Member Update: Our MOU with U.S. Soccer

Exploring a U.S. Soccer local office in Northern California - what it means and what comes next.

Dear Members,

Soccer in Northern California has been built by our clubs, leagues, coaches, referees, volunteers, and families. We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with U.S. Soccer to explore becoming a U.S. Soccer local office, connecting those local strengths with national resources to make soccer more accessible, more affordable, and better supported.

Why we are taking this step

Over the past several months, U.S. Soccer and State Associations have explored how a more connected system could help us accomplish more together. The proposed local office model would combine local expertise and relationships with shared services, national support, and greater opportunities for investment.

A central goal is to reduce the costs of delivering and playing soccer. Shared systems could reduce administrative costs, better competition coordination could limit unnecessary travel, and partnerships with school and municipalities could expand affordable access to fields and programs.

This is also an opportunity to celebrate and build on what makes soccer in Northern California special: our traditions, successful programs, dedicated people, and community partnerships.

What would integration mean?

The proposed path forward is that State Associations would become part of U.S. Soccer. In the words of U.S. Soccer and in practice, that would mean:

• Local people, nationally supported. Our staff would become U.S. Soccer employees, bringing their local knowledge and relationships with them.
• Shared resources to reduce costs. Connected systems, services, and expertise would help reduce duplication and administrative commands so more time and resources can support soccer.
• More support for your organization. Clubs and leagues would have a stronger local partner connected to national coaching, refereeing, player development, and community resources.
• The Board would evolve into a State Soccer Council. The State Soccer Council and Local Office will enable a unififed approach to soccer in Northern California, reaching beyond our current membership and connect the game from local to national and from amateur to professional.
• A broader commitment to local soccer. The local office would support soccer across affiliations and work to attract investment, expand affordable opportunities, and celebrate the game throughout our communities.

The details would be developed throught planning with each state and input from members.

What signing the MOU means

The MOU at a glance.

The MOU begins detailed evaluation, design, and planning with U.S. Soccer. It allows us to examine the benefits and implications for our members, including services, staffing, finances, and governance. It does not itself complete integration; any transition would require further agreements and necessary approvals.

What this means for you

Our priority is to ensure this work delivers practical benefits for your organizations and the players and families you serve.

In the coming months, you can expect increased engagement from both Cal North and U.S. Soccer to hear your ideas, understand your challenges, and help shape the future model together. Your experience will help define local priorities and the support our soccer community needs.

No immediate changes.

Signing the MOU does not itself change registration, competitions, programs, or existing contacts. We will keep you informed as planning progresses and communicate future changes before they take effect.

Resources

For more information, see the FAQs and overview of U.S. Soccer's local strategy.