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NEW FOR Fall 2026 - RFA is Teaming Up with MLS NEXT!
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RFA is excited to be named as one of two Iowa clubs joining the MLS NEXT Academy Division in 2026. RFA will be the only central Iowa club to have MLS NEXT U13 and U14 teams (the other club is located in eastern Iowa).
ABOUT MLS NEXT
MLS NEXT launched the Academy Division as the second highest tier in the MLS development series. MLS NEXT Academy is second only to MLS NEXT Allstate Homegrown Division, the most elite youth soccer platform for player development in the U.S.
MLS NEXT Academy Division furthers the MLS commitment to creating quality training and playing opportunities for all players to reach their highest potential.
With approximately 318 clubs and 53,000 players, MLS NEXT expands consistent, high-quality competition for young soccer players through selection of clubs based on qualifying factors including, but not limited to:
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Specialized training plans
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Experienced coaching
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Demonstration of mission-aligned culture and core values
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Community engagement
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Holistic development strategies
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Commitment to access and representation
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Forward-thinking leadership teams
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MLS NEXT AND RFA
As a young club with currently just one eligible MLS NEXT age group, U13, RFA will add a U14 team to its MLS NEXT Academy Division roster in 2026 for two qualifying teams.
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It is important to note that RFA was chosen to join MLS NEXT due to the quality of coaching and development of our current players. RFA players and families can be proud that MLS NEXT Academy Division staff felt our athletes were suitable to play against, and further develop their skills alongside, other qualified MLS NEXT Academy Division teams. RFA plans to continue to develop all young club players through specialized and individualized training and skills development.
MLS NEXT PROGRAMS
An MLS NEXT Academy team for young soccer players that are advancing their foundation of technical skills, have a passion for the game, willingness to commit to creativity and bravery as a player, and a desire to be a part of a team-first culture.
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MLS NEXT Academy Technical Standards:
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The player is coachable and willing to learn.
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The player can dribble the ball with the proper technique.
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The player can connect short, medium, and longer range passes with proper technique.
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The player can receive the ball with a range of techniques and can move his first touch away from pressure.
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The player can put various skill combinations together under pressure from defenders.
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The player can juggle the ball at different heights, with different body parts, under control. (Player should be able to get a minimum of 250 juggles with their feet consistently).
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The player is creative and is willing to show bravery and courage in one-on-one situations with the ball.
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The player is brave when defending in one-on-one situations.
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The player runs for his team - players should be able to run 4-6 miles per game.
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MLS NEXT Attacking Principles:
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Pass and move -- always wanting the ball (bravery).
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Using our space wisely -- making the game big when we can and exploiting the open spaces on the field.
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Taking advantage of our numbers-up opportunities.
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Playing with creativity.
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Playing with freedom and discipline -- the game calls for each in different moments.
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MLS NEXT Defensive Principles:
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Hunting the ball back when we lose it.
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Blocking shots, getting into challenges (bravery).
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Setting traps for the opponent when we can.
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Running back to stop goal scoring or dangerous opportunities as fast as we can.
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