Moving the BC Soccer Premier League under the leadership of BC Soccer will create more opportunities for young players looking to play at the university level or even graduate to the new Canadian Premier League, says the executive director of BC Soccer, Jason Elligott.

The merger of the two organization’s operational structure will ensure common standards for the development of players, coaches and referees that align with the objectives of Canada Soccer.

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One of those is the new top-tier CPL, which will launch in April with seven franchises, from Halifax to Victoria. Teams will also compete against clubs from Major League Soccer in events like the CONCACAF Champions League as well as the Canadian Championship

“As we work more closely with Canada Soccer, it just makes sense for us to handle the day to day operation of the (BCSPL), said BC Soccer president, Kjeld Bordsgaard.

Coquitlam Metro-Ford Soccer Club is one of the eight clubs that formed the BCSPL in 2011 and operates boys and girls teams at every level.

“It was a natural progression,” BCSPL president Alex Barneston said of the merger, adding the merger will improve the standard of youth soccer.

Premier League personnel will continue in their current roles, but work directly with BC Soccer.

The Premier League will begin its spring schedule of games on March 2.