Members of the Professional Soccer Referees Association (PSRA) voted unanimously on Tuesday to authorize union leaders to call a strike, a move intended to exert pressure on the MLS’ Professional Referee Organization (PRO) during negotiations over the new collective bargaining agreement. The decision comes as the PRSA CBA expired on Jan. 15 and was extended until Jan. 31, and a potential lockout or strike could significantly disrupt the upcoming MLS season set to commence on Feb. 21. This demonstration of unity among the referees aims to settle long-standing issues regarding compensation and benefits, scheduling, training camps, quality-of-life impacts, and travel arrangements.
Persistent Frustrations and Alleged Unfair Labor Practices
The frustration levels among the 250-plus PSRA officials have risen due to a perceived lack of benefits from the sport’s growth and alleged direct dealing committed by certain PRO managers. Peter Manikowski, president and lead negotiator of PSRA, expressed the union’s concerns, stating, “PSRA officials are committed professionals focused on perfecting their craft. Yet, as the focus should be on bargaining toward a new collective agreement, PSRA has had to address PRO’s alleged unfair labor practices, which undermine the bargaining process.” This statement portrays a sense of disappointment and disillusionment among the referees, who desire a fair negotiation process that aligns with legal guidelines.
The 2022 CBA negotiations between the PSRA and PRO have not been smooth sailing. Throughout the discussions, PSRA officials have remained steadfast in their dedication to the game and their craft. Acknowledging their commitment, Manikowski emphasized, “Officials live for the game. They are asking to be bargained with fairly and in accordance with the law. We know what fair looks like; this is what we do. Our members see this strike authorization as a way to blow the whistle on PRO’s alleged unfair labor practices.” This resolute stance reveals the officials’ determination to be treated justly and to protect the rights of referees across the board, ultimately safeguarding the integrity of the game.
A Chilling Reality – Discrepancies in Treatment
As a stark symbol of the grievances held by the PSRA officials, a tweet from their official account depicted a photo of the thermostat in their locker room during an exhibition match between FC Dallas and Inter Miami CF. The temperature on the thermostat read 42°F, while a message accompanying the image read: “Current temperature in the Referee locker room at the #CottonBowl for tonight’s #MLS game with #FCDallas and #InterMiami. Meanwhile, the players (yes, including #Messi) have heat. Support us. We live for the game.” This social media post effectively highlights the vast disparities in treatment and working conditions between the referees and the players, further amplifying the referees’ demands for fair treatment and improved conditions.
According to sources from The Athletic, there is hope for progress in the negotiations between PSRA and PRO. Although details remain undisclosed, these unidentified sources claim that the two sides are now “closer” compared to their positions two weeks ago. With PRO’s responsibility for administering referee programs in North America and assigning referees to various leagues, including MLS, NASL, USL, and NWSL, the outcome of these negotiations holds significant implications for soccer in the region. As funding for PRO is provided by MLS and the U.S. Soccer Federation, reaching a mutually beneficial agreement is essential for maintaining a harmonious working relationship and ensuring the smooth functioning of professional soccer in North America.
The unanimous vote by the members of the Professional Soccer Referees Association to authorize a strike demonstrates the collective frustration and determination of the referees to address long-standing grievances. The PSRA demands a fair negotiation process, improved compensation and benefits, better working conditions, and an end to alleged unfair labor practices. Through their unified action, the officials aim to protect the rights of referees and preserve the integrity of the game they are deeply passionate about. As negotiations continue, there is optimism for a resolution, with the hope of a more equitable future for professional soccer referees in North America.