Not Major League Soccer–though it wouldn’t surprise me (not that anything surprises me these days) as Raleigh and Charlotte fumble around with efforts to bring MLS to their respective cities—but United Soccer League’s Division III, which is showing interest in High Point according to the Enterprise:
Steven Short, vice president of the United Soccer League’s Division III, said Wednesday that High Point is in contention for one of eight to 12 franchises that would launch the league in 2019.
The USL is one division below Major League Soccer, and currently operates a 30-team Division II league.
Short said USL representatives started discussions with High Point some time ago when the city announced its plans for a downtown stadium. He visited High Point last week.
“As we looked to expand into North Carolina, I believe it’s the progressive leadership in High Point that really makes it so exciting,” said Short. “They see a vision for High Point and we believe the USL teams could also be a catalyst to aid that vision.”
And what a coincidence—in case you’ve missed it, High Point has plans underway for a $30 million downtown stadium designed to attract an independent Atlantic League team. Forward High Point Chairman Doyle Early said a multi-sport concept has been in the plans for the stadium from the beginning.
