Pre-ECNL Northwest to launch in 2026-27 as ECNL expands footprint in region

RICHMOND, VA – The ECNL announced the formation and launch of the Pre-ECNL Northwest, set to kick off in the 2026-27 season and align the player pathway in the state for these clubs. The inaugural set of clubs includes Eastside FC, Northwest United, PACNW, Seattle United, Snohomish United, Washington Premier, and XF Academy, in addition to two new clubs joining the Pre-ECNL and ECNL Regional League platform, Valor Soccer and WFC Rangers.

“This connectivity, and the consistency and quality of the matchday experience, will support and prepare these players and teams for success long-term as they progress in their pathways,” said Pre-ECNL Commissioner Bobby Reiss.

The launch of the Pre-ECNL Northwest will provide a clear and complete player pathway for these clubs into both the ECNL and ECNL Regional League.

As part of this strategic growth, Valor Soccer and WFC Rangers will join the ECNL Regional League and compete in the Regional League – Northwest for both boys and girls.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Valor Soccer and WFC Rangers to the ECNL Regional League Boys and Girls next season as we continue to enhance the depth of the ECNL Regional League in the Pacific Northwest,” said ECNL Regional League Boys Commissioner Andy Coverstone.

“The alignment of these clubs here in Washington, and the collaboration they have shown to support the broader ecosystem, will make all levels of competition in Washington better and more stable for the long-term,” added ECNL Regional League Girls Commissioner Mikayla Hampton.

More information about Valor Soccer and WFC Rangers is below.

Valor Soccer
League: ECNL Regional League & Pre-ECNL
Location: Maple Valley, WA
Founded: 2019

Founded in April of 2019 as a merging of two of the oldest and most storied youth soccer organizations in the state of Washington (Kent Covington Youth Soccer and Maple Valley Soccer Association), Valor Soccer strives to be a leader in youth development, fostering teams that compete fiercely, lead responsibly, and live with purpose. A club where every player grows in skill and in character, Valor Soccer develops athletes who thrive both on and off the field.

“We’re really excited to be joining the ECNL Regional League,” said CEO Dean Aldridge. “For us, this is about putting our players in a strong, consistent environment where they can compete, develop, and be seen. The ECNL Regional League platform gives us that. It also brings our boys and girls programs together under one league, which is something we’ve been working toward to give our players more consistency. We’re proud of what we’ve built at Valor, and we see this as a great next step for our players and our community.”

WFC Rangers
League: ECNL Regional League & Pre-ECNL
Location: Bellingham, WA
Founded: 1986

Entering their 40th year this upcoming season, WFC Rangers are proud to be one of the longest-running clubs in their region and an integral part of their community for decades, providing opportunities for players to grow, compete, and represent something bigger than themselves. WFC Rangers are “driven by purpose, empowered with passion, and destined for greatness,” which reflects their commitment to the player experience and each athlete’s unique and holistic development.

“Our club is excited to take this next step in our development,” said Director Jason Conway. “We believe the ECNL Regional League platform will allow us to better align both our boys and girls programs while providing strong competitive balance for all of our players. This opportunity will help push our club forward and create the level of challenge and environment our players deserve.”