April 7, 2017...USL League One formation (from USLsoccer.com)
Note: quotes pulled from all over their website so the dates are not all from the formation date announcement.
USL League One USL League One is shaping the future of the game in the United States, uniting passionate fans in new markets with the thrill of a proven professional soccer experience. After being announced in 2017 as the USL’s third division, USL League One is set to make its debut in Spring 2019 with 10 teams prepared to feature in a 28-game season. About Shaping the future of the game in the United States and Canada, the United Soccer League (USL) – one of the most successful professional soccer organizations in the world – announced in 2017 it would launch a new third division - USL League One in Spring 2019, uniting passionate fans in new markets with the thrill of a proven professional soccer experience. The USL has targeted U.S. communities ranging in population from 150,000 to one million – markets that represent more than 75 million people without access to a local professional soccer club. League One has focused on launching new clubs in markets that possess strong local ownership groups, populations with broad-based diversity, a vibrant millennial and strong family base, established corporate support, and stadiums to properly showcase the sport for fans, partners and the public. League One will immediately benefit from several new USL initiatives, including USL Productions, the organization’s $10 million broadcast and content arm that was established in 2015 which features a cutting-edge broadcast and production facility in South Florida. League One will be operated with the same high level of sophistication and operational expertise that has built the USL Championship into a widely successful and respected league. Based in Tampa, Fla., the USL supports its clubs through a dedicated staff of more than 50 executives in vital business areas including - Broadcasting, Sponsorship, Communications, Competition, League Operations, Merchandise Licensing, Team Services and more. Through League One, the USL will continue to lead the future growth of the sport by cultivating and bonding local supporters through the ‘beautiful game’ for generations to come. TORONTO FC II "We believe USL Division III represents a great opportunity for our organization and will play an important role in our long-term strategy for continued success," said Toronto FC President Bill Manning. "Player development is critical for us as we look to build on our recent first team success and develop a winning culture throughout the organization. This league is a perfect fit for us, and we look forward to working with the new league to help it achieve the levels of success already established by the USL."
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