New ECNL RL Leaders Cup Event: Just Announced
The top soccer clubs in America’s ECNL Regional League will compete in a brand new tournament starting in 2026.
TL;DR:
What Is This New ECNL RL Tourney?
The ECNL Regional League Leaders Cup is like playoffs for ECNL Regional League’s best teams. Only teams that played really well all season get invited to this special championship.
How Teams Qualify
The top 20 clubs from boys and girls leagues automatically get in. Then the next 12 best individual teams also make it. That’s 32 teams total per age group.
This system is smart because it rewards both big clubs and smaller programs with great individual teams.
Tournament Details
- Girls: February 27 – March 1, 2026 in Florida (ages U15-U18/19)
- Boys: April 10-12, 2026 in Indianapolis (ages U17-U18/19)
Games last only 50 minutes instead of 90, keeping things fast-paced. Every team plays at least 5 games over 3 days in groups of four.
Why It Matters
College coaches will be watching closely, giving players great chances to get recruited. ECNL Commissioner Chris Leahey calls it “a collegiate recruiting hotbed.”
This tournament could prove valuable for players who want to play at the next level (higher-level ECNL teams or even college soccer).
What’s Next?
In addition to its unique format, the ECNL RL Leaders Cups will take place alongside existing ECNL and ECNL Regional League national events. With the Leaders Cup, Regional League showcase games, and ECNL showcases all happening on the same weekend, it promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with top-tier competition, exposure, and lasting memories for every player involved.
This new championship gives young players another big goal to chase and shows how youth soccer keeps growing.
ECNL continues to pave the way with events to showcase their players and bring together soccer communities.
