The NWSL’s Request for a New Second Division: What It Means for Women’s Soccer in the U.S.
On April 25, 2025, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) submitted a proposal to U.S. Soccer, seeking permission to launch a Division II league set to debut in 2026. The move marks a significant step in the expansion and development of women’s professional soccer in the United States. In a formal letter to U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson, NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman outlined the league’s vision for a second division, which she described as essential for the “sustainability and growth” of women’s soccer.
The proposal includes plans for eight founding teams linked to existing NWSL clubs, such as the North Carolina Courage, Kansas City Current, Racing Louisville, NJ/NY Gotham FC, Orlando Pride, Bay FC, Seattle Reign, and Washington Spirit. However, sources indicate that not all teams were on board when the proposal was submitted, with concerns about the costs of operating a second squad.
What is the Goal Behind the NWSL Division II League?
The NWSL aims to create a strong developmental pipeline by establishing a second-tier league. This Division II league would serve as a training ground for emerging players, providing them with the crucial playing time needed to progress to top-tier soccer. According to the proposal, the league would require each NWSL club to operate a Division II team by 2030. The NWSL’s goal is to have at least six teams in the first year and eight by year three, with half of these based in metro areas with populations of 500,000 or more.
Will the NWSL Division II League Launch in 2026?
While the NWSL has requested Division II sanctioning, the launch is not guaranteed for 2026. Many industry insiders believe the request is a proactive move to prepare for the possibility of a second division if conditions align. In addition to launching new teams in Denver and Boston, the NWSL will need to consider the complexities of managing both a first-division and second-division team.
A major question is whether NWSL clubs are ready to invest in infrastructure for a second team. The league has not yet appointed staff to oversee the second division and is still finalizing plans. Despite these uncertainties, the NWSL’s forward-thinking approach suggests they are preparing for long-term growth in women’s soccer.
Teams Involved in the NWSL Division II Proposal
The NWSL’s proposal includes eight teams from the following existing NWSL clubs: Bay FC, Kansas City Current, NJ/NY Gotham FC, North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, Racing Louisville, Seattle Reign, and Washington Spirit. While this list outlines the initial teams, the league’s long-term goal is for every NWSL team to eventually have its own Division II affiliate, creating a solid foundation for player development across the country.
Challenges of Shared Infrastructure and Venue Issues
One of the challenges the NWSL will face in launching the Division II league is the shared use of stadiums and facilities. Many NWSL teams already share their stadiums with Major League Soccer (MLS) and NFL teams. For example, Seattle Reign shares Lumen Field with the Seattle Sounders. For a Division II team to play at these venues, additional scheduling and contractual arrangements will need to be made, potentially increasing operating costs.
The Future of Promotion and Relegation in the NWSL
Promotion and relegation, a feature of many international soccer leagues, is not part of the current NWSL Division II proposal. The league’s primary focus is on player development, with the aim of providing young talent with opportunities to transition into professional soccer. As the league matures, there may be room for future expansion and greater competition, but for now, the focus remains on building a sustainable, well-supported second division.
The Current State of Women’s Soccer in the U.S.
Aside from the NWSL, women’s soccer in the United States is seeing growth with other professional leagues like the USL Super League and WPSL Pro. The USL Super League, managed by the United Soccer League, and WPSL Pro, which plans to launch its own Division II league in 2026, are competing to fill the gap between college soccer and top-tier professional play. Despite the increase in professional options, there is still no officially sanctioned Division II or III women’s soccer league in the U.S.
What Does This Mean for Player Development in the U.S.?
Player development in U.S. women’s soccer is currently facilitated through youth academies, college soccer, and the Under-18 Entry Mechanism, which allows younger players to bypass college and go pro. While college soccer remains a significant talent pipeline, the NWSL’s proposed Division II league could create a new pathway for players looking to make the leap to professional soccer more smoothly.
The expansion of youth national team programs, supported by significant investments, also aims to strengthen the U.S. women’s soccer talent pool. With initiatives like these, the NWSL’s second division could play a critical role in shaping the future of women’s soccer in the U.S.
Is the NWSL’s Division II Plan a Good Idea?
In theory, the NWSL’s plan for a second division is a strong step forward for the development of women’s soccer in the U.S. A Division II league would provide emerging players with crucial experience, easing their transition into top-tier professional soccer. However, the NWSL must ensure that the financial structure and sustainability of the league are carefully managed, and that the infrastructure needed to support two teams per club is feasible.
The long-term success of the NWSL’s Division II league will depend on careful planning, collaboration among clubs, and a commitment to player development. While there are challenges ahead, including financial and logistical hurdles, the proposal signals a promising future for the expansion of women’s soccer in the U.S.
