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New DA Cup, restructured regular season ushers in new era of Development Academy

CHICAGO, IL – As the Boys Development Academy launches its 13th season this fall, U.S. Soccer will introduce a new DA Cup competition and regular season structure to increase meaningful competition within the program. The DA Cup adds the opportunity to win a championship in a high-stakes knockout tournament and qualify for the Playoffs to the Academy schedule, while a new two-tiered competition format at the U-18/19 level increases the number of games for every team against similar-level opponents.

The changes represent an important step in the Academy's evolution to ensure that all clubs have access to the most meaningful games possible, fostering an environment that maximizes player development.