BRAWLEY – The Brawley Police Department has teamed up with Major League Soccer to form a new soccer league under MLS GO, an official Major League Soccer youth program that provides a fun, affordable and high-quality soccer experience for youth ages 4 to 13 across the country and into Canada.
Announced in May 2023 by Major League Soccer and RCX Sports, the goal of the league is to create direct connections between the United States’ highest level of soccer squads and up-and-coming athletes and fans. Each athlete will play in official MLS-branded uniforms and Adidas MLS soccer equipment.
Initially starting with 18 leagues, the MLS GO umbrella has expanded over the past year as numerous recreational leagues have partnered with MLS GO in what appears to be another high-level outlet for athletes who are unable to join high-priced travel teams or who live in areas that are too far away to participate consistently.
“We love how this league has an option where individuals can apply to have their fees waived or reduced depending on their income, so that allows everyone to be able to play,” said Hugo Ortega, local high school soccer head coach and MLS GO volunteer, of the league’s outreach to athletes and parents—a benefit not typically offered by travel squads or other athletic programs.
“The city of Brawley has created a much-needed platform for children to connect with peers, mentors and their community with the development of the MLS GO Youth Soccer League,” said Xavier Martinez, a volunteer coach for the U-8 division.
“I feel very proud and find it exciting to be a part of this project as both a coach and a parent,” Martinez said.
The league’s introduction to the city of Brawley has seen more than 240 athletes register across 22 teams in six divisions, including boys 13U, 10U, 8U and 6U, and girls 13U, 10U and 6U divisions.
“This being our first season will give us an idea of where to go and how to continue to grow. We are also trying to identify the best talent in each category to give them a space to represent the program in tournaments throughout the state,” Ortega said of the league and postseason possibilities—especially as the MLS GO umbrella continues to expand to other cities near the Valley.
The city of Brawley, in partnership with the Brawley Police Department, hosted the opening ceremony for the inaugural season of MLS GO, Major League Soccer’s youth program, at Ed Soto Field on Monday afternoon. The event marks the start of a new chapter for youth sports in the community.
The ceremony drew enthusiastic participation from local families, community leaders and law enforcement. Officers from the Brawley Police Department serve as coaches and mentors, underscoring the department’s commitment to building positive relationships with youth through sports.
“This initiative is more than just about soccer; it’s about community, mentorship, and providing our youth with opportunities to grow and succeed,” said Police Chief Jimmy Duran in the press release.
“We’re excited to see the positive impact this program will have on our city’s young residents.”
The city of Brawley and the Brawley Police Department encourage community members to support and participate in the MLS GO program.
For more information about registration and upcoming events, visit the Brawley Police Department’s official Instagram or Facebook page.