LEAGUES & CLUBS
National Independent Soccer Association (NISA)
Division III
The National Independent Soccer Association (NISA) is a Division III professional men’s soccer league in the United States founded in 2017. The league began play in 2019 with a focus on independent club ownership and an alternative structure within the U.S. soccer landscape.
NISA was created to provide a professional platform for clubs operating outside of the traditional structures associated with Major League Soccer and the United Soccer League. The league emphasizes local identity, independent ownership, and community-driven clubs.
Within the broader U.S. soccer structure, NISA operates at the Division III level alongside leagues such as USL League One and MLS NEXT Pro. The league has also explored more open-system concepts compared to other professional leagues.
In recent years, NISA has faced significant turnover among its clubs, with teams joining, leaving, or transitioning to other leagues. As a result, the league continues to evolve as it works toward long-term stability.
NISA Nation (Amateur & Semi-Pro)
NISA Nation is the league’s affiliated amateur and semi-professional platform, launched in 2021. It provides a bridge between local amateur clubs and the professional level, offering additional competition and development opportunities.
Unlike traditional league structures, NISA Nation operates through a network of affiliated regional leagues across the country.
Active Leagues
League Structure
NISA typically operates using a single-table format, with clubs competing in a regular season followed by a championship format. The league has also explored future integration between its professional and amateur levels.
This includes discussions around promotion and relegation concepts through NISA Nation, although a fully implemented system has not yet been established. Learn more in our guide to promotion and relegation in the United States.
Other NISA Info
Contact Info
National Independent Soccer Association
Contact Page