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OGDEN — The Utah Youth Soccer Association has partnered with the Premier Development League to introduce a new team in Ogden that is set to begin play in 2018.
Known as Ogden City SC, the team is the sixth PDL expansion club announced for next year, joining the AHFC Royals, Lansing United, Corpus Christi FC, Lionsbridge FCA and a yet-to-be-named Birmingham franchise. An official logo and team colors have yet to be determined, with the team planning to include fan involvement in its branding.
“We are thrilled to launch a unique partnership between the PDL and the state soccer association in Utah,” said PDL co-director Chris Madden via a press release from the league’s website. “Pioneering a brand new method of establishing a clear pathway for the continued development of young players throughout the state is an exciting opportunity, one that we believe will be a massive success in Utah.”
The move returns PDL soccer to Utah after Brigham Young University’s soccer team, a non-sanctioned NCAA sport at the university, left the semi-pro league after 14 seasons to rejoin the club ranks earlier this year.
It also brings soccer back to Ogden for the first time since 2014, when the city’s previous team, the Outlaws, ended its eight-year stint after failing to generate community support and sponsorships.
“Enough can’t be said about the leadership that Utah Youth Soccer has shown in their work to bring a PDL team to the state," said Joel Nash, PDL director of business development. "This will be a groundbreaking opportunity for the state to lead its players through a platform proven to highlight their talents as they enhance their careers."
Founded in 1977, the UYSA acts as the governing body for youth soccer in Utah in the interest of the U.S. Soccer Federation. With the move, the organization is hoping to bolster its youth program and create new opportunities for older youth players.
“Utah Youth Soccer Association is committed to soccer and its development as well as that of all players,” said UYSA President Brian Smith. “We feel there is a gap to be filled in helping our older youth find viable developmental continuity as they enter college, pro academies, etc. Working with our local colleges, universities and UYSA member organizations, I feel UYSA and USL/PDL will be a great step to providing that next level in the soccer career path for the youth of Utah.”
As a subdivision of the United Soccer Leagues, the PDL has functioned as a vehicle for many youth players to develop their games en route to professional careers. The league’s most notable alumni includes Newcastle United FC defender DeAndre Yedlin, 2017 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Tim Melia, 2017 MLS Defender of the Year Ike Opara and U.S. Men’s National Team members Darlington Nagbe, Brad Guzan, Geoff Cameron and Tim Ream.
"The PDL is a game changer for soccer in the state as a whole,” head coach Eric Landon said. “Adding a PDL franchise that is owned and operated by the largest soccer organization in the state lets us have a unique development opportunity. Our players will now have a chance to continue their development through a high-level pre-professional league, which will enable them to take key steps in their careers to collegiate or professional levels."
