Twin Cities Soccer Leagues (TCSL) is thrilled to announce updates and enhancements to the TCSL structure which will go into effect with the 2025-26 soccer year.
In partnership with the Elite Clubs National League (the “ECNL”), ECNL Regional League-Twin Cities will be formed as the top level within the TCSL structure, for boys and girls in the 13U-19U age groups.
This announcement builds on the success of the Minnesota NPL, where the average goal differential is only 1.9 goals thus far this season. Effective August 1, 2025, the Minnesota NPL two-level structure (“Super” and “Premier”) will be modified as follows:
- NPL Super will become ECNL Regional League-Twin Cities, with league winners advancing to the ECNL Regional League postseason.
- NPL Premier will remain the Minnesota NPL, with league winners advancing to the NPL Finals.
ECNL Regional League to provide more opportunities for more players in the Twin Cities
The NPL structure currently represents 31 Twin Cities clubs, and the new ECNL Regional League – Twin Cities will provide a clear pathway for any team within the TCSL structure to earn their way into the ECNL Regional League. Qualification into the league will continue to utilize the current promotion and relegation benchmarks in place.
For those players and teams that aspire to play college soccer, 16U-19U ECNL RL teams will be afforded the opportunity to attend ECNL RL Showcases, where hundreds of college coaches historically have attended.
NPL winners to represent at the NPL Finals
Where previously the NPL Premier teams did not have an advancement pathway, NPL league winners will now be rewarded for winning an NPL League Championship and will advance to the NPL Finals, held in Colorado in July.
“We are thrilled to announce TCSL’s partnership with the ECNL to operate the ECNL Regional League - Twin Cities. The two-level system in the Minnesota NPL has been remarkably successful, with the focus being on meaningful matches with very limited travel. We’re excited to extend the ECNL experience, including very well attended showcase events and an exciting postseason pathway, to clubs and teams within the TCSL structure. The fact that the NPL teams will now have a pathway to a respected and exciting national finals event is very exciting.”
“The Twin Cities Soccer Leagues has been the leader in Minnesota soccer for the last several years, with the best clubs in the state working together to move the game forward. This relationship is one of the final pieces in completing the ECNL Regional League footprint in the Midwest and we are thrilled that the league and club leadership have chosen to align with the vision and values of the ECNL.”
About Twin Cities Soccer Leagues:
Founded in 2017, Twin Cities Soccer Leagues is the leading soccer organization in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Representing 44 clubs, 30,000+ players and 3,000+ coaches, TCSL sets the standard for youth soccer, on and off the field, creating an exceptional league experience for all. Operating leagues and events for more than 2,000 teams, TCSL is committed to Raising the Level of every facet of the soccer experience, including coach education, player development, parent engagement, and referee education and development.
About ECNL:
The ECNL is the nation’s leading youth soccer development platform. The ECNL respects and celebrates the unique individuality of every youth soccer player and club, supporting and enabling them to unleash their unfettered passion and fierce tenacity in striving to achieve their potential.
The ECNL mission to Raise the Game is the commitment to create the best possible environment for players, coaches, referees and administrators, with a determination to constantly question convention and challenge the status quo in youth sports.
The ECNL Commitment:
We will lead, set our eyes on new horizons, and pursue them relentlessly. Born out of the belief in a better way. Continued in the ever-evolving pursuit of excellence.
