What is the SOCAL NPL?

The SOCAL National Premier Leagues (NPL) represents the highest level of competition within the SOCAL Soccer League. Designed to elevate the game for the most advanced players and clubs, SOCAL NPL delivers structured, regional play with national pathways.

Upcoming Events

NPL Playoffs

The SOCAL NPL Playoffs kick off November 8–9 , with Quarterfinal and Semifinal matchups leading to the Finals on November 15 at Silverlakes. Top teams from each division compete for a chance to qualify for US Club Soccer’s NPL Finals in Colorado.

Playoff Criteria

NPL College Showcase

All U17–U19 teams will also participate in the NPL College Showcase November 8–9 , hosted in partnership with The Players Portal. This event gives players valuable recruiting exposure.

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Showcase Recap

Levels & Format

SOCAL NPL features structured, regional league play for U13–U19 teams, with a pathway to US Club Soccer’s prestigious NPL Finals in Colorado. This format ensures high-quality competition while minimizing excessive travel demands.

College Exposure & Showcase Events

SOCAL NPL gives players real pathways to college recruitment through showcase events, the Players Portal, BuildUp and College ID Camps. Hosted throughout the year with local college coaches, these camps and showcases give athletes direct exposure and hands-on recruiting opportunities.

NPL Futures

NPL Futures is SOCAL’s referral-based program spotlighting standout players in the U13–U16 age groups. Coaches nominate top talent, and selected players join official Futures teams for elite regional matches or the Capelli Cup in Arizona.

All League Honors

To recognize top performers in the oldest NPL divisions, SOCAL selects a Girls and Boys All-League Honors in the U17 (2009) and U18/U19 (2008 & 2007) age groups. These honors spotlight standout players and celebrate excellence in competitive play.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in the SOCAL NPL?

Participation is open to teams that meet SOCAL’s competitive standards and are accepted into the NPL division through an evaluation process. Most teams are selected from the top-performing Flight 1 teams or are already part of NPL programming.

How do teams qualify for NPL Playoffs and NPL Finals?

Top teams from each NPL division based on regular season performance qualify for the NPL Playoffs. Finalists from these playoffs earn the right to compete at US Club Soccer’s NPL Finals in Colorado.

What is the NPL Futures program?

NPL Futures is a referral-based initiative that scouts top-performing U13–U16 players based on nominations from opposing coaches. Selected players form SOCAL Futures teams and compete in elite matches, including the Capelli Cup and regional friendlies.

What are All-League Honors?

At the end of each season, SOCAL names Girls and Boys First and Second Teams in the U17 and U18/U19 age groups to recognize standout athletes from NPL play.

What age groups are included in the NPL?

SOCAL NPL serves competitive boys and girls teams from U13 through U19.

How are college coaches involved?

College coaches are invited to attend all NPL Showcase events and receive access to player rosters and recruiting tools. SOCAL also partners with the College Soccer Development Academy (CSDA) to secure college coaches and to host dedicated College ID Camps.

What is BuildUp?

BuildUp is an AI-powered platform offering game analysis and personal highlight reels to support player development and college exposure. For the Fall 2025 season, access is free exclusively to 2007, 2008, and 2009 Super Division teams.

What is the Players Portal?

The Players Portal is a free college recruiting platform for 2007, 2008, and 2009 NPL players. Covered by SOCAL, it helps athletes build custom profiles, upload highlight videos, and connect directly with college coaches nationwide. With powerful tools for college research, player tracking, and direct communication, it’s your all-in-one gateway to academic and athletic opportunities.