Kevin Tello is coming home to Northwest Arkansas with a mission. The newly appointed Director of Ozark United FC's MLS Next Academy joins us to share his journey from LA transplant to rising Division I coach, and why he's passionate about building a professional pathway for soccer players in the region he once called home.

"When I was a player, and I've talked to other coaches that had grown up in the area, we would have killed for something like this," Tello explains, his enthusiasm palpable as he describes what the MLS Next program will mean for talented young players in Northwest Arkansas. After developing MLS draft picks at the collegiate level, Tello brings a wealth of experience in identifying and nurturing elite talent.

What exactly separates good players from great ones? While technical skills matter, Tello emphasizes that decision-making ultimately defines elite players. During the upcoming evaluations, he'll be watching for more than just skill—he wants to see intensity, intelligence, and approach. "If Sporting Kansas City was here watching your eval, how would you react?" he challenges potential players, setting the bar high from the start.

The conversation reveals a coach who measures success not just by wins or player advancement, but by meaningful impact on young people's lives. "If I can just be an imprint on one player, one family, and that's the player that goes pro, or becomes another successful member of our community... that's to me the most important thing at this point in my career."

Ready to be part of Northwest Arkansas's soccer revolution? Player evaluations begin next week for this groundbreaking program that promises to transform the region's soccer landscape. Don't miss your chance to join the journey from pitch to pro.

More About this Episode

Building a Pathway to Pro: Why MLS NEXT at Ozark United FC Is a Game-Changer for Northwest Arkansas

At Ozark United FC, our mission has always been bigger than soccer. We're here to create opportunities - opportunities for young athletes to pursue their dreams, for families to engage in something meaningful, and for our community to elevate itself through the power of sport. Today, we're proud to take a major step forward on that mission with the launch of our MLS NEXT Academy program, right here in Northwest Arkansas.

This initiative isn't just about competition. It’s about creating a professional development environment that equips local players with everything they need to succeed - on the field and in life.

A Homegrown Leader Returns to Help Build the Future

To lead this ambitious new chapter, we’ve welcomed Kevin Tello as our Director and Head Coach of the Ozark United MLS NEXT Academy. Kevin’s story is one that many in our community will recognize: born in Los Angeles, raised in Northwest Arkansas, and now returning to give back to the place that helped shape him.

Kevin brings extensive coaching experience at the high school, collegiate, and semi-professional levels, most recently serving at a top Division I program in Memphis. But what makes Kevin the right fit for Ozark United isn’t just his resume - it’s his relentless passion for the game, commitment to player development, and deep personal connection to this region.

“This isn’t a step backward for me,” Kevin says. “It’s a step toward impact. There’s so much potential here - and I want to be part of unlocking it.”

What MLS NEXT Means for Northwest Arkansas

Our inclusion in MLS NEXT, the premier youth development platform in the country, is a landmark moment - not just for Ozark United, but for every soccer player in Northwest Arkansas.

For the first time, players in our region will have access to elite-level coaching, competition, and exposure without needing to leave their community. This is a legitimate pathway to college soccer, professional academies, and beyond. And just as importantly, it’s an opportunity to shape character, build discipline, and instill values that last far beyond the pitch.

MLS NEXT isn’t just a badge - it’s a commitment to excellence, and we’re ready to deliver on that promise.

Developing More Than Just Players

At Ozark United FC, we believe that every player has the potential to grow, and that growth is about more than just skill. Kevin Tello and our coaching staff are committed to a holistic development model - one that includes:

  • Tactical and technical development
  • Video analysis and performance metrics
  • Strength and conditioning support
  • Academic and collegiate guidance
  • Character and leadership development

As Kevin explains, "We’re not looking for perfect players - we’re looking for passionate ones. Players who bring intensity to every training session, who make smart decisions under pressure, and who lead by example.”

This philosophy drives everything we do. Because soccer is more than a game - it’s a vehicle for growth, both personal and professional.

What We’re Looking for in Our Players

The pathway to professional soccer begins with mindset. Talent helps, of course. But it’s how a player approaches training, interacts with teammates, and responds to challenges that sets them apart.

We’re looking for athletes who:

  • Train with intensity and intention
  • Make smart, game-realistic decisions
  • Embrace constructive feedback
  • Show leadership and accountability
  • Compete with consistency and character

Whether you’re a U13 player taking your first step into elite-level soccer or a U19 athlete preparing for the next chapter, we’re building an environment where you can grow, compete, and thrive.

Supporting Families on the Journey

We recognize that this journey doesn’t belong to players alone. Parents and families are an essential part of a young athlete’s development. That’s why we’re building a culture of clear communication, high standards, and mutual respect.

We’re not just asking families to commit - we’re committing to them. From schedule planning to recruitment support, from travel logistics to individual development plans, we’re here to support each player’s journey every step of the way.

“This isn’t just another club tryout,” Kevin says. “This is your opportunity to step into a professional environment - right here in your backyard.”

A Vision for the Future: From Youth to First Team

One of the most exciting aspects of our MLS NEXT program is the clear and intentional connection to our first team. Our vision is to create a true vertical integration model - where standout academy players can train with the first team, sign homegrown contracts, and continue their development within the Ozark United FC ecosystem.

This is the foundation of our “Pitch to Pro” philosophy. Whether a player’s journey leads to college, a pro contract, or personal excellence through the sport, we are committed to helping them get there.

Why This Moment Matters

Northwest Arkansas is growing. The energy, the innovation, the community pride - it’s all here. And now, with the launch of our MLS NEXT program, so is the opportunity.

We’re building more than a team. We’re building a movement - one that reflects the best of our region and sets a new standard for what’s possible in youth soccer.

So, to the families of NWA: if you’re ready to take the next step, we’re ready to walk that journey with you. Together, we can turn potential into opportunity and dreams into reality.

Let’s build the future - right here, at home.

Tryouts and Evaluations for Ozark United FC’s MLS NEXT Academy are happening soon. For dates, registration, and more details, visit OzarkUnited.com or follow us on Instagram and YouTube @OzarkUnitedFC.