ECNL RL Club Applications
NorCal has opened its club application process for membership in the ECNL RL – NorCal Division for the 2026/27 season. The ECNL RL – NorCal is a club-based division, meaning clubs are required to field teams in every age group of the division (U13-U19). While mostly club-based, the ECNL RL – NorCal also features wildcard teams that earn their way into the league based on their individual team performance.
The purpose of the ECNL RL Club Division is to provide a clearer pathway for the promotion of clubs into the ECNL through NorCal competitions. Clubs seeking to earn promotion into the ECNL on either the girls or the boys side will do so through their performance in the NorCal ECNL RL Club Division.
Application Process
All clubs seeking membership in the NorCal ECNL RL Club Division must complete an application before the deadlines below. Once complete, each application will be reviewed, and each club will be evaluated by the ECNL RL Club Membership Committee. Once complete, the committee will provide feedback to each club that submits an application.
ECNL RL Girls Club Application
Applications for the ECNL RL – NorCal Division will close on 2/28/26. Following the application close, the Club Membership Committee will review all applications. Final decisions on applications will be communicated to all clubs no later than 4/1/26.
Application Criteria
Applications will be evaluated by the committee according to the following criteria.
Minimum Standards: to be considered, clubs must meet the following requirements.
- Membership: NPL memberclub or equivalent
- Teams: All U13-U19 teams competing at the State Premier level or higher
- Director of Coaching: Must hold at least a USSF B license or equivalent
- Team Coaches: Must hold at least a USSF D license or higher
- Club Standing: Must be in good standing with NorCal
Application Evaluation Criteria: In addition to meeting the minimum standards, club applications will be evaluated based on the following areas.
- Team Performance: level and performance of U13-U19 teams
- Technical Program: Strength and structure of coaching, development pathways, and curriculum.
- Facilities: Quality, availability, and suitability of training and match facilities.
- Administrative Standards: History of adherence to NorCal administrative requirements
- Geography: Location and regional alignment considerations
