February 27, 2026

Dear Club Representatives:

As you prepare for the spring season, MSYSA is pleased to announce our plans for 2026–2027 as it relates to Director’s Academy (DA), and the Michigan State Premier Soccer Program (MSPSP) / Great Lakes Premier League (GLPL).

The DA program continues to thrive as the state’s elite program for the most competitive clubs in the U10 through U12 age groups. MSYSA remains committed to partnering with clubs that prioritize player development, high-quality programming, and continuing education for their coaches. MSPSP/GLPL shares the same commitment. With approximately 90 clubs and 13,000 players, MSPSP/GLPL proudly, and professionally, serves premier level clubs across the state.

Beginning in the Fall of 2026, MSYSA’s existing DA (U10-U12) and. MSPSP (U13-19) will align with US Soccer’s ‘NewComp’ league. The ‘NewComp’ league is the direct result of US Soccer’s recently announced pathway strategy - to better align youth soccer competition across the country and among its member organizations. Note: MSYSA and MSPSP/GLPL will continue to run and manage the league while expanding in scope and inclusivity. The new league will include post-season programming with USYS and/or ENCL. Marc Frankland (USYS) has been as hired by US Soccer as the ‘NewComp’ Commissioner. The ‘NewComp’ name is a placeholder until an official name (and its branding) is announced and shared. 

MSYSA remains committed to delivering professionally administered programming and looks forward to serving as the exclusive operator of this new league within the Michigan and northern Indiana market, pending a mutually executed operator agreement. Participation in DA and MSPSP/GLPL represents the strongest pathway for inclusion in U.S. Soccer’s newest initiative (‘NewComp’).

The 2026-2027 application process (U-13-U19), league fees, rules, standards, and information on how scheduling is to be managed will be provided soon. Clubs interested in the new league for next year’s U10-U12 teams should submit the current MSYSA Director’s Academy Application with current fees by 12:00 PM (noon) on March 31, 2026, like normal. By partnering with US Soccer, and its member organizations, MSYSA and MSPSP/GLPL believe this venture will deliver meaningful benefits to participating clubs, players, and coaches.

Please be sure to visit our website and social media channels for updates. Exciting times are ahead!

Sincerely,

Thomas Faro

Executive Director

tfaro@michiganyouthsoccer.org