SCYSA, CESA and SCUFC Launch South Carolina Premier Alliance New statewide platform adds to the competitive pathway for South Carolina players Sanctioned by the South Carolina Youth Soccer Association (SCYSA), Carolina Elite Soccer Academy (CESA) and South Carolina United FC (SCUFC) today announced the formation of the South Carolina Premier Alliance (SCPA), a groundbreaking collaboration designed to elevate the highest level of youth soccer competition within the state of South Carolina. Launching for the 2026–2027 season, the South Carolina Premier Alliance will create a unified statewide platform for competitive boys’ and girls’ teams, providing a direct pathway into the National 1 League, which qualifies the top performing teams for the ECNL Conference League Playoffs. The initiative brings together leading clubs, coaching standards, and player development resources under one structure focused on long-term athlete development, enhanced competition, and national-level post-season opportunities — all while allowing South Carolina players to remain and develop within their home state. Key Highlights Statewide boys’ and girls’ competition platform Direct pathway to the National 1 League beginning in 2027–2028 Qualifying league into the National Championship Series (State Cup) Collaboration between SCYSA, CESA, and SCUFC Enhanced coaching education and player development standards Unified game-day and operational standards across participating clubs Designed to strengthen the overall level of soccer throughout South Carolina Building Better Environments in South Carolina The South Carolina Premier Alliance is designed to bridge the gap between strong local competition and the national game by creating a structured, high-performance environment comparable to leading regional platforms across the Southeast. “This partnership represents positive collaboration at the state level and aligns with the continued work being done within US Soccer’s Soccer Growth Strategy Department,” said Walter Clapton, Executive Director of SCYSA. “By aligning the strengths of SCYSA, CESA, and SCUFC, we are creating an environment that bridges the gap between local competition and the National 1 League, with the hope to support clubs future efforts of competing in National 1, while remaining connected to our local community.” Andrew Hyslop, Co-Executive Director of CESA, added: “CESA and SCUFC have long been committed to developing players capable of competing at the highest levels. The South Carolina Premier Alliance creates the most competitive and collaborative environment the state has ever seen.” Rob Strickland, Executive Director of South Carolina United FC, said the alliance represents a major step forward for the state’s soccer ecosystem. “We are proud to help build a platform that serves players, clubs, coaches, and families across South Carolina. Together, we are establishing a new standard for youth soccer in our state — one focused on player development, professionalism, and meaningful national opportunities.” Raising the Standard Across the State In addition to competition, the South Carolina Premier Alliance will focus on: coach education initiatives operational best practices enhanced communication standards shared development resources consistent player experience standards across participating clubs League organizers believe the collaboration model will strengthen the overall soccer landscape in South Carolina and provide a clearer pathway for aspiring players seeking high-level competition.  About the South Carolina Premier Alliance The South Carolina Premier Alliance is South Carolina’s premier youth soccer competition platform, formed through a collaboration between SCYSA, CESA, and SCUFC. The alliance is designed to provide top-level in-state competition, enhanced player development opportunities, and a pathway into national competition through the National 1 League structure beginning in the 2027–2028 season.

SC United Bantams Announces Tanner Osborne as USL W League Head Coach

SC United Bantams Announce Mac Thomalla as USL League Two Head Coach

Register now for our Boys College ID Combine on May 31, 2026!

Register now for our Girls College ID Combine on April 25, 2026!

January 15, 2026, Columbia, SC – South Carolina United FC is proud to announce the promotion of Tripp Miller to Senior Director of Club Operations, recognizing his leadership and his central role in overseeing the club’s day-to-day operations. In this role, Miller will provide senior oversight of club operations across SCUFC’s multiple locations, including facilities and field management, scheduling and logistics, program coordination, and operational support for staff, coaches, and families. He will continue to lead the club’s recreational soccer program, a role that reflects his passion for creating a positive and development-focused soccer experience for players and their families. His leadership helps ensure consistency, efficiency, and a high-quality experience across all programs. “Tripp has become an indispensable leader within South Carolina United FC,” said Rob Strickland, Executive Director. “He manages the operational complexity that comes with a large, multi-site club, allowing our technical and administrative teams to focus on player development and community impact. This promotion reflects both his contributions and the responsibility he already carries.” Miller has served South Carolina United FC for more than 25 years, playing a pivotal role in the club’s growth and evolution across multiple generations of players and families. His long-term commitment, institutional knowledge, and steady leadership have helped shape SCUFC’s culture, operational standards, and reputation as one of the region’s leading youth soccer organizations. This promotion honors not only his current responsibilities but also decades of dedication to the club and its community. About South Carolina United FC South Carolina United FC is the premier youth soccer organization in the Midlands region, offering programs for players of all ages and abilities. The club is committed to excellence in player development, coaching education, and community engagement.

Have you ever thought about becoming a referee? Now is your chance! SCUFC is excited to host an in-person one-day Referee Clinic on January 10, 2026, at the Southeastern Freight Lines Soccer Complex. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the game and make extra cash. Important Requirements: -You must be at least 13 years old to attend. -Completion of online training modules is mandatory before participating in the in-person clinic. Register today and secure your spot! https://www.screferees.org/blank-2 (select Columbia, SC)