First Team

MLS Reserve League returns, kicks off Sunday

The official adidas match ball was presented to te Road Trip crew at adidas headquarters in Portland, Ore.

NEW YORK – Major League Soccer is re-launching its Reserve League this year, with games beginning this weekend.


The MLS Reserve League will provide essential developmental opportunities to players and is made possible by the growth of first team rosters from 24 in 2010 to 30 players in 2011.


MLS clubs previously fielded reserve sides from 2005 through 2008, benefiting players such as 2010 Budweiser Golden Boot winner Chris Wondolowski (San Jose), Omar Cummings, Jeff Larentowicz, and Kosuke Kimura of the defending MLS Cup Champion Colorado Rapids, and many others.


The new MLS Reserve League will be split into East, Central, and West divisions with teams facing each divisional opponent twice for a total of 10games per team. Clubs may schedule additional games for their reserve squads against non-MLS opponents. The games featuring two MLS reserve teams begin March 20 and conclude Oct. 16.


The full MLS Reserve League is below. Media members are encouraged to contact the home club’s PR department prior to attending any MLS Reserve League match.


D.C. United's Reserve League schedule