NWSL Players Association Opposes Calendar Shift
The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Players Association has reported that a significant number of players are against a proposed transition to a fall-spring schedule for the league.
According to ESPN’s report on Thursday, the NWSL Board of Governors is set to vote later this month regarding the potential switch from the current February/March start and November end to a new schedule that would begin in late summer and conclude in late spring. This change, similar to what MLS is implementing next year, would potentially lead to an increase in games played in colder weather.
Players’ Concerns and Priorities
The NWSLPA has been in discussions with its Board of Player Representatives and other members regarding the proposed calendar shift. In a statement to ESPN, they acknowledged the advantages and disadvantages of both options but emphasized that external factors, such as the Women’s International Match Calendar, are influencing the conversation.
They expressed that the core issue should not just be about changing the calendar but about ensuring that the right conditions exist for such a transition. Currently, they believe those conditions are lacking, specifically regarding control over facilities and managing weather disruptions. Player health and safety remain the top priorities among the majority of those polled, who currently oppose the calendar flip.
Debate History and Current Status
The topic of altering the season structure has been discussed for over three years, with a previous narrow defeat of a calendar change in late 2024, as previously reported by ESPN. Recent developments suggest that there might be increasing support for the change among board members. Consequently, the upcoming vote is expected to be closely contested.
The NWSL’s collective bargaining agreement allows the league to make this format change at its discretion, but input from the union is essential. An NWSL spokesperson noted that they are continually evaluating their competition calendar and that no final decision has been made as of yet.
Future Implications and Timelines
If the league decides to shift to a fall-spring format, they are required to provide a year’s notice to the NWSLPA, followed by the formation of a scheduling committee to facilitate discussions and negotiations over necessary amendments to the current CBA.
The NWSL Board of Governors is scheduled to gather later this month for another potential vote on the calendar change. Meanwhile, MLS is preparing to implement a similar switch after voting in November to align their schedule with European leagues. Even if the NWSL votes in favor of a calendar shift, implementing the changes could take several years.
Key upcoming events, such as the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2031 Women’s World Cup in the U.S., may present natural breaks in the schedule for an effective transition, pending FIFA’s approval of the World Cup bid.
Contributions to this report were made by ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle.
