SPOKANE, Wash. — For the first time across the major American sports, a professional league will be adopting a promotion/relegation tiered system.
The United Soccer League (USL), which the Spokane Velocity play in, has voted to adopt a system where teams will compete to fight up divisions or be sent down based on performance.
The USL will be creating the USL Division One as its top tier. The USL Division One will be followed by the second-tier, USL Championship and the third-tier, USL League One. Currently, Spokane Velocity play in League One.
“A new chapter in American soccer begins. The decision by our owners to approve and move forward with this bold direction is a testament to their commitment to the long-term growth of soccer in the United States,” said Alec Papadakis, CEO of the United Soccer League. “This is a significant milestone for the USL and highlights our shared vision with our team ownership to build a league that not only provides top-tier competition but also champions community engagement. Now, just as it is in the global game, more communities in America can aspire to compete at the highest level of soccer. It’s time.”
USL says more details about the promotions and relegation will be announced at a later time.
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