This Major League Soccer (MLS) report delves into the salaries and working conditions of strength and conditioning coaches and sports scientists. It aims to provide an objective perspective on conversations surrounding salaries and working conditions in sports performance, rather than casting the industry in a negative light. These series of reports have become valuable tools for practitioners during salary reviews, offering a benchmark for comparison.
The MLS survey reveals a notably young practitioner demographic, with no participant over 41 and 61% under 32. This youthfulness might be attributed to the unique demands of the MLS, especially the extensive travel due to the vast geographical distances between teams. A concerning statistic is the mere 3% female representation among practitioners, mirroring the 2.8% in British senior men’s football, highlighting a potential area for industry introspection.
While the salary scales in the MLS surpass some renowned leagues, the pathways to these roles, predominantly through recommendations and networking, emphasize the importance of industry connections. The data underscores the need for continued dialogue on improving diversity and ensuring sustainable working conditions for professionals in the field.
For those intrigued by these insights, a summary version of the report is available for download. However, for a more in-depth exploration of the data and a comprehensive understanding, subscribe to Sportsmith Premium to access the full version.