USL Premier Development League
Encyclopedia
The USL Premier Development League (commonly known as the PDL) is the amateur league of the United Soccer Leagues
in the United States, Canada
, and Bermuda
, forming part of the American Soccer Pyramid
. It is currently the top level men's amateur soccer competition in the United States, and has 64 teams competing in four conferences, split into nine regional divisions; unofficially, it is considered to be the fourth tier of competition, behind Major League Soccer
, the North American Soccer League
and the USL Professional Division, and roughly equal with the National Premier Soccer League
.
The Kitsap Pumas
are the reigning PDL champions, having beaten Laredo Heat
1-0 in the 2011 PDL Championship game on August 6, 2011.
While not strictly a "professional" league in the sense that the majority of players do not receive payment, the PDL prides itself on its professionalism in terms of its organization and the way the league is run, and its dedication to developing young soccer players, preparing them for future careers in professional leagues in the United States and elsewhere. As PDL seasons take place during the summer months, the player pool is drawn mainly from elite NCAA college soccer
players seeking to continue playing high level soccer during their summer break, which they can do while still maintaining their college eligibility.
However, in recent years, teams such as Laredo Heat
, New Orleans Jesters, Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
, Kitsap Pumas
and the Hollywood United Hitmen
have been embracing at least partial professionalism through a new program called PDL-Pro, whereby teams can choose to employ players who are paid for their performances, but who still meet the age eligibility criteria. This does not contravene NCAA rules, which state that college players cannot play alongside professionals, but may play against them. What this also means, however, is that PDL-Pro teams cannot have any active NCAA players on their rosters, but may employ NAIA
and community college
players, ex-NCAA players who have already graduated, or other local players who do not play college soccer at all.
In addition, PDL squads often also include standout high school and junior club players, as well as former professionals seeking to continue competing at a high level, often having been forced to retire from top flight competition due to age or injury. PDL rules dictate that a maximum of eight players on each team's 26-man roster can be over 23 years old, while at least three players on each team's roster must be 18 or younger.
Increasingly, the PDL is seen as a 'shop window' for professional clubs looking to discover and identify aspiring professional players who may enter the MLS SuperDraft
in future years. Many of the players currently playing in Major League Soccer
and elsewhere began their careers in the PDL.
) and one amateur (the 'Premier League'). The purpose for the split was to expand into and improve the soccer capabilities of many urban
areas throughout the United States
and Canada
, while offering current college soccer
players the opportunity to continue playing during the summer months without losing their college eligibility. The inaugural season of the new USISL Premier League featured 27 teams, and the Richmond Kickers
won the first title, beating the Cocoa Expos
3-1 in the championship game. Gabe Jones
of the Austin Lone Stars
was the league's top scorer and MVP.
The United States International Soccer League changed its name again in 1996, to the United Systems of Independent Soccer Leagues, and before the season, there was substantial movement of teams between the Pro League, the Premier League and the newly created Select League
(which would later merge with the A-League, and eventually become the USL First Division
). The Premier League grew to 34 teams in its sophomore year, with the Central Coast Roadrunners
from San Luis Obispo, California
beating the San Francisco Bay Seals
in the championship game to take the title. Pasi Kinturi of the Nashville Metros
was the league's top scorer and MVP.
The Premier League re-named itself the Premier Development Soccer League (PDSL) in 1997, and the Central Coast Roadrunners
repeated as national champions, the first team to do so, beating the Cocoa Expos
in the PDSL championship game. Lester Felicia of the Jackson Chargers
was the league's MVP, while Rodrigo Costa of the Detroit Dynamite was the leading scorer and the league's Rookie of the Year, talling 21 goals and 2 assists for 44 points. In 1998 the PDSL took to the field with 33 teams, including four associate members from the Pacific Coast Soccer League
who played shortened schedules after their PCSL season was over. In the championship game the San Gabriel Valley Highlanders
upset regular season champions Jackson Chargers
3-2, taking the trophy to California for the third straight year. Rodrigo Costa of the Detroit Dynamite was the league MVP, Boniventure Manati of the Jackson Chargers
was the league's top scorer, and a young striker by the name of Brian Ching
from the Spokane Shadow
was named Rookie of the Year.
In 1999 the umbrella USISL changed its name to the United Soccer Leagues
, and the Premier Development Soccer League dropped the 'soccer' part of its name and became known as the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League, or PDL. The league took in several teams from the D3Pro league, expanding to 42 teams in six divisions. Expansion franchise Chicago Sockers
ultuimately won the league, beating Spokane Shadow
3-1 for the title in a tight championship game. Fabio Eidenwein of the Sioux City Breeze
was named League MVP and was the top scorer, with 20 goals.
won their second straight title, beating the Mid-Michigan Bucks in a close 1-0 Championship game. The single goal was scored by Rodrigo Costa who, having received a pass from teammate Hamid Mehreioskouei, chipped Bucks goalkeeper Eric Pogue from 18 yards through a crowded penaltty area. Fernando Salazar
of the Los Angeles-based San Fernando Valley Heroes was the league's MVP, while his teammate Arshak Abyanli took the honors as top goalscorer.
The league grew from 41 to 44 teams in 2001 through the usual mix of relegation from D3Pro, teams folding and new franchises being added. In the semifinals, the Westchester Flames
defeated Sioux Falls Spitfire
5-1 and Calgary Storm defeated Des Moines Menace
2-1; in the final, Westchester defeated Calgary 3-1 to take their first league title. Des Moines and Chicago Fire Reserves dominated the 2002 regular season, but both teams stuttered in the playoffs; the PDL final saw the Cape Cod Crusaders
defeating the Boulder Rapids Reserve
2-1 to bring the title to the Northeast for the second year in a row. 2002 also saw the debut of the soon-to-be PDL legend, Tomas Boltnar of Des Moines Menace
, who secured an unprecedented triple-crown of PDL MVP, Top Scorer and Rookie of the Year.
The mid-2000s was a period of steady growth and consolidation for the PDL. A TV agreement with Fox Soccer Channel
saw the PDL Championship game being broadcast live on national television in North America for the first time, and professional teams began investing in the league by adding U-23 development sides as an addition to their senior rosters. Cape Cod repeated as PDL champs in 2003, beating the Chicago Fire Reserves in the final (and despite the presence of Jurgen Klinsmann
playing for Orange County Blue Star
), while 2004 saw the title head to Florida for the first time as the Central Florida Kraze
overcame perennial bridesmaids Boulder Rapids Reserve
.
Des Moines Menace
took the PDL Championship trophy back to Iowa in 2005 after beating the El Paso Patriots
6-5 on penalty kicks, following a 0-0 draw in the PDL Championship game. 2006 saw the beginning of two seasons of dominance for two teams: the Michigan Bucks
and the Laredo Heat
. Both teams made the PDL Final in 2006 and 2007, with the Bucks emerging victorious in '06 with a 2-1 win thanks to goals by Kenny Uzoigwe and Ty Shipalane
, only for Laredo to get their revenge the following year with an epic penalty kicks win after a 0-0 tie in regulation time.
Laredo became the first team to make three consecutive PDL championship games in 2008, but fell at the final hurdle to Thunder Bay Chill
, who became the first ever Canadian side to win the PDL following their 4-1 penalty shootout victory. The PDL had grown to 68 teams by 2009, and to reflect their growing reputation, introduced a new scheme called PDL-Pro, whereby certain teams would be allowed to act as professional clubs, paying players, while still adhering to NCAA collegiate eligibility rules, and the USL's own age restriction policy. Ventura County Fusion
returned the PDL title to Southern California for the first time in over a decade with a stoppage-time victory over Chicago Fire Premier
, and in doing so became the lowest-seeded team to claim the national title.
ended the season as national champions, beating Thunder Bay Chill
4-1 in the 2010 PDL Championship game. The Timbers also had the best regular season record, winning all their 16 games, scoring 53 goals and conceding just six along the way. In doing so the Saplings became the first team to post a perfect PDL regular season record since the Jackson Chargers
in 1998, the first regular season champion to win the playoffs since the Central Coast Roadrunners
in 1996, and the first team in PDL history to go through an entire PDL regular season and playoff campaign without posting a loss or a tie. Portland Timbers U23's
striker Brent Richards was named League MVP
and Rookie of the Year for his stellar campaign with the national champions. Players from Canadian side Thunder Bay Chill
led the majority of the statistical categories, with striker Brandon Swartzendruber
leading the league with 15 goals, while his teammate Gustavo Oliveira led the league with 13 assists. Portland Timbers U23's
goalkeeper Jacob Gleeson enjoyed the best goalkeeping statistics, allowing just five goals in 15 games and earning with a 0.360 GAA average.
Western Conference teams dominated the league in 2011 for the third year in a row, with the Kitsap Pumas
ending the season as national champions, beating Laredo Heat
1-0 in the 2011 PDL Championship game. Kitsap, who lost just one game and conceded just ten goals all season, were the second team from the Northwest Division to win the national title in a row, while Laredo were contesting their fourth championship game in six years. Interestingly, Kitsap also were the first PDL-Pro team to win the championship, a milestone for the league. Kitsap's Western Conference rivals Fresno Fuego
had the best regular-season record, posting an unbeaten 13-0-3 record. Fresno midfielder Milton Blanco
was named League MVP
, after leading the league in points (38) and assists (14) and helping his team to the Southwest Division title. Two Michigan Bucks
players - Stewart Givens and Mitch Hildebrandt - were given end-of-season awards as Defender of the Year and Goalkeeper of the Year respectively, while their coach Gary Parsons
was named Coach of the Year. Jake Keegan of the Westchester Flames
was named Rookie of the Year after tallying 16 goals in 16 games to take the league goal-scoring crown. Keegan accounted for 64 percent of Westchester’s goals in 2011 and also finished third in the league in points with 34.
, which is awarded to the best college soccer
player of a given year and is American soccer's equivalent of the Heisman Trophy
.
Eric Alexander
, Kalamazoo Kingdom
/West Michigan Edge
/Kalamazoo Outrage
(2006–2009), U.S. international Nikolas Besagno
, Tacoma Tide/Kitsap Pumas
(2009–present), #1 Pick in 2005 MLS Superdraft Ian Bishop
, New Orleans Shell Shockers
(2004), English Premier League player Nat Borchers
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
(2002), U.S. international Teal Bunbury
, Rochester Thunder
(2009), U.S. international, 2009 Hermann Trophy winner Geoff Cameron
, Rhode Island Stingrays
(2005–2007), U.S. international Chris Carrieri
, New Brunswick Brigade (2000), #1 Pick in 2001 MLS SuperDraft Brian Ching
, Spokane Shadow
(1998–1999), U.S. international Colin Clark
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
(2005), U.S. international Sam Cronin
, Carolina Dynamo
(2005–2008), U.S. international Charlie Davies
, Westchester Flames
(2006), U.S. international, French Ligue 1
player Chad Deering
, DFW Tornados
(2004), U.S. international Jay DeMerit
, Chicago Fire Premier
(2001–2002), U.S. international, English Premier League player Randy Edwini-Bonsu
, Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
(2008–present), Canadian international Brad Evans
, Orange County Blue Star
(2004–2006), U.S. international Rodrigo Faria
, Westchester Flames
(2000), 2001 MLS Rookie of the Year Robbie Findley
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
(2005–2006), U.S. international Sean Franklin
, San Fernando Valley Quakes
(2006–2007), 2008 MLS Rookie of the Year, U.S. international Herculez Gomez
, San Diego Gauchos
(2003), U.S. international Clarence Goodson
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
(2003), U.S. international Brad Guzan
, Chicago Fire Premier
(2003–2004), U.S. international, English Premier League player Tyler Hemming
, Ottawa Fury
/Forest City London
(2005–2006, 2011–present), Canadian international Kamani Hill
, Orange County Blue Star
/San Fernando Valley Quakes
(2005–2006), U.S. international, German Fußball-Bundesliga
player Vedad Ibišević
, St. Louis Strikers
/Chicago Fire Premier
(2003–2004), Bosnian international, German Fußball-Bundesliga
player Julius James
, Westchester Flames
(2006), Trinidadian international Sean Johnson
, Atlanta Blackhawks (2009), U.S. international Kei Kamara
, Orange County Blue Star
(2004–2005), Sierra Leonean international Jürgen Klinsmann
, Orange County Blue Star
(2003), German international, World Cup winner, English Premier League player, German Fußball-Bundesliga
player, current US national team
coach Sacha Kljestan
, Orange County Blue Star
(2005), U.S. international Joseph Lapira
, Louisiana Outlaws/Lafayette Swamp Cats
/Baton Rouge Capitals
(2003–2007), Irish international, 2006 Hermann Trophy winner Patrick Leduc
, Twin Cities Tornado (1998–1999), Canadian international Eric Lichaj
, Chicago Fire Premier
(2006), U.S. international, English Premier League player Zach Loyd
, Carolina Dynamo
(2007–2009), U.S. international Pete Marino
, Cocoa Expos
(2003–2006), U.S. international Yohance Marshall
, Vermont Voltage
(2011), Trinidadian international Dax McCarty
, Ajax Orlando Prospects
(2004–2005), U.S. international Drew Moor
, Chicago Fire Premier
(2004), U.S. international Chance Myers
, Ventura County Fusion
(2007), #1 Pick in 2008 MLS SuperDraft Darlington Nagbe
, Cleveland Internationals
(2007–2010), 2010 Hermann Trophy winner Gifton Noel-Williams
, DFW Tornados
(2010), English Premier League player Pat Noonan
, Michigan Bucks
(2002), U.S. international Danny O'Rourke
, Dayton Gemini
/Chicago Fire Premier
/Columbus Shooting Stars
(2000–2004), 2004 Hermann Trophy winner Olivier Occean
, Vermont Voltage
(2002–2003), Canadian international Dever Orgill
, Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
(2009–2010), Jamaican international David Oteo, Rio Grande Valley Grandes
(2011–present), Mexican international Michael Parkhurst
, Bradenton Academics
(2003), U.S. international Logan Pause
, Raleigh CASL Elite (2002), U.S. international Heath Pearce
, Bradenton Academics
(2004), U.S. international Troy Perkins
, Cape Cod Crusaders
(2002–2003), U.S. international Tim Ream
, Chicago Fire Premier
(2008–2009), U.S. international Luis Robles
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
(2003–2004), U.S. international Robbie Rogers
, Orange County Blue Star
(2005), U.S. international Chris Rolfe
, Chicago Fire Premier
(2004), U.S. international C. J. Sapong
, Fredericksburg Gunners
/Reading United (2009-2010), 2011 MLS Rookie of the Year Gonzalo Segares
, Williamsburg Legacy
(2003), Costa Rican international Paris Simmons
, New Orleans Jesters (2011–present), English Premier League player Jonathan Spector
, Chicago Fire Premier
(2001), U.S. international, English Premier League player Marcus Tracy
, Carolina Dynamo
(2008), 2008 Hermann Trophy winner Jeremiah White
, Ocean City Barons
(2003), U.S. international Chris Wingert
, Brooklyn Knights
(2003), U.S. international, 2003 Hermann Trophy Winner Eric Wynalda
, Bakersfield Brigade
(2007–2008), U.S. international, German Fußball-Bundesliga
player Steve Zakuani
, Cleveland Internationals
(2008), #1 Pick in 2009 MLS SuperDraft, Congolese international Sal Zizzo
, Orange County Blue Star
(2006–2007), U.S. international
United Soccer Leagues
The United Soccer Leagues is the organizer of several soccer leagues with teams in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. It includes men's and women's leagues, both professional and amateur. Leagues currently organized are the USL Pro, the USL Premier Development League, the W-League, and...
in the United States, Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
, and Bermuda
Bermuda
Bermuda is a British overseas territory in the North Atlantic Ocean. Located off the east coast of the United States, its nearest landmass is Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, about to the west-northwest. It is about south of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, and northeast of Miami, Florida...
, forming part of the American Soccer Pyramid
American Soccer Pyramid
The United States soccer pyramid is a term used in soccer to describe the structure of the league system in the United States. The country's governing body for the sport, the United States Soccer Federation , oversees the system but does not operate any of its component leagues—with one temporary...
. It is currently the top level men's amateur soccer competition in the United States, and has 64 teams competing in four conferences, split into nine regional divisions; unofficially, it is considered to be the fourth tier of competition, behind Major League Soccer
Major League Soccer
Major League Soccer is a professional soccer league based in the United States and sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation . The league is composed of 19 teams — 16 in the U.S. and 3 in Canada...
, the North American Soccer League
North American Soccer League (2010)
The North American Soccer League is a professional men's soccer league in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico which began league play on April 9, 2011. It has been provisionally sanctioned as the second tier of soccer in the United States soccer pyramid, behind Major League Soccer in the...
and the USL Professional Division, and roughly equal with the National Premier Soccer League
National Premier Soccer League
The National Premier Soccer League is a United States soccer league recognized by the United States Soccer Federation and FIFA as a Division IV league...
.
The Kitsap Pumas
Kitsap Pumas
Kitsap Pumas is an American soccer team based in Bremerton, Washington, United States. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.Kitsap are the reigning PDL champions,...
are the reigning PDL champions, having beaten Laredo Heat
Laredo Heat
Laredo Heat is an American soccer team based in Laredo, Texas, United States. Founded in 2004, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference....
1-0 in the 2011 PDL Championship game on August 6, 2011.
While not strictly a "professional" league in the sense that the majority of players do not receive payment, the PDL prides itself on its professionalism in terms of its organization and the way the league is run, and its dedication to developing young soccer players, preparing them for future careers in professional leagues in the United States and elsewhere. As PDL seasons take place during the summer months, the player pool is drawn mainly from elite NCAA college soccer
College soccer
College soccer is a term used to describe association football played by teams who are operated by colleges and universities as opposed to a professional league operated for exclusively financial purposes...
players seeking to continue playing high level soccer during their summer break, which they can do while still maintaining their college eligibility.
However, in recent years, teams such as Laredo Heat
Laredo Heat
Laredo Heat is an American soccer team based in Laredo, Texas, United States. Founded in 2004, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference....
, New Orleans Jesters, Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
Vancouver Whitecaps Residency, formerly known as Whitecaps FC Reserves, is a Canadian soccer team based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Although founded in 2005 as part of the development system for the Vancouver Whitecaps USL First Division franchise, beginning in 2011 they are part of the...
, Kitsap Pumas
Kitsap Pumas
Kitsap Pumas is an American soccer team based in Bremerton, Washington, United States. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.Kitsap are the reigning PDL champions,...
and the Hollywood United Hitmen
Hollywood United Hitmen
Hollywood United Hitmen is an American soccer team based in Los Angeles, California, United States. Founded in 2009, the team plays in National Premier Soccer League , a national amateur league at the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division, having switched from the...
have been embracing at least partial professionalism through a new program called PDL-Pro, whereby teams can choose to employ players who are paid for their performances, but who still meet the age eligibility criteria. This does not contravene NCAA rules, which state that college players cannot play alongside professionals, but may play against them. What this also means, however, is that PDL-Pro teams cannot have any active NCAA players on their rosters, but may employ NAIA
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics is an athletic association that organizes college and university-level athletic programs. Membership in the NAIA consists of smaller colleges and universities across the United States. The NAIA allows colleges and universities outside the USA...
and community college
Community college
A community college is a type of educational institution. The term can have different meanings in different countries.-Australia:Community colleges carry on the tradition of adult education, which was established in Australia around mid 19th century when evening classes were held to help adults...
players, ex-NCAA players who have already graduated, or other local players who do not play college soccer at all.
In addition, PDL squads often also include standout high school and junior club players, as well as former professionals seeking to continue competing at a high level, often having been forced to retire from top flight competition due to age or injury. PDL rules dictate that a maximum of eight players on each team's 26-man roster can be over 23 years old, while at least three players on each team's roster must be 18 or younger.
Increasingly, the PDL is seen as a 'shop window' for professional clubs looking to discover and identify aspiring professional players who may enter the MLS SuperDraft
MLS SuperDraft
The MLS SuperDraft is an annual event, taking place in January of each year, in which the Major League Soccer teams select players who have graduated from college or otherwise been signed by the league...
in future years. Many of the players currently playing in Major League Soccer
Major League Soccer
Major League Soccer is a professional soccer league based in the United States and sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation . The league is composed of 19 teams — 16 in the U.S. and 3 in Canada...
and elsewhere began their careers in the PDL.
1990s
In 1995 the United States Interregional Soccer League (USISL) changed its name to the United States International Soccer League, and split into two leagues, one professional (the 'Professional League', which ultimately became the USL Second DivisionUSL Second Division
The United Soccer Leagues Second Division was a professional men's soccer league in the United States, part of the United Soccer Leagues league pyramid...
) and one amateur (the 'Premier League'). The purpose for the split was to expand into and improve the soccer capabilities of many urban
Urban area
An urban area is characterized by higher population density and vast human features in comparison to areas surrounding it. Urban areas may be cities, towns or conurbations, but the term is not commonly extended to rural settlements such as villages and hamlets.Urban areas are created and further...
areas throughout the United States
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
and Canada
Canada
Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean...
, while offering current college soccer
College soccer
College soccer is a term used to describe association football played by teams who are operated by colleges and universities as opposed to a professional league operated for exclusively financial purposes...
players the opportunity to continue playing during the summer months without losing their college eligibility. The inaugural season of the new USISL Premier League featured 27 teams, and the Richmond Kickers
Richmond Kickers
The Richmond Kickers are an American professional soccer club based in Richmond, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid...
won the first title, beating the Cocoa Expos
Cocoa Expos
Cocoa Expos was an American soccer team, founded in 1993. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2007, when the team left the league and the franchise was terminated.The team played its home matches at...
3-1 in the championship game. Gabe Jones
Gabe Jones
Gabriel "Gabe" Jones is a fictional character appearing in comic books published by Marvel Comics. Created by writer-editor Stan Lee and artist and co-plotter Jack Kirby, he made his first appearance in the World War II war comics series Sgt...
of the Austin Lone Stars
Austin Lone Stars
The Austin Lone Stars were a soccer club that competed in the SISL, USISL and United Soccer Leagues from 1987 to 2000. The club originally started in 1987/88 as the Austin Sockadillos in the original indoor SISL league. They became the Austin Lone Stars in 1994.-History:In 1987, Fernando Marcos...
was the league's top scorer and MVP.
The United States International Soccer League changed its name again in 1996, to the United Systems of Independent Soccer Leagues, and before the season, there was substantial movement of teams between the Pro League, the Premier League and the newly created Select League
USISL Select League
The USISL Select League was a professional men's soccer league which featured teams from the United States, which existed for just one year in 1996...
(which would later merge with the A-League, and eventually become the USL First Division
USL First Division
The United Soccer Leagues First Division was a professional men's soccer league in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico....
). The Premier League grew to 34 teams in its sophomore year, with the Central Coast Roadrunners
Central Coast Roadrunners
Central Coast Roadrunners were an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2002, after which the team left the league and the franchise rights were transferred to the...
from San Luis Obispo, California
San Luis Obispo, California
San Luis Obispo is a city in California, located roughly midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles on the Central Coast. Founded in 1772 by Spanish Fr. Junipero Serra, San Luis Obispo is one of California’s oldest communities...
beating the San Francisco Bay Seals
San Francisco Bay Seals
San Francisco Seals was an American soccer team based in San Francisco, California, United States. Founded in 1992, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise left the league.The team played its home games...
in the championship game to take the title. Pasi Kinturi of the Nashville Metros
Nashville Metros
Nashville Metros is an American soccer team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. Founded in 1989, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference...
was the league's top scorer and MVP.
Central Coast Roadrunners
Central Coast Roadrunners were an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2002, after which the team left the league and the franchise rights were transferred to the...
repeated as national champions, the first team to do so, beating the Cocoa Expos
Cocoa Expos
Cocoa Expos was an American soccer team, founded in 1993. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2007, when the team left the league and the franchise was terminated.The team played its home matches at...
in the PDSL championship game. Lester Felicia of the Jackson Chargers
Jackson Chargers
The Jackson Chargers were an American soccer team which played in the PDL....
was the league's MVP, while Rodrigo Costa of the Detroit Dynamite was the leading scorer and the league's Rookie of the Year, talling 21 goals and 2 assists for 44 points. In 1998 the PDSL took to the field with 33 teams, including four associate members from the Pacific Coast Soccer League
Pacific Coast Soccer League
The Pacific Coast Soccer League is a soccer league featuring teams from British Columbia, although the league has also featured teams from Washington in the past as well...
who played shortened schedules after their PCSL season was over. In the championship game the San Gabriel Valley Highlanders
San Gabriel Valley Highlanders
San Gabriel Valley Highlanders were an American soccer team, founded in 1997 by a group of Armenian American businessmen and soccer fans as a competitive branch of the locally-based Ararat Soccer Club...
upset regular season champions Jackson Chargers
Jackson Chargers
The Jackson Chargers were an American soccer team which played in the PDL....
3-2, taking the trophy to California for the third straight year. Rodrigo Costa of the Detroit Dynamite was the league MVP, Boniventure Manati of the Jackson Chargers
Jackson Chargers
The Jackson Chargers were an American soccer team which played in the PDL....
was the league's top scorer, and a young striker by the name of Brian Ching
Brian Ching
Brian Ching is an American professional soccer forward currently playing for the Montreal Impact of Major League Soccer.-Youth and College:...
from the Spokane Shadow
Spokane Shadow
Spokane Shadow was an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2005, when the franchise was terminated by the PDL after the 10-year old artificial turf at their home...
was named Rookie of the Year.
In 1999 the umbrella USISL changed its name to the United Soccer Leagues
United Soccer Leagues
The United Soccer Leagues is the organizer of several soccer leagues with teams in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. It includes men's and women's leagues, both professional and amateur. Leagues currently organized are the USL Pro, the USL Premier Development League, the W-League, and...
, and the Premier Development Soccer League dropped the 'soccer' part of its name and became known as the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League, or PDL. The league took in several teams from the D3Pro league, expanding to 42 teams in six divisions. Expansion franchise Chicago Sockers
Chicago Sockers
Professional TeamChicago Sockers were an American soccer team, founded in 1995. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues, played at a professional level in the USISL Pro League, USISL Select League and USISL D-3 Pro League as the Chicago Stingers until 1999, when they chose to relegate...
ultuimately won the league, beating Spokane Shadow
Spokane Shadow
Spokane Shadow was an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2005, when the franchise was terminated by the PDL after the 10-year old artificial turf at their home...
3-1 for the title in a tight championship game. Fabio Eidenwein of the Sioux City Breeze
Sioux City Breeze
The Sioux City Breeze were a soccer club based in Sioux City, Iowa. The club began in the USISL and moved to the USISL Premier League in 1995.-Year-by-year:...
was named League MVP and was the top scorer, with 20 goals.
2000s
The PDL expanded by a further eight franchises in 2000, and the Chicago SockersChicago Sockers
Professional TeamChicago Sockers were an American soccer team, founded in 1995. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues, played at a professional level in the USISL Pro League, USISL Select League and USISL D-3 Pro League as the Chicago Stingers until 1999, when they chose to relegate...
won their second straight title, beating the Mid-Michigan Bucks in a close 1-0 Championship game. The single goal was scored by Rodrigo Costa who, having received a pass from teammate Hamid Mehreioskouei, chipped Bucks goalkeeper Eric Pogue from 18 yards through a crowded penaltty area. Fernando Salazar
Fernando Salazar
Fernando"El Pollo" Salazar is a Mexican footballer defender. He currently plays for Club León on loan from Monarcas Morelia in Liga de Ascenso.- Club Honors: C.F...
of the Los Angeles-based San Fernando Valley Heroes was the league's MVP, while his teammate Arshak Abyanli took the honors as top goalscorer.
The league grew from 41 to 44 teams in 2001 through the usual mix of relegation from D3Pro, teams folding and new franchises being added. In the semifinals, the Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames is an American soccer team based in New Rochelle, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games...
defeated Sioux Falls Spitfire
Sioux Falls Spitfire
Sioux Falls Spitfire was an American soccer team, founded in 2001. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2007, when the team left the league and the franchise was terminated.The team played its home...
5-1 and Calgary Storm defeated Des Moines Menace
Des Moines Menace
Des Moines Menace is an American soccer team based in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Founded in 1994, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at Valley...
2-1; in the final, Westchester defeated Calgary 3-1 to take their first league title. Des Moines and Chicago Fire Reserves dominated the 2002 regular season, but both teams stuttered in the playoffs; the PDL final saw the Cape Cod Crusaders
Cape Cod Crusaders
Cape Cod Crusaders were an American soccer team based in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, United States. Founded in 1994, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise folded and the team left the league.The team...
defeating the Boulder Rapids Reserve
Boulder Rapids Reserve
Colorado Rapids U23's was an American soccer team based in Boulder, Colorado, United States. Founded in 2000 as part of the development system for the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer franchise, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer...
2-1 to bring the title to the Northeast for the second year in a row. 2002 also saw the debut of the soon-to-be PDL legend, Tomas Boltnar of Des Moines Menace
Des Moines Menace
Des Moines Menace is an American soccer team based in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Founded in 1994, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at Valley...
, who secured an unprecedented triple-crown of PDL MVP, Top Scorer and Rookie of the Year.
Fox Soccer Channel
Fox Soccer is an American television specialty channel, owned by News Corporation's Fox Entertainment Group, that specializes in soccer. It formerly broadcast rugby and Australian rules football, but is now dedicated strictly to soccer...
saw the PDL Championship game being broadcast live on national television in North America for the first time, and professional teams began investing in the league by adding U-23 development sides as an addition to their senior rosters. Cape Cod repeated as PDL champs in 2003, beating the Chicago Fire Reserves in the final (and despite the presence of Jurgen Klinsmann
Jürgen Klinsmann
Jürgen Klinsmann is a German football manager and former player who is currently the coach of the United States Men's National Team. As a player, Klinsmann played for several prominent clubs in Europe and was part of the West German team that won the 1990 FIFA World Cup and the German one that...
playing for Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
), while 2004 saw the title head to Florida for the first time as the Central Florida Kraze
Central Florida Kraze
Orlando City U-23 is an American soccer team based in Lake Mary, Florida, United States. Founded in 1998, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference...
overcame perennial bridesmaids Boulder Rapids Reserve
Boulder Rapids Reserve
Colorado Rapids U23's was an American soccer team based in Boulder, Colorado, United States. Founded in 2000 as part of the development system for the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer franchise, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer...
.
Des Moines Menace
Des Moines Menace
Des Moines Menace is an American soccer team based in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Founded in 1994, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at Valley...
took the PDL Championship trophy back to Iowa in 2005 after beating the El Paso Patriots
El Paso Patriots
Chivas El Paso Patriots is an American soccer team based in El Paso, Texas, United States. Founded in 1989, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays its home games at...
6-5 on penalty kicks, following a 0-0 draw in the PDL Championship game. 2006 saw the beginning of two seasons of dominance for two teams: the Michigan Bucks
Michigan Bucks
Michigan Bucks is an American soccer team based in Pontiac, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1995, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
and the Laredo Heat
Laredo Heat
Laredo Heat is an American soccer team based in Laredo, Texas, United States. Founded in 2004, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference....
. Both teams made the PDL Final in 2006 and 2007, with the Bucks emerging victorious in '06 with a 2-1 win thanks to goals by Kenny Uzoigwe and Ty Shipalane
Ty Shipalane
Tiyiselani "Ty" Shipalane is a South African footballer who last played for Carolina RailHawks in the USSF Division 2 Professional League.-College:...
, only for Laredo to get their revenge the following year with an epic penalty kicks win after a 0-0 tie in regulation time.
Laredo became the first team to make three consecutive PDL championship games in 2008, but fell at the final hurdle to Thunder Bay Chill
Thunder Bay Chill
Thunder Bay Chill is a Canadian soccer team based in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2000, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American and Canadian soccer pyramids, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games...
, who became the first ever Canadian side to win the PDL following their 4-1 penalty shootout victory. The PDL had grown to 68 teams by 2009, and to reflect their growing reputation, introduced a new scheme called PDL-Pro, whereby certain teams would be allowed to act as professional clubs, paying players, while still adhering to NCAA collegiate eligibility rules, and the USL's own age restriction policy. Ventura County Fusion
Ventura County Fusion
Ventura County Fusion is an American soccer team based in Ventura, California, United States. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games in...
returned the PDL title to Southern California for the first time in over a decade with a stoppage-time victory over Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
, and in doing so became the lowest-seeded team to claim the national title.
2010s
The 2010s began with a record, as the Portland Timbers U23'sPortland Timbers U23's
Portland Timbers U23's is an American soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Although founded in 2008 as part of the development system for the Portland Timbers USSF D2 organization, beginning in 2011 they are part of the development system for the Major League Soccer franchise of...
ended the season as national champions, beating Thunder Bay Chill
Thunder Bay Chill
Thunder Bay Chill is a Canadian soccer team based in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2000, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American and Canadian soccer pyramids, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games...
4-1 in the 2010 PDL Championship game. The Timbers also had the best regular season record, winning all their 16 games, scoring 53 goals and conceding just six along the way. In doing so the Saplings became the first team to post a perfect PDL regular season record since the Jackson Chargers
Jackson Chargers
The Jackson Chargers were an American soccer team which played in the PDL....
in 1998, the first regular season champion to win the playoffs since the Central Coast Roadrunners
Central Coast Roadrunners
Central Coast Roadrunners were an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2002, after which the team left the league and the franchise rights were transferred to the...
in 1996, and the first team in PDL history to go through an entire PDL regular season and playoff campaign without posting a loss or a tie. Portland Timbers U23's
Portland Timbers U23's
Portland Timbers U23's is an American soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Although founded in 2008 as part of the development system for the Portland Timbers USSF D2 organization, beginning in 2011 they are part of the development system for the Major League Soccer franchise of...
striker Brent Richards was named League MVP
Most Valuable Player
In sports, a Most Valuable Player award is an honor typically bestowed upon the best performing player or players on a specific team, in an entire league, or for a particular contest or series of contests...
and Rookie of the Year for his stellar campaign with the national champions. Players from Canadian side Thunder Bay Chill
Thunder Bay Chill
Thunder Bay Chill is a Canadian soccer team based in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2000, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American and Canadian soccer pyramids, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games...
led the majority of the statistical categories, with striker Brandon Swartzendruber
Brandon Swartzendruber
Brandon Swarzendruber is an American soccer player who currently plays for Thunder Bay Chill in the USL Premier Development League.-College and Amateur:...
leading the league with 15 goals, while his teammate Gustavo Oliveira led the league with 13 assists. Portland Timbers U23's
Portland Timbers U23's
Portland Timbers U23's is an American soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Although founded in 2008 as part of the development system for the Portland Timbers USSF D2 organization, beginning in 2011 they are part of the development system for the Major League Soccer franchise of...
goalkeeper Jacob Gleeson enjoyed the best goalkeeping statistics, allowing just five goals in 15 games and earning with a 0.360 GAA average.
Western Conference teams dominated the league in 2011 for the third year in a row, with the Kitsap Pumas
Kitsap Pumas
Kitsap Pumas is an American soccer team based in Bremerton, Washington, United States. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.Kitsap are the reigning PDL champions,...
ending the season as national champions, beating Laredo Heat
Laredo Heat
Laredo Heat is an American soccer team based in Laredo, Texas, United States. Founded in 2004, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference....
1-0 in the 2011 PDL Championship game. Kitsap, who lost just one game and conceded just ten goals all season, were the second team from the Northwest Division to win the national title in a row, while Laredo were contesting their fourth championship game in six years. Interestingly, Kitsap also were the first PDL-Pro team to win the championship, a milestone for the league. Kitsap's Western Conference rivals Fresno Fuego
Fresno Fuego
Fresno Fuego is an American soccer team based in Fresno, California, United States. Founded in 2003, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at Chukchansi...
had the best regular-season record, posting an unbeaten 13-0-3 record. Fresno midfielder Milton Blanco
Milton Blanco
Milton Blanco is an American soccer player who currently plays for Fresno Fuego in the USL Premier Development League. He is the 2011 MVP award winner for the USL PDL League...
was named League MVP
Most Valuable Player
In sports, a Most Valuable Player award is an honor typically bestowed upon the best performing player or players on a specific team, in an entire league, or for a particular contest or series of contests...
, after leading the league in points (38) and assists (14) and helping his team to the Southwest Division title. Two Michigan Bucks
Michigan Bucks
Michigan Bucks is an American soccer team based in Pontiac, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1995, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
players - Stewart Givens and Mitch Hildebrandt - were given end-of-season awards as Defender of the Year and Goalkeeper of the Year respectively, while their coach Gary Parsons
Gary Parsons
Gary Parsons is the former chairman of the board for Sirius XM Radio. Mr. Parsons was also formerly on the board of WorldSpace.-Biography:Parsons was with MCI Communications Corporation where he served in a variety of roles from 1990 to 1996. He served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for XM...
was named Coach of the Year. Jake Keegan of the Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames is an American soccer team based in New Rochelle, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games...
was named Rookie of the Year after tallying 16 goals in 16 games to take the league goal-scoring crown. Keegan accounted for 64 percent of Westchester’s goals in 2011 and also finished third in the league in points with 34.
2011 Teams
Great Lakes Division
- Akron Summit AssaultAkron Summit AssaultAkron Summit Assault is an American soccer team based in Akron, Ohio, United States. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays the majority of its home...
- Chicago Fire PremierChicago Fire PremierChicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
- Cincinnati KingsCincinnati KingsCincinnati Kings is an American soccer team based in Cincinnati, Ohio, United States. Founded in 2005, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
- Forest City LondonForest City LondonForest City London is a Canadian soccer team based in London, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference....
- Hamilton RageHamilton RageHamilton FC Rage is a Canadian soccer team based in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference....
- Indiana InvadersIndiana InvadersIndiana Invaders is an American soccer team based in South Bend, Indiana, United States. Founded in 1998, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
- Michigan BucksMichigan BucksMichigan Bucks is an American soccer team based in Pontiac, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1995, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
- River City RoversRiver City RoversRiver City Rovers is an American soccer team based in Louisville, Kentucky, United States. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games on...
- Toronto LynxToronto LynxToronto Lynx is a Canadian soccer team based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference....
Heartland Division
- Des Moines MenaceDes Moines MenaceDes Moines Menace is an American soccer team based in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Founded in 1994, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at Valley...
- Kansas City BrassKansas City BrassKansas City Brass is an American soccer team based in Kansas City, Missouri, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games on...
- Real Colorado FoxesReal Colorado FoxesReal Colorado Foxes is an American soccer team based in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, United States. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.In 2011, the team qualified...
- Springfield DemizeSpringfield DemizeSpringfield Demize is an American soccer team based in Springfield, Missouri, United States. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
- St. Louis LionsSt. Louis LionsSt. Louis Lions is an American soccer team based in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
- Thunder Bay ChillThunder Bay ChillThunder Bay Chill is a Canadian soccer team based in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2000, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American and Canadian soccer pyramids, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games...
- WSA WinnipegWSA WinnipegWSA Winnipeg is a Canadian soccer team based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the Canadian Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference....
Mid Atlantic Division
- Bermuda HoggesBermuda HoggesBermuda Hogges is a Bermudian soccer team based in Hamilton, Bermuda. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference....
- Brooklyn KnightsBrooklyn KnightsBrooklyn Knights is an American soccer team based in New York, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
- Central Jersey SpartansCentral Jersey SpartansCentral Jersey Spartans is an American soccer team based in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, United States. Founded in 2009, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its...
- Jersey Express
- Long Island Rough RidersLong Island Rough RidersLong Island Rough Riders is an American soccer team based in South Huntington, New York, United States. Founded in 1994, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its...
- New Jersey RangersNew Jersey RangersNew Jersey Rangers is an American soccer team based in Denville, New Jersey, United States. Founded in 2007, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games in...
- Ocean City Nor'easters
- Reading United
- Westchester FlamesWestchester FlamesWestchester Flames is an American soccer team based in New Rochelle, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games...
Northeast Division
- MPS Portland Phoenix
- New Hampshire PhantomsNew Hampshire PhantomsNew Hampshire Phantoms is an American soccer team based in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
- Ottawa FuryOttawa FuryOttawa Fury is a Canadian soccer team based in Ottawa, Ontario. Founded in 2005, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference....
- Vermont VoltageVermont VoltageVermont Voltage is an American soccer team based in St. Albans, Vermont, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference, having spent the 2009 season on...
- Western Mass PioneersWestern Mass PioneersWestern Mass Pioneers is an American soccer team based in Ludlow, Massachusetts, United States. Founded in 1998, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games...
South Atlantic Division
- Carolina DynamoCarolina DynamoCarolina Dynamo is an American soccer team based in Greensboro, North Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
- Fredericksburg HotspurFredericksburg HotspurFredericksburg Hotspur is an American soccer team based in Fredericksburg, Virginia, United States. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its...
- Northern Virginia RoyalsNorthern Virginia RoyalsNorthern Virginia Royals is an American soccer team based in Woodbridge, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1998, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
- Real Maryland MonarchsReal Maryland MonarchsReal Maryland F.C., commonly known as the Real Maryland Monarchs, is an American soccer team based in Rockville, Maryland, United States...
- Virginia Beach Piranhas
- West Virginia ChaosWest Virginia ChaosWest Virginia Chaos is an American soccer team based in Charleston, West Virginia, United States. Founded in 2003, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
Mid South Division
- Baton Rouge CapitalsBaton Rouge CapitalsBaton Rouge Capitals is an American soccer team based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States. Founded in 2007, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays its home games...
- Chivas El Paso Patriots
- Laredo HeatLaredo HeatLaredo Heat is an American soccer team based in Laredo, Texas, United States. Founded in 2004, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference....
- New Orleans Jesters
- Rio Grande Valley GrandesRio Grande Valley GrandesRio Grande Valley Grandes is an American soccer team based in McAllen, Texas, United States. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays it's home games at...
- West Texas United SockersWest Texas United SockersWest Texas United Sockers is an American soccer team based in Midland, Texas, United States. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays its home games at...
Southeast Division
- Bradenton AcademicsBradenton AcademicsThe Bradenton Academics are an American soccer team based in Bradenton, Florida, United States. Founded in 1998, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference.The team is associated with...
- Fort Lauderdale Schulz Academy
- FC Jax DestroyersFC Jax DestroyersFC JAX Destroyers are an American soccer team based in Jacksonville, Florida, United States. The organization has men's and women's franchises in the United Soccer Leagues, both of which use the FC JAX Destroyers brand...
- Mississippi BrillaMississippi BrillaMississippi Brilla is an American soccer club based in Jackson, Mississippi, United States. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays its home games at...
- Nashville MetrosNashville MetrosNashville Metros is an American soccer team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. Founded in 1989, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference...
- Orlando City U-23
Northwest Division
- Abbotsford Mariners
- Kitsap PumasKitsap PumasKitsap Pumas is an American soccer team based in Bremerton, Washington, United States. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.Kitsap are the reigning PDL champions,...
- North Sound SeaWolvesNorth Sound SeaWolvesNorth Sound SeaWolves is an American soccer team based in Everett, Washington, United States. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
- Portland Timbers U23'sPortland Timbers U23'sPortland Timbers U23's is an American soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Although founded in 2008 as part of the development system for the Portland Timbers USSF D2 organization, beginning in 2011 they are part of the development system for the Major League Soccer franchise of...
- Tacoma Tide
- Vancouver Whitecaps ResidencyVancouver Whitecaps ResidencyVancouver Whitecaps Residency, formerly known as Whitecaps FC Reserves, is a Canadian soccer team based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Although founded in 2005 as part of the development system for the Vancouver Whitecaps USL First Division franchise, beginning in 2011 they are part of the...
- Victoria HighlandersVictoria HighlandersVictoria Highlanders is a Canadian soccer team based in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Founded in 2007, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games in...
- Washington CrossfireWashington CrossfireWashington Crossfire is an American soccer team based in Seattle, Washington, United States. Founded in 2009, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games in...
Southwest Division
- BYU Cougars
- Fresno FuegoFresno FuegoFresno Fuego is an American soccer team based in Fresno, California, United States. Founded in 2003, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at Chukchansi...
- Los Angeles Blues 23Los Angeles Blues 23Los Angeles Blues 23 is an American soccer team based in Pacific Palisades, California, United States. Founded in 2011, , the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its...
- Los Angeles Misioneros
- Ogden OutlawsOgden OutlawsOgden Outlaws is an American soccer team based in Ogden, Utah, United States. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference....
- Orange County Blue StarOrange County Blue StarOrange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
- Southern California SeahorsesSouthern California SeahorsesSouthern California Seahorses is an American soccer team based in La Mirada, California, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home...
- Ventura County FusionVentura County FusionVentura County Fusion is an American soccer team based in Ventura, California, United States. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games in...
Announced 2012 Expansion Teams
- Austin AztexAustin AztexAustin Aztex FC was an American professional soccer team based in Austin, Texas, United States. Founded in 2008, the team played in the USL First Division, and in the USL Division of the USSF D2 Pro League, the second tier of the American Soccer Pyramid...
- Baltimore BohemiansBaltimore BohemiansBaltimore Bohemians are an American soccer club located in Baltimore, MD. They compete in the USL Premier Development League, the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid. Their inaugural season will start in the spring of 2012.- History :...
- D.C. United U-23D.C. United U-23D.C. United U-23 is an American soccer club based in Washington, D.C.. Founded in 2011, the team is currently playing a schedule of exhibition games in anticipation of their entry into the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the United States soccer pyramid, in 2012.The team is...
- New York Cosmos U-23New York Cosmos U-23New York Cosmos U-23 is an American soccer team based in New York, New York. Founded in 2011, the team is currently playing a schedule of exhibition games in anticipation of their entry into the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the United States soccer pyramid, in 2012.The team...
- Palmetto FC BantamsPalmetto FC BantamsPalmetto FC Bantams is an American amateur soccer team based in Greenwood, South Carolina, which will play in the USL PDL from the 2012 season. The team is linked with professional English team Bradford City.-Current staff:...
- Texas Dutch Lions
- VisionPro Sports Institute (VSI) Academy
Playoff champions
- 20112011 PDL seasonThe 2011 USL Premier Development League season was the 17th season of the PDL. The regular season began on April 29, 2011, when the Los Angeles Blues 23 played Fresno Fuego, and ended on July 24. The playoffs began on Tuesday, July 26 and concluded with the PDL Championship Game on August 6...
PDL - Kitsap PumasKitsap PumasKitsap Pumas is an American soccer team based in Bremerton, Washington, United States. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.Kitsap are the reigning PDL champions,... - 20102010 PDL seasonThe 2010 USL Premier Development League season was the 16th season of the PDL. The regular season began on April 24, 2010, and ended on July 26. The playoffs began on Friday, July 30 and concluded with the PDL Championship Game on August 8th...
PDL - Portland Timbers U23'sPortland Timbers U23'sPortland Timbers U23's is an American soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Although founded in 2008 as part of the development system for the Portland Timbers USSF D2 organization, beginning in 2011 they are part of the development system for the Major League Soccer franchise of... - 20092009 PDL SeasonThe 2009 USL Premier Development League season was the 15th season of the PDL. The regular season began on May 1, 2009, and ended on July 19, 2009...
PDL - Ventura County FusionVentura County FusionVentura County Fusion is an American soccer team based in Ventura, California, United States. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games in... - 20082008 PDL SeasonThe 2008 USL Premier Development League season was the 14th season of the PDL. The regular season started on April 26, 2008, and ended on July 20, 2008...
PDL - Thunder Bay ChillThunder Bay ChillThunder Bay Chill is a Canadian soccer team based in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2000, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American and Canadian soccer pyramids, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games... - 20072007 PDL SeasonThe 2007 USL Premier Development League season was the 13th season of the PDL. The season started on April 28, 2007. The regular season ended on July 25, 2007....
PDL - Laredo HeatLaredo HeatLaredo Heat is an American soccer team based in Laredo, Texas, United States. Founded in 2004, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.... - 20062006 PDL SeasonThe 2006 USL Premier Development League season was the 12th PDL season. The season began in April 2006 and ended in August 2006.Michigan Bucks finished the season as national champions, beating Laredo Heat 2-1 in the PDL Championship game in Laredo, Texas on 12 August 2006.Carolina Dynamo finished...
PDL - Michigan BucksMichigan BucksMichigan Bucks is an American soccer team based in Pontiac, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1995, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the... - 20052005 PDL SeasonThe 2005 USL Premier Development League season was the 11th PDL season. The season began in April 2005 and ended in August 2005.Des Moines Menace finished the season as national champions, beating El Paso Patriots 6-5 on penalty kicks, following a 0-0 draw in the PDL Championship game in El Paso,...
PDL - Des Moines MenaceDes Moines MenaceDes Moines Menace is an American soccer team based in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Founded in 1994, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at Valley... - 20042004 PDL SeasonThe 2004 USL Premier Development League season was the 10th PDL season. The season began in April 2004 and ended in August 2004.Central Florida Kraze finished the season as national champions, beating Boulder Rapids Reserve 1-0 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Central Florida KrazeCentral Florida KrazeOrlando City U-23 is an American soccer team based in Lake Mary, Florida, United States. Founded in 1998, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference... - 20032003 PDL SeasonThe 2003 USL Premier Development League season was the 9th PDL season. The season began in April 2003 and ended in August 2003.Cape Cod Crusaders finished the season as national champions for the second time, beating Chicago Fire Reserves 2-0 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Cape Cod CrusadersCape Cod CrusadersCape Cod Crusaders were an American soccer team based in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, United States. Founded in 1994, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise folded and the team left the league.The team... - 20022002 PDL SeasonThe 2002 USL Premier Development League season was the 8th PDL season. The season began in April 2002 and ended in August 2002.Cape Cod Crusaders finished the season as national champions, beating Boulder Rapids Reserve 2-1 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Cape Cod CrusadersCape Cod CrusadersCape Cod Crusaders were an American soccer team based in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, United States. Founded in 1994, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise folded and the team left the league.The team... - 20012001 PDL SeasonThe 2001 USL Premier Development League season was the 7th PDL season. The season began in April 2001 and ended in August 2001.Westchester Flames finished the season as national champions, beating Calgary Storm 3-1 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Westchester FlamesWestchester FlamesWestchester Flames is an American soccer team based in New Rochelle, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games... - 20002000 PDL SeasonThe 2000 USL Premier Development League season was the 6th PDL season. The season began in April 2000 and ended in August 2000.Chicago Sockers finished the season as national champions, beating Mid-Michigan Bucks 1-0 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Chicago SockersChicago SockersProfessional TeamChicago Sockers were an American soccer team, founded in 1995. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues, played at a professional level in the USISL Pro League, USISL Select League and USISL D-3 Pro League as the Chicago Stingers until 1999, when they chose to relegate... - 19991999 PDL SeasonThe 1999 USL Premier Development League season was the 5th PDL season. The season began in April 1999 and ended in August 1999.Chicago Sockers finished the season as national champions, beating Spokane Shadow 3-1 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Chicago SockersChicago SockersProfessional TeamChicago Sockers were an American soccer team, founded in 1995. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues, played at a professional level in the USISL Pro League, USISL Select League and USISL D-3 Pro League as the Chicago Stingers until 1999, when they chose to relegate... - 19981998 PDL SeasonThe 1998 Premier Development Soccer League season was the 4th PDSL season. The season began in April 1998 and ended in August 1998.San Gabriel Valley Highlanders won the championship, defeating the Jackson Chargers 3-2. Jackson won the regular season title, winning all 16 games and posting a...
PDSL - San Gabriel Valley HighlandersSan Gabriel Valley HighlandersSan Gabriel Valley Highlanders were an American soccer team, founded in 1997 by a group of Armenian American businessmen and soccer fans as a competitive branch of the locally-based Ararat Soccer Club... - 19971997 PDL SeasonThe 1997 Premier Development Soccer League season was its 3rd. The season began in April 1997 and ended in August 1997.Central Coast Roadrunners successfully defended the championship, defeating the Cocoa Expos 3-2...
PDSL - Central Coast RoadrunnersCentral Coast RoadrunnersCentral Coast Roadrunners were an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2002, after which the team left the league and the franchise rights were transferred to the... - 19961996 USISL Premier League SeasonPlease note: page under constructionThe 1996 USISL Premier League season was its 2nd. The season began in April 1996 and ended in August 1996.Central Coast Roadrunners won the championship, defeating the San Francisco Bay Seals 3-2...
USISL Prem - Central Coast RoadrunnersCentral Coast RoadrunnersCentral Coast Roadrunners were an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2002, after which the team left the league and the franchise rights were transferred to the... - 19951995 USISL Premier League SeasonThe 1995 USISL Premier League season was the 1st season of the new “fourth level” of American soccer following the re-organization of the old United States Interregional Soccer League at the end of 1994. The season began in April 1995 and ended in August 1995....
USISL Prem - Richmond KickersRichmond KickersThe Richmond Kickers are an American professional soccer club based in Richmond, Virginia, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the American Division of the USL Professional Division, the third tier of the American Soccer Pyramid...
Regular season champions
- 20112011 PDL seasonThe 2011 USL Premier Development League season was the 17th season of the PDL. The regular season began on April 29, 2011, when the Los Angeles Blues 23 played Fresno Fuego, and ended on July 24. The playoffs began on Tuesday, July 26 and concluded with the PDL Championship Game on August 6...
PDL - Fresno FuegoFresno FuegoFresno Fuego is an American soccer team based in Fresno, California, United States. Founded in 2003, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at Chukchansi... - 20102010 PDL seasonThe 2010 USL Premier Development League season was the 16th season of the PDL. The regular season began on April 24, 2010, and ended on July 26. The playoffs began on Friday, July 30 and concluded with the PDL Championship Game on August 8th...
PDL - Portland Timbers U23'sPortland Timbers U23'sPortland Timbers U23's is an American soccer team based in Portland, Oregon, United States. Although founded in 2008 as part of the development system for the Portland Timbers USSF D2 organization, beginning in 2011 they are part of the development system for the Major League Soccer franchise of... - 20092009 PDL SeasonThe 2009 USL Premier Development League season was the 15th season of the PDL. The regular season began on May 1, 2009, and ended on July 19, 2009...
PDL - Reading RageReading RageReading United A.C. is an American soccer team based in Reading, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid-Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.... - 20082008 PDL SeasonThe 2008 USL Premier Development League season was the 14th season of the PDL. The regular season started on April 26, 2008, and ended on July 20, 2008...
PDL - Michigan BucksMichigan BucksMichigan Bucks is an American soccer team based in Pontiac, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1995, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the... - 20072007 PDL SeasonThe 2007 USL Premier Development League season was the 13th season of the PDL. The season started on April 28, 2007. The regular season ended on July 25, 2007....
PDL - Hampton Roads Piranhas - 20062006 PDL SeasonThe 2006 USL Premier Development League season was the 12th PDL season. The season began in April 2006 and ended in August 2006.Michigan Bucks finished the season as national champions, beating Laredo Heat 2-1 in the PDL Championship game in Laredo, Texas on 12 August 2006.Carolina Dynamo finished...
PDL - Carolina DynamoCarolina DynamoCarolina Dynamo is an American soccer team based in Greensboro, North Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home... - 20052005 PDL SeasonThe 2005 USL Premier Development League season was the 11th PDL season. The season began in April 2005 and ended in August 2005.Des Moines Menace finished the season as national champions, beating El Paso Patriots 6-5 on penalty kicks, following a 0-0 draw in the PDL Championship game in El Paso,...
PDL - Orange County Blue StarOrange County Blue StarOrange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at... - 20042004 PDL SeasonThe 2004 USL Premier Development League season was the 10th PDL season. The season began in April 2004 and ended in August 2004.Central Florida Kraze finished the season as national champions, beating Boulder Rapids Reserve 1-0 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Chicago Fire Reserves - 20032003 PDL SeasonThe 2003 USL Premier Development League season was the 9th PDL season. The season began in April 2003 and ended in August 2003.Cape Cod Crusaders finished the season as national champions for the second time, beating Chicago Fire Reserves 2-0 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - New Orleans Shell ShockersNew Orleans Shell ShockersNew Orleans Jesters is an American soccer team based in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. Founded in 2003, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays its home games... - 20022002 PDL SeasonThe 2002 USL Premier Development League season was the 8th PDL season. The season began in April 2002 and ended in August 2002.Cape Cod Crusaders finished the season as national champions, beating Boulder Rapids Reserve 2-1 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Des Moines MenaceDes Moines MenaceDes Moines Menace is an American soccer team based in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Founded in 1994, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at Valley... - 20012001 PDL SeasonThe 2001 USL Premier Development League season was the 7th PDL season. The season began in April 2001 and ended in August 2001.Westchester Flames finished the season as national champions, beating Calgary Storm 3-1 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Calgary Storm - 20002000 PDL SeasonThe 2000 USL Premier Development League season was the 6th PDL season. The season began in April 2000 and ended in August 2000.Chicago Sockers finished the season as national champions, beating Mid-Michigan Bucks 1-0 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Westchester FlamesWestchester FlamesWestchester Flames is an American soccer team based in New Rochelle, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games... - 19991999 PDL SeasonThe 1999 USL Premier Development League season was the 5th PDL season. The season began in April 1999 and ended in August 1999.Chicago Sockers finished the season as national champions, beating Spokane Shadow 3-1 in the PDL Championship game...
PDL - Jackson ChargersJackson ChargersThe Jackson Chargers were an American soccer team which played in the PDL.... - 19981998 PDL SeasonThe 1998 Premier Development Soccer League season was the 4th PDSL season. The season began in April 1998 and ended in August 1998.San Gabriel Valley Highlanders won the championship, defeating the Jackson Chargers 3-2. Jackson won the regular season title, winning all 16 games and posting a...
PDSL - Jackson ChargersJackson ChargersThe Jackson Chargers were an American soccer team which played in the PDL.... - 19971997 PDL SeasonThe 1997 Premier Development Soccer League season was its 3rd. The season began in April 1997 and ended in August 1997.Central Coast Roadrunners successfully defended the championship, defeating the Cocoa Expos 3-2...
PDSL - Spokane ShadowSpokane ShadowSpokane Shadow was an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2005, when the franchise was terminated by the PDL after the 10-year old artificial turf at their home... - 19961996 USISL Premier League SeasonPlease note: page under constructionThe 1996 USISL Premier League season was its 2nd. The season began in April 1996 and ended in August 1996.Central Coast Roadrunners won the championship, defeating the San Francisco Bay Seals 3-2...
USISL Prem - Central Coast RoadrunnersCentral Coast RoadrunnersCentral Coast Roadrunners were an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2002, after which the team left the league and the franchise rights were transferred to the... - 19951995 USISL Premier League SeasonThe 1995 USISL Premier League season was the 1st season of the new “fourth level” of American soccer following the re-organization of the old United States Interregional Soccer League at the end of 1994. The season began in April 1995 and ended in August 1995....
USISL Prem - San Francisco All-Blacks United
Notable professional players with PDL experience
Many senior international players had their first taste of competitive league experience playing in the PDL. This list includes players who, after playing in the PDL, have achieved some kind of significant success as a professional soccer player - playing internationally for their country, playing in one of the world's top leagues (such as the Premier League in England), being a #1 draft pick, or winning a major award such as the MLS Rookie of the Year award or the MAC Hermann TrophyHermann Trophy
The Hermann Trophy is awarded annually by the Missouri Athletic Club to the United States's top male and female college soccer players.-History:...
, which is awarded to the best college soccer
College soccer
College soccer is a term used to describe association football played by teams who are operated by colleges and universities as opposed to a professional league operated for exclusively financial purposes...
player of a given year and is American soccer's equivalent of the Heisman Trophy
Heisman Trophy
The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award , is awarded annually to the player deemed the most outstanding player in collegiate football. It was created in 1935 as the Downtown Athletic Club trophy and renamed in 1936 following the death of the Club's athletic director, John Heisman The Heisman Memorial...
.
Eric Alexander
Eric Alexander (soccer)
Eric Alexander is an American soccer player who currently plays for Portland Timbers in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Kalamazoo Kingdom
Kalamazoo Kingdom
Kalamazoo Kingdom were an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2006, when the team left the league and the franchise was terminated.The Kingdom folded their...
/West Michigan Edge
West Michigan Edge
West Michigan Edge was an American soccer team based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1995, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise folded and the team left the league.The team played...
/Kalamazoo Outrage
Kalamazoo Outrage
Kalamazoo Outrage was an American soccer team based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States. Founded in 2007, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid...
(2006–2009), U.S. international Nikolas Besagno
Nikolas Besagno
Nikolas Besagno is an American soccer player currently playing for Kitsap Pumas in the USL Premier Development League.-Professional:...
, Tacoma Tide/Kitsap Pumas
Kitsap Pumas
Kitsap Pumas is an American soccer team based in Bremerton, Washington, United States. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northwest Division of the Western Conference.Kitsap are the reigning PDL champions,...
(2009–present), #1 Pick in 2005 MLS Superdraft Ian Bishop
Ian Bishop (footballer)
Ian Bishop is a former footballer who played as a midfielder.He was born on the Cantril Farm housing estate in Liverpool and on leaving school in July 1981 he joined Everton, turning professional for the 1983-84 season under the management of Howard Kendall - who had taken over during the same...
, New Orleans Shell Shockers
New Orleans Shell Shockers
New Orleans Jesters is an American soccer team based in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. Founded in 2003, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays its home games...
(2004), English Premier League player Nat Borchers
Nat Borchers
Nat Borchers is an American soccer player who currently plays for Real Salt Lake in Major League Soccer.-Youth and College:...
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
Boulder Rapids Reserve
Colorado Rapids U23's was an American soccer team based in Boulder, Colorado, United States. Founded in 2000 as part of the development system for the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer franchise, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer...
(2002), U.S. international Teal Bunbury
Teal Bunbury
Teal Bunbury is a Canadian-born American soccer player who currently plays for Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer...
, Rochester Thunder
Rochester Thunder
Rochester Thunder was an American soccer team based in Rochester, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 2008, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Heartland Division of the Central Conference...
(2009), U.S. international, 2009 Hermann Trophy winner Geoff Cameron
Geoff Cameron
Geoffrey Scott "Geoff" Cameron is an American soccer player who currently plays for Houston Dynamo in Major League Soccer.-Youth and college:...
, Rhode Island Stingrays
Rhode Island Stingrays
Rhode Island Stingrays was an American soccer team based in Providence, Rhode Island, United States. Founded in 1995, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009, after which the franchise folded and the team left the league.The...
(2005–2007), U.S. international Chris Carrieri
Chris Carrieri
Chris Carrieri is an American soccer player currently playing for Richmond Kickers in the USL Second Division.-College and Amateur:...
, New Brunswick Brigade (2000), #1 Pick in 2001 MLS SuperDraft Brian Ching
Brian Ching
Brian Ching is an American professional soccer forward currently playing for the Montreal Impact of Major League Soccer.-Youth and College:...
, Spokane Shadow
Spokane Shadow
Spokane Shadow was an American soccer team, founded in 1996. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2005, when the franchise was terminated by the PDL after the 10-year old artificial turf at their home...
(1998–1999), U.S. international Colin Clark
Colin Clark (soccer)
Colin Clark is an American soccer player who currently plays for Houston Dynamo in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
Boulder Rapids Reserve
Colorado Rapids U23's was an American soccer team based in Boulder, Colorado, United States. Founded in 2000 as part of the development system for the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer franchise, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer...
(2005), U.S. international Sam Cronin
Sam Cronin
Sam Cronin is an American soccer player who currently plays for San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer as a midfielder.-College and amateur:...
, Carolina Dynamo
Carolina Dynamo
Carolina Dynamo is an American soccer team based in Greensboro, North Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
(2005–2008), U.S. international Charlie Davies
Charlie Davies
Charles Desmond "Charlie" Davies is an American soccer player who plays as a striker for French Ligue 1 side Sochaux....
, Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames is an American soccer team based in New Rochelle, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games...
(2006), U.S. international, French Ligue 1
Ligue 1
Ligue 1 , is the French professional league for association football clubs. It is the country's primary football competition and serves as the top division of the French football league system. Ligue 1 is one of two divisions making up the Ligue de Football Professionnel, the other being Ligue 2....
player Chad Deering
Chad Deering
Chad Deering is a retired American soccer player. Deering spent his professional career in Germany, Norway, Major League Soccer and Major Indoor Soccer League...
, DFW Tornados
DFW Tornados
DFW Tornados was an American soccer team based in Dallas, Texas, United States. Founded in 1986, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference...
(2004), U.S. international Jay DeMerit
Jay DeMerit
Jay Michael DeMerit is an American soccer player who plays for Vancouver Whitecaps FC in Major League Soccer, and for the United States national team...
, Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2001–2002), U.S. international, English Premier League player Randy Edwini-Bonsu
Randy Edwini-Bonsu
Randy Edwini-Bonsu is a Ghanaian-born Canadian soccer player currently playing for Eintracht Braunschweig in the 2. Fußball-Bundesliga, the second division in Germany.-Youth and Amateur:...
, Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
Vancouver Whitecaps Residency, formerly known as Whitecaps FC Reserves, is a Canadian soccer team based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Although founded in 2005 as part of the development system for the Vancouver Whitecaps USL First Division franchise, beginning in 2011 they are part of the...
(2008–present), Canadian international Brad Evans
Brad Evans
Brad Evans is an American soccer player who currently plays for Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2004–2006), U.S. international Rodrigo Faria
Rodrigo Faria
Rodrigo Faria is a Brazilian soccer striker, who is currently living back in his native Rio de Janeiro....
, Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames is an American soccer team based in New Rochelle, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games...
(2000), 2001 MLS Rookie of the Year Robbie Findley
Robbie Findley
Robert "Robbie" Findley is an American international soccer player who plays professionally for English club Nottingham Forest...
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
Boulder Rapids Reserve
Colorado Rapids U23's was an American soccer team based in Boulder, Colorado, United States. Founded in 2000 as part of the development system for the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer franchise, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer...
(2005–2006), U.S. international Sean Franklin
Sean Franklin
Sean Michael Franklin is an American soccer player who currently plays as a defender for the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer.-Youth and amateur:...
, San Fernando Valley Quakes
San Fernando Valley Quakes
San Fernando Valley Quakes was an American soccer team based in Calabasas, California, United States. Founded in 2006, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise folded and the team left the league.The team...
(2006–2007), 2008 MLS Rookie of the Year, U.S. international Herculez Gomez
Herculez Gomez
Herculez Gomez Hurtado is an American soccer player who currently plays for Estudiantes Tecos in the Primera División de México.-Early life:...
, San Diego Gauchos
San Diego Gauchos
San Diego Gauchos were an American soccer team, founded in 2002. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2006, when the team was sold to new owners, and the franchise was disbanded.The Gauchos played their...
(2003), U.S. international Clarence Goodson
Clarence Goodson
Clarence Goodson is an American professional soccer player who currently plays defender for Brøndby in Denmark, with whom he signed a three-year deal in November 2010.-Career:...
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
Boulder Rapids Reserve
Colorado Rapids U23's was an American soccer team based in Boulder, Colorado, United States. Founded in 2000 as part of the development system for the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer franchise, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer...
(2003), U.S. international Brad Guzan
Brad Guzan
Bradley Edwin "Brad" Guzan is an American soccer player who plays for Aston Villa of the Premier League.-Early Career:...
, Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2003–2004), U.S. international, English Premier League player Tyler Hemming
Tyler Hemming
Tyler Hemming is an Canadian soccer player currently playing for Forest City London in the USL Premier Development League.-College and amateur:...
, Ottawa Fury
Ottawa Fury
Ottawa Fury is a Canadian soccer team based in Ottawa, Ontario. Founded in 2005, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference....
/Forest City London
Forest City London
Forest City London is a Canadian soccer team based in London, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2008, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference....
(2005–2006, 2011–present), Canadian international Kamani Hill
Kamani Hill
Kamani Helekunihi Hill is an American professional soccer player.- Early years :Hill was born in Berkeley, California to a Trinidadian father and an American mother of Hawaiian origin. He grew up playing in various Bay Area youth leagues and attended Berkeley High School, where he was a star...
, Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
/San Fernando Valley Quakes
San Fernando Valley Quakes
San Fernando Valley Quakes was an American soccer team based in Calabasas, California, United States. Founded in 2006, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise folded and the team left the league.The team...
(2005–2006), U.S. international, German Fußball-Bundesliga
Fußball-Bundesliga
The Fußball-Bundesliga is a professional association football league in Germany. At the top of Germany's football league system, it is the country's primary football competition. It is contested by 18 teams and operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the 2. Bundesliga...
player Vedad Ibišević
Vedad Ibiševic
Vedad Ibišević is a Bosnian footballer playing as striker for TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in the German Bundesliga and the Bosnian national team. He has also played in Switzerland, the USA and France...
, St. Louis Strikers
St. Louis Strikers
St. Louis Strikers were an American soccer team, founded in 2003, and was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2004, when the team left the league and the franchise was terminated.The Strikers played their home...
/Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2003–2004), Bosnian international, German Fußball-Bundesliga
Fußball-Bundesliga
The Fußball-Bundesliga is a professional association football league in Germany. At the top of Germany's football league system, it is the country's primary football competition. It is contested by 18 teams and operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the 2. Bundesliga...
player Julius James
Julius James
Julius James is a Trinidadian footballer who currently plays for Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer.-College:...
, Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames
Westchester Flames is an American soccer team based in New Rochelle, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games...
(2006), Trinidadian international Sean Johnson
Sean Johnson (soccer)
Sean Johnson is an American soccer player who currently plays for Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Atlanta Blackhawks (2009), U.S. international Kei Kamara
Kei Kamara
Kei Kamara is a Sierra Leonean footballer who currently plays for Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer.-Early life:Kamara was born and raised in Kenema, Sierra Leone's third largest city to Temne parents...
, Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2004–2005), Sierra Leonean international Jürgen Klinsmann
Jürgen Klinsmann
Jürgen Klinsmann is a German football manager and former player who is currently the coach of the United States Men's National Team. As a player, Klinsmann played for several prominent clubs in Europe and was part of the West German team that won the 1990 FIFA World Cup and the German one that...
, Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2003), German international, World Cup winner, English Premier League player, German Fußball-Bundesliga
Fußball-Bundesliga
The Fußball-Bundesliga is a professional association football league in Germany. At the top of Germany's football league system, it is the country's primary football competition. It is contested by 18 teams and operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the 2. Bundesliga...
player, current US national team
United States men's national soccer team
The United States men's national soccer team represents the United States in international association football competitions. It is controlled by the United States Soccer Federation and competes in CONCACAF...
coach Sacha Kljestan
Sacha Kljestan
Sacha Kljestan is an American soccer player who currently plays for Anderlecht in the Belgian First Division.-Youth and College:...
, Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2005), U.S. international Joseph Lapira
Joseph Lapira
Joseph Lapira is an Irish-American soccer player playing for Nybergsund.-Family:Joseph is the son of Paul and Kate Lapira and brother to Maria and Michael Lapira. Joseph's paternal grandparents were from Malta. Joseph lived in Lake Charles, Louisiana most of his life.-Career:Lapira graduated from St...
, Louisiana Outlaws/Lafayette Swamp Cats
Lafayette Swamp Cats
Lafayette Swamp Cats were an American soccer team, founded in 2000. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2004, when the team left the league and the franchise was terminated.They were given “provisional...
/Baton Rouge Capitals
Baton Rouge Capitals
Baton Rouge Capitals is an American soccer team based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States. Founded in 2007, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays its home games...
(2003–2007), Irish international, 2006 Hermann Trophy winner Patrick Leduc
Patrick Leduc
Patrick Leduc is a Canadian soccer player who formerly played for Montreal Impact in the USSF Division 2 Professional League.-Youth and Amateur:...
, Twin Cities Tornado (1998–1999), Canadian international Eric Lichaj
Eric Lichaj
Eric Joseph Lichaj is an American soccer player who plays for Aston Villa. Lichaj also plays for the United States men's national team. He started his youth career playing for Chicago Magic and participated in the youth residency program at IMG Soccer Academy. He later played college soccer for...
, Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2006), U.S. international, English Premier League player Zach Loyd
Zach Loyd
Zachary Robert Loyd is an American soccer player who currently plays for FC Dallas in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Carolina Dynamo
Carolina Dynamo
Carolina Dynamo is an American soccer team based in Greensboro, North Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
(2007–2009), U.S. international Pete Marino
Pete Marino
"Sneaky" Pete Marino is an American soccer forward currently playing for the Treasure Coast Galleons in the FESL. Marino spent six seasons in Major League Soccer and one USL Premier Development League....
, Cocoa Expos
Cocoa Expos
Cocoa Expos was an American soccer team, founded in 1993. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2007, when the team left the league and the franchise was terminated.The team played its home matches at...
(2003–2006), U.S. international Yohance Marshall
Yohance Marshall
Yohance Marshall is a Trinidadian footballer who currently plays for USL Pro club Rochester Rhinos.-Youth and college:...
, Vermont Voltage
Vermont Voltage
Vermont Voltage is an American soccer team based in St. Albans, Vermont, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference, having spent the 2009 season on...
(2011), Trinidadian international Dax McCarty
Dax McCarty
Dax McCarty is an American soccer player who currently plays for New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer.-College:...
, Ajax Orlando Prospects
Ajax Orlando Prospects
Ajax Orlando Prospects was an American soccer team, founded in 2002. The team was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2006, when the team left the league and the franchise was terminated.The Prospects played their...
(2004–2005), U.S. international Drew Moor
Drew Moor
Drew Moor is an American soccer player who currently plays for Colorado Rapids in Major League Soccer. He is consistently ranked by major publications as one of the top defenders in the league.-College:...
, Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2004), U.S. international Chance Myers
Chance Myers
Chance Myers is an American soccer player who currently plays for Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Ventura County Fusion
Ventura County Fusion
Ventura County Fusion is an American soccer team based in Ventura, California, United States. Founded in 2006, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games in...
(2007), #1 Pick in 2008 MLS SuperDraft Darlington Nagbe
Darlington Nagbe
Darlington Nagbe is a Liberian footballer currently playing for the Portland Timbers in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Cleveland Internationals
Cleveland Internationals
Cleveland Internationals was an American soccer team based in Cleveland, Ohio, United States. Founded in 2004, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference...
(2007–2010), 2010 Hermann Trophy winner Gifton Noel-Williams
Gifton Noel-Williams
Gifton Noel-Williams is an English footballer.-England:Noel-Williams started his professional career at Watford where he spent a seven year spell playing 127 games and scoring 43 goals. Aged 19, he was Watford's top goalscorer in the 1998–99 season, at the end of which they were promoted to the...
, DFW Tornados
DFW Tornados
DFW Tornados was an American soccer team based in Dallas, Texas, United States. Founded in 1986, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference...
(2010), English Premier League player Pat Noonan
Pat Noonan
Pat Noonan is an American soccer player who last played for Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Michigan Bucks
Michigan Bucks
Michigan Bucks is an American soccer team based in Pontiac, Michigan, United States. Founded in 1995, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
(2002), U.S. international Danny O'Rourke
Danny O'Rourke
Danny O'Rourke is an American soccer player who currently plays for Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer.-High School and College:...
, Dayton Gemini
Dayton Gemini
Dayton Gemini, originally known as Dayton Gems, were an American soccer team, founded in 2000, who were members of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2002, after which the team left the league and the franchise was...
/Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
/Columbus Shooting Stars
Columbus Shooting Stars
Columbus Shooting Stars were an American soccer team, founded in 2003, and was a member of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, for just one season...
(2000–2004), 2004 Hermann Trophy winner Olivier Occean
Olivier Occean
Olivier Occean is a Canadian footballer player who currently plays for SpVgg Greuther Fürth in the 2. Fußball-Bundesliga.-College soccer:...
, Vermont Voltage
Vermont Voltage
Vermont Voltage is an American soccer team based in St. Albans, Vermont, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Northeast Division of the Eastern Conference, having spent the 2009 season on...
(2002–2003), Canadian international Dever Orgill
Dever Orgill
Dever Orgill is a Jamaican footballer who plays for St. George's SC.-Youth and Amateur:Orgill attended Titchfield High School where he was coached by Andrew Edwards, and played club soccer for Progressive FC before joining the youth academy of Canadian team Vancouver Whitecaps in August 2007...
, Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
Vancouver Whitecaps Residency
Vancouver Whitecaps Residency, formerly known as Whitecaps FC Reserves, is a Canadian soccer team based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Although founded in 2005 as part of the development system for the Vancouver Whitecaps USL First Division franchise, beginning in 2011 they are part of the...
(2009–2010), Jamaican international David Oteo, Rio Grande Valley Grandes
Rio Grande Valley Grandes
Rio Grande Valley Grandes is an American soccer team based in McAllen, Texas, United States. Founded in 2010, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid South Division of the Southern Conference.The team plays it's home games at...
(2011–present), Mexican international Michael Parkhurst
Michael Parkhurst
Michael Parkhurst is an American soccer player. He plays primarily as center back for F.C. Nordsjælland in the Danish Superliga...
, Bradenton Academics
Bradenton Academics
The Bradenton Academics are an American soccer team based in Bradenton, Florida, United States. Founded in 1998, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference.The team is associated with...
(2003), U.S. international Logan Pause
Logan Pause
Logan Pause is an American soccer player who currently plays for Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Raleigh CASL Elite (2002), U.S. international Heath Pearce
Heath Pearce
Heath Gregory Pearce is an American soccer player who currently plays for Chivas USA in Major League Soccer and for the United States men's national soccer team.-College and Amateur:...
, Bradenton Academics
Bradenton Academics
The Bradenton Academics are an American soccer team based in Bradenton, Florida, United States. Founded in 1998, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southeast Division of the Southern Conference.The team is associated with...
(2004), U.S. international Troy Perkins
Troy Perkins
Troy Perkins is an American soccer player who currently plays for Portland Timbers in Major League Soccer.-College and amateur:...
, Cape Cod Crusaders
Cape Cod Crusaders
Cape Cod Crusaders were an American soccer team based in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, United States. Founded in 1994, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2008, when the franchise folded and the team left the league.The team...
(2002–2003), U.S. international Tim Ream
Tim Ream
Timothy "Tim" Ream is an American soccer player who currently plays for New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer and the United States national team. He usually plays as a central defender.-Youth and college:...
, Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2008–2009), U.S. international Luis Robles
Luis Robles
Luis Robles is an American soccer goalkeeper who currently plays for Karlsruher SC. He signed a two-year deal to play at the Wildparkstadion on August 8, 2010. He was given the number 32.- Career :...
, Boulder Rapids Reserve
Boulder Rapids Reserve
Colorado Rapids U23's was an American soccer team based in Boulder, Colorado, United States. Founded in 2000 as part of the development system for the Colorado Rapids Major League Soccer franchise, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer...
(2003–2004), U.S. international Robbie Rogers
Robbie Rogers
Robbie Rogers is an American soccer player who currently plays for Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer and the United States men's national soccer team.-Youth and College:...
, Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2005), U.S. international Chris Rolfe
Chris Rolfe
Chris Rolfe is an American soccer player who currently plays for AaB in the Danish Superliga.-College:...
, Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2004), U.S. international C. J. Sapong
C. J. Sapong
C. J. Sapong is an American soccer player who currently plays for Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer.-College and Amateur:...
, Fredericksburg Gunners
Fredericksburg Gunners
Fredericksburg Gunners was an American soccer team based in Fredericksburg, Virginia, United States. Founded in 2006, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009, after which the franchise folded and the team left the league.The...
/Reading United (2009-2010), 2011 MLS Rookie of the Year Gonzalo Segares
Gonzalo Segares
Gonzalo Segares Gonzalez is a Costa Rican footballer who currently plays for the Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer.-Youth and college:...
, Williamsburg Legacy
Williamsburg Legacy
Virginia Legacy was an American soccer team based in Williamsburg, Virginia, United States. Founded in 2002, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009, after which the franchise folded and the team left the league.The team...
(2003), Costa Rican international Paris Simmons
Paris Simmons
Paris Simmons is an English footballer currently playing for New Orleans Jesters in the USL Premier Development League.-England:...
, New Orleans Jesters (2011–present), English Premier League player Jonathan Spector
Jonathan Spector
Jonathan Michael Paul Spector is an American soccer player who plays as a defender for Birmingham City. He started his professional career in England when he was signed by Manchester United as a teenager, but rarely appeared for the club...
, Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier
Chicago Fire Premier is an American soccer team based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Founded in 2001, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2001), U.S. international, English Premier League player Marcus Tracy
Marcus Tracy
Marcus Garin Tracy is an American soccer player who plays as a striker. He is currently without a club.-College and Amateur:...
, Carolina Dynamo
Carolina Dynamo
Carolina Dynamo is an American soccer team based in Greensboro, North Carolina, United States. Founded in 1993, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the South Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
(2008), 2008 Hermann Trophy winner Jeremiah White
Jeremiah White
Jeremiah White is an American soccer player. He is known for his speed and normally plays in midfield, though he can also be used as a striker or fullback.-Youth career:...
, Ocean City Barons
Ocean City Barons
Ocean City Nor'easters is an American soccer team based in Ocean City, New Jersey, United States. Founded in 1996, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid-Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home...
(2003), U.S. international Chris Wingert
Chris Wingert
Chris Wingert is an American soccer player who currently plays for Real Salt Lake in Major League Soccer.-College:Wingert attended St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School and played college soccer for St...
, Brooklyn Knights
Brooklyn Knights
Brooklyn Knights is an American soccer team based in New York, New York, United States. Founded in 1999, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Mid Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference.The team plays its home games at the...
(2003), U.S. international, 2003 Hermann Trophy Winner Eric Wynalda
Eric Wynalda
Eric Boswell Wynalda is a retired American soccer player, and former sports broadcaster. He was the co-host of Fox Football Fone-In on Fox Soccer Channel and is currently employeed as the president of international operations at Mexican third division club Murcielagos.Wynalda scored the first goal...
, Bakersfield Brigade
Bakersfield Brigade
Bakersfield Brigade was an American soccer team based in Bakersfield, California, United States. Founded in 2005, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, until 2009, after which the franchise folded and the team left the league.The...
(2007–2008), U.S. international, German Fußball-Bundesliga
Fußball-Bundesliga
The Fußball-Bundesliga is a professional association football league in Germany. At the top of Germany's football league system, it is the country's primary football competition. It is contested by 18 teams and operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the 2. Bundesliga...
player Steve Zakuani
Steve Zakuani
Steve Zakuani is a Congolese footballer who currently plays for Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer. Born in Zaire , Zakuani grew up in London before attending the University of Akron on a soccer scholarship...
, Cleveland Internationals
Cleveland Internationals
Cleveland Internationals was an American soccer team based in Cleveland, Ohio, United States. Founded in 2004, the team played in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Great Lakes Division of the Central Conference...
(2008), #1 Pick in 2009 MLS SuperDraft, Congolese international Sal Zizzo
Sal Zizzo
Salvatore "Sal" Zizzo is an American soccer player who plays for the Portland Timbers of Major League Soccer.-Youth and Amateur:...
, Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star
Orange County Blue Star is an American soccer team based in Irvine, California, United States. Founded in 1997, the team plays in the USL Premier Development League , the fourth tier of the American Soccer Pyramid, in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.The team plays its home games at...
(2006–2007), U.S. international
Average attendance
Attendance stats are calculated by averaging each team's self-reported home attendances from the historical match archive at http://www.uslsoccer.com/history/index_E.html, and then averaging this league-wide.Regular season
- 2010: 550
- 2009: 533
- 2008: not yet available
- 2007: 516
- 2006: 561
- 2005: 503
- 2004: 455
- 2003: 492
- 2002: 463
- 2001: 410
- 2000: 423
- 1999: 385
- 1998: 317
- 1997: 304
- 1996: 256
- 1995: 290
Playoffs
- 2010: 1146
- 2009: 1182
- 2008: 1338
- 2007: not yet available
- 2006: 895
- 2005: 912
- 2004: 877
- 2003: 703
- 2002: 560
- 2001: 530
- 2000: 481
- 1999: 407
- 1998: 416
- 1997: 397
- 1996: 218
- 1995: 182