ST. LOUIS, MO – February 28, 2025 – Lou Fusz Athletic is proud to announce its continued commitment to elite youth development with the addition of two new competition tiers under MLS NEXT, set to launch for the 2025-26 season. These new divisions will provide expanded opportunities for top-tier player development, reinforcing our Blue Star Boys platform and strengthening the club’s pathway to the highest levels of the game.

As part of MLS NEXT’s new structure, Lou Fusz Blue Star will now feature three distinct levels of competition:
•  MLS NEXT – Our top Blue Star team will continue competing at the highest level, providing a direct pipeline to collegiate, professional, and national team opportunities.
•  MLS NEXT’s New Tiers (x2) – These two additional competition platforms will sit directly below our top Blue Star team, and replace our NAL participation. This platform will expand our competitive environment that ensures player growth, enhanced national exposure, and meaningful competition against top clubs regionally.

With this expansion, Lou Fusz Athletic further solidifies itself as a premier development destination for aspiring athletes in the St. Louis region and beyond. Our goal remains the same: to provide a professional-level training environment, best in class coaching, and a clear pathway for players looking to reach their next level.

More details, including team placements and competition formats, will be shared as MLS NEXT finalizes the rollout of these new tiers.

Find more information about MLS Next and Major League Soccer here, and visit Lou Fusz Athletic to learn more about player development opportunities here.