18x26 Academy: Elevating Soccer, Empowering Communities

Welcome to 18x26 Academy, Minnesota's premier pre-professional soccer club and a beacon of opportunity for diverse players from underserved communities. We are more than a soccer team—we are a community-driven force, built by passionate youth, for the community.

18x26 Academy is a youth-led pro-development soccer team proudly competing in the UPSL Premier, the top national league at the fourth tier of the U.S. soccer pyramid. Our journey is powered by the remarkable diversity of our players, who unite from underserved communities to challenge the best teams in the Midwest.

Our mission is simple yet impactful: to provide an exceptional platform for our diverse players to elevate their game and realize their potential.

Join Us

Whether you're a player with big dreams, a supporter with a passion for making a difference, or a partner looking to drive positive change, we invite you to be part of our journey. Together, we can challenge the status quo, break down barriers, and shape a future where soccer empowers and unites communities.

At 18x26 Academy, we don’t just play soccer—we transform lives, one goal at a time. Join us in creating lasting change on and off the field.

Mission of the 18x26 Academy Team

The mission of the 18x26 Academy team is to identify, support, and empower Minnesota's most promising soccer players aged 18 and under, particularly those from underserved communities, who aspire to continue playing competitively beyond their youth.

Key Objectives of the Team

• Accelerated Development: Providing a community-focused team that fosters year-round growth and development, preparing players for collegiate soccer and beyond.
• Enhanced Competition: Offering high-level competition in training sessions and games that challenge and elevate players' skills.
• Financial Accessibility: Addressing financial barriers by supporting players, particularly those who may struggle to afford or justify the costs associated with competitive soccer.
• Intense, Specialized Training: Delivering focused training sessions led by pro-licensed coaches and professional players, ensuring all participants benefit from their expertise and dedication to player development.
• Professional Player Mentorship: Facilitating free mentorship opportunities with professionals who offer valuable insights and guidance, fostering skill development and a strong sense of community.
• Navigating the Soccer System: Assisting players, especially those from underserved communities, in navigating the U.S. soccer system and providing pathways to support their soccer journey.