Alex Morgan, Eli Manning, Lindsey Vonn, More Join NWSL's 1st-Ever Advisory Board

The NWSL announced Thursday a new Advisory Board that's intended to help grow the league's profile and chart a course for women's soccer.

United States women's national team legends Alex Morgan, Julie Foudy and Brandi Chastain are among the luminaries taking part. Two-time Super Bowl champion Eli Manning, three-time Olympic medalist Lindsey Vonn, NBA legend Magic Johnson and MLB legend Ken Griffey Jr. headline the current and former athletes pulled from other sports.

"When we looked across our clubs' investor base, we realized how fortunate we are to have such an extraordinary group of cultural icons, athletes, and leaders who believe — and have invested — in the power and potential of this league," commissioner Jessica Berman said. "Their experience and influence will be instrumental as we continue building not just a league, but a movement — one that redefines entertainment and what's possible in sports."

In addition to her exploits with the national team, Morgan played in the NWSL for 11 seasons. She was also there for the implosion of Women's Professional Soccer, the league that predated the NWSL and went under after the 2011 season.

As both a minority investor in San Diego Wave FC and a member of the Advisory Board, Morgan can provide specialized insight into where the league has room to improve and the possible mistakes it can avoid.

"As players, we've seen firsthand how much the NWSL has grown and how much potential still lies ahead," she said. "What makes this Advisory Board so special is that it brings together people who share our belief in what women's soccer can be — not just as a sport, but as a movement. I'm proud to be part of helping shape the next chapter for the league, the players, and the fans who make it all possible."

The NWSL said the Advisory Board will meet twice a year starting in 2026.

The league is about to kick off the 2025 playoffs. The Orlando Pride and Seattle Reign kick off the quarterfinals on Friday. The championship is slated for Nov. 22 at 8 p.m. ET in San Jose, California.