MAINEVILLE, Ohio (March 31, 2025) – Cardinal Premier League (CPL), with over 22 years of fun and experience, is excited to announce the formation of a new grassroots (recreational) league called Cardinal Recreation League (CRL), created to serve the greater Cincinnati area.
CRL will act as a parent organization for existing recreational leagues and programs throughout Cincinnati, many of whom are already familiar with CPL. It is proud to welcome Monroe Soccer Association and Trenton Soccer Association as two of its founding members.
Play within the Cardinal Recreation League may begin at U6 and will provide opportunities for grassroots players all the way through high school ages. Younger in-house ages (U3-U6) can register directly with Ohio Soccer Association (OSA) and receive the same support services.
CRL will be managed by experienced CPL staff and will offer organized administrative support and services to its members, freeing up time and energy for local league leaders to focus on providing even more opportunities for kids to play. CRL will deliver the infrastructure and support needed to create a simpler, more affordable, and more enjoyable soccer experience for all participants: less work, more fun!
Members will also have optional access to a full player development pathway within the league, beginning with recreational play (CRL), and advancing by age into developmental (Cardinal Developmental League) and competitive/travel (CPL) tiers as players grow.
CRL, like CPL, will be sanctioned through Ohio Soccer Association. This will provide CRL members with access to the many benefits of OSA membership, including administrative and registration support (via a dedicated Member Services team), risk management, and insurance coverage for players, coaches, and board members. As a member of OSA, CRL ensures that all members will have access to current standards in youth sports and provide additional avenues for help and support.
“We are excited for this expansion into the grassroots space through CRL! Over the last several years, we have enjoyed increased participation in CPL from many local organizations, so this was a logical next step,” said Steve Wood, Cardinal Premier League President. “We look forward to supporting the familiar and new organizations that will come with this expansion.”
“Monroe Soccer Association is excited to work with the experienced staff at Ohio Soccer Association and Cardinal Premier League to continue to provide the best experience possible for our families,” said President Matt Ellis. “We appreciate all the work that has already happened and look forward to the future!”
“Trenton Soccer Association is proud to be a founding member of the Cardinal Recreation League,” said Mandy Spencer, President. “This new league offers an exciting opportunity for our recreational players to grow, compete, and build a lifelong love for the game in a fun, supportive environment. The outstanding support from the Cardinal Premier League and Ohio Soccer Association has been key, and we’re confident this partnership will enhance the experience for our players and families while driving the continued growth of our organization and impact in the community.”
Like CPL, which is known for its affordable team fees, CRL will also offer low-cost registration. Pricing information is available on request.
New CRL members will be accepted starting April 15. Apply or learn more by visiting cardinalpremier.com or contacting CRL directly at 513-549-5811.
