TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League (USL) announced today the organization has renewed its partnership with Bellevue University for two years, building on their commitment to help USL players and staff earn college degrees.

“We’re thrilled to extend our partnership with Bellevue University and proud of the work we’ve been able to accomplish together in the last three years in helping our players and staff achieve their educational goals,” said USL Sr. Vice President of Corporate Partnerships and Development Josh Keller. “We look forward to continuing to work alongside Bellevue University as our ecosystem grows, and we can continue to positively impact more players and fans.”

In 2021, Bellevue University and the USL kicked off a scholarship program in which Bellevue University annually grants a full scholarship to each Championship and League One team for a player and USL HQ staff member to pursue their undergraduate or graduate degree. Additionally, in partnership with United Black Players, a scholarship is awarded to a non-profit organization that benefits racially minoritized youth. Starting in 2024, the program will now include USL Super League as the inaugural season kicks off in the Fall.

For 2024, the non-profit organization recipient will be Elevate Phoenix. Through a variety of programs, Elevate Phoenix introduces urban students to a positive and caring teacher/mentor who helps ensure they don’t have to navigate life challenges alone. Previous scholarship recipients include:

• Kamaya “Milk” Fuller, selected through Charlotte’s Bunk 57 Ministries and Heal Charlotte

• Xiolani Vargas, selected through Colorado Uplift

“As the USL’s Official Education Partner, we look forward to continuing to transform lives by helping individuals throughout the USL ecosystem achieve their potential,” said Dr. Mary Hawkins, Bellevue University President. “Thanks to our partnership, players, staff, family members and fans can achieve their education and their career goals at the same time.” 

Since the beginning of their partnership, the USL and Bellevue University have awarded 65 scholarships to players and staff across the USL Championship and League One, with several current players, including Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC defender Matt Mahoney; Monterey Bay F.C. forward Luther Archimede, and South Georgia Tormenta FC goalkeeper Pablo Jara, all earning their degrees.

Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is one of the country’s top 20 online universities and has more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. In addition to providing full scholarships annually to Championship and League One clubs, Bellevue University offers tuition assistance across the entire USL ecosystem to club and league employees, as well as season ticket members and family members of staff, coaches, and players.

The United Soccer League also works with Bellevue University on coursework and curriculum integrations, providing USL guest speakers in the classroom, and exploring mentoring, and league-based internship opportunities.

For additional information on Bellevue University and course offerings, please visit www.bellevue.edu.