The Tennessee State Soccer Association (TSSA) is building on years of steady growth as the Fall 2025 season of the Tennessee State League hits full swing. For the fourth straight year, registrations have risen, and 2025 also brings new major milestones. Starting this fall, TSSA has added a fourth division and a revamped competition structure that now fully aligns with US Youth Soccer naming conventions.
New Division, New Names
Beginning this season, the Tennessee State League is now operating under a new four-division structure:
- National Championship Series: Formerly known as Division 1, state champions in this division advance directly to USYS National Championships.
- President’s Cup: Formerly known as Division 2, state champions in this division move on to USYS Sub-Regionals.
- Governor’s Cup: A brand-new division created to balance levels of play and give more teams competitive opportunities. Champions in this division do not advance to another level of play beyond the state tournaments.
- Mayor’s Cup: Formerly known as Division 3, this competition is designed for newer or developing teams, with promotional opportunities possible for future seasons.
These changes ensure TSSA competitions are in step with the US Youth Soccer model while also continuing to expand opportunities for players across our state.
“I’m excited for the new brackets!” said Jeannie Louk, TSSA Director of Leagues and Programs. “The structure gives more teams the chance at competing and winning a state championship.”
Fall 2025 State Cup
The fall slate of matches in the Tennessee State League will once again culminate with the Tennessee State Cup, featuring teams that advance past league play.
- Weekend of November 15–16: Quarterfinals and Semifinals for 15U–19U boys teams across all divisions.
- Weekend of November 22–23: Semifinals and Finals for 12U 9v9 boys and girls teams, along with Finals for 15U–19U boys teams across all divisions.
Pathway to Nationals
TSSA champions at the National Championship Series level (formerly Division 1) will earn a direct spot in the US Youth Soccer National Championships, the country’s most prestigious youth soccer event. President’s Cup winners will advance to US Youth Soccer Sub-Regionals, while the Governor’s Cup and Mayor’s Cup offer competitive platforms for teams developing within the state.
Commitment to Growth
TSSA remains committed to providing meaningful opportunities for every player while continuing the rapid growth of soccer across Tennessee. With record registrations, a new divisional format and a system now fully aligned with national naming models, the Fall 2025 season marks a significant step forward for the game in our state.
To contact the Tennessee State Soccer Association, please call (615) 590-2200. Also make sure to follow us on social media!