Delaware FC, Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals and SJEB FC boys clubs gain ECNL promotion

Three area youth clubs will be moving up in ECNL next season, gaining promotion from the regional league to the ECNL Boys North Atlantic Conference for the 2025-26 season.

“When the ECNL speaks about a proven pathway for clubs and players, these four clubs are a perfect example,” ECNL Boys Commissioner Jason Kutney said in a news release. “Each of these clubs embraced the process, competing to demonstrate their quality over multiple seasons in the ECNL Regional League.  As a continuation of our announcements over the past several weeks, this growth in the North Atlantic Conference is concrete evidence of the merit-based opportunities in the ECNL. This is the basis of strong, stable leagues and clubs for the long-term.”

The North Atlantic Conference will have 12 teams next season. Half of those teams will be from the local area with the three promoted clubs joining Penn Fusion, LVU Rush and Hex FC. North Jersey club PSA Monmouth will also be joining next season.

“The ECNL aligns with our core values and the mission of Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals Soccer Club,” Ukies President Bobby Andrews said in a statement. “This platform is an incredible pathway for the players in our club, providing them the opportunity to compete in the most premier recruiting events and against some of the best clubs in the country. We are incredibly grateful to the ECNL and its leadership, and look forward to the many great years ahead!”

SJEB FC Executive Director Don D’Ambra credited players, coaches and staff for their work in earning the promotion.

“Our selection is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players, coaches, staff and board and a very beneficial move for everyone at our club,” D’Ambra said.