SAI Academy proudly celebrates MLS NEXT Fest 2025
SAI Academy proudly celebrates MLS NEXT Fest 2025 and extends heartfelt good luck to every club, team, and player competing in Arizona this December. This event represents a milestone moment in the youth soccer calendar and an incredible opportunity for student‑athletes to showcase their talent, character, and commitment on one of the biggest stages in North America. SAI Academy is a proud academy partner of Orlando City, Austin FC, DC United, Chicago Fire, San Jose Earthquakes, and Columbus Crew.
Why MLS NEXT Fest Matters
MLS NEXT Fest has grown into the largest youth soccer scouting and talent identification event in the United States, bringing together more than 30,000 players and nearly 1,500 teams across multiple age groups. With over 500 professional, national team, and college coaches in attendance, it offers a rare concentration of eyes, insight, and opportunity for ambitious players and families.
Beyond the numbers, this gathering in Mesa, Arizona, embodies the full player pathway: from MLS academies to elite independent clubs, and on toward MLS, college soccer, and international opportunities. The presence of the MLS College Showcase at the same venue reinforces the direct connection between youth competition, higher education, and the next step in a player’s journey.
Partner Clubs and Player Pathway
SAI Academy is proud to support and collaborate with partner clubs participating in MLS NEXT, who are deeply invested in long‑term player development and academic success. These clubs represent a shared vision: helping student‑athletes balance high‑performance soccer with the education, life skills, and off‑field support they need to thrive.
At MLS NEXT Fest, partner clubs step into a truly national environment, matching up against top opponents from across the U.S. and Canada in the U15 through U19 age groups, with U13 and U14 also returning to the event this year. This competitive variety tests players technically, tactically, and mentally, while also giving them invaluable exposure to evaluators who understand the pathway from academy soccer to MLS, college, and beyond.
High‑Performance Environment in Arizona
For 12 days, the Arizona Athletic Grounds and surrounding complexes in Mesa and Scottsdale become the heartbeat of youth soccer in North America. Players will compete in tightly scheduled matches—three games in four days—requiring them to manage recovery, focus, and performance under conditions that mirror the demands of the professional and collegiate levels.
Select athletes will also have the chance to participate in MLS NEXT Fest Best Of matches in the U17 age group and Uncommitted Matches at the U19 level, designed to highlight top talent and give uncommitted players a focused platform in front of college coaches. These opportunities reward consistent work and provide a clear stage for players to show they are ready for the next level.
Education, Exposure, and Whole‑Player Support
This year, MLS NEXT Fest enhances its commitment to holistic development through the new Player Pathway Speaker Series. Expert‑led sessions for players, parents, coaches, and administrators will cover topics such as career next steps, scouting expectations, technical standards, and life off the pitch, underscoring that success is built on more than just matchday performance.
Coaching education sessions focusing on game models, performance analysis, and mental health further strengthen the environment around the athlete. SAI Academy wholeheartedly supports this comprehensive approach, aligning with its own mission to ensure student‑athletes grow not only as players but also as resilient, informed, and prepared young adults.
A Message to All Teams and Players
To every MLS academy, elite partner club, and independent program traveling to Arizona: SAI Academy wishes you safe travels, healthy performances, and unforgettable experiences at MLS NEXT Fest 2025. To the thousands of players lacing up their boots, may this event reward your preparation, deepen your love for the game, and open doors to new opportunities on and off the field.
To our SAI Academy partner clubs and their families in attendance, thank you for trusting in a pathway that values both academic and athletic excellence. Enjoy every minute of the journey, compete with pride, and know that an entire community is cheering you on at the largest youth soccer scouting and talent identification event in the country.