NWSL's Jessica Berman Advocates for High Impact Player Rule Amid Grievance
Jessica Berman defends the NWSL's High Impact Player rule during a time when the players association has filed a grievance against it.
As Trinity Rodman celebrated her new contract with the Washington Spirit in Los Angeles, it became a moment to reflect on the issues leading up to this announcement. The team’s management stated that the NWSL’s recent High Impact Player (HIP) rule significantly facilitated Rodman’s retention, a positive outcome for a team previously constrained by a salary cap.
However, the introduction of this rule has not been devoid of controversy. A grievance has been lodged by the NWSL Players Association (NWSLPA) against the rule, stating it was not mutually negotiated and might breach federal labor legislation. This situation raises critical questions about whether the HIP framework can effectively position NWSL teams to attract top-tier talent from competitive overseas clubs.
Commissioner Jessica Berman has characterized the HIP rule as a balanced strategy intended to enhance the league’s financial responsibility, stating, ‘In my best judgment, my fundamental responsibility is to be a responsible steward of capital.’
Conversely, NWSLPA’s executive director Meghann Burke critiques the HIP rule, asserting it does not meet the escalating demands of women’s soccer worldwide and suggests that the league must evolve without limiting growth through restrictive conditions.
The framework of the HIP rule permits each franchise to invest an additional $1 million in player salaries, exempting it from the overall salary cap that stands at $3.7 million for the upcoming season. However, the rule necessitates players meet specific eligibility criteria, which have drawn skepticism for relying on subjective evaluations.
Berman acknowledged this HIP initiative isn’t flawless, admitting that certain prominent players remain ineligible under current guidelines, making it clear that efforts are needed to refine this system.
Overall, while both Berman and Burke present contrasting perspectives on the HIP rule, they agree that the urgency to secure competitive advantages remains and discussions about player compensation must occur in good faith to enhance the sustainability of the league.
