The National Women’s Soccer League is showing tangible signs of growth.
On Jan. 10, the league announced an increase in both the salary cap and roster size, taking effect ahead of the 2019 season, the league’s seventh.
“This is an important step in the growth of the league,” NWSL Managing Director Amanda Duffy said, per the league’s release. “In addition to these roster changes allowing the league and its teams to provide additional employment opportunities for more players, plus additional benefits in connection with housing and auto, this marks the sixth-consecutive season the board of directors has increased compensation.”
Each club may now boast rosters of 22 players — two more than the previous maximum. Additionally, each club is now allowed to sign up to four “supplemental” players at the league minimum. They will not count against the respective club’s salary cap.
Furthermore, the NWSL has increased the salary cap to $421,500 per club, including an increase of $54,000 to accommodate the two newly made openings. The league has also increased the minimum and maximum salaries to $16,538 and $46,200, respectively.
The league also announced each team’s permitted team-assistance cap has “nearly doubled” from the 2018 season. This money is allocated to help players with housing and transportation.
For more on the Pride, as the 2019 preseason draws near, follow Victor Tan on Twitter at @NDR_VictorTan.
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