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Taft has won consecutive NEPSAC boys Class A titles. (Brian Kelly/NESJ)
The discussion over whether the Founders League or Independent School League is the best in NEPSAC boys soccer is a constant one.
But it’s hard to argue — thanks to Taft, of course — that the Founders League isn’t on top headed into 2026. The last three Class A title games have featured a Founders team (Taft, each time) and an ISL team, and the Rhinos have won the most recent two, over Milton Academy in 2024 and Nobles in 2025.
So, can the Founders League keep its run going in 2026 after the introduction of the Open tournament?
That’s what we’re here to examine in this story, which is part of our ongoing league preview series. Who are the Founders’ favorites headed into 2026? Who are the sleeper teams you shouldn’t overlook? Who makes up the league’s best XI, and what is our projected order of finish?
Let's return to our trademarked "Days-until-Labor Day counter." As of writing, there are now only 17 days until Labor Day, after which the 2026 soccer season in…
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