In a unanimous vote, members of the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) have authorized union leaders to call a strike as a tactic to apply pressure on the MLS’ Professional Referee Organization (PRO) during negotiations over the new collective bargaining agreement. The previous CBA expired on Jan. 15, but an extension has been in place until Jan. 31. With the looming threat of a lockout or strike, the upcoming MLS season set to start on Feb. 21 is in jeopardy. This move is reminiscent of the 2014 negotiations when PRO imposed a two-week lockout before reaching a final deal.
At the heart of the matter are crucial issues such as compensation and benefits, scheduling, training camps, other quality-of-life impacts, and travel arrangements. Peter Manikowski, president and lead negotiator of PSRA, expressed the frustration felt by officials who believe they have not reaped the benefits of the sport’s growth. Allegations of unfair labor practices by certain PRO managers have added another layer of complexity to the bargaining process, diverting attention from the primary goal of reaching a new collective agreement.
According to Manikowski, PSRA officials are dedicated professionals who strive to perfect their craft in service of the game. They demand to be treated fairly and within the bounds of the law. The strike authorization is seen as a means to draw attention to PRO’s alleged unfair labor practices and to protect the rights of officials throughout the league. Despite their love for the game, the officials find themselves in the uncomfortable position of having to confront management about the working conditions that directly impact their performance on the field.
A powerful message was delivered by PSRA officials through a tweet showcasing the low temperature in their locker room during an exhibition match between FC Dallas and Inter Miami CF. The photo highlighted the stark contrast between the comfortable conditions enjoyed by the players, including renowned figures like Messi, and the chilly environment in which the referees were expected to prepare for the game. This visual representation of the disparities further underscores the grievances held by the officials.
Despite the tensions and looming threat of a strike, sources suggest that the two sides have made progress and are now “closer” to reaching an agreement compared to two weeks prior. PRO, responsible for managing referee programs across North America and assigning officials to various leagues including MLS, NASL, USL, and NWSL, is primarily funded by MLS and the U.S. Soccer Federation. As negotiations continue, both parties are under pressure to find a compromise that addresses the concerns raised by PSRA officials while ensuring the smooth operation of the upcoming soccer season.
The looming strike authorized by PSRA officials serves as a wakeup call to management regarding the treatment of referees within the organization. It highlights the dedication and professionalism of the referees who are essential to the game yet often overlooked in discussions about player welfare and league operations. Moving forward, a fair and equitable resolution must be reached to uphold the integrity of the sport and prioritize the well-being of all individuals involved in professional soccer.
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