NWSL looks to meet women's soccer demand with new division

The league hasn't even started yet, and the WPSL Pro already has some competition. ESPN is reporting that the NWSL applied to the U.S. Soccer Federation to create a new Division II league that will begin play in 2026.

From ESPN's story quoting a NWSL spokesperson: "As a global leader in the women's soccer landscape both on and off the pitch, the NWSL and its member clubs are committed to growing our sport in meaningful ways. The demand for professional soccer has never been higher. We look forward to working to build a strong foundation for future generations of players, officials and coaches and ensure the continued advancement of the women's game."

CBS Sports is also reporting information it obtained from a handful of documents. According to the findings, the NWSL submitted an application on April 1. In the application, NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman compares the proposed league to the minor league baseball system, writing that it is "imperative that NWSL creates a robust pipeline for world-class athletes to fuel the [existing Division I league's] explosive growth."

So far, eight teams have committed to the inaugural season - Bay FC, Kansas City Current, North Carolina Courage, NJ/NY Gotham FC, Orlando Pride, Racing Louisville, Seattle Reign and Washington Spirit. According to CBS Sports, those teams will play at the same stadiums of their DI counterparts.

If U.S. Soccer approves this league, and approves WPSL Pro, we'll see a huge growth in women's professional soccer. We have 14 right now and could have 50 by the end of 2026.

Head over to ESPN and CBS Sports to read all the details.