Understanding the DPL: A Guide for Youth Soccer Parents
If you’re a parent navigating the world of elite girls’ youth soccer, you’ve likely heard about the Development Player League (DPL). But what exactly is the DPL, how does it fit into the broader youth soccer landscape, and what does it mean for your daughter’s development and opportunities? This guide breaks down the essentials (mirroring our deep dives on MLS NEXT, ECNL, and USL) to help families make informed decisions about their player’s future.
What Is the DPL?
The Development Player League (DPL) is a national, elite-level girls’ youth soccer league in the United States, serving primarily the U13–U19 age groups. Its mission is to “develop the player and empower the person in a purposeful and memorable environment,” emphasizing both athletic and personal growth. With over 70 clubs nationwide, the DPL operates in multiple conferences, providing both regional competition and national showcase events. Clubs must meet strict competitive and operational standards to participate, ensuring a consistently high level of play and professionalism.
Where Does DPL Fit in the Youth Soccer Pyramid?
The girls’ youth soccer pyramid is topped by the Girls Academy (GA) and ECNL, with the DPL positioned just below GA as a high-level, standards-driven league.
The DPL is closely linked to the Girls Academy, functioning as a second tier or proving ground for players and clubs aspiring to reach the GA level. This relationship offers a clear pathway for talented players to move up, and for clubs to demonstrate their commitment to player development and competitive excellence.
What Makes DPL Unique?
Player Development Focus
- The DPL prioritizes development over winning, fostering a professional training environment with high-level coaching and meaningful games. The league’s structure is designed to maximize playing time and skill growth for all rostered players, rather than focusing solely on results.
College Exposure
- College recruiting is a major component at this level. DPL hosts significant college showcase events, attended by NCAA, NAIA, and junior college coaches, making it a strong platform for players with collegiate ambitions.
Flexible Participation
- Unlike some top-tier leagues, DPL players can also play high school soccer, especially for U15 and older age groups. This flexibility is highly valued by families who want their daughters to experience both club and school sports.
Community and Empowerment
- The DPL emphasizes building a supportive community and empowering young women as both athletes and people. Leadership, teamwork, and character development are central to the league’s philosophy.
Coaching &Training Standards
- At this level, parents should expect a rigorous and supportive environment. DPL clubs are required to provide licensed, experienced coaches who follow best practices in youth development. Teams typically train multiple times per week, focusing on technical skills, tactical understanding, and physical conditioning. Coaches are encouraged to provide regular feedback and individualized development plans, supporting each player’s growth. Parents and players are urged to proactively seek feedback and maintain open communication with coaches to maximize development.
Player Well-Being and Support
- Recognizing the demands of elite youth sports, the DPL and its clubs place a strong emphasis on player well-being. The league is committed to holistic development, encouraging a healthy balance between soccer, academics, and personal life. Many clubs offer resources for injury prevention, nutrition, and mental health, ensuring athletes are supported both on and off the field. Above all, the DPL strives to foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive team culture, helping young players thrive in a nurturing environment while pursuing their athletic goals.
Who Can Play in the DPL?
The DPL is designed for ambitious female soccer players, primarily serving the U13 through U19 age groups, with some clubs offering pre-DPL programs for younger players. Participation is selective: clubs must apply and meet rigorous standards to join, so if your local club offers a DPL program, it has demonstrated a commitment to development and excellence. The DPL operates through regional conferences to minimize travel for regular games, but also hosts national showcase events, giving players valuable exposure to college coaches and scouts.
If your daughter is interested in joining a DPL team, the process typically begins with annual club tryouts, usually in late spring or early summer. Players are evaluated on technical skills, tactical understanding, athleticism, attitude, and their fit with the team’s culture and goals. Coaches look for individuals who are skilled, coachable, hardworking, and team-oriented. The commitment required is significant: multiple training sessions each week, weekend games, and travel to both regional and national events. Once selected, players are expected to honor their commitment for the season, and returning players generally try out each year to maintain their spot.
What Are the Benefits for Players and Families?
Participating in the DPL offers a wide range of advantages for players and their families. The league is structured to challenge young athletes on the field and support their growth off the field, helping them navigate the demands of competitive soccer while preparing for future opportunities.
Key benefits include:
- High-Level Competition: Players face top regional and national opponents, preparing them for college and possibly higher levels.
- College Pathway: The league is designed with college recruitment in mind, offering exposure at showcases and through league play.
- Balanced Experience: Players can pursue both elite club soccer and high school soccer, supporting academic and social development alongside athletics.
- Clear Advancement: Top DPL players may be invited to participate with their club’s Girls Academy teams, providing a clear route to the highest level of play.
Recent Developments: DPL and the Girls Academy ASPIRE Pathway
In 2025, the Girls Academy introduced ASPIRE, a new second-tier league managed by the DPL. This partnership further cements the DPL’s role as a vital bridge for ambitious players aiming for the GA, while maintaining high standards and a merit-based advancement system. The integration means even more structured opportunities for development, competition, and recognition. You can read the ASPIRE announcement here.
Bottom Line for Parents: Supporting Your DPL Player
The DPL offers a high-level, standards-driven environment for girls who want to challenge themselves, develop as players and people, and keep doors open for both high school and college soccer. For families seeking a balance between elite competition and flexibility, with a clear path to the top of the youth soccer pyramid, the DPL is a compelling option.
As a parent, your support is crucial in helping your daughter make the most of her DPL experience. Stay informed by attending parent meetings, reading club communications, and asking questions about schedules and expectations. Encourage your daughter to maintain a healthy balance between soccer, academics, and social life, and focus on celebrating her effort and improvement rather than just results. Planning ahead for travel, especially for regional and national showcases, can help your family manage the logistics and costs involved.
The youth soccer landscape is always evolving, but the DPL’s commitment to player development, exposure, and empowerment makes it a strong choice for many aspiring young soccer players. By staying engaged and supportive, you can help your daughter thrive both on and off the field.