In a monumental step forward for the club, Inter CT FC U13 to U19 Boys teams have officially been accepted into the prestigious National Academy League (NAL) for the 2025/26 season. This marks a pivotal moment in the club’s history, providing its players with an elite pathway that will significantly enhance their development and open doors to new opportunities within soccer.

As part of this exciting new chapter, Inter CT FC will now compete within the National Academy League, a highly competitive platform renowned for its focus on elite youth soccer development. NAL's partnership with MLS NEXT, the top youth soccer league in the country that serves as a critical feeder system for Major League Soccer’s talent pipeline, makes this opportunity even more significant.

A Pathway to the Pros

For Inter CT FC, joining the NAL is a game-changer, not just for the club but for its players, who now have the chance to develop in a challenging and rewarding environment. The league's collaboration with MLS NEXT opens doors for players to be scouted by top-tier teams. This means Inter CT FC players will now have direct access to scouts from some of the most prominent soccer organizations in the U.S. — an invaluable opportunity for young talent striving to make a name for themselves in soccer.

“Being part of the National Academy League is a huge step forward for our club and players. The partnership between NAL & MLS NEXT will not only elevate our level of competition but will also provide our players with the development resources they need to reach the highest levels of the game,” said Tom Robinson, General Manager at Inter CT FC. “We’ve always been committed to nurturing the potential of our players, and this new opportunity will give them the platform to showcase their skills while not having to look elsewhere for an Elite Level Pathway.” Inter CT FC can now offer its boys' teams Zone 1 Academy, NAL, and USL pathways to take you from U9 to U19 in an academy league format. 

Elite Competition for Elite Development

Joining the NAL gives Inter CT FC’s players the chance to compete at an elite level alongside some of the best youth soccer talent in the country. The competition is fierce, with each match pushing players to refine their technical skills, tactical awareness, and mental toughness. The high level of play will ensure Inter CT players are constantly challenged, helping them grow faster and reach their full potential.

The National Academy League’s structure focuses on developing well-rounded, technically proficient athletes with the physical and mental attributes to excel in soccer. For players looking to make the jump to the collegiate or professional level, this experience is invaluable. The Inter CT pathway, competitive atmosphere, and expert coaching staff will ensure players are well-prepared for any challenge in the NAL.

What This Means for Inter CT FC

Being accepted into the NAL is also a significant club milestone for Inter CT FC. It signifies the growth and continued commitment to providing the best development opportunities for youth players in Connecticut and beyond. As the club’s reputation rises within the U.S. soccer landscape, it strengthens its ability to attract top-tier talent and coaching staff. The partnership between NAL & MLS NEXT and Inter CT’s extensive training resources will elevate the club’s position in the highly competitive youth soccer landscape.

This new opportunity follows on from joining USL Y and DPL last year, showing that Inter CT FC has solidified its place at the forefront of youth soccer development in the region.

A Bright Future Ahead

With the 2025/26 season on the horizon, Inter CT FC is preparing to kick off a new era of excellence. The club’s entry into the National Academy League represents a significant achievement and a beacon of hope for young soccer players in Connecticut who dream of taking their talent to the game’s highest levels.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Inter CT FC as they embark on this exciting new journey. With access to elite competition, expert coaching, and potential pathways to MLS NEXT and beyond, Inter CT FC's future has never looked brighter.

“Joining the NAL is a dream come true for so many of our players,” said Anthony Quinn Boys DOC. “We’re thrilled to be part of such an elite network, and we can’t wait to see our players take full advantage of everything this opportunity offers.”

Please see our tryout information here if you want to try out for our Boys U13 to U19 NAL teams for the 2025/26 season.