Media release from Darlington School:
Darlington School and the Darlington School Soccer Academy are excited to announce a strategic partnership with Southern Soccer Academy Swarm FC that will provide access to top-tier developmental pathways for our student-athletes. Beginning in the fall of 2025, Darlington School Soccer Academy will become the Southern Soccer Swarm Residential Academy and gain access to SSA Swarm’s MLS NEXT platforms.
“This partnership will give our current players and recent alumni instant player pathway options during both the college recruiting process and college playing careers,” said Chad Liddle, director of Darlington School Soccer Academy. “SSA Swarm currently has a USL 2 team.”
Swarm FC is a collaboration between Intrepid Sports and Brentford FC of the English Premier League, with Southern Soccer Academy Swarm FC taking its place as the flagship club for the partnership.
“Participating in MLS NEXT platforms, the most competitive youth league in the country, will empower our student-athletes in the academy to have access to a premier college-preparatory education and elite soccer training while at boarding school,” said Matthew Peer, assistant head of school for enrollment management. “We are thrilled to be part of SSA Swarm and to be able to provide our players access to the recently announced MLS NEXT expansion. In the MLS NEXT league, the players will have greater travel efficiency with fall regionalized league competitions and spring scheduling flexibility to continue our college experience trips that set our program apart. Joining SSA Swarm’s MLS NEXT program will provide outstanding athletic opportunities for our players, while continuing to have Darlington students actively participate in all aspects of the life of the school.”
The Southern Soccer Residential Academy at Darlington School will have players taking part at the U16, U17 and U19 MLS next levels beginning in September 2025.
“Players will have access to the highest levels of competition and training as MLS NEXT is the elite platform for youth development in North America, building a clear pathway for more players to reach their highest potential,” Liddle.
In the expanded tier of MLS NEXT, clubs will participate in one of eight regional tournaments each season, in addition to the option for eligible age groups to attend MLS NEXT Fest in December. Regional tournaments will serve as qualifying for a championship event at MLS NEXT Cup in 2026. These events will be marquee talent identification opportunities for college, professional, and national team scouts to evaluate players.
“This partnership with Darlington School provides a unique opportunity for student-athletes to develop both on and off the field,” said Simon Davey, executive director of SSA Swarm. “By combining strong academics with a high-level residential soccer environment, we are creating a pathway that supports long-term success.”
Click here for more information about Southern Soccer Academy Swarm FC, a youth soccer organization serving over 13,000 players across Georgia, committed to providing structured player development, collegiate pathways, and professional opportunities.
Click here to read more about MLS NEXT.