NWSL Commissioner Vows Enhanced Player Safety: Lessons Learned from On-Field Medical Crises

The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) is facing a critical turning point, with Commissioner Jessica Berman boldly addressing the urgent issue of player safety head-on. In the wake of alarming on-field medical emergencies that have shaken the league – notably incidents involving star players Alex Loera and Mallory Swanson – Berman has declared that the NWSL has absorbed "tremendous lessons," signaling a pivotal shift towards unparalleled athlete well-being.

No longer content with mere adequacy, the league is now fiercely committed to achieving "best-in-class" medical care for its players.

This isn't just rhetoric; it's a profound commitment underpinned by a suite of rigorous new policies and protocols designed to safeguard every athlete from the moment they step onto the pitch.

The revised NWSL Medical Policy, which sprang into action at the start of the 2023 season, stands as a testament to this commitment.

It’s a comprehensive overhaul, leaving no stone unturned in ensuring immediate and expert response during critical moments. Key among these advancements are the mandatory on-site emergency action plans, meticulously crafted for every venue to guarantee swift, coordinated action in any crisis. Furthermore, the league now demands independent medical spotters dedicated solely to monitoring for potential concussions, a crucial step in protecting players from unseen dangers.

Crucially, every NWSL match must now have certified emergency medical technicians (EMTs) or paramedics on standby, ready to intervene within moments.

The omnipresence of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) is also a non-negotiable requirement, positioned for immediate access, reflecting the league's proactive stance against life-threatening cardiac events. Sidelines are now fortified with strict personnel mandates, requiring not only independent team physicians but also dedicated athletic trainers, ensuring comprehensive medical oversight throughout every game.

One of the most significant evolutions lies in the enhancement of communication channels.

Previously, potential gaps existed, but new protocols ensure seamless, instantaneous information flow between game officials and medical staff. This means quicker identification of issues and more rapid, informed decision-making when every second counts.

Berman candidly acknowledged the monumental task of implementing such sweeping changes across a rapidly expanding league, which has grown from 12 to 14 teams, many operating without their own dedicated stadiums.

"It's a journey," she stated, emphasizing the complexity of standardizing elite medical care across diverse club infrastructures. Yet, this challenge only fuels the NWSL's resolve.

These incidents, though distressing, have served as a powerful catalyst, forging an unyielding resolve within the league to prioritize player health above all else.

The NWSL, still in its relatively nascent 11th season, is evolving at an electrifying pace, and with that growth comes an even greater responsibility. The league is actively collaborating with global player advocacy groups like FIFPRO and the NWSL Players Association (NWSLPA), forging a united front to ensure these enhanced standards are not just met, but continuously refined and exceeded.

The message is clear: the NWSL is not just playing a game; it's building a future where player safety is paramount, non-negotiable, and at the very heart of its expanding legacy.