What is the Development Player League (DPL)?

The Development Player League (DPL) is a competitive girls’ soccer league in the United States designed to provide a high-level playing environment for ambitious players. The DPL bridges the gap between local club play and elite national leagues, offering a structured pathway for players looking to develop their skills and compete at a higher level. 

THE DPL’S MISSION IS TO DEVELOP THE PLAYER ANDEMPOWER THE PERSON IN A PURPOSEFUL ANDMEMORABLE ENVIRONMENT. THE DPL BELIEVES THROUGH SUPERIOR EXPERIENCES, PLAYERS WILL BE ABLE TO SHOWCASE THEIR TALENT, DISCOVER COLLEGIATE OPPORTUNITIES AND CREATE COMMUNITY AROUND THE GAME.

Why the DPL?

The DPL was created to give players more opportunities to showcase their talent while maintaining a strong focus on development. It provides:
High-Level Competition – Teams compete against strong regional and national opponents.
College Exposure – DPL events attract college coaches and scouts.
Pathway to Higher Leagues – A stepping stone to leagues like the Girls Academy (GA) and ECNL.
Player Development Focus – Prioritizing individual growth alongside team success.

Who Plays in the DPL?

The DPL is made up of competitive girls’ teams from clubs across the country. Players range from U13 to U19, with each age group structured to foster growth, competition, and progression. Clubs must be able to field a team at every age group to complete.

Competition Format

The league operates on a regional structure, with clubs competing within their geographic areas throughout the season. The top-performing teams qualify for DPL National Events, where they face off against the best teams in the country.

DPL Showcases & College Recruitment

One of the biggest advantages of the DPL is its college exposure opportunities. The league hosts multiple showcase events throughout the year, drawing NCAA, NAIA, and junior college scouts. These events help players gain visibility and connect with college programs.

Is the DPL Right for Your Player?

If your player is looking for a challenging and development-focused soccer experience with opportunities for exposure and advancement, the DPL can be a great fit. It provides a competitive environment without the overwhelming travel demands of higher-tier leagues like ECNL or GA.

How to Join a DPL Team?

Players interested in competing in the DPL should look for clubs in their area that participate in the league. Most clubs hold tryouts in the spring, with roster selections based on skill, attitude, and commitment.

Want to Learn More?

Visit the official DPL website for more details on the league structure, schedules, and showcase events.