Common Questions/Information for the UPSL/USL Academy
DCFC II – OPEN TRYOUT
- Open Tryout #1 – Thursday, February 27 @ High Velocity in Canton – 2 PM to 5 PM
What is the UPSL?
What is USL Academy?
- VISION
With the launch of USL Academy, the United Soccer League now has an elite youth platform to offer to its clubs in the Championship, Super League, League One, League Two, and W League. As such, these clubs can now develop a more clearly defined path for top youth prospects in their area to reach the professional level & sign directly with their senior team.
- STRATEGIC GOAL
USL Academy programs provide USL clubs with a progressive model to develop local players for the senior team at a fraction of the cost of traditional pre-professional academies. This will also allow more clubs and communities to participate, allowing for a regional footprint that limits travel demand for teams and families.
When does the season run?
- The 2025 UPSL Season runs from April to June, with an opportunity for July playoff matches.
What type of players are we looking for?
- This is an opportunity for players who desire to play professionally.
What is the commitment?
- We will immediately begin with 1-3 practices per week. College players are excused until May 1. Game day travel will not exceed 45 minutes.
Is there a cost?
- No, there is no cost if selected to play for DCFC II
Where will training and games be located?
- We are finalizing a home field for the season and will confirm the location in due course
Are DCFC and DCFC II connected?
- Yes, our DCFC II Head Coach, Brad Dunwell, and Sporting Director Trevor James will bridge the gap between DCFC II & DCFC.
- Where possible, first-team staff will be present at DCFC II training sessions & games
- The aim is for DCFC II to mirror the first team, to prepare players best to serve our first team
What is the purpose of forming Detroit City FC II?
- The purpose is to capture the best young talent in the Metro Detroit area and develop those players to represent our first team.
- We want to identify players that can participate in first-team training sessions.
- We will use DCFC II as a feeder into our first team environment.
How will opportunities be provided?
- We are now allowed to have two additional homegrown players on our bench for USL Championship Matchdays, and we would like to fill those through DCFC II.
- Training opportunities with our DCFC first team will also be provided where earned
Are the ID sessions only open to current DCFC Affiliate players?
- No, our ID sessions are open to all players, including high school, college, and any other players looking for an opportunity.
Do I need to attend the ID Sessions to be selected?
- Yes, the team will be selected from players that attend the ID sessions. However, if you cannot attend February 27’s Open Tryout, please email your game film to brad.dunwell@detcityfc.com
