Development Player League

Athens United is proud to announce its participation in the Development Player League (DPL), an elite national platform focused on female player development. Our first season in the DPL will begin in 2026/2027 season, with the our top girls teams representing the club in DPL competition.


Our continued commitment to the DPL strengthens Athens United’s player pathway, offering more athletes the opportunity to compete at a high level, be seen by college coaches, and grow within a standards-based, merit-driven environment.


What is DPL?

The DPL is a highly competitive, all-female national league designed to foster elite player growth and club development.
Key features of DPL include:

  • Earned Advancement: In the DPL, Nothing is Given, Everything is Earned. Player and team progression happens through hard work, performance, and consistent development on the field.
  • Emerging Talent Pathway: DPL provides a transparent, purpose-driven path for clubs and players to rise through achievement, not invitation.
  • College Exposure: Through regional competition, national showcases, and championship events, players gain critical opportunities to be seen by college coaches across the country.
  • Player-Centric Model: The DPL focuses entirely on supporting the female player, creating a competitive, challenging, and development-focused environment.
  • National Platform with Regional Play: Teams compete locally within regions but have opportunities to advance to national-level events, maintaining a balance between competition and travel.



How DPL fits Athens United:

  • U13–U19 Girls Red teams will compete in the Development Player League starting in the 2026–2027 season.
  • Players will have access to competitive regional play, high-level coaching, and meaningful exposure opportunities.
  • Participation in DPL offers our players a clear and challenging pathway to continue their development and prepare for potential advancement into collegiate soccer.
  • The DPL provides an ideal environment for players who are ready to compete at an elite level while continuing to grow technically, tactically, and personally.


By offering both DPL and SCCL within our Select Girls program, Athens United ensures that more players have a structured pathway to reach their full potential and achieve their goals.