While teams will be competing for the league title each year, clubs will also have many opportunities to play and host professional teams from across North America and around the world.

“There will be no shortage of options for these teams outside of the league competition,” Bengtson said. “We expect the Division III teams to take part in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, exhibitions against USL and MLS teams, as well as international friendlies. We will also be exploring a multitude of interleague competition models which could be very unique to the U.S. professional landscape.”

Putting an emphasis on the American player, as well as regional talent, is one of the aims for Bengtson and USL executives. By having this focus, the USL is aiming to not only complete the U.S. Soccer professional landscape but also strengthen the American player pool by providing more players across the nation with professional playing time.

“Fundamentally, this league exists to provide more opportunities for the American professional player and subsequently play an important role in the continued growth of the American professional game,” Bengtson said.

“The opportunity for teams to showcase local, professional talent to compete across multiple competitions is an exciting venture for these clubs. I think they will take tremendous pride in fielding a team comprised of primarily American professional players and hopefully players from their market. However, there will also be an opportunity to bring in international players where it makes sense, and we are exploring some creative options there.”