National Academy League Boys / Central
The NAL is a development platform comprised of Academy Clubs’ U13-U19 teams, including MLS NEXT clubs. With seven regional leagues around the country, NAL’s primary goal is bringing together top clubs to showcase their play and increase player exposure for recruitment into the college and professional game.
We are one of 60+ clubs nationwide chosen for:
» The reputation and brand
» Proven track record for developing elite players
» Understands and supports the needs of the elite player
Other NAL clubs in the region include:
- Bavarian United
- Cincinnati United Premier (CUP)
- FC United
- Indiana Fire
- Javanon FC
- Lou Fusz
- Michigan Jaguars
- Michigan Wolves
- Midwest United
- SC Wave
- Sockers FC
- Vardar
Season Overview
- Teams will train and host home games at UMW Sports Complex in Pontiac, with state-of-the-art facilities, including indoor and outdoor turf fields.
- 3x per week training.
- 8-10 league games per season in Mid-America Conference with travel within Midwest region.
- Structured to support high school participation.
- National Events: IMG Cup College Showcase in December in Bradenton, FL, and the NAL National Championships in June (based on 2023/24 season).
- Teams may compete in local winter indoor games and local and regional showcase events.
- Potential for top players to be scouted for MLS Academy trials.
- Programming and fees will be available at Tryouts. The club has an all-in-one fee, which covers all expenses except for uniforms and travel.
Ben Jones
NAL DIRECTOR
2023/24 Season (2011-2006/05)
2023/24 NAL Boys Coaching Staff
Coaching Assignments
Age Group | Team | Coach |
---|---|---|
U13 | 2011 Boys | Simon Omekanda |
U14 | 2010 Boys | Simon Omekanda |
U15 | 2009 Boys | Ben Jones |
U16 | 2008 Boys | Ben Jones |
U17 | 2007 Boys | Kevin Garner |
U18/19 | 2006/05 Boys | Kevin Garner |
2023/24 NAL Boys Team Profiles
2024/25 Season (2012-2007/06)
2024/25 NAL Boys Coaching Staff
Coaching Assignments will be announced in late April/early May.
Coaching Assignments
Age Group | Team | Coach |
---|---|---|
U13 | 2011 Boys | Simon Omekanda |
U14 | 2010 Boys | Simon Omekanda |
U15 | 2009 Boys | Ben Jones |
U16 | 2008 Boys | Ben Jones |
U17 | 2007 Boys | Kevin Garner |
U18/19 | 2006/05 Boys | Kevin Garner |
2024/25 NAL Boys Player ID Sessions
Dates: Monday, May 13 & May 20, 2024
Location: UWM Sports Complex, 867 South Blvd E, Pontiac (Field 3 – Outdoor Turf)
Times:
- 2007/06: 5:45PM – 7:00PM
- 2012: 5:45PM – 7:00PM
- 2011: 7:00PM – 8:15PM
- 2009: 8:15PM – 9:30PM
- 2010: 7:00PM – 8:15PM
- 2008: 8:15PM – 9:30PM
Please contact Ben Jones (jonesb.lfcmi@gmail.com) or Simon Omekanda (omekanda.lfcmi@gmail.com) with questions.
Please register to attend at links below.
2024/25 NAL Boys Tryouts
Dates: Saturday, June 8 & Sunday, June 9, 2024
Location: UWM Sports Complex, 867 South Blvd E, Pontiac (Field 3 – Outdoor Turf)
Times:
Schedules will be announced in late April/early May.
Please register to attend at link below.