ECNL OVERVIEW
The Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) was founded in 2009 to enhance the developmental experience for the youth soccer players in the United States through:
- Improving the competitive environment through creation of a true national competitive league with multiple flights;
- Improving the process for identifying elite soccer players for the U.S. Soccer youth national teams through a systematic scouting and identification program based on national competitions; and
- Improving the daily training environment at the top youth soccer clubs by developing best practices and training and organizational guidelines for its member clubs.
GOAL
The goal of the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) is to change the landscape for elite soccer players in the United States through innovative, player-centered programming and to enhance the overall experience by creating a better, more enjoyable and more successful player, coach and club development model.
ECNL/RL OVERVIEW
The ECNL created the ECNL Regional Leagues as an important platform addition for players and clubs to fuel the development of their players and to provide a proving ground in competition.
We are proud to announce that we will be joining ECNL/RL from U13 and above age groups for the 2022 season and beyond.
ECNL/RL will be replacing our existing SCCL model for our 2nd teams. SCCL will still be a part of the club pathway for our Top U12 age group and available for more competitive-minded teams seeking more than the Alabama state league. (see our graphics below)
We believe that ECNL/RL is designed to service our deeper player pools along with streamlining the pathway for our player advancement within the club. Aligning with an exclusive league like ECNL/RL will continue to create a target-rich environment for college placement. Adding ECRL to our pathway will help with passing players between our ECNL and ECNL/RL teams due to both leagues being under the same umbrella.
- The ECNL/RL platform will be growing significantly in 2021-22, providing additional resources and college showcase competitions to more players, coaches, and clubs around the country.
BENEFITS
- ECNL/RL Only Age-based showcase events-exclusive to ECNL/RL clubs in conjunction with ECNL events to maximize college coach exposure
- ECNL/RL Pathway to post Season play
- Support via ECNL/ECNL/RL admin staff countrywide along with tools like ECNL/RL App via iPhone and Android as well as support programs via showcase events and National sponsorship via Nike/Puma
- Ease of Club passing between ECNL/RL to ECNL rosters
ECNL TEAMS
ECNL/RL TEAMS
ECNL FAQS
Why choose ECNL?
The Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) is one of the premier youth soccer platforms in the United States, providing elite competition, high-level player development, and a strong pathway to collegiate soccer. Through ECNL league play and showcase events, Alabama FC players have opportunities to compete against top clubs from across the country and gain valuable exposure to college coaches. Our program combines this competitive environment with professional coaching and a commitment to individual player development.
What age groups compete in ECNL?
Alabama FC offers ECNL competition for players in the U13–U19 age groups, providing a pathway for development from the early teenage years through to the college recruitment age groups. We also offer Pre-ECNL for our U12 players, helping prepare them for the demands of ECNL competition and supporting their transition into the ECNL pathway.
When does the ECNL season run?
The season begins in late July, with the schedule varying by age group.
- U15–U19: Late July through mid-January.
- U13–U14: Late July through early May.
Teams that qualify for postseason competition may continue playing from May through late June or early July.
How many times per week do teams train?
Alabama FC ECNL teams have three training sessions per week. These include at least two on-field team training sessions, alongside additional player development opportunities such as speed, agility and quickness (SAQ), finishing, and video analysis. Our training program is designed to develop technically proficient, tactically intelligent, and physically prepared players.
Where do teams travel for games?
ECNL and ECNL Regional League (ECNL RL) teams compete against clubs throughout their regional conferences, with travel varying by program.
ECNL Conference Play
- Girls: Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina.
- Boys: Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
ECNL Regional League (ECNL RL) Conference Play
- Girls: Georgia and South Carolina.
- Boys: Tennessee and Mississippi.
Teams may also attend selected ECNL showcase events, providing additional opportunities to compete against high-level opposition and gain college exposure. These travel schedules vary by age group and team.
Can ECNL players play high school soccer?
Yes! Alabama FC supports players who want to participate in high school soccer while continuing to develop at the club level. Our U15–U19 teams do not compete during the spring high school season in Alabama, allowing players to represent their high schools without conflicting club league schedules.
Interested in Joining Alabama FC ECNL?
Contact our soccer staff to learn more about our ECNL and Pre-ECNL programs, player evaluations, and opportunities to join Alabama FC.
