Mountain Developmental League becomes the newest addition to US Club Soccer’s National Premier Leagues

US Club Soccer has announced the creation of the Mountain Developmental League as the newest addition to the organization’s National Premier Leagues (NPL). The Mountain Developmental League is the fifth NPL added this spring, increasing the total number of National Premier Leagues to 17 all across the United States.

The NPL has been created to provide a unified, league-based national developmental platform with the highest level of competition in given geographic areas, and to elevate and change the competitive youth soccer landscape based upon fundamental principles outlined in US Club Soccer’s 10-year vision.

Set to kick off in fall 2012 with U-13 through U-17 boys divisions, the Mountain Developmental League will include 12 member clubs from Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico:

“Colorado Rush is extremely excited to be part of the Mountain Developmental League,” said Colorado Rush SC Director of Coaching Wes Hart. “The landscape of youth soccer has changed drastically over the past few years and we believe that the NPL is another positive step in helping our sport grow.”

“Rio Soccer Club is excited about the opportunity to participate in the Mountain Developmental League,” said Chris Cartlidge, Director of Coaching at Rio SC (formerly Rio Vista FC). “The participating clubs have a track record of developing quality teams and players. NPL affiliation will enhance the diversity and the quality of our competitive games and we are looking forward to this outstanding developmental opportunity for our membership.”

The Mountain Developmental League will be split into two geographical divisions: the Colorado Division and the Southwest Division. Competition will include regular-season games within each division with top teams advancing to the Mountain Developmental League Playoffs. Winners at that event will then qualify for the 2013 NPL Champions Cup.