NLL and Official's Association at Impass as Season Nears
With the 2010 National Lacrosse League season scheduled to begin in less than eight weeks, the National Lacrosse League Official's Association (NLLOA) is still working to reach a contract settlement with the league.
According to NLLOA President Tom Sutton, the referee's group had agreed to significant concessions for 2010 despite having reached an agreement in principal; a three-year deal that was recognized and followed all of last season. "As officials, we understand the economic climate as this season rapidly approaches. We agreed to help the league save money," said Sutton. "Despite our willingness to negotiate, the league has not shown the same willingness or courtesy to the NLLOA."
The NLLOA was presented with the league's "last, best offer," which was overwhelmingly rejected by the NLLOA membership. The membership is dismayed over the negotiating process. "We have never had direct contact with NLL Commissioner George Daniel throughout this process, either by phone or email. He has not been directly involved with the NLLOA during contract discussions. The NLLOA has requested face to face meetings, which have also been declined. As a recognized bargaining group we find this unusual," said Sutton.
Perhaps even more disconcerting to the NLLOA membership is that the league appears to be offering contracts to each individual member of the group, as opposed to the collective bargaining unit as a whole entity.
The league appears to be ready to "move forward" without the membership of the NLLOA. "We know that officials throughout the United States and Canada have been contacted by the league to work for the 2010 season. We know some of these referees are currently officiating at much lower levels, some are youth referees. We believe it is irresponsible for the league to contact replacement officials. It is reckless that some may not currently have the experience to work at the professional level. We trust that the NLL players and team management would find this to be unacceptable as well. The NLLOA has worked endlessly to better ensure the safety of the players. Not using NLLOA referees for this season would be a huge step in the wrong direction," said Sutton.
The league's officials are hopeful the NLL will negotiate with the NLLOA to work toward an agreement before the start of the season. "We are willing to work toward a settlement, but unfortunately it does not appear that the league is willing to negotiate further. We remain committed to open dialogue, and are willing to meet with Commissioner Daniel whenever necessary."
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