In 2019, FC Cincinnati will begin play in MLS. And their brand-new academy will debut, too.

Soon-to-be MLS's newest club, Cincy announced on Thursday that they will begin the formation of their academy this fall as a "defined pathway" to professional soccer.

“As we strive to become the heart of soccer in America and as we implement our youth development structure, we believe it’s our obligation to support all youth soccer in the Greater Cincinnati and Tri-State area,” FCC technical director Luke Sassano said in a media release.

Ahead of its entry into @MLS for the 2019 season, #FCCincy will start to build the foundation of its Academy this fall.



Full Story >> https://t.co/GQoT9jUAts #JoinTheMarch pic.twitter.com/1NvKKjJexo — FC Cincinnati (@fccincinnati) October 4, 2018

“Our goal, coming in with our MLS academy, is to further foster soccer’s growth in the region and increase both the level of play and the level of coaching offered to young players, regardless of ability and financial resources."

Starting in a month, Cincy will begin their player identification program for the academy. They, like the rest of MLS' academies, will compete in the U.S. Soccer Development Academy with the intention of starting play next season.

The academy's cost will be covered by the club, meaning the players and families will not pay to play.