Alyssa McLeod – From UMSC to Canada’s National Team Pathway and AFC Toronto Academy
Alyssa McLeod - From UMSC to Canada's National Team Pathway and AFC Toronto Academy
Alyssa McLeod (2009) joins the inaugural AFC Toronto Academy after progressing from Unionville Milliken SC to Canada Soccer’s National Development Centre (NDC) Ontario program. AFC Toronto officially lists Alyssa as joining from NDC, previously Unionville-Milliken SC.
Alyssa’s progression has already taken her onto Canada’s national youth pathway. She represented Canada at the 2024 Concacaf Girls’ U-15 Championship, where Canada earned the bronze medal. Alyssa scored twice during the tournament, including Canada’s goal against Mexico and the match-winning goal in the third-place victory over Costa Rica. Canada Soccer and tournament records identify her as an NDC Ontario forward, while UMSC is listed among her notable Canadian youth clubs.
Her development continued at the U-17 level. Alyssa was selected for Canada’s U-17 Women’s Four Nations Tournament in Mexico City in 2025 and was later named to Canada’s squad for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2025. She has continued to be involved in Canada’s U-17 program in 2026, providing further evidence of her progression within the national-team pathway.
Alyssa’s selection for AFC Toronto represents another important stage in that journey. AFC Toronto describes its fully funded Academy as a full-time training and development program within a professional, high-performance environment, designed to create a pathway for talented young players toward the club’s First Team and the professional game.
For UMSC, Alyssa’s journey is an exciting example of a player progressing from the Club into increasingly demanding development environments. UMSC’s role is to help talented players build the technical ability, confidence, game understanding and competitive foundation that can prepare them for opportunities at higher levels.
Now Alyssa adds another important chapter to that continuing development story.
Alyssa’s selection for the inaugural AFC Toronto Academy is first and foremost a tremendous achievement for her and her family. It is also a proud moment for the coaches and teammates who have contributed along the way – and an inspiring example for young players currently wearing a UMSC jersey.
The pathway is real. The opportunity is there. And it can start right here at UMSC.
Congratulations Alyssa. Everyone at UMSC wishes you continued success as you take this exciting next step.
