WHAT IS ECNL?

The Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) was founded in 2009 by forward-thinking Directors of Coaching across the country who saw a need for change in and special commitment to improving the daily environment for American elite female youth soccer players.  These Directors came together and collaborated to build what would become the top female youth development platform in the world. The grassroots leadership and cooperation were unprecedented in American youth soccer, and the ECNL continues to be the most progressive and innovative development platform in the country.

WHY ECNL?

Chicago Inter has always challenged our players and teams to compete at the highest level league and events available.  We are excited to offer both levels of ECNL (Club Competition and Regional League) for 2023-24.  The high level of consistent competition, college exposure and identification opportunities for players is unmatched in the United States.

WHAT ABOUT COLLEGE EXPOSURE?

Chicago Inter players will receive the best college exposure in the country with players attending top ECNL National Showcase events along with our own Chicago Inter College Showcase.  Opportunities such as our Chicago Inter Summer College Camp and Winter Indoor Showcase provide further opportunities for players to showcase themselves in front of all levels of college coaches.  Our club has a very strong history of creating a pathway for our players to continue their playing career in college which you can see on our College Commitment page.

HOW DO ECNL PLAYERS GET EXPOSURE TO US NATIONAL TEAMS?

US Soccer Training Centers are sessions that are hosted every few months in various locations where National Team coaches train & identify players. US Soccer Training Centers have replaced ODP (USYS) sessions and zero costs are associated for players who are invited to attend these sessions.  US Soccer scouts attend the majority of ECNL divisional games to identify players for National team camps & US Training centers.