ELKHART COUNTY UNITED / INDY ELEVEN NORTH MERGER
We are excited to share that Indy Eleven North and Elkhart County United have agreed to unite and move forward as one club.
This is a significant step for soccer in our community and one that we believe will create even greater opportunities for players and families throughout the region.
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Learn more below.
ELKHART COUNTY UNITED / INDY ELEVEN NORTH MERGER FAQ
Our mission remains unchanged: to provide all children, regardless of economic circumstances, with the opportunity to develop to their full potential through the joy of soccer. That mission is our foundation, and this partnership will allow us to pursue it more effectively than ever before.
Our evaluation and tryout dates will remain unchanged. Players and staff from Elkhart County United will join us as we begin forming teams for the upcoming season. If you have not yet registered for evaluations, please do so here: https://www.indyelevennorth.com/tryouts
Why are the two clubs merging?
To fulfill our mission better. By bringing our clubs together, we will:
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Offer more teams at each age group, creating development pathways that better match the needs and goals of individual players.
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Strengthen our ability to compete at the highest levels of youth soccer, providing more local players with access to top-level competition while staying close to home.
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Expand our staff, resources, and programming to enhance the overall experience for players and families.
Who made this decision?
The decision to merge was made jointly by the boards and leadership of both clubs. After extensive discussion and careful consideration, both organizations agreed that combining our strengths would create the greatest opportunities for player development and long-term success. This historic partnership reflects a shared commitment to serving our local community by providing the best possible experience for our players and families.
What will be the name of the new club?
The club will rebrand under a new name and badge. We plan to engage in a collaborative process with our families to finalize that decision. More information will be forthcoming.
Will the new club have an affiliation with Indy Eleven?
Yes. We will be affiliated with Indy Eleven. All IXI North players currently playing on ECNL or MLS Next Homegrown teams will be able to continue in that capacity. As always, all players, including ECU players new to the affiliation, will be given the opportunity, if selected, to participate in the Indy Eleven Pro Academy. This relationship ensures we are the only club in Northern Indiana to provide our players access to all levels of play, from recreational to professional.
Is this just one club taking over the other?
No. The is a true merger, bringing both clubs together. Leadership responsibilities will be shared among board members, staff, and coaches from both clubs as we work together to build a strong future for players and families throughout our community.
Who will my coach be?
Coaching Directors Briant Estrella and Christian Hall are finalizing coach assignments. Information will be shared with everyone as soon as those decisions are complete.
How will roster decisions be made at tryouts?
Coaches from both clubs will participate in the evaluation process. Directors Briant Estrella and Christian Hall will work collaboratively with coaches and evaluators to make final rosters decisions, ensuring all players are given a fair evaluation.
Where will tryouts be held?
We will use the Indy Eleven North Evaluations and Tryouts schedule, as posted on our website: https://www.indyelevennorth.com/tryouts
Where will training take place?
Our combined club will now have fields in Elkhart, LaGrange, and Middlebury.
• All U8-U10 Academy teams will train in the location for which they register.
• All LaGrange U11-U12 teams will continue to train in LaGrange.
• For most other U11 and older teams, training may take place in multiple locations. Our goal is to create training schedules that best serve each team's needs while remaining mindful of family considerations.
Will travel be further for games?
Travel for games will depend, as always, on the league the player's team is in. ECNL RL, NAL, N1, and GA teams should expect travel to be regional, including Southern Michigan, Northern Illinios, Northern Indiana, and Western Ohio. All other teams will play in state leagues with travel restricted primarily to Northern Indiana.
Are our fees changing?
Final fees have not yet been set. We should be releasing them soon. We do know that we will offer a robust Financial Scholarship program in line with our mission to ensure that all players have the opportunity to participate.