United Women’s Soccer (UWS) is a national pro-am league composed of professionally operated clubs within the United States and Canada. UWS provides high level competition for college players, aspiring and former professionals, and international stars.
UWS League Two launched in 2020 as a new developmental pathway, geared towards U20/U23 players which serves as a feeder to the main league. For new clubs, it’s an opportunity to introduce themselves to the standards-driven pro-am league and a launch point for a potential UWS First Team.
The overarching goal of both leagues is to achieve equality of opportunity for women’s soccer. In a time where there are several professional and amateur leagues for men’s soccer across North America, there is a huge gap that exists between the college and professional ranks on the women’s side. UWS fills that gap by providing a pathway to pro for the amateur player.
To become the preeminent pro-am women’s soccer league in North America.
To advance women’s soccer by operating a standards-driven league in partnership with our member teams.
UWS selects clubs that are committed to excellence both on and off the field. Unlike other leagues, our goal is not to be the biggest – we aim to be the best.
UWS focuses on professionally run operations, requiring teams to adhere to minimum standards that are overlooked by other pro-am leagues. Female players deserve the same facilities and amenities as their male counterparts, and fans deserve the best game day experience possible.
Each league-wide partnership and marketing initiative is meant to benefit our teams and offer added exposure on a national level. We want our member organizations to maintain sustainability and receive the support they need from a national league. (Read Protagonist Soccer’s article on UWS)
UWS decided to buck the trend, and credit our member teams with the 2020 fees to ensure the continuation of their unwavering support for women’s soccer, while maintaining the financial viability of the league. In lieu of this, all teams received 100% credit towards next season’s fees.
Our team owners are provided with a complete accounting on where funds are spent and how financial decisions are made. There is no question about where the money goes.
Unlike larger leagues, who can’t keep a handle on issues that arise, we listen and address the issues of our member teams head on.
UWS provides a growth opportunity and clear pathway for teams by filling the gap that exists between the college and professional ranks. Our main objective is to connect with other likeminded entities in order to advance women’s soccer.
I think the league is very well organized and well run. While we are an amateur league, I think we strive to look as professional as we can. Over the two years I have been involved, I have been very impressed with what we have done as a league both on and off the field.
JP Dellacamera
Managing Director, Connecticut Fusion
Renowned Broadcaster (FOX Sports)
