FC Cincinnati Academy

Overview

The official youth academy of FC Cincinnati (MLS). Formally launched August 1, 2019. Serves the Greater Cincinnati and Tri-State area (OH/KY/IN). Provides a direct pathway to professional soccer through the MLS system. Competes in MLS NEXT.

Affiliate Program

Established 2021; grown to 11+ affiliate clubs at regional and national level. Most recent addition: Cuyahoga Valley SA (Cleveland area). Benefits to affiliates:

• Coaching instruction and resources from FC Cincinnati
• Player scouting via Discovery Program
• Access to special events and staff interaction

SYNRGY Relevance

Not an acquisition target (MLS-owned). The FCC Affiliate Program is less extensive than the Crew Network (11 vs 30 clubs) but still creates loyalty ties with independent clubs. Cincinnati’s fragmented market — with CUP, Kings Hammer, Ohio Elite, and FCC all competing — may actually make consolidation easier since no single entity dominates.

Open Questions

• Which specific clubs are FCC affiliates beyond Cuyahoga Valley SA?
• Does FCC have ambitions to expand its academy age groups or geographic reach?