Growth in the United Soccer League has come in the form of sprawling expansion, rising operational standards and quality of play. And now comes another sign that the circuit is maturing: the formation of a players' union and the imminent start of labor negotiations.
The league this week formally recognized the USL Players Association as an independent labor union representing the workforce in the U.S. second division, known as USL Championship, which sits a level below Major League Soccer.
The sides are expected to open negotiations soon in hopes of striking a deal on a collective bargaining agreement before the 36 teams open the season in March.