ECNL Regional League Gulf Coast Launches: 6 New Clubs Join for 2025-26 Season

The ECNL Regional League is expanding into Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama for the 2025-26 season, creating unprecedented opportunities for young soccer players across the Gulf Coast region through its new ECNL RL Gulf Coast division.

A Historic Expansion for Southern Soccer

The ECNL is making history by welcoming clubs from previously untapped regions into its development pipeline. With the introduction of ECNL RL Gulf Coast, the organization continues its mission of democratizing access to high-level soccer competition and collegiate exposure.

“This expansion represents a transformative moment for youth soccer in the Gulf States,” said ECNL Regional League Commissioner Chris Leahey. “We’re thrilled to support these vibrant and growing soccer communities and look forward to watching these fantastic clubs play in 2025-26. These are the premier clubs in the region, they have a long history in US Club Soccer, and they’ve worked incredibly hard to reach this point.”

In my opinion, this expansion couldn’t come at a better time for the region. The Gulf Coast has been producing quality players for years without the recognition or pathways available to other parts of the country. This levels the playing field significantly.

Meet the Inaugural Clubs

Gulf Coast United (Gulfport, MS)

Founded in 2003, Gulf Coast United has alumni playing at 25+ universities nationwide. “This opportunity aligns with our mission to develop top talent,” said Director of Coaching Oleg Chickanov.

Hattiesburg FC (Hattiesburg, MS)

Operating since 1980, Hattiesburg FC sends 30+ players annually to college programs. Executive Director Danny Owens welcomes “allowing our players to play in one of the highest leagues.”

LA Fire SC (New Orleans, LA)

Since 2010, this 1,500-player club has claimed multiple state cups and three NPL National Championships. “This platform aligns with our commitment to preparing players for the next level,” said Girls Program Director Bobby Velasquez.

LA Krewe Rush (Lafayette, LA)

Formed in 2023 through a merger, LA Krewe Rush combines local expertise with the national Rush network. “This furthers our initiative to offer more opportunities to our players,” said Executive Director Michael Ritch.

Mandeville SC (Mandeville, LA)

With 25+ years of history and 1,500 recreational players, Mandeville SC won back-to-back state cups in 2023-24. Competitive Director Pere Bascu called joining ECNL RL “a historic moment” that will “provide much-needed exposure through high-quality showcase events.”

Union 10 FC (Daphne, AL)

Established in 2022 but with roots back to 2010, Union 10 FC has grown to 1,000+ players with eight State Cup winners in 2024. “This gives players access to high-level competition and exposure,” said Technical Director Gerardo Flores.

What This Means for the Future of Gulf Coast Soccer

The integration of these six clubs into the ECNL Regional League ecosystem represents a watershed moment for soccer in the Gulf Coast region.

Thousands of players will now have direct pathways to elite competition, increased collegiate exposure, and professional development opportunities previously unavailable in their local areas.

I believe this expansion will alter the soccer landscape in states that have historically been overlooked by national leagues and scouting networks.

We’ll likely see a gradual increase in Gulf Coast players earning collegiate scholarships and perhaps even professional opportunities in the coming years.

For clubs, coaches, players, and families across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, the 2025-26 season will mark the beginning of a new era in youth soccer development—one with unprecedented opportunities to compete at the highest levels while representing their home communities with pride!

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