TAMPA, Fla. (Nov. 8, 2024) – The United Soccer League (USL) announced today that USL Super League clubs have officially recognized the USL Players Association (USLPA) as an independent labor union and the exclusive bargaining representative of its players.
“This is a significant and positive milestone for the USL Super League, as voluntary recognition supports our players’ right to advocacy and collective action,” said Amanda Vandervort, Super League President. “Our players’ passion, commitment, and feedback have been essential to our launch, and as we near the midpoint of our inaugural season, we are proud to work with the USLPA on behalf of the players in building and shaping a long-term sustainable future, together.”
With the USLPA serving as the exclusive authorized representative of the players, the League will establish a “Labor Committee,” consisting of representatives from Super League clubs, to work in partnership with the USLPA. The committee will negotiate and work to ratify a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that will define the employment terms of the league moving forward.
“Today is an important day in U.S. women’s soccer history with the USL granting voluntary recognition to the USLPA on behalf of USL Super League players,” said Connor Tobin, USL Players Association Executive Director. “There has been a clear need for increased opportunities for women professional players in this country for some time. However, it is also imperative that these opportunities are ones which provide players with respect and the ability to self-advocate. Voluntary recognition is an important step towards accomplishing those important goals. The USLPA looks forward to working with the USL in the best interests of all Super League players, and to beginning the collective bargaining process in earnest.”