Content overview: “NWSL Settles With Players Association, Drops 'Rodman Rule' Eligibility Criteria for High I”. The NWSL and NWSL Players Association have settled a grievance over the High Impact Player (HIP) rule, eliminating restrictive eligibility criteria that limited which players could earn salaries above the cap. The rule, introduced late last year, allowed teams to spend an additional $1 million on designated star players, but required meeting one of eight criteria, including national team minutes, awards, and media rankings like the Guardian's Top 100. The settlement means any player can now be designated as a High Impact Player, giving teams full flexibility in roster construction and compensation.
The dispute arose after Trinity Rodman was denied the designation, leading to a grievance over contract refusal. This resolution removes a contentious barrier and ensures equal opportunity for all players to be compensated as top talent. This listing links straight to the original page, where the content is available in full.