Another unique element that the USL has brought forward is the USL Academy contract. Under that program, top talent from academies in each team’s region.

While most players face an uphill battle for minutes with the bulk of the clubs trusting the more established, veteran talent, it’s still an intriguing measuring stick to see how players are valued.

The experience is valuable for players, though it is no guarantee of success, even for those that end up playing at the college level.

Here’s a look at some of the top club players that either have been announced as academy signings or could at some point in the season.

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