What are platform leagues?

The Development Player League (DPL) and Elite Academy League (EA) are high-level, standards-based platforms that sit just below the top-tier youth programs in the country and are designed to provide competitive pathways. Both leagues emphasize player development, scouting, more consistent competition, and a professional environment for focused players. Platform leagues are considered a step above standard UYSA state leagues. DPL is for girls only and EA is for boys only.

How do I know I am ready for platform league?

Those who are primarily focused on soccer all year and are looking for opportunities to play at a higher level are ready. The teams are generally more committed, offer more growth, more competition, and more opportunities. Commitment level is an extremely important factor, and players will be held to higher expectations than state league teams.

How do I tryout for a platform league team?

Players can be identified at either the general ALBION SC Utah tryouts (May 26-28) or the platform-specific tryout (May 30th). Schedule for both the general tryouts and the platform-specific day can be found on the website. ALL interested players must register for ALBION SC Utah tryouts so they can be tracked in the system. Additionally, players should fill out the Interest Forms available for EA or DPL. Priority placement will be given to interested ALBION SC Utah players of appropriate skill and commitment levels. Additional available spots will be offered to out-of-club players.

Can I participate on a platform league team and a state league team?

Yes. Even players who play state league (UYSA) with a different club will be considered this year to play platform with ALBION SC Utah. In many cases the rosters between the two may look similar, but no one will be required to do both. Players choosing to participate in both a state league team (UYSA) and a platform team will pay the appropriate fees for both. Players participating in an ALBION SC Utah state team will receive a $1000 fee discount.

Can I attend an older age tryout and play up with my friends?

No, all players should tryout in the correct age group. If you are unsure of your age group, please consult the calculator available on the website. Occasionally, players may be asked by the coaching staff to participate in an older age group or multi-roster for a variety of reasons, but the option will be rare. With the age-group change, the addition of platform leagues, and new players joining the club, every roster will look different for the 2026–27 season. We recognize this may feel upsetting to some. Coaches will work hard to ensure that new teams develop appropriate chemistry.

What will the practices and games be like for platform teams?

Platform teams will meet roughly three times per week, for approximately 90 minutes. Most sessions will be on-field practices, but there may also be film sessions, team meetings, or other activities. Games are held on a roughly 10-month schedule and must be completed during that time. EA will mostly occur in the fall/winter and DPL in the winter/spring. Schedules are organized by league managers in collaboration with clubs, allowing for adjustments to meet club needs. There will likely be some Sunday play for both EA and DPL. There will also be 2-3 out-of-state away weekends. EA will participate in the Southwest Desert Conference (Utah, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, and New Mexico) and DPL will participate in the Mountain West Conference (Utah, Idaho).

What are the costs?

For the 2026-27 soccer year the club fee to participate in either of the platform leagues will be $2500. Cost of ALBION SC Utah uniform is separate (approximately $450). Additional costs for travel will vary team to team. Any players participating on both platform and state league teams (with ALBION SC Utah) will be required to pay the assigned fees for both, minus a $1000 club discount. 

Is it good for college exposure?

Yes, the EA and DPL programs are designed to provide a high-level environment for players looking to reach the next level. Additionally, and independent of the platform leagues, ALBION SC has a robust internal recruiting system and national network that will provide exposure opportunities for those seeking it in other ways.

Who will coach platform teams?

Tentative coaching assignments for the 2026–27 season have been announced internally. Keep in mind that coach shifting can still occur.

Visit the WEBSITE to register for tryouts and fill out the DPL or EA interest forms!