The Central States NPL will head into its fourth season in the National Premier Leagues with an expanded membership. The league is welcoming two Kansas-based clubs: Puma FC and Sporting Blue Valley, which will field 13-U through 19-U boys and girls teams, beginning in the 2020-21 season. Current Nebraska-based member Midwest Premier Academy will also add its girls teams to the league.

 

Central States NPL member clubs span Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska:

"Sporting Blue Valley is extremely excited to be a part of the NPL. The league provides a fantastic platform for the member clubs and their players to showcase their talents," said Richard Davies, Sporting Blue Valley Girls Director of Coaching. "Our club's mission is to provide the best opportunities and experiences for all of our players, and we are honored to compete in the NPL."

 

"Puma FC is very excited to be a part of NPL and the Central States NPL," said Adam Lamb, Puma FC Director of Coaching, and Vladimir Roganovic, Puma FC Executive Director, in a combined statement. "Competing in this league will give our players the opportunity for greater college exposure and to test their game at the next level. Puma FC's goal is to provide the best development pathway and experience to our players, and we are excited for both our girls and boys programs to compete in NPL for years to come."

 

The league has made significant progress on and off the field. Lou Fusz SC and Sporting St. Louis both won 2019 Girls NPL Finals championships, and Vision Soccer Academy was approved as a Players First-licensed club.