usl

USL is an acronym most commonly associated with the United Soccer League, a North American organization that governs a system of professional and semi-professional men’s soccer leagues in the United States and Canada. The USL operates under the umbrella of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) and, as of the current structure, comprises three active leagues: the USL Championship, the USL League One, and the USL League Two. The Championship serves as the second tier of the American soccer pyramid, while League One is the third tier and League Two the fourth tier, with a mix of professional, semi-professional, and amateur clubs. Teams from these leagues compete in regular-season schedules and playoffs to determine champions. The USL also sanctions reserve teams and participates in the broader U.S. soccer ecosystem, including involvement in the U.S. Open Cup, a nationwide knockout competition.

History and structure: The organization began as United Soccer Leagues in the 1980s and over time underwent several restructurings and branding changes. A top-tier league previously operated under the USL Pro name before being rebranded, with subsequent expansion that led to the current three-league framework. The USL emphasizes player development through initiatives such as the USL Academy, which aims to nurture talent within a professional development pathway. Clubs from the USL leagues may also have affiliations with Major League Soccer (MLS) franchises, including reserve arrangements.

Other uses: While USL commonly refers to the United Soccer League, the acronym can be used for other organizations in different contexts. This article focuses on the United Soccer League and its role in North American soccer.