2025 MLS NEXT Flex: U17 Groups
The newest U17 MLS Next Flex Groups have just been announced, setting the stage for exciting youth soccer matchups across the country!
TL;DR:
Who’s Going to Shine? Youth Soccer’s Rising Stars Set for Action
The youth soccer world is buzzing with excitement! All 16 groups for the U17 MLS Next Flex tournament have been revealed, and soccer fans everywhere are picking their favorites.
These groups were created based on each team’s standing in their respective Flex table. We’ll see the best teams testing their skills against equally matched opponents.
Famous Names and Hidden Gems
Looking at the groups, you’ll spot some big names right away. Barça Residency Academy Arizona in Group 5 brings the famous Barcelona training philosophy to American soil. Meanwhile, teams like Inter Miami CF (Group 9) show how MLS clubs are investing in youth development.
But don’t sleep on the lesser-known clubs! Teams like QC Mutiny (Group 15) and Triangle United (Group 16) have produced amazing talent over the years.
East Coast vs. West Coast Battles
One cool thing about these groups is how they mix teams from different parts of the country. In Group 10, for example, Real Colorado will face off against Silicon Valley SA, Bethesda SC, and LA Surf. These coast-to-coast matchups help young players experience different playing styles.
The Complete Group Lineup
Group 1: Beachside CT, Ballistic United, Tampa Bay United, Albion SC LA
Group 2: Las Vegas SA, Boston Bolts, Jax Armada FC, SF Glens
Group 3: De Anza Force, Met Oval, Florida Rush, Tormenta FC
Group 4: Sockers FC, City SC, Springfield SYC, FC Westchester
Group 5: Barça Res AZ, GFIA, IMG Academy, Rochester NY
Group 6: Weston FC, Capital City SC, Ventura Fusion, Cedar Stars M
Group 7: Michigan Wolves, South Florida, FC Bay Area Surf, Albion SC LV
Group 8: Sac Republic, Michigan Jaguars, TFA, TSF Academy
Group 9: Inter Miami CF, Strikers FC, Midwest United, Cedar Stars B
Group 10: Real Colorado, Silicon Valley SA, Bethesda SC, LA Surf
Group 11: FC Delco, STL Scott Gallagher, TDP Elite, FC Golden State
Group 12: Baltimore Armour, OSC Youth, Diablo Valley, Shattuck St. Mary
Group 13: FC Dallas, Wake FC, Breakers FC, Chicago United
Group 14: NEFC, Southern SA, Albion SC SD, Dallas Hornets
Group 15: QC Mutiny, PDA, BW Gottschee, Phoenix Rising FC
Group 16: Triangle United, RFA, Hoosier Premier, IFA
Road to the Playoffs
What makes this tournament special is that it’s more than just games—it’s a pathway to the playoffs. The best performers will punch their tickets to the next level, where college scouts and professional teams will be watching closely.
“I’m excited to see which underdog teams surprise everyone. Every year, there’s at least one team that nobody expected to do well, but they end up making a huge splash.”
Player Development Focus
While winning is important, the MLS Next program is ultimately about developing the next generation of soccer stars. These games give young players the chance to test themselves against the best competition in their age group.
For many of these 16 and 17-year-old players, strong performances in the Flex Groups could lead to opportunities with college programs or even professional academies.
So who do you think will make it to the playoffs? With 64 teams across 16 groups, the competition will be fierce, but that’s what makes youth soccer so exciting!
Written By: Beau Bridges
Beau is the founder of SoccerNovo, dedicated to helping players and parents navigate the youth soccer landscape. As a former youth coach and soccer parent, he shares insights on player development, recruiting, and the ever-evolving soccer scene in the U.S.
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