USL’s latest additions signal a potential shift in the US soccer pyramid

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USL’s latest additions signal a potential shift in the US soccer pyramid

by Carson A Merk

After rumors swirled, it was confirmed that Ottawa Fury FC, and Tampa Bay Rowdies, will depart the NASL for the USL.

The three main leagues in the US soccer pyramid are MLS, the NASL, and the USL, in that order. Major League Soccer is clearly the top league. Behind them, the gap between the North American Soccer League, and the United Soccer League, is not huge. This week, it was announced two of the top NASL teams are heading to the USL in 2017, causing a potential change in the pyramid’s structure.

Ottawa Fury FC and Tampa Bay joining the thriving USL is a huge win for that league, and an even bigger loss for the NASL. The NASL has been rumored to have widespread financial struggles, and teams either wanting to depart, or fold.