Last year, the National Women’s Soccer League made history in its fourth season as the longest-running top-tier professional women’s soccer league in the country.
There still was uncertainty, however, surrounding the league’s future. Player wages remained low, there was no consistent television partner, sponsorship growth was minimal and it seemed the league still needed to focus on the present, keeping its head above water, rather than planning for the future.
This year, things are different.
The 2017 season kicks off Saturday, and according to NWSL managing director Amanda Duffy, who has been in charge since commissioner Jeff Plush stepped down in March, the league is finally at point where it can begin to formulate a long-term vision and strategy for the future.