COACHING announcements
2026-27
May 8th 2026
Xtra Soccer Academy Accepted into National 1 League Platform
May 5th 2026
Omaha, Nebraska — Xtra Soccer Academy is proud to announce its acceptance into the newly formed National 1 League, a top team-based competition platform developed through the partnership of US Club Soccer and US Youth Soccer.
The inclusion of Xtra Soccer Academy into the National 1 League reflects the rapid and unprecedented growth of the club in a very short period. In just two years, the level of player within the Xtra environment has risen significantly, creating a clear need for a platform that can provide the appropriate level of competition and continued progression.
This growth is a direct reflection of the collective effort across the club. The commitment and belief shown by families, combined with the work and standards set by coaches and staff, has driven Xtra Soccer Academy to this point and continues to push the club forward.
Xtra Soccer Academy will compete in the Central Conference District 2, facing competition from across Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. The National 1 League will provide a structured and competitive platform for players ready for increased levels of competition, while maintaining a sensible and balanced approach to travel and overall player experience.
“Our growth as a club over the past two years has been exceptional, and the level of player we are working with now requires a platform like this,” said Graeme Eaglesham, Club Director of Xtra Soccer Academy. “This is a huge credit to our families, our players, and the work being done every day by our coaches and staff. What we are building is a true collective effort, and this step reflects that.
This platform allows us to provide the right level of competition for players who are ready to be challenged further, without placing unnecessary demands on families through excessive travel. At the same time, our commitment remains the same across the entire club. We are focused on providing the right environment for every player’s stage of development and continuing to build a pathway that supports all players within Xtra Soccer Academy.”
Xtra Soccer Academy continues to build a comprehensive and ambitious player pathway, ensuring that players at all levels are supported while creating opportunities for those ready to compete at higher levels within the game.
2026/27 Tryouts – Register Here:
https://www.xtrasoccer.com/tryouts
National 1 League
https://usclubsoccer.org/programs/leagues/national1league/
Media Contact:
Graeme Eaglesham
Xtra Soccer Academy
graeme@xtrasoccer.com
Xtra Soccer Academy Announces Luke Baxter
as Academy Director
May 1st 2026
Omaha, Nebraska — Xtra Soccer Academy is proud to announce the appointment of Luke Baxter as Academy Director, overseeing the club’s U8 to U12 program and leading the next phase of its player development pathway.
Baxter is widely regarded as one of the leading coaches for youth development in the region, bringing experience from the Real Salt Lake Academy, Creighton Women’s Soccer, and as an Assistant Coach with Union Omaha. His background across elite youth, collegiate, and professional levels position him to make an immediate impact within the Xtra Soccer Academy structure.
In his role as Academy Director, Baxter will oversee all Academy teams, coaches, and curriculum, ensuring a consistent and professional environment aligned with Xtra Soccer Academy’s vision. He will lead the implementation of a structured, age appropriate development model, while also driving coach education and supporting the progression of players through the club.
Baxter will work closely with Club Director Graeme Eaglesham and Director of Coaching Jacob Pease to further establish Xtra Soccer Academy as a leading development environment in the Omaha area and beyond.
Luke’s background across the MLS academy system, NCAA Division I soccer, and the professional game makes him an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” said Graeme Eaglesham, Club Director of Xtra Soccer Academy. “He brings a level of detail, professionalism, and experience that will have a direct impact on our players, coaches, and overall Academy structure. I’m incredibly excited to bring someone of Luke’s quality into the club. Attracting staff of this level affirms that others see the vision of what we are building at Xtra Soccer Academy. This appointment is a clear statement of intent. We are building one of the top development environments for players in the region and will continue to invest in the best to ensure our players and families are part of something truly different.”
“Our academy will be a place where every player feels valued, challenged, and inspired, while also developing a lifelong love for the game,” said Luke Baxter. “With over a decade of experience across multiple levels of the sport, including the USL, MLS, and the English academy system, I have developed a strong understanding of what it takes to support meaningful player development. The vision that Xtra has for growing the game and nurturing talent closely aligns with my own philosophy.
I am particularly committed to fostering an environment where young players can develop not only as athletes, but as individuals. The coaching staff represents the highest level of quality and professionalism, and I am excited for the opportunity to contribute to the growth of the game in Nebraska alongside such a dedicated group.”
Xtra Soccer Academy has experienced significant growth in recent years and continues to focus on building a clear pathway for players from grassroots through to higher levels of the game. The addition of Baxter reflects the club’s commitment to investing in high level leadership and creating an environment centered on development, opportunity, and long-term success.
For more information about Xtra Soccer Academy, please visit www.xtrasoccer.com
2026 to 2027 Tryouts Register Here
https://www.xtrasoccer.com/tryouts
Media Contact
Graeme Eaglesham
Xtra Soccer Academy