Columbus Crew Academy

Overview

The youth development arm of Columbus Crew (MLS). Operates a “One Club” philosophy with a direct pathway from academy through Crew 2 (MLS NEXT Pro) to the first team. Teams at U15, U16, and U18 age levels competing in MLS NEXT.

Crew Network

Launched in 2021, the Crew Network has grown to 30 partner clubs across Ohio (as of 2026), including clubs in Columbus, Cleveland, Toledo, and other communities statewide. Partner clubs receive:

• Coaching education sessions
• Access to Crew technical/coaching staff
• Player identification pipeline into the Academy
• Brand exposure and marketing opportunities at Lower.com Field
• Priority access to matchday activities and Crew events

Key affiliates include Columbus Force, Sporting Columbus, and Midwest United FC (Michigan).

Notable Academy Products

• Prince Forfor — MLS NEXT All-Star Game MVP (age 16)
• Chase Adams, Quinton Elliot, Owen Presthus — signed as Homegrown players

SYNRGY Relevance

Not an acquisition target (MLS-owned), but the Crew Network creates a gravitational pull on Ohio independent clubs. Any SYNRGY acquisition in Ohio must account for the target club’s relationship to the Crew Network and the risk of losing that affiliation post-acquisition. The Crew’s 30-club partner network is effectively a soft consolidation play that SYNRGY would either need to work within or compete against.

Open Questions

• How binding are Crew Network partnership agreements? Can a club leave or be removed?
• Does the Crew take any equity or impose any operational requirements on partner clubs?
• How does Crew Network membership affect a club’s ability to join competing platforms?