Major League Soccer (MLS), the premier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada, recently announced a bold, game-changing initiative to help boost diversity and inclusion within the organization. The “MLS Development Program” is an invite-only initiative that offers potential employees in the soccer industry a platform to network and develop their skills and gain experience in the league.
This new program is part of the league’s wider effort to improve diversity among not just its players, but also its staff, officials, and operators. MLS has been recognized as a leader in diversity and inclusion by many groups, having been the first professional sports league to adopt a comprehensive diversity and inclusion policy back in 2017. Now, with this new initiative, they are taking things one step further.
The MLS Development Program is an opportunity for potential employees to learn from experienced professionals and gain an understanding of the operations of the league. Through the program, professionals from various backgrounds will be invited to connect with MLS clubs and personnel, as well as other members of the greater soccer community. Those invited will receive valuable mentorship opportunities, educational resources, and connections to potential employers in the field, creating a more diverse pipeline of talent for MLS teams.
This type of program is not only beneficial for MLS and soccer, but also serves as a valuable example for all employers looking to diversify their workforce. Creating an opportunity for potential applicants to gain experience, network and build relationships, and develop their skills is a crucial step in developing a successful and diverse workplace. Inviting potential employees to experiences, engagements, and programs such as this one gives employers the chance to get to know their potential team members, beyond just what is on their resumes.
With the MLS’s development program and other similar initiatives across the sports and entertainment industry, HR professionals can gain insight into what it takes to build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce. While this is not an easy or quick process, actively developing pipelines of talent will be an important step towards progress and success.
It is also important to remember that this kind of program is not a one-time solution and requires ongoing effort and commitment. Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace requires continuous communication, dialogue, and education, and organizations must be proactive in addressing any and all needs of their current and potential employees.
By creating a comprehensive development program, the MLS is taking the lead in establishing a more diverse and equitable environment in professional soccer. Through offering these opportunities to potential new hires, the MLS is creating an environment where diverse talent is welcomed, encouraged, and developed — a powerful step for the league and for the sports industry as a whole.
