MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER PLAYERS ASSOCIATION

THE PURPOSE OF THE PLAYERS ASSOCIATION IS TO IMPROVE ECONOMIC AND OTHER PLAYING CONDITIONS OF THE PLAYERS AND TO MAINTAIN AMICABLE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PLAYERS, COACHES, MANAGERS AND OWNERS IN MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER (MLS); TO PROMOTE GOOD PUBLIC RELATIONS IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF THE SOCCER PROFESSION; TO NEGOTIATE, EXECUTE AND ADMINISTER COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS WITH MLS RESPECTING CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT GOVERNING PLAYERS, EXCEPT THAT PLAYERS SHALL RETAIN THE RIGHT, PERSONALLY, TO NEGOTIATE INDIVIDUAL ANNUAL SALARIES; TO HANDLE THE DISPUTES AND GRIEVANCES ARISING BY VIRTUE OF AGREEMENTS AND REPRESENTATION, INCLUDING ARBITRATION AND LITIGATION IN FEDERAL, STATE OR LOCAL COURTS, ADMINISTRATIVE AGENCIES, OR THE LEAGUE OFFICE; TO PROVIDE INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE TO MEMBERS AND ENGAGE IN ACTIVITIES TO ADVANCE AND SAFEGUARD THEIR WELFARE; TO DEVELOP SUCH PROJECTS AND ENTERPRISES THAT WILL BRING FURTHER BENEFITS TO MEMBERS AS INDIVIDUALS OR THE ASSOCIATION AS AN ENTITY.