Elite Teams National League - ECNL
Level I
What is the Competitive Level I Program?
The Competitive Level I - ECNL program is the most competitive and highest-level soccer program at Mustang with attention paid to the tactical, physical and mental development of our players. Our program philosophy aims to develop more creative and technically proficient players within the ECNL national structure and prepare them for soccer at the collegiate level or beyond.
Who typically plays in this program?
For the 25/26 season, the players in the U13-U19 age groups, encompassing 2013-2007 birth years, are eligible for this level. These are the very best soccer players in the region who aim to compete at the collegiate or professional level. Mustang ECNL teams routinely compete at the highest level of competition in the country.
Who coaches these teams?
The Mustang coaching staff consists of many former professional and college coaches who also have varying licenses from USSD and NSCAA. Mustang provides ongoing education and opportunities for our ECNL coaches to upgrade their licenses over time.
How are these teams formed?
These teams are formed through a section of players based on scheduled tryouts and monitored play during both practices and games. For tryout information and schedule, please click HERE.
What is the time commitment for ECNL?
- This is a year-long commitment
- Three 90-minute practices per week integrated with supplemental fitness work and/or futsal for U8-U14 teams
- Mustang Soccer Goalkeeper & Striker Academy for goalkeepers and strikers
- Participation in the ECNL
- Tournament, Event and/or Showcase participation depend on age group:
- U13-U15 will have 1-2 regional events and 1 national event
- U16-U17 will have 3-4 national events
- U18-U19 will have 1-2 national events
- Playoffs when applicable
What is the financial commitment for ECNL?
2025-2026 Fees:
Tryout Deposit: $100 (goes towards program fee if selected for a team)
Program Fee: $3,200
Team Fees: $1,000-$2,000+ (will vary per team)
Uniform/Travel Fees: $1,000-$2,000+ (will vary per team)
Please note: Team Fees vary by team and player and are paid directly to Team Treasurer. Team fees are separate from the Program Registration and are collected for expenses such as tournaments/events, team equipment, coach travel expenses, chaperoned trip expenses, etc.
Level I Acceptance & Registration Process
When accepting a position on a competitive team, you are making a financial commitment to pay the costs associated with the program and team. Please familiarize yourself with the program you are joining. A summary of each program, program registration, and potential team fees, which may include travel to out-of-area tournaments and events can be found here.
What is the Soccer Moratorium?
"Moratorium" is a specified period where players are encouraged to utilize this time for vacations and/or breaks from soccer. For the 25/26 season, the Moratorium will be June 14 - July 6. Coaches can still hold training during this time but attendance during Moratorium does not affect playing time. Please check in with your coach to ensure you are aware of any upcoming tournaments/showcases during the Moratorium period.
2025-2026 Program Eligibility
Level I ECNL: 2013-2007 DOB
Level II ECNL-RL, Pre-ECNL & Elite: 2018-2007 DOB
Level III Select: 2017-2007 DOB
Program Competitiveness
Level I ECNL: Most Competitive; for players with significant soccer and competitive experience
Level II ECNL-RL, Pre-ECNL & Elite: Competitive; for players with decent soccer experience and some competitive experience
Level III Select: Least Competitive; for players with some soccer experience, but little to no competitive experience
QUESTIONS?
Girls ECNL Director: Mike Kelley
Boys ECNL Director: Andy Mittler
Boys Competitive Director: Joe Owen
Girls Competitive Director: Pat Uriz
Competitive Registration Questions: Michaela DeJesus