CHICAGO (Sept. 3, 2025) – Chicago Fire FC today announced a groundbreaking initiative within youth soccer in the United States that replaces traditional one-year registrations for academy players with a three-year commitment. The shift is designed to support long-term development and promote player well-being.
This new approach reflects the Club’s core philosophy: to develop both players and people. Beginning with the 2025–26 season, all new U-13 players entering the Chicago Fire Football Academy will be registered for a full three-year period, running through the end of their U-15 season. Should a player continue into the senior part of the Academy, a further three-year commitment will follow, covering their development through to the end of their U-18 season.
“This isn’t just about soccer,” said Chicago Fire FC Academy Director Gary Lewis. “This is about creating the right environment for young athletes to grow, learn, and feel secure. By committing to our players for multiple years, we’re taking away the anxiety of yearly renewals and giving them the time and stability they need to truly thrive.”
Unlike the traditional model used across much of the U.S., in which youth players face annual assessments and uncertain renewals, this long-term model emphasizes security, trust, and mental well-being. Players will now have the space to develop without fear of being released at the end of each season, which is an often-overlooked mental burden in competitive youth sports.
The initiative also takes into account each player’s physical, psychological, technical, and social development, recognizing that talent and potential emerge over time. It ensures that critical evaluation and decision-making periods align with key developmental stages, including the transition from small-sided to 11-a-side games, and avoids unnecessary disruption during major academic milestones, including high school transitions for players in the Club’s in-house education program.
Chicago Fire FC Academy remains committed to providing a challenging, high-performance environment, but one that is also safe, supportive and player centered.
“With this new structure, we are creating an environment where our staff can get the balance right between challenge and support,” added Lewis. “We’re building a stronger, healthier foundation for long-term success, both on and off the field.”
About Chicago Fire FC Academy
Chicago Fire Academy is one of the nation’s leading youth development programs, dedicated to producing elite-level talent for the professional game while nurturing character, resilience, and academic achievement. Chicago Fire FC have given more playing time to U-22 players and to home-grown players than any other club in the MLS in 2025. The Academy is fully funded, ensuring access for all talented players regardless of background.
