The USL has recognized the USL Players Association as the exclusive bargaining representative of players in USL League One, extending membership in the union that already represents players in the USL Championship, the United States’ second division, to players in the third division. This will enable the USLPA to participate in the first collective bargaining agreement in USL League One history.



“Today is another historic day in US Soccer history with USL granting voluntary recognition to USLPA on behalf of USL League One players,” read a joint statement provided to The Athletic by the USL and USLPA. “Soccer in the United States is growing at a tremendous rate and League One is a major part of that growth. Both the USL and USLPA are committed to working together in the best interests of all League One players and look forward to beginning the bargaining process in earnest.”



The development came about after a majority of League One players...