NISA (United States) 2024/25

The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) functions as a Division III professional men’s soccer league within the United States. Sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), it sits below Major League Soccer and the USL Championship in the domestic hierarchy. The competition operates on an open system philosophy, aiming to implement promotion and relegation, although this is currently suspended due to sanctioning issues. This model emphasizes club autonomy and lower entry costs compared to the closed franchise structures of its competitors.

Founded in 2017 by Peter Wilt and Jack Cummins, the league typically runs its season from spring to fall. The professional campaign is divided into East and West conferences, culminating in a playoff system to determine the champion. Recent history includes titles for Detroit City FC, Michigan Stars FC, Flower City Union, and Los Angeles Force, who secured the 2024 championship. The league also operates NISA Nation, an amateur and semi-professional feeder league designed to support development.

Currently, the competition faces significant structural changes. While it previously fielded nine teams, it is on hiatus for the 2025 professional season after losing its USSF sanctioning. Plans are in place to return in the fall of 2026 under RML Advisory Group ownership. For the immediate future, the league features clubs such as Arizona Monsoon, Capo, Club de Lyon, Georgia Lions, Irvine Zeta, and LA Force.