Orlando City SC's Justin Ellis among MLS Next end of season award winners

MLS NEXT revealed its end-of-season award winners for the 2024-25 campaign, naming Orlando City SC striker Justin Ellis as the U19 MVP presented by adidas. The announcement recognized Ellis's outstanding contributions to an Orlando City U19 squad that dominated competition throughout the season, including their triumph at the 2025 Generation adidas Cup and semifinal appearance at MLS NEXT Cup in June. Ellis's prolific scoring record included 18 goals across the MLS NEXT regular season while performing for a Lions squad that compiled an impressive 23-4-3 record.

U15 MLS NEXT ‘24-’25 MVP: Edison Niles (St. Louis CITY SC)

U15 MLS NEXT ‘24-’25 Goal of the Year: Sammy Berger (Strikers FC)

U16 MLS NEXT ‘24-’25 MVP: Tyler Brown (Vancouver Whitecaps FC)

U16 MLS NEXT ‘24-’25 Goal of the Year: Griffin Giel (Minnesota United FC)

U17 MLS NEXT ‘24-’25 MVP: Logan Moniz (FC Greater Boston Bolts)

U17 MLS NEXT ‘24-’25 Goal of the Year: Nolan Cotter (AC River)

U19 MLS NEXT ‘24-’25 Goal of the Year: Gavin Hancock (Albion SC Los Angeles)

Ellis represents the growing effectiveness of MLS academy systems in developing professional-ready talent. His journey from academy standout to first-team debutant mirrors the increasing number of homegrown talents making impacts across the league. Orlando City's investment in youth development has yielded impressive results, with their U19 team's dominance and Generation adidas Cup victory showcasing the club's commitment to building from within.

Following his breakthrough season and MLS debut, Ellis will likely continue his development through a combination of first-team training opportunities and regular minutes with Orlando City B in MLS NEXT Pro.