Navigating Parenthood and Relocation: The Challenges Faced by NWSL Players
Transfers, moving and motherhood: The hidden cost of traveling as an NWSL player and mom
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National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) players face significant challenges when relocating, especially as mothers. The emotional and logistical burdens are compounded by the need to establish new support systems for their children. Recent improvements in league policies aim to provide better support for these players during transitions.
- 01NWSL players like Crystal Dunn and Kailen Sheridan highlight the emotional toll of relocating with children, often having to rebuild their support systems.
- 02The league's latest collective bargaining agreement has improved parental leave and childcare benefits, allowing players to balance motherhood and their careers more effectively.
- 03Players now receive 100% of their salary during pregnancy-related absences, and parental leave extends to all parents for up to eight weeks.
- 04Travel support for children has expanded, now covering those up to 14 years old, easing the burden for traveling players.
- 05International moves present additional challenges, as seen with Ary Borges, who navigated relocating with a toddler who did not speak English.
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Relocating for National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) players, particularly those who are mothers, presents unique challenges that blend emotional and logistical difficulties. Crystal Dunn, a World Cup champion, shared her experience moving from Portland to New Jersey with her newborn son, emphasizing the strain of uprooting family life and establishing new support systems. The NWSL has made strides to assist players through its latest collective bargaining agreement, which enhances parental leave and childcare benefits. Players now receive full salaries during pregnancy-related absences and are eligible for up to eight weeks of paid leave. Additionally, the league has expanded travel support for children, now accommodating those up to 14 years old. However, moving internationally adds complexity, as illustrated by Ary Borges, who faced the challenge of relocating with her toddler who did not speak English. Despite these hurdles, many players find community support essential in easing their transitions, allowing them to focus on their careers while ensuring their children's well-being.
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The improvements in NWSL policies significantly aid players in balancing their professional and personal lives, particularly benefiting those with families.
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