Ep. 55 - Ozark United Hits MLS Next Fest

The desert delivered. Four Ozark United academy teams stepped onto 24 pristine fields at MLS Next Fest and found themselves surrounded by pro scouts, MLS academies, and a sea of college coaches, all hunting for players who can think fast, compete harder, and play brave. We came to showcase, not chase trophies, and the offers, interest, and hard lessons that followed proved why that choice matters.

We break down what MLS Next Fest actually is, more than a showcase, it’s an ecosystem, combining games, the MLS Draft and combine, coaching education, and real-world recruiting conversations. You’ll hear how our U15s, U16s, U17s, and U19s handled the step up, what cold desert kickoffs taught them about preparation, and why our staff focused on our game model instead of opponent tape. From live video boards and field side cameras to packed sidelines featuring D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and JUCO coaches, this was the most heavily scouted environment our players have experienced, and it changed how they approach every minute.

We talk candidly about recruiting: how rules differ by division, why the transfer portal shifts timelines, and how to evaluate fit across academics, finances, and playing time. You’ll also get a look at the road ahead, finishing league play before high school season, partnering with local coaches to keep players healthy, and aiming for regionals in Kansas City with Next Cup qualification paths clear. Along the way, we celebrate the best part: hearing respected programs and scouts praise the way Ozark United plays, and watching our community put Arkansas firmly on the national soccer map.

If you enjoyed this deep dive into development, recruiting, and the pathway to pro, follow the show, share it with a soccer friend in your life, and leave a review so more listeners in NWA and beyond can find us.