NEWS

MLR and USRPA Sign Voluntary Recognition Agreement

Major League Rugby (MLR) and the United States Rugby Players Association (USRPA) announce the signing of a Voluntary Recognition Agreement. This agreement means that the USRPA will become the representative body for all MLR players.

“Through interaction with USRPA leadership over the last few months, it became clear that both parties desired a collaborative approach,” said MLR CEO Nic Benson. “This agreement is the culmination of constructive dialogue and allows us to prepare for structured engagement going forward to the benefit of the league and its players.”

“In our conversations, we have come to understand that the MLR and the USRPA share a common dream of the success of rugby in North America. We are pleased to have achieved voluntary recognition for MLR players. This process provides the framework for players to shape the future terms and conditions of their employment. We look forward to engaging with the league constructively to build a bargained contract focused on the future of the player and the league,” said USRPA board chair and former MLR player Nick Civetta.

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About Major League Rugby

Major League Rugby is a professional sports league representing the highest level of rugby competition in North America. MLR prides itself in fostering intense, high-stakes competition while bringing together a passionate community built on the values of Respect, Inclusivity, and Tradition. Matches are televised on Fox Sports, among other national and local market platforms, and its OTT Platform, The Rugby Network offers fans the ability to stream select MLR matches live, along with Gallagher Premiership Rugby, Allianz Women’s Premiership Rugby, and other international rugby content. For more information, visit www.Majorleague.Rugby and follow @USMLR on Twitter and Instagram.

About the United States Rugby Players Association (USRPA)

USRPA is an independent players’ union established by and operated for the benefit of professional rugby players in America. It has served as the recognized collective bargaining representative for the Players on the United States National Teams (both Men’s and Women’s 7s and 15s). With today’s announcement, USRPA  grows to include a separate bargaining unit for Major League Rugby players who now gain a meaningful role in shaping the future of the sport and how it is played professionally. For more information, visit usarugbyplayers.org or follow @usarugbyplayers on social media.