NWSL Establishes Influential Advisory Board to Propel League Growth

he National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has introduced a new advisory board designed to support the league’s commercial growth. The board includes high-profile figures such as Alex Morgan, Sue Bird, and Eli Manning. Each member is already an investor in an NWSL club, and every team in the 16-club league will have up to two representatives. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman will serve as chair.

Beginning next year, the advisory board will meet twice a year. According to the league, the group will work on major opportunities related to growth, storytelling, and innovation. The creation of this board follows Berman’s recent three-year contract extension as commissioner.

Alex Morgan, a two-time World Cup champion and investor in San Diego Wave FC, emphasized the significance of the board.
She said:

“As players, we’ve seen the rapid growth of the NWSL and the incredible potential ahead. What makes this Advisory Board unique is that it brings together people who share a vision for what women’s soccer can become—not only as a sport, but as a movement. I’m honored to help shape the league’s future, its players, and the fans who support it.”

Sue Bird and Eli Manning will represent Gotham FC. Other well-known investors on the board include actress Elizabeth Banks (Boston Legacy FC), Olympic champion Lindsey Vonn (Utah Royals FC), and NBA legend Magic Johnson (Washington Spirit).

However, the exact decision-making authority of the advisory board is not fully defined. The league’s Board of Governors—made up of team representatives and Berman—still holds final voting power. The league stated that the new advisory group will collaborate with existing ownership structures to “elevate creativity and alignment” across the NWSL.

Disagreements on the league’s direction do exist. Some owners have held differing views on major decisions, including Berman’s contract renewal, according to reports shared with ESPN.

Berman highlighted the importance of the advisory board’s formation.
She said:

“As we reviewed our investor base, it became clear we are fortunate to have cultural icons, athletes, and leaders who both believe in and invest in this league. Their influence and experience will be essential as we continue building not just a league, but a movement that redefines what is possible in sports and entertainment.”

Inaugural Advisory Board Members