SSA Swarm FC Introduces Residential Academy in Partnership with Darlington School!
10-Month Program
[Atlanta, Georgia] – [March 20th, 2025] – SSA Swarm FC is pleased to announce the launch of the SSA Swarm Residential Academy, a 10-month education and soccer development program in partnership with Darlington School. This initiative provides male and female student-athletes with a balanced pathway prioritising academic achievement and high-level residential soccer development.
Beginning in the fall of 2025, Darlington School Soccer Academy will become the Southern Soccer Swarm Residential Academy at Darlington School and gain access to SSA Swarms MLS NEXT platforms.
“This partnership will give our current players and recent alumni instant player pathway options during both the college recruiting process and college playing careers,” said Chad Liddle, director of Darlington School Soccer Academy. “SSA Swarm currently has a USL 2 team.”
“Participating in MLS NEXT Platforms, the most competitive youth league in the country, will empower our student-athletes in the academy to have access to a premier college-preparatory education and elite soccer training while at boarding school,” said Matthew Peer, assistant head of school for enrollment management. “We are thrilled to be part of SSA Swarm and to be able to provide our players access to the recently announced
MLS NEXT expansion. In the MLS NEXT league, the players will have greater travel efficiency with fall regionalized league competitions and spring scheduling flexibility to continue our college experience trips that help set our program apart. Joining SSA Swarm’s MLS NEXT program will provide outstanding athletic opportunities for our players, while continuing to have Darlington students actively participate in all aspects of the life of the school.”
The Southern Soccer Swarm Residential Academy at Darlington School will have players taking part at the U16, U17 and U19 MLS next levels beginning in September 2025.
“Players will have access to the highest levels of competition and training as MLS NEXT is the elite platform for youth development in North America, building a clear pathway for more players to reach their highest potential, college exposure and placement as well as professional” Liddle.
In the expanded tier of MLS NEXT, clubs will participate in one of eight regional tournaments each season, in addition to the option for eligible age groups to attend MLS NEXT Fest in December. Regional tournaments will serve as qualifying for a championship event at MLS NEXT Cup in 2026. These events will be marquee talent identification opportunities for college, professional, and national team scouts to evaluate players.
Located on The Darlington School’s boarding campus, the program offers a structured environment where athletes can pursue their educational and athletic goals simultaneously, with access to quality coaching, competitive play, and collegiate recruitment opportunities.
"This partnership with Darlington School provides a unique opportunity for student-athletes to develop both on and off the field," said Simon Davey, SSA Swarm Executive Director. "By combining strong academics with a high-level residential soccer environment, we are creating a pathway that supports long-term success"
About the SSA Swarm Residential Academy
The SSA Swarm Residential Academy is designed to provide student-athletes with a comprehensive development pathway, combining competitive soccer with a strong academic foundation. Players in this program will gain access to SSA Swarm’s current MLS platforms for 2025 and GAL platforms in 2026, two of the most recognized platforms for youth development in the United States. The program is structured to support both college-bound athletes and those seeking to transition into SSA Swarm FC’s USL platform, offering direct exposure to collegiate programs and opportunities to advance within the club’s pre-professional structure.
As an official academy partner of Brentford FC, SSA Swarm FC provides a direct link to a professional club, ensuring that players benefit from shared development methodologies and best practices. The Darlington School offers a challenging academic curriculum in a supportive learning environment, allowing student-athletes to maintain a strong focus on their education while fully committing to their athletic development. With access to experienced coaching, sports science support, and a structured development plan, players in the program receive the necessary tools to maximize their potential on and off the field.
This collaboration between SSA Swarm FC and The Darlington School creates a structured environment for players who want to develop their game while receiving a strong education, with clear pathways to college, professional soccer, and beyond.
About SSA Swarm FC
SSA Swarm FC is a youth soccer organization serving over 13,000 players across Georgia, committed to providing structured player development, collegiate pathways, and professional opportunities. As an official academy partner of Brentford FC, SSA Swarm FC offers a clear progression for players and coaches at all levels.
About The Darlington School
The Darlington School is an independent boarding and day school that emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and athletic growth. With a commitment to supporting student success in the classroom and in competition, Darlington provides a well-rounded educational experience.
For more information about the SSA Swarm Residential Academy, visit www.ssaswarm.com
For more information about Darlington School, please visit our website.
