The USL Championship is the second division of professional men's soccer in the United States and Canada, directly below Major League Soccer. It is a rapidly growing and highly competitive league that serves as a crucial development platform and a destination for ambitious clubs. Founded in its modern form in 2010, the league is headquartered in Tampa, Florida, and operates across both nations. The format typically involves a regular season with teams in Eastern and Western Conferences, followed by a multi-round playoff bracket that concludes with a single-match final to crown the USL Championship winner. The league's main characteristics are its extensive geographic footprint, focus on community-driven clubs, and its role as a proving ground for players, coaches, and franchises aspiring to reach MLS. It has substantial commercial value and a strong broadcast presence. Winning the USL Championship trophy is the primary goal, and the league also presents individual awards such as Most Valuable Player, Golden Boot, and Defender of the Year.