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NWSL Marks Mother’s Day With Visible Returns for Player-Parents

Expanded protections with new facilities show how the league builds support for athletes with families.

Overview

  • The league spotlighted player-parents for Mother's Day, with clubs noting recent births across Washington Spirit and Bay FC rosters.
  • Angel City forward Claire Emslie, who gave birth in December, was moved from maternity leave to the active roster and said training time has boosted her mental health.
  • Mallory Swanson advanced to full-contact training with Chicago Stars FC this month after welcoming a child in 2025.
  • Sophia Wilson returned to a U.S. women’s national team camp after more than a year away and is now playing regular minutes for Portland Thorns.
  • The 2022 CBA and its 2024 expansion guarantee salary, childcare and dependent care help, nursing accommodations, and inclusive parental leave, while club sites like Angel City’s add a children’s playroom and even an on-site ultrasound to make family life workable.