Tournament Selection Committees Adopt At-Large Criteria

Coming out of the 2025 MCLA Summer Meetings, selection criteria for at-large bids to the MCLA National Championships Powered by New Balance have been created.  There are three primary factors that will be considered and given the most weight by the selection committee.  They are as follows:

1. Wins vs ranked opponents

- Quality wins against MCLA Top 20 opponents (using the official MCLA poll at the time of the selection call)

-Consideration will be given to both the quality and the number of ranked opponents defeated.

2.   Strength of Schedule

-Based on opponents' record and rankings as well as the game location and travel demands-Teams that seek out strong competition regardless of result will be viewed more favorably.

3. Win/Loss Record

-Overall win percentage with emphasis on consistency and the ability to win key matchups throughout the season.

In addition to the primary factors six additional factors will also be considered:

-End of season momentum

-Goal differential in ranked losses

-Losses vs. ranked opponents

-Performance in conference tournament

-Overall record above .500

-Willingness to travel

These factors will provide the basis for at-large selection; however, the Selection Committee reserves the right to use its discretion when evaluating teams and applying this criteria.  It should be noted that while this criteria provides a guide, unforeseen circumstances may require contextual judgement. 

The aim of the Selection Committee is that the final selections reflect the most competitive and deserving, while ensuring regional representation, upholding MCLA standards, and promoting the integrity of the tournament.