LOS ANGELES (Thursday, June 30, 2022) – The United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) announced today that LA Galaxy Academy U-19 team has joined the league. Based in Carson, California, the club will be part of the UPSL’s highly competitive, SoCal North - Premier Division. The LA Galaxy are the second MLS club that has entered a team into the UPSL California division, and sixth overall in the league.
LA Galaxy Academy is operated by the LA Galaxy (MLS) and serves as a developmental tier in the franchise's academy system.
The Academy program has a strong leadership team in place led by Michael Muñoz who serves as Director of Methodology and Development for the LA Galaxy.
“We are excited to have the LA Galaxy Academy U-19 team join the UPSL SoCal North - Premier Division this upcoming season,” said LA Galaxy Director of Methodology and Development Mike Muñoz. “The UPSL offers a high-level of competition which will allow our players to grow and reach their maximum potential. This is another vital step in our player development pathway that will provide high level games and further help to develop our players.”
UPSL Commissioner, Yan Skwara said “We are thrilled to welcome the LA Galaxy Academy to the UPSL. Their addition further cements our mission to create a platform that showcases and develops players for the next level. It is a great source of pride that the USPL will be serving such a pivotal role in the club’s player development strategy. In addition, we look forward to hosting the UPSL’s own version of the MLS’s famed rivalry El Trafico.”
LA Galaxy was founded in 1994 and began play in 1996 as one of the league's 10 charter members. The Galaxy have won the MLS Cup a record five times (2002, 2005, 2011, 2012, 2014), the Supporters' Shield four times (1998, 2002, 2010, 2011), the U.S. Open Cup twice (2001, 2005) and the CONCACAF Champions League once (2000).
The LA Galaxy Academy will make their UPSL regular season debut this fall on Saturday, August 27.
