PHOENIX (August 7th, 2018) -- The Arizona Soccer Association (ASA) and the New Mexico Youth Soccer Association (NMYSA) announces the formation of the Arizona New Mexico Development League (ANMDL)
The ANMDL is a new competition that begins play in the 2018-19 season offering competition for boys and girls teams in the 11U & 12U age groups. Matches will be held over three-weekend dates throughout December and January.
The mission of the ANMDL is to provide development of youth soccer players through interstate and competitive playing opportunities while minimizing travel and cost.
In this inaugural season, teams interested in applying for the ANMDL must complete an application by October 10, 2018,
at this link. Each group and gender will be composed of one division which will have a maximum of ten teams.
"We are thrilled to partner with our neighbor, the Arizona Soccer Association, to bring this excitingly new and challenging playing opportunity for our young soccer players in New Mexico," said Gloria Faber, Executive Director of NMYSA. "This is a galvanized endeavor for New Mexico and Arizona as we share the values of promoting quality developmental opportunities both on and off the field for players. Although we are beginning with the 11U/12U age divisions, we hope to incorporate other age divisions in the future."
The first weekend of the ANMDL will be played in Albuquerque from December 1-2 and the final weekend of play will be held in Phoenix from January 5-6. Between these weekends, each state will host their own weekend with teams from their state. The New Mexico only play date will be held on December 8-9 and the Arizona only play date will be held December 15-16.
"This new league will offer some great opportunities and invaluable experience for our teams looking to play teams outside of our state borders," said Rick Kelsey, ASA CEO. "This league also comes at a great time for the Arizona teams as our League play takes a break during these months. Arizona based players can stay sharp during this time."
ABOUT ARIZONA SOCCER ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1974, the Arizona Soccer Association has played a significant role in expanding youth soccer throughout the state of Arizona. It is the mission of ASA to foster the physical, mental and emotional growth and development of the state of Arizona's youth through the sport of soccer at all levels, ages, and competition level.
ABOUT NEW MEXICO YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION
The New Mexico Youth Soccer Association is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation and National Youth State Association of the United States Soccer Federation. As members of US Youth Soccer, we represent, govern and serve 18 member leagues and their 45 club affiliates.We have almost 24,000 registered players, coaches and administrators in a service area that extends throughout New Mexico and into west Texas, southern Colorado and eastern Arizona for certain programs. We provide rewarding developmental opportunities for boys and girls at all age levels.