A preliminary rendering shows what USL Arkansas’ new stadium could look like. (USL Arkansas)The USL Super League has been granted Division 1 sanctioning by the U.S. Soccer Federation.
The new league is expected to include a professional women’s soccer club in Northwest Arkansas in the coming years.
The status was approved in a vote at the federation’s annual general meeting earlier this month, according to a league announcement.
The decision puts the USL Super League at the highest level for professional women’s soccer in the United States and on par with the National Women’s Soccer League.
The league’s season will begin in August, and will follow a fall-to-summer calendar, which is similar to European soccer, but different from the National Women’s Soccer League.
The inaugural season will include teams in Florida, Kentucky, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Washington and Washington D.C.
At least eight more teams are expected to join the league in the coming years, including one in Northwest Arkansas that will begin play in 2026 as part of the USL Arkansas group.
“The Division One sanctioning of the USL Super League is a pivotal moment for the future of women’s soccer, providing unparalleled opportunities for talented female soccer players across the nation, including those in Arkansas,” said Chris Martinovic, co-founder of USL Arkansas. “We look forward to the day our women’s team takes to the field, embodying the aspirations and spirit of our community, and contributing to the vibrant soccer culture in Northwest Arkansas.”
USL Arkansas is currently working with an advertising agency to help develop the club’s brand identity, including an official team name, crest and colors.
