CHICAGO – The United Soccer League, one of the most prominent Division II leagues in the world, announced on Thursday the league’s regular season will expand to 34 games per team in the 2018 season, and the regular season will be extended to 31 weeks.

The decision was approved by the USL Board of Governors on Wednesday at the league’s Mid-Season Meetings in Chicago. The move will see the USL regular season surpass 500 total games for the first time in its history.

“We are very pleased the Board of Governors has approved the decision to expand the USL regular season to 34 games per club,” said USL President Jake Edwards. “The league’s commitment to club services, broadcast and various strategic initiatives combined with the continued investment of our owners into the clubs have produced record attendance this season. An additional home match now provides a significant revenue opportunity as attendance continues to grow.

“Next year’s expanded season, highlighted by three new clubs that will join the USL in 2018, will deliver even more first-class soccer excitement to even more fans across North America.”