NDSL U23
Launching 2026
NDSL is an amateur/semi-professional league for players under the age of 23 years at the beginning of the seasonal year (August 1) a limited number of older players are allowed. League Matches will run from September through May with playoffs in early June. Teams will play 1 match per week with 12-16 matches in the fall (6-8 opponents home and away) and 12-16 matches in the spring (6/8 opponents home and away).
sporting legacy sc coaches for new ndsl u23 league team
Tennessee — The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is proud to announce its partnership in the newly formed National Development Soccer League (NDSL), a U23 league designed to provide high-level competitive and developmental opportunities for aspiring players. As part of this partnership, TSSA will field a team in the league under the name Sporting Legacy SC.
TSSA is excited to introduce the coaching staff who will lead Sporting Legacy SC in its inaugural season: Jimmy Ockford and Elijah Brady.
Jimmy Ockford brings an extensive professional background to the role, having played 10 years professionally across Major League Soccer (MLS), the United Soccer League (USL), and the North American Soccer League (NASL). Following his playing career, Ockford has continued his development as a coach and currently has two years of experience with the Nashville SC Academy, where he has worked closely with elite youth players.
Elijah Brady adds strong local and developmental credentials to the staff. A former Tennessee Olympic Development Program (ODP) player, Brady competed collegiately at the University of Northwestern Ohio before continuing his playing career with TN Tiempo in the UPSL. His coaching experience includes leading an age group at Stones River SC, as well as coaching at KIPP High School, demonstrating a commitment to player growth both on and off the field.
To introduce the program, the coaches will host an initial player meet-and-greet opportunity at Seigel Park in Murfreesboro on Saturday, January 17, and Sunday, January 18. These sessions will be followed by formal tryouts scheduled for January 24–25 and January 31–February 1.
Players and families interested in learning more about Sporting Legacy SC or the tryout process are encouraged to contact Bryan Johnson at bjohnson@tnsoccer.org.
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