Jessica Berman’s journey to becoming the commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League was far from easy. She stepped into the role at a time when the league was facing allegations of emotional abuse and sexual misconduct, putting her in the position of having to turn around an organization in crisis. This required not only a strong dedication to the mission of creating a safe and positive environment for all involved but also a commitment to rebuilding trust in the league.
Throughout 2023, Jessica Berman worked tirelessly to transform the culture of the National Women’s Soccer League. She focused on increasing the league’s business at a time when women’s sports are experiencing unprecedented growth. By improving players’ contracts through the league’s first-ever collective bargaining agreement, she ensured advancements in compensation and working conditions. Additionally, she brought significant changes to the league by implementing the first-ever million-dollar prize pool for U.S. women’s soccer.
One of Jessica Berman’s key accomplishments was restructuring the league’s personnel by issuing lifetime bans on former coaches involved in the misconduct detailed in the investigation led by Sally Yates. She also imposed fines on teams found to have fostered a culture of abuse. In addition, Berman brought in influential investors like Natalie Portman and star athletes such as Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka to support her vision for professional women’s soccer. These investments have helped to strengthen the league’s financial standing and business prospects.
Under Berman’s leadership, the National Women’s Soccer League has seen significant growth and expansion. The league has expanded to 14 teams from 12, with plans for an additional two teams to join in 2026. This growth has led to an increase in the average team value from $2 million to $66 million, with Los Angeles’ Angel City FC now valued at $180 million. Furthermore, the league’s media rights deal with major streaming and cable partners worth $240 million over four years has significantly increased its reach and distribution to new audiences.
Despite the demanding nature of her role, Jessica Berman credits her success to hard work, ambition, and being true to herself. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, instilled in her by her psychologist mother, as a key factor in her career. Berman also highlights the significance of taking care of herself through activities like spending time with loved ones, running, and practicing yoga, which she believes makes her a better commissioner. She acknowledges the support of the “army of people” who have helped scale the league’s impact and is particularly proud of the validation she has received from those dedicated to changing the narrative about women’s sports.
Jessica Berman’s journey from a determined teenager with a dream to the commissioner of a professional sports league is a testament to her perseverance, leadership, and commitment to making a difference in the world of sports. By overcoming challenges, transforming the NWSL, and building a strong foundation for the league’s future, Berman has not only made her mark but has also paved the way for a new generation of women in sports. Her story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring leaders and athletes, showing that with hard work, dedication, and authenticity, anything is possible.
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