Singapore Youth League (SYL) Launches Inaugural Nationwide Elite Youth Football Tournament, February 2024

Over 200 teams from 52 clubs and academies will be competing in Singapore’s inaugural nationwide elite youth football tournament in February 2024. The Singapore Youth League (SYL), co-organized by the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) and Sport Singapore (SportSG), was officially launched at the National Stadium. Set to feature teams like St Michaels’ Soccer Association, Flair Football Academy, Lion City Sailors, and Malaysia’s Johor Darul Ta’zim, the league will kick off on the weekend of 24 and 25 February 2024.

The SYL will cater to boys and girls in six age groups and serve as a pipeline for future Singapore internationals. Teams will undergo a classification round to determine placements in divisions of similar strength, with a promotion/relegation feature. With nearly 3,800 youth players competing in about 1,100 matches per season, the SYL offers a rigorous platform for talent development and growth in Singapore football.

The league, spanning about eight months with a mid-year break, provides ample competitive opportunities for youth teams with an average of about 30 games per season. FAS President Bernard Tan emphasized the importance of a structured development system for youth, built upon best practices adapted to the Singapore context. FAS Technical Director Michael Browne highlighted the significance of consistent and regular competitive matches for young footballers’ development.

The SYL also supports the development of women’s football in Singapore, with all-girls teams participating in the league against boys one to two years younger. The SYL aims to uplift Singapore football with the Academy Accreditation System ensuring robust youth development structures and competitive environments. Individual FAS Youth Player Profiles will offer insights for national team selections.

SportSG Deputy Chief Executive Toh Boon Yi expressed confidence in the SYL’s potential to nurture young talents and contribute to Singapore football’s growth. Academy directors and players are excited about the enhanced playing opportunities and holistic player development offered by the SYL. The inaugural season will run from 24 February to 1 December 2024, crowning champions across all age groups after 33 match days.

For updates, schedules, and scores, fans can visit syl.sg or follow Singapore Youth League on various social media platforms. The SYL represents a significant step forward in increasing participation and standards among youth in Singapore, setting the stage for a vibrant future in the country’s football landscape.