Goal! CWA Soccer Players Score Major Victory With New Contract

After two years of negotiations, members of the United Soccer League Players Association (USLPA-CWA Local 7211) have announced the ratification of a new contract. USLPA-CWA currently represents approximately 1,100 players, with over 500 members in this unit. An upcoming league expansion could see the unit increase to over 800 members.

Players cited the need for year-round contracts, livable wage minimums, and guaranteed access to employer-paid health insurance as primary concerns going into negotiations. Despite anti-union efforts by United Soccer League (USL) management, members refused to back down from the fair contract they deserved.

This contract raises the bar for what it means to be a professional player in the United States, helping to create a more sustainable work environment. Prior to the contract, players were only paid for 10 months every year and often had to scramble for other employment during the off-season. This contract will help reduce turnover and help players avoid and recover from injury.

“Our players showed what solidarity looks like,” said USLPA-CWA Local 7211 Executive Director Connor Tobin. “For eight weeks, they stood together during the first minute of every match to make clear that they have a voice and a say in their future.

“This contract is a foundation for the players who come next. It means future players will have stronger protections and a stronger voice. We are proud of what our players fought for and what they have built together.”

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This post originally appeared on cwa-union.org.