NWSL players file grievance against the league over Rodman contract

The National Women’s Soccer League Players Association (NWSLPA) has filed a grievance against the league after a multi-million dollar contract extension offered to Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman was vetoed by NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman. The NWSLPA is arguing that the veto was a ‘flagrant violation’ of several sections of the current collective bargaining agreement.

Berman, meanwhile, is arguing that the extension would violate the league’s salary cap rules. She also believes it promotes parity, having previously stated that owners not being able to outspend one another is pivotal to parity for the league.

A league spokeperson said in a statement, ‘Our goal is to ensure that the very best players in the world, including Trinity, continue to call this league home. We will do everything we can, utilizing every lever available within our rules to keep Trinity Rodman here.’

What was Rodman’s expected contract?

Rodman was offered a deal reportedly worth $1 million per season, according to USA Today’s Scooby Axson via The Athletic.

Rodman’s offer was also expected to be backloaded, which would’ve benefitted the Spirit, considering that under the current CBA, the league’s salary cap will rise every year through 2030. There is no maximum salary defined by the CBA.

Rodman is one of the most talented players in the NWSL. Her presence in the league helps keep the NWSL competitive with European leagues. Rodman’s departure would undoubtedly cause great harm to an otherwise rising sports league.

Will Rodman remain in the NWSL?

It is unknown whether or not Rodman will remain with the NWSL. That said, Washington Spirit owner Michelle Kang has said that the team will do ‘anything within our power’ to keep Rodman with the club.

According to ESPN, Washington’s new president of soccer operations Haley Carter also called Rodman ‘a top priority.’

The league has recently also lost star players like Alyssa Thompson to Chelsea in September. The added loss of Rodman to a team abroad could do serious damage.