MASL FALL MEETINGS - DAY TWO

by Jeff Husted

The MASL Fall Meetings came to a conclusion on Thursday evening as teams across the league begin their final preparations for the upcoming season.

After the excitement of Wednesday’s meetings, which saw several rule changes and the creation of the new Disciplinary Committee, Thursday’s meetings were centered around MASL business development mainly in the area of media and content.

One development that did come out of Thursday’s meeting was the creation of a new position in the MASL’s front office. Rogelio Cota was named MASL Deputy Commissioner. His role will be to act as a liaison for the MASL in Mexico with a goal of developing expansion and opportunities in that country.

Cota is a prominent figure in Mexico, with successful endeavors in business, sports and politics. He is also a former team owner having operated Soles De Sonora from 2015 to 2018. His involvement will help to create expansion in Mexico and grow relationships with Mexico’s governing soccer organizations.

MASL Commissioner Joshua Schaub brought the members up-to-date on contract negotiations for a pending television contract. While there are more details to come, Commissioner Joshua Schaub is excited for the prospects.

“Arena soccer is one of the most exciting games in the world and we have found a partner that is ready to help us deliver it into the households of families across the North America. We just have to now finalize the appropriate documentation and ensure our IT stack is ready for the broadcast.”

The meetings concluded with the discussion of the 2019 Ron Newman Cup tournament. This year’s playoffs will be structured the same as the 2018 postseason.

The top two teams in each division will face off in a home-and-home series, followed by a 15-minute mini-game to decide the winner if necessary. The semi-finals and championship rounds will be a one-game winner take-all format, hosted by the higher seed.  

The 2018-2019 Regular Season will kick off November 30 when the Orlando SeaWolves host the St Louis Ambush at 7:35 p.m. ET and the Turlock Express visit the Ontario Fury at 10:00 p.m. ET.