MLS Recognizes Newly-Formed Union Representing Players

The MLS Players Union (MLSPU) has been designated by MLS players to serve as their exclusive bargaining representative. In accordance with the National Labor Relations Act, MLS has recognized the MLSPU. The league expects the collective bargaining process to begin in the near future (MLS). SOCCER AMERICA's Ridge Mahoney wrote that the MLSPU has retained DC-based Sherman, Dunn, Cohen, Leifer & Yellig, which specializes in union representation and labor law. This marks the firm's first venture in sports. Agency Partner Jon Newman, who will serve as chief counsel, said, "I don't pretend to be an expert in soccer or sports or anything in particular. They need labor advice, and that's what we're here for." Mahoney noted a five-member exec board includes Earthquakes F Landon Donovan, MetroStars G Tim Howard, Galaxy D Alexi Lalas, United MF Ben Olsen and Wizards MF Chris Klein. Each team will have a player rep. MLS' recognition of the MLSPU "severs the players from the [NFLPA], which filed a class-action lawsuit on their behalf" in February '97. Among the players' negotiation "points are an increase in minimum salary of $24,000, implementation of a pension/retirement plan, establishment of grievance processes, and some form of free agency amongst league teams" (SOCCER AMERICA, 4/17). Crew G and player rep Tom Presthus: "The league realizes that to be successful everyone needs to work together. Everyone is pretty positive with this union and what it can accomplish. Everybody wants to go into their workplace feeling a little bit of security. We want to be able to put something away so as not to struggle to survive at the end of our careers" (COLUMBUS DISPATCH, 2/20).