriate training-to-match ratio, and provide teams with an opportunity to advance to the NPL postseason. 
 
“We are thrilled with the continued growth and success of the GLA MDL Division,” said Leo Garcia, US Club Soccer’s VP of Competitions and NPL General Manager. “The league continues to progress and improve its quality of competition year after year, and we look forward to working with these new members clubs to provide the highest quality resources and services.” 

Clubs interested in learning more about the GLA MDL, please contact Ed Bernstein at bern@glasoccer.com.

Quotes from new member clubs:

•    Michael Lentz, Barca Academy Columbus Executive Director: "Barca Academy Columbus is honored to join the GLA MDL alongside these amazing clubs. The opportunity to compete against teams of this caliber will challenge our players to be at their best on game day. This mindset will bring out the best in coaches and players at training as they prepare for the games. This degree of commitment and hard work will certainly prepare our players and teams for the next level.”

•    Costa Kalorides, Club Ohio General Manager: “As a club, we are elated to be selected and included in the MDL. With the quality of the clubs selected, and the experience of the league administrators, the MDL affords our players and teams an outstanding developmental opportunity. We look forward to the upcoming season and working with all involved.”

•    Mario Sanchez, Louisville City FC Academy Director: “Louisville City FC Academy is looking forward to having our teams participate in the GLA for the 2021-2022 season.  The GLA will provide a strong competitive league platform which will continue to challenge the development of our players.”

•    John Phillips, Sporting Michigan Director of Player Development: “We are excited about the opportunity to compete in the GLA MDL in the 2021-22 season. The GLA MDL and its member clubs are like-minded, player-focused, and we look forward to competing against and growing with all involved.”

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