ECNL & MLS NEXT (Club-Based)

• Base Club Fees: $2,150 – $3,000
• All-In Cost: $7,000 – $10,000+ per year
• What drives the price up: Cross-country travel to showcases, flights, hotels, coach travel, and tournament fees.
• Good to know: Fully independent MLS academies (Inter Miami, Orlando City) are free if your child is selected — but spots are very limited.

National & Regional Leagues (NPL, USYS National League, Elite Academy, ECNL-RL)

• Base Club Fees: $1,650 – $2,500
• All-In Cost: $4,000 – $7,000 per year
• What drives the price up: Multiple tournaments, uniforms, and regional travel (still often out-of-state from Florida).
• Good to know: These leagues offer strong competition and can still provide good exposure to scouts and colleges at a lower cost than ECNL or MLS NEXT.

Regional Competitive Leagues (USL Academy, UPSL Academy, EDP, NAL, RAL, DP)

• Base Club Fees: $1,400 – $2,000
• All-In Cost: $3,000 – $5,000 per year
• What drives the price up: Occasional overnight trips, tournaments, coach expenses.
• Good to know: These leagues are a strong value for families balancing development, competition, and affordability.

Local Select / Travel Programs

• Base Club Fees: $1,000 – $1,500
• All-In Cost: $2,000 – $4,000 per year
• What drives the price up: Mostly uniforms, local tournaments, and extra training programs.
• Good to know: Great for development and staying active without heavy travel costs.

What Parents Should Plan For

1. Travel is the hidden cost
   In Florida, “regional” often still means flights (to North Carolina, Texas, or California). Travel can double or triple your budget.
2. Uniforms and extras add up
   Expect $300–$600 for uniforms and gear, plus training camps, private sessions, or college showcases.
3. Scholarships and aid exist
   Many clubs offer need-based or merit-based aid. Always ask about payment plans and financial support options.

• Costs vary by family
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• A family driving to every event may spend far less than one flying multiple times a season. Your personal budget will depend on your child’s team schedule.

Tips for Families

• Ask for a full-year calendar of tournaments and showcases before registering, so you can calculate the true cost.
• Compare clubs within the same league. Base fees may look similar, but travel expectations can vary widely.
• Budget for “extras.” Training camps, private coaching, and out-of-state tournaments can add thousands.
• Explore multiple pathways. Playing in a regional league may cost less but still give strong exposure if your child performs well.