The stage is set for the 2025 Junior Academy League (JAL) Post-Season, kicking off this November at Veneto Club in Bulleen. What began as a small initiative for academy footballers has grown into one of the state’s most anticipated youth competitions, and this year promises to be the biggest yet.

With the competition edging closer, organisers have confirmed an impressive list of academies taking part. Household names like Melbourne Victory, Elite Football, SDC and Broxham Football headline the line-up, joined by a wave of rising programs including Prodigy Futbol Lab, F90, Empire Soccer Academy, and Lustica Football.

The diversity of entrants reflects the JAL’s growing reputation as a proving ground for both established academies and emerging setups. SDC leads the way with eleven teams registered, while Prodigy Futbol Lab (8), Athletic Football Group (7) and Lustica Football (6) are also entering in strong numbers. Heavy-hitters like Elite Football and F90 follow closely with five teams each, while Soccer Pro Academy, Football Star Academy and Empire Soccer Academy add further depth with four apiece. Even newer names such as 12th Player and Futboltec are preparing to make their mark.

The tournament structure has been refined for 2025, with a Grading Round on 2 November determining which sides compete in JAL1 (elite) and JAL2 (developing). The tiered system is designed to create tighter matchups and more meaningful development opportunities.

Boys’ competitions will run from U8 through to U13, while the girls’ side features U10 and U12 age groups. Each Sunday throughout November will see back-to-back matches in a fast-paced format of two 13-minute halves, culminating in the Finals on 30 November.

With more than a dozen academies locked in, ranging from professional club programs to independent training centres, the 2025 Junior Academy League is shaping as a showcase of Victoria’s next generation of talent.