The Columbus Crew announced Monday the launch of Columbus Crew 2, a developmental second team that will participate in Major League Soccer's MLS NEXT Pro.

Crew 2 will join the new league in its inaugural 2022 season and will play its regular-season matches at Historic Crew Stadium.

The Crew said the new development second team will "provide a competitive professional environment for existing Crew Academy players to continue their development."

"The Columbus Crew is the original club in Major League Soccer and we are proud to be one of the original and founding members of MLS NEXT Pro,” Crew President & General Manager Tim Bezbatchenko said. “We aspire to be an innovative Club – a Club that aims to be at the forefront of soccer development at all levels, and we believe the creation of the Second Team allows us to continue pursuing that endeavor. Crew 2 will provide Crew Academy players with a more well-defined pathway into the professional ranks while also providing opportunities for First Team players to earn minutes."

Crew Assistant General Manager Corey Wray is set to serve as Crew 2’s General Manager.

The newly-formed MLS NEXT Pro will offer young players and experienced professionals the opportunity to develop and showcase their talents while competing for an MLS NEXT Pro championship. The new league is set to feature 21 other MLS Clubs in its inaugural 2022 season including 19 other MLS Clubs and one independent club, the Crew said.