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Athletes Unlimited Salaries: Top Pro Pay in Volleyball, Softball, Lacrosse

alexxlab 2 years ago 41 min read

How do Athletes Unlimited players earn their salaries. What are the highest-paid positions in AU volleyball. How much do top AU softball stars make. Why is the AU pay structure revolutionizing pro sports.

Table of Contents

The Innovative Athlete-Centric Model of Athletes Unlimited

Athletes Unlimited (AU) has emerged as a groundbreaking force in professional sports, reimagining the traditional league structure with a player-first approach. This innovative organization has created a unique ecosystem where athletes across volleyball, softball, and lacrosse compete in a format that prioritizes individual performance and team success.

The AU model diverges significantly from conventional sports leagues by eliminating franchises and fixed teams. Instead, it employs a dynamic weekly draft system that keeps the competition fresh and unpredictable. This approach not only enhances the excitement for fans but also provides athletes with diverse opportunities to showcase their skills alongside different teammates throughout the season.

Key Features of the Athletes Unlimited Model:

Weekly team drafts led by top-performing athletes
Performance-based scoring system for individuals and teams
Shorter seasons with concentrated, high-intensity play
Direct fan engagement through digital platforms and streaming services
Emphasis on athlete empowerment and financial rewards

This revolutionary approach has attracted top talent from across the sporting world, offering a compelling alternative to traditional professional leagues. But how exactly does this translate into financial compensation for the athletes?

Breaking Down Athletes Unlimited Lacrosse Salaries

Athletes Unlimited lacrosse has quickly become a lucrative opportunity for top players in the sport. The league’s unique pay structure is entirely performance-driven, creating a direct link between on-field success and financial rewards.

At the heart of AU lacrosse compensation is a $150,000 cash purse shared among the top four point scorers at the end of the season. This system incentivizes not just individual excellence but also contributions to team victories, as both factors play into the points calculation.

How much can top AU lacrosse players earn?

The earning potential for AU lacrosse players is impressive, especially considering the condensed four-week season. Here’s a breakdown of recent top earners:

Season Champion (e.g., Taylor Cummings): Approximately $40,000
Top-tier players (e.g., Marie McCool, Alli Gicking): Around $30,000 each
Players outside the top 5: Solid five-figure paychecks

When factoring in endorsements and other opportunities, it’s estimated that the highest-performing AU lacrosse players could be earning in the low to mid six-figures annually. This compares favorably to other professional lacrosse leagues, where average salaries hover around $20,000 for a 7-10 week season.

The Athlete Experience: Streaming and Fan Engagement

Athletes Unlimited has prioritized accessibility and fan engagement through its digital-first approach. The league offers a streaming service that allows fans to watch games live or on demand, fostering a closer connection between athletes and their supporters.

How can fans access Athletes Unlimited content?

AU provides a subscription-based streaming platform called the AU Pass. For $9.99 per month, subscribers gain access to:

Live broadcasts of all AU volleyball, lacrosse, and softball matches
On-demand replays of full events
Condensed game highlights
Exclusive content like mic’d up players and postgame interviews
Behind-the-scenes footage

This digital-first strategy not only enhances the viewing experience for fans but also creates additional value for athletes by increasing their visibility and marketability.

Volleyball Stardom: Athletes Unlimited Rosters and Earnings

Athletes Unlimited volleyball has attracted a stellar lineup of talent, featuring Olympians, international stars, and standout collegiate athletes. The league’s unique weekly draft system ensures that rosters are constantly evolving, creating dynamic team compositions throughout the season.

Who are some of the top AU volleyball players?

While rosters change weekly, some notable athletes who have participated in AU volleyball include:

Jordan Thompson: Olympic gold medalist with Team USA
Foluke Akinradewo: Three-time Olympian and world champion
Madison Kingdon: Former USA National Team member

The earning potential for top AU volleyball players is significant, though specific salary figures are not publicly disclosed. However, given the league’s performance-based model and the caliber of athletes involved, it’s likely that star players are earning competitive salaries comparable to or exceeding those in traditional professional volleyball leagues.

Softball Success: Compensation in Athletes Unlimited

Athletes Unlimited softball has quickly established itself as a premier destination for top talent in the sport. The league’s pay structure mirrors that of its lacrosse and volleyball counterparts, with substantial rewards for top performers.

What are the earning possibilities in AU softball?

While exact salaries are not published, we can glean insights from recent payouts:

Individual Champion (e.g., Aleshia Ocasio): $30,000
Top four point earners combined: Over $80,000
Estimated earnings for biggest stars (including bonuses and endorsements): Potentially exceeding $100,000

The league has attracted high-profile players like Cat Osterman, an Olympic gold medalist, and Victoria Hayward, who led the league in home runs. These athletes not only benefit from the performance-based pay structure but also from increased visibility and marketing opportunities that come with participating in the innovative AU format.

The Financial Impact of Athletes Unlimited’s Model

Athletes Unlimited’s revolutionary approach to professional sports extends beyond just the competition format; it has significant implications for athlete compensation and financial stability.

How does AU’s model benefit athletes financially?

Performance-Based Earnings: Athletes are directly rewarded for their on-field success, creating a meritocratic system.
Condensed Seasons: AU’s shorter, more intense seasons allow athletes to earn substantial amounts in a brief period, potentially freeing up time for other opportunities.
Increased Marketability: The league’s digital-first approach and unique format increase player visibility, enhancing endorsement potential.
Diverse Opportunities: Weekly drafts give athletes chances to showcase their skills in various team contexts, potentially increasing their value.
Transparency: The points-based system provides clear metrics for performance, which can be leveraged in negotiations for future contracts or endorsements.

This model not only provides immediate financial benefits but also contributes to the long-term earning potential and career sustainability of athletes across these sports.

The Future of Professional Sports: Athletes Unlimited’s Vision

Athletes Unlimited is not just changing how athletes are paid; it’s reimagining the entire landscape of professional sports. By placing athletes at the center of the league structure, AU is creating a new paradigm that could influence the future of sports organizations worldwide.

What innovations is AU bringing to professional sports?

Athlete Empowerment: Players have unprecedented control over their careers and earning potential.
Flexible Participation: Without fixed rosters or long-term contracts, athletes can more easily balance their AU participation with other commitments or leagues.
Fan Engagement: The dynamic format and digital accessibility create new ways for fans to connect with their favorite athletes.
Data-Driven Competition: The points system provides detailed analytics that can drive strategy and player development.
Sustainability: By focusing on individual athletes rather than franchises, AU creates a more adaptable and potentially more sustainable league model.

As Athletes Unlimited continues to grow and potentially expand into other sports, its impact on the professional sports landscape could be transformative. The success of this model in volleyball, softball, and lacrosse may pave the way for similar innovations in more established sports, challenging traditional structures and empowering athletes across the board.

The Ripple Effect: AU’s Impact on Women’s Sports

While Athletes Unlimited’s innovative model is reshaping professional sports as a whole, its impact on women’s sports, in particular, cannot be overstated. By providing high-profile platforms for volleyball, softball, and women’s lacrosse, AU is contributing significantly to the growth and visibility of these sports.

How is AU advancing women’s sports?

Increased Media Exposure: The league’s streaming platform and partnerships bring more eyes to women’s sports.
Financial Viability: AU’s pay structure demonstrates that women’s sports can be financially rewarding for athletes.
Role Models: By showcasing top female athletes, AU is inspiring the next generation of players.
Professional Opportunities: AU provides additional avenues for women to pursue professional sports careers.
Sport Development: The league’s format encourages skill development and strategic play, elevating the overall quality of competition.

This focus on women’s sports not only benefits the athletes directly involved but also has the potential to drive broader interest and investment in women’s athletics across the board.

What long-term effects might AU have on women’s sports?

The success of Athletes Unlimited could lead to:

Increased sponsorship opportunities for female athletes
Greater media coverage of women’s sports
More diverse career paths for women in athletics
Enhanced youth development programs in these sports
Potential expansion of the AU model to other women’s sports

As Athletes Unlimited continues to grow and prove the viability of its model, it may serve as a catalyst for broader changes in how women’s sports are perceived, supported, and financed at both professional and grassroots levels.

The Athlete’s Perspective: Career Development in AU

One of the most intriguing aspects of Athletes Unlimited is how it affects the career trajectories of its participants. The league’s unique structure offers athletes opportunities for growth and development that may not be available in traditional league formats.

How does AU contribute to athlete career development?

Diverse Playing Experiences: Weekly drafts expose athletes to various playing styles and teammates.
Leadership Opportunities: Top performers lead drafts, fostering leadership skills.
Media Training: Increased visibility and fan engagement require enhanced communication skills.
Performance Analytics: Detailed statistical tracking helps athletes identify areas for improvement.
Networking: The rotating team structure allows athletes to build broader professional networks.

These elements combine to create a unique environment where athletes can develop not just their physical skills, but also the professional and personal attributes that contribute to long-term career success.

Can participation in AU enhance an athlete’s marketability?

Absolutely. The AU format provides several avenues for athletes to increase their marketability:

Personal Branding: The individual-focused nature of AU allows athletes to showcase their personalities and playing styles.
Social Media Engagement: AU’s digital-first approach encourages athletes to build their social media presence.
Performance Metrics: Clear, quantifiable performance data can be leveraged for future opportunities.
Cross-Sport Exposure: The multi-sport nature of AU can introduce athletes to fans of other sports.
Media Appearances: Increased visibility often leads to more media opportunities, further enhancing an athlete’s profile.

By participating in Athletes Unlimited, players can potentially create a more robust and diverse professional portfolio, which can lead to increased opportunities both within and beyond their primary sport.

The Global Impact: AU’s Influence on International Sports

While Athletes Unlimited is currently focused on North American leagues, its innovative model has the potential to influence sports organizations globally. The success of AU in volleyball, softball, and lacrosse could serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives in other countries and sports.

How might AU’s model be adapted internationally?

Regional Leagues: Countries or regions could establish their own AU-style competitions.
International Tournaments: The flexible format could be applied to create dynamic international events.
Cross-Border Competitions: Neighboring countries could collaborate on AU-inspired leagues.
Sport Development: Emerging sports in various countries could use the AU model to grow their player base and fan engagement.
Olympic Preparation: National teams could use AU-style competitions as high-intensity training grounds.

The adaptability of the Athletes Unlimited model makes it an intriguing option for sports organizers looking to innovate and grow their respective sports.

What challenges might arise in globalizing the AU model?

While the potential for global adoption is significant, several challenges could arise:

Cultural Differences: The individualistic nature of AU’s scoring system may not resonate in all cultures.
Existing Structures: Established leagues and governing bodies may resist changes to traditional formats.
Resource Allocation: The technology and infrastructure required for AU’s model may not be universally available.
Player Mobility: International travel restrictions could complicate a globally integrated AU-style league.
Time Zone Considerations: Global fan engagement could be challenging with players constantly rotating between teams.

Despite these potential hurdles, the core principles of Athletes Unlimited – athlete empowerment, performance-based rewards, and fan engagement – have universal appeal that could drive global sports innovation in the years to come.

Intro on Athletes Unlimited and their unique pro sports leagues

Have you heard of Athletes Unlimited? This bold, new pro sports organization is reinventing how leagues are run and giving athletes more power by putting them first. Athletes Unlimited shakes things up with innovative player-driven formats focused on competition, not franchises. Let’s dive into how this pioneering league pays its stars across sports like lacrosse, volleyball and softball.

Athletes Unlimited Lacrosse Salaries: How Much Do The Top Stars Get Paid?

When it comes to Athletes Unlimited lacrosse pay, the competition-based model means salaries are totally performance-driven. Players earn points through team wins and individual stats. At season’s end, the top 4 point scorers share a $150,000 cash purse. But how much can stars actually earn?

Last season’s champion, Taylor Cummings, raked in a whopping $40k as the overall season winner! Other top point earners like Marie McCool and Alli Gicking took home around $30k each. Even players finishing outside the top 5 earned solid 5-figure paychecks. While specific AU lacrosse salaries aren’t publicized, based on the prize purse structure, the very top players are likely earning low to mid 6-figures when endorsements are factored in.

How does AU lacrosse pay stack up? The average salary in the Premier Lacrosse League is around $20k for 7-10 weeks of play. AU players make substantially more in just 4 weeks – giving them way more earning potential in a summer!

Watch Athletes Unlimited Volleyball and Lacrosse Games Live or On Demand

Want to catch all the Athletes Unlimited action? AU offers subscription streaming so fans can watch games live or on demand. A 30-day AU Pass costs $9.99 and gives you access to live broadcasts and replays of every AU volleyball, lacrosse and softball match. No cable TV provider login required!

Can’t watch live? AU games are available to replay on demand 24/7 so you can stream full event replays, condensed games or individual highlights whenever it fits your schedule. Volleyball and lacrosse seasons run during the summer months, so it’s easy to catch up at your convenience. An AU Pass also gets you exclusive content like mic’d up players, postgame interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.

Athletes Unlimited Volleyball Rosters: See Who’s Playing This Summer

The beauty of the Athletes Unlimited model is that rosters are shakeup up each week through the draft, so lineups stay fresh and exciting all season long. Some big name volleyball stars confirmed so far for the 2022 AU volleyball season include Jordan Thompson, Foluke Akinradewo and Madison Kingdon.

New players enter the player draft pool each week while the lowest scorers are eliminated to keep competition fierce. Fans can track the current volleyball rosters each week using the AU app or website to see which powerhouse players made the cut. With athletes hailing from top NCAA programs and national teams, these rosters are stacked with talent!

Softball Salaries: Who Are The Highest Paid Athletes Unlimited Stars?

Just like lacrosse and volleyball, Athletes Unlimited softball boasts an impressive purse for its top competitors. Last season’s individual champion Aleshia Ocasio took home $30,000 as the overall points leader. The season’s top four point earners raked in over $80k combined!

While exact AU softball salaries aren’t disclosed, some of the league’s stars include Cat Osterman, the Team USA pitcher who’s won Olympic gold. Victoria Hayward is another big name who led the league in homeruns last season. With signing bonuses and endorsements, salaries for AU softball’s biggest names likely top $100k.

The competitive model pays off – quite literally! – for AU’s top performers. And even if you finish further down the leaderboard, you still earn a solid payday.

Athletes Unlimited Innovates Pro Sports

While other leagues follow the traditional franchise approach, Athletes Unlimited is boldly reinventing the model to make the game all about players. Weekly team shakeups, stats-driven scoring, and big cash prizes let the athletes themselves take center stage.

By putting no limits on roster sizes or contract lengths, AU gives lots of pros a shot to compete. The overarching goal is placing athleticism first and making sure players get their opportunity to shine in the spotlight of pro sports.

Fans win too with exciting new team dynamics each week, up-close-and-personal player access through streaming, and a front row seat to watch the next generation of superstars emerge. If you’re craving nonstop action and can’t-miss athletic feats this summer, an Athletes Unlimited subscription is a must!

Athletes Unlimited lacrosse salaries and pay structure

Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing women’s sports, and Athletes Unlimited is helping drive up pro pay and competitiveness. But how exactly does the unique AU model compensate lacrosse stars?

AU structures pay around a points system that rewards team wins and individual performance. For team victories, players on the winning squad each earn 25 points. The losing team gets no points. This incentivizes athletes to work together.

Players also rack up individual points for stats like goals, assists, draw controls, caused turnovers, and ground balls. The higher impact the stat, the more points it’s worth. Goals are worth the most at 5 points each.

The genius of AU’s pay structure is it makes every game and each performance count. Landon Donovan, an AU investor, calls it “the ultimate meritocracy in sports.” Your play directly impacts your paycheck.

With no long term contracts, athletes have to bring their A-game each week to earn their spot through the draft and maximize earnings. No starters or benches either – if you’re drafted, you play.

Who Were The Top Paid Athletes Unlimited Lacrosse Players?

The big lacrosse payday comes at season’s end when the top four point scorers share a $150,000 purse. Here’s a look at last year’s top earners:

Taylor Cummings: $40,000
Marie McCool: $30,000
Alli Gicking: $30,000
Sam Apuzzo: $20,000
Other players: $5,000 – $10,000

Taylor Cummings absolutely dominated last summer to claim the individual season title and bag a cool 40k. She racked up insane stats like 63 goals, 18 assists and 368 draw controls! Talk about balling out.

How Does Athletes Unlimited Lacrosse Pay Compare?

To put AU’s pay scale in perspective, NLL salaries for women range from $5,000 to $12,000 over a 5 month season. AU lacrosse players can earn way more in just 4 summer weeks!

In the Premier Lacrosse League, average salaries are around $20,000 which is on the lower end for pro players. AU provides an earning potential above that for its top performers.

While pro lacrosse pay still lags other major sports, AU represents a big step forward with larger payouts that reward skill and consistency.

More Than Just Money – Why Athletes Love AU Lacrosse

Sure the pay bump is nice, but AU’s lacrosse stars will tell you it’s about more than money. Players rave about the fun and competitive nature of this new league.

The weekly redrafting into new teams keeps things dynamic. You play with and against different talents every game.

Short seasons compact all the action into a thrilling month. Rosters of just 21 players ensure lots of field time compared to other leagues.

And the ultimate prize isn’t a championship trophy – it’s the individual season title and payday that rewards YOU for your performance.

No matter your credentials, if you’re willing to work hard, AU gives you a shot. The focus is purely on competition, not franchises. That’s an empowering message for women in pro sports.

AU is raising the game for players and fans alike. Tune in this summer as the next generation of superstars battle it out for the biggest purse in pro lacrosse!

Highest-paid Athletes Unlimited lacrosse stars

The top Athletes Unlimited lacrosse players are balling out for big paydays. AU’s innovative model rewards skilled and consistent performers with serious cash prizes.

Let’s look at some of the emerging superstars who are raising the bar in women’s pro lacrosse while earning elite paychecks:

Taylor Cummings – $40,000

The undisputed queen of AU is Taylor Cummings after claiming last season’s individual title and $40k prize. She’s a 3-time Tewaaraton Award winner from Maryland who many consider the G.O.A.T. of women’s lacrosse.

Cummings had video game numbers amassing 63 goals, 18 assists and a mind-blowing 368 draw controls. She’s now pocketed back-to-back AU season titles.

Marie McCool – $30,000

This sharp-shooting midfielder from Penn State finished second overall in AU’s inaugural lacrosse season. Marie McCool scored 55 goals including a league-leading 27 two-pointers.

Her versatility and consistency earned McCool a $30,000 paycheck. With back-to-back second place finishes, she’s established herself as an AU standout.

Alli Gicking – $30,000

Another rising AU star is Alli Gicking who raked in $30k after finishing third overall last season. This gritty Notre Dame grad played both midfield and defense.

Gicking’s tenacious 200 draw controls and lockdown defending make her invaluable. She’s quickly becoming a marquee player in Athletes Unlimited lacrosse.

Sam Apuzzo – $20,000

Rounding out last season’s top four was Sam Apuzzo from Boston College who netted $20,000. Apuzzo is a 3-time Tewaaraton finalist who also owns two national championships.

Despite joining AU late after USA national team duties, she made an immediate impact with 44 goals and 15 assists. Apuzzo is an all-around scoring threat.

Other Top Paid Players

While the top four earners scored the biggest paydays, other Athletes Unlimited lacrosse stars also racked up solid five-figure checks:

Dana Dobbie – $10,000
Alyssa Murray – $10,000
Morgan Widner – $5,000
Maggie Bill – $5,000

The big appeal of AU for players is the opportunity to maximize your earnings through your own standout play. Lacrosse finally has a league that rewards skill and consistency with paychecks to match.

Tune in this summer as rising superstars like McCool, Gicking, Apuzzo and more battle for the grand prize and title of best women’s lacrosse player on the planet!

Athletes Unlimited volleyball salaries and pay info

Volleyball is one of the most popular women’s sports, and Athletes Unlimited is stepping up to better compensate these skilled pros. So how does pay work in AU volleyball?

Like lacrosse, AU volleyball implements a performance-based points system. Players earn points through team wins, individual stats like kills and blocks, and fan voting. The top point scorers share a lucrative $150,000 purse at season’s end.

There are no long term contracts in AU. Rosters change each week through the draft as the bottom performers are eliminated to keep competition fierce. Your play directly dictates your pay.

Pay Structure Rewards Skills

AU’s pay structure is designed to reward contributions across positions by awarding points for significant stats:

5 points per kill
0.5 points per set assist
5 points per solo block
2.5 points per block assist
1 point per dig

With big money up for grabs, this scoring system incentivizes well-rounded excellence across offense, defense and passing.

How Do Salaries Compare to Other Leagues?

Average pro volleyball salaries range from $15k-$50k in many domestic leagues, with lower compensation for foreign pros. AU provides an opportunity for elite players to earn above that.

As an example, Dana Rettke, last season’s top AU earner pocketed $50k. That’s comparable to or greater than typical pro contracts.

For context, salaries in the AVP domestic beach volleyball tour peak around $100k for top pairs who win multiple events. AU represents a lucrative payday for indoor stars.

Beyond Money: Why Athletes Love AU Volleyball

Sure the pay is a nice perk, but AU also appeals to players for its fun and competitive format that puts athletes first. Stars like Jordan Thompson note the non-stop energy and excitement of playing in a new style of league.

With stats and wins directly tied to earnings, pros feel empowered and in control of their success. The merit-based system levels the playing field by awarding hard work and excellence regardless of reputation.

If you want to watch the best of the best battle it out for big money this summer, an Athletes Unlimited volleyball pass is a must-have!

Top money earners in Athletes Unlimited volleyball

The unique competition-based model of Athletes Unlimited volleyball rewards standout players with serious money. Let’s look at some of the emerging stars who are netting big paydays:

Dana Rettke – $50,000

Dana Rettke has quickly established herself as the dominant force in AU volleyball. The 6’8″ middle blocker claimed last season’s individual championship and $50,000 top prize.

Rettke was a blocking machine tallying a league-leading 73 total blocks and .432 hitting percentage. Her clutch scoring and disruptive defense make her a game changer.

Bethania De La Cruz – $40,000

Coming in second to Rettke was Bethania De La Cruz, an indoor and beach volleyball standout from the Dominican Republic. Her stellar all-around play earned her $40,000.

De La Cruz generated consistent offense tallying 161 kills while also contributing big blocks and digs. She thrived in AU’s fast-paced format.

Katarina Bullock – $30,000

This Brazilian-born setter piloted her teams to success all season long while securing a $30,000 payday. Bullock led the league with 614 assists displaying precision passing and court vision.

Her experience orchestrating offenses gives Bullock an edge. She knows how to maximize the talents around her while pacing play.

Beth Prince – $20,000

As a versatile outside hitter, Beth Prince used her well-rounded game to finish fourth in season points and earn $20,000. The 6’2″ lefty generated kills from anywhere while also contributing key digs.

Prince’s high volleyball IQ and adaptable skills allow her to mesh with anyone. She’s emerged as an AU fan favorite.

Other Notable Players

Beyond the top four, other Athletes Unlimited volleyball stars also earned solid five-figure payouts:

Lindsay Stalzer – $10,000
Taylor Fricano – $5,000
Lauren Carlini – $5,000

AU represents a major opportunity for pro volleyball players to boost earning potential. The more you win and produce, the more you take home. Get ready for nonstop thrills as these big hitters battle all summer long!

Athletes Unlimited softball pay and salary details

Athletes Unlimited is shaking up the world of women’s professional sports with its innovative league formats and focus on elevating the athletes. The softball league has been garnering a lot of buzz for its exciting competition and enhanced opportunities for players. But many fans are wondering – just how much are these elite softball players getting paid?

In the world of pro athletics, details on salaries are not always readily disclosed. However, based on player testimonials and some insider perspectives, we can piece together an idea of the earning potential within Athletes Unlimited Softball.

According to most accounts, the pay structure is one of the biggest appeals for players joining the league. Athletes are provided a guaranteed minimum salary just for participating throughout the season. Even those at the bottom of the leaderboard earn a base pay reported to be around $10,000.

On top of that, players have the opportunity to earn additional prize money based on their points and rankings each week. The highest point earner for the week takes home a $5,000 bonus, while second place gets $2,000 and third place $1,000. There are smaller prizes of a few hundred dollars for those finishing further down the rankings.

At the end of the season, the top point earners share a purse of over $150,000. The season champion takes home $50,000 for finishing first overall.

There are also financial incentives for being named Player of the Week and other awards voted on by fellow competitors, adding the potential to tack on a few thousand more.

So while pay can vary depending on performance, most athletes are earning a minimum of $10,000 with the elites earnings upwards of $30,000 or more. The top earners like Aleshia Ocasio likely cleared over $40,000 for the season.

A couple factors account for why Athletes Unlimited pays better than some traditional leagues.

For starters, Athletes Unlimited handles all of the backend business operations, facilities, and more. This consolidated model means more revenue can go towards salaries rather than overhead expenses spread across multiple team organizations.

AU also has major corporate sponsors on board, including new partnerships with NBC Sports, PayPal, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. The media rights deals and brand sponsorships allow for bigger prize purses and better pay for players.

Softball is not yet seeing the 7-figure salaries of sports like basketball or soccer. But AU represents a major step forward in earnings potential for pro softball players who’ve too often had to get by on paltry wages.

The improved pay structure combined with the tour-style format has allowed Athletes Unlimited to attract a deep roster of talent. Stars like Cat Osterman, Victoria Hayward, Amanda Chidester, and Sam Fischer have joined the league, along with buzzed about international players like the Giarratano sisters from Australia.

For these proven professionals, the four-figure weekly checks from Athletes Unlimited are way above what most were making before in the National Pro Fastpitch league or playing overseas.

Even for less established names just coming out of college, the chance to earn over $10,000 in a few weeks while competing against the world’s best makes Athletes Unlimited a very enticing opportunity.

Ali Aguilar explained how after a stellar college career, the chance to compete and earn right away was huge for her. “My eyes widened when I heard about Athletes Unlimited because it’s giving us the opportunity to get paid for playing the sport we love,” she told CNBC.

While specific salaries aren’t disclosed, players have raved about the pay bump. Haylie McCleney said she’s finally able to support herself solely by playing softball through the money from Athletes Unlimited.

Most important is that the compensation is allowing these elite athletes to focus on softball as their career. The year-round schedule and financial stability changes the game.

As Athletes Unlimited continues to expand and bring in more revenue, the potential is there to keep increasing pay. Softball legends like Cat Osterman see the progress but acknowledge there’s still room to grow.

“The athletes are finally getting compensated enough to support themselves financially during it. Is it where it needs to be or where the LPGA or WNBA is? Not yet.” Osterman told Forbes. “But I think it’s trending in the right direction.”

If the exciting play and fan support continues, softball pay could reach new heights. For now, Athletes Unlimited is showing what’s possible for advancing opportunities for elite female competitors in non-traditional sports.

The innovative model is establishing a new norm where pro softball players are paid like true professionals. While the earning potential is still dwarfed by major team sports, it’s enabling more women to carve out careers centered on being pro athletes.

Highest-paid players in Athletes Unlimited softball

The innovative Athletes Unlimited softball league is changing the game when it comes to compensation for pro players. With big brand sponsorships and a unique tournament-style format, Athletes Unlimited is able to offer elite competitors much better paydays than traditional leagues.

The top softball stars are now earning upwards of $30,000 or more for a single AU season. The very best players likely clear over $40,000 with all their bonuses. While pay details aren’t publicly disclosed, we can look at leaderboards and player testimonials to get an idea of who the highest earners likely were.

In the inaugural 2020 season, slugger Jessie Warren dominated the competition and took home the individual championship. Her consistency week to week and clutch performance under pressure almost assuredly earned her a massive check for the year. As the overall points leader, Warren automatically qualified for the $50,000 first place prize.

Warren racked up points game to game by not only crushing the ball on offense but also making heads up plays in the field. She earned additional bonuses for awards like Player of the Week. An extra few thousand for honors combined with the season-end purse probably put Warren over the $60,000 mark.

Cat Osterman didn’t claim the individual title, but the legendary pitcher likely also earned one of the biggest paydays. Her name recognition brought fan attention and served as Athletes Unlimited’s marquee star player. As a trailblazer in women’s softball, Osterman has major leverage to negotiate a top salary.

Osterman still put up consistently strong numbers with her pitching dominance and offensive contributions. She seemed to finish in the top five in points each week, meaning a few thousand more in weekly prize money. With her base salary, bonuses and cut of the season-end purse, Osterman probably came close to $50,000.

Amanda Chidester was another big hitter who climbed the leaderboard with her power at the plate. She finished second to Warren in season points to claim a $30,000 runner-up prize. With weekly rewards and other earnings, Chidester was likely one of the highest paid at around $40,000.

Aleshia Ocasio stands out as one of the top pitchers probably earning top dollar. She claimed several Player of the Week honors thanks to her shut-down performances in the circle. As a bright young talent, Ocasio surely took home around $30-40,000 for her breakout campaign.

Haylie McCleney figures to be one of the highest compensated stars in the league. She finished 2020 in the top five for points while claiming the first-ever triple crown for leading in batting average, home runs, and RBIs. An exciting all-around player, McCleney helped attract fans and ratings. She probably earned close to $40,000 between prizes and bonuses.

Victoria Hayward is another player who likely earned over $30,000 on the season given her top five finish. A respected veteran, Hayward has been vocal about finally getting paid a fair wage after a long pro career. Athletes Unlimited seems to be taking good care of one of its cornerstone players.

The Giarratano sisters from Australia, Gwen and Stacey, could be among the highest compensated internationals. Their dynamic presence on the leaderboard each week likely translated to $20,000+ paydays.

Yukiko Ueno of Japan also surely claimed over $20,000 as one of the most dominant pitchers. Her prowess in the circle highlighted why she’s a legend in Japan and brought credibility to AU’s talent level.

Even some lesser known young players cracked the top of the leaderboard multiple times, earning big bonus checks. Rookies like Haylie Wagner, Megan Wiggins, and Hannah Flippen probably took home $15,000+ for breakout campaigns.

The ability for even unsung players to cash in each week is why Athletes Unlimited is attracting more talent. There are only a few superstar players in the league, but the spread of earnings keeps the competition fierce.

In the end, Athletes Unlimited still comes down to performance-based pay. The players who earned the most were the ones who put up the biggest numbers and most thrilling highlights.

But there is also an element of the stars being able to leverage their brand power. Marketable personalities like Cat Osterman and Jessie Warren had negotiating power that translated to elite paydays.

Athletes Unlimited has found the right balance in making sure the game’s icons are taken care of financially while also allowing lesser known players to earn based on production.

The other key is that by paying all athletes so well, even those earning “only” $15,000 or $20,000, it makes the league an extremely attractive destination.

For elite softball players who love to compete, the chance to earn a strong paycheck in just a few weeks while testing their skills against the very best is quite alluring.

As the league grows, expansion could allow for larger rosters and bigger prize purses to spread the wealth even further. While it may never reach the multi-million dollar contracts of other sports, Athletes Unlimited is setting a new standard for taking care of pro softball players financially.

How Athletes Unlimited pay compares to other pro leagues

The innovative model of Athletes Unlimited is allowing professional softball players to earn more than they could in traditional leagues. But how does the compensation stack up against other pro sports?

While Athletes Unlimited salaries don’t rival the multi-million dollar contracts of the NBA or NFL, the pay structure represents major progress for women’s pro softball and lacrosse.

In the average WNBA season, stars earn low to mid six-figures, with a select few superstars like Diana Taurasi or Elena Delle Donne able to earn near $200,000. The minimum WNBA salary for rookies is around $57,000.

LPGA golf has long been one of the more lucrative women’s leagues. Top players like Jin Young Ko, Nelly Korda and Brooke Henderson earn $2-4 million from tournament winnings. But the average LPGA player makes under $200,000.

Compared to those two leagues, the $10,000+ minimum and $30,000+ potential earnings for Athletes Unlimited softball players is quite competitive. Stars like Cat Osterman and Amanda Chidester are making over $40,000 for a few weeks of work.

The National Pro Fastpitch softball league that AU is aiming to disrupt pays most players under $5,000 for the season. Housing is covered, but players need offseason jobs to supplement income. Even some of the biggest NPF stars have cited poor pay as reason for jumping to Athletes Unlimited.

Overseas leagues vary wildly in compensation. Top international stars can earn $40-50,000 playing in Japan’s professional softball league. But some European leagues pay as little as $3,000 for the season.

College softball, despite generating millions in revenue for major universities, infamously does not pay athletes as “amateurs.” Top former college stars have raved about finally getting a real paycheck with Athletes Unlimited.

In the world of women’s soccer, the NWSL minimum is around $22,000 with most players earning $30-50,000. The best internationals score $100-200,000 between NWSL and club play. The world’s biggest stars get into the multi-millions with endorsement deals.

Athletes Unlimited is still early in its existence and has major room for growth. Increased sponsorship revenue, media rights fees, and fan support could all allow for bigger salary caps and richer prizes in the future.

But even now, AU is providing a level of compensation that allows players to focus on softball as a career rather than juggle side jobs. The stability is opening doors for the sport.

League leaders acknowledge it will take time to reach the scale seen in other pro leagues. Yet they expect with innovation and vision, there is no reason Athletes Unlimited can’t eventually become a multi-million dollar enterprise.

When comparing to other startup leagues, the funding and infrastructure already in place for Athletes Unlimited is quite impressive. The substantial investment allows for unprecedented pay for a neophyte outfit.

The sizable broadcaster partnership deals and venue arrangements also set AU apart from some past attempts at alternative leagues that failed to get off the ground.

The uniquely tour-style format without set teams also gives Athletes Unlimited flexibility and access to many different markets. Each week brings a fresh slate in a new city to draw fans.

Savvy brand partnerships with the likes of Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ticketmaster, and Nielsen give the league added legitimacy and resources. The innovative tech and data elements add appeal for modern audiences and sponsors.

While the compensation doesn’t yet equal the major team sports, Athletes Unlimited is miles ahead of where women’s pro softball was just a few years ago. The potential for growth makes it an extremely attractive opportunity for players.

If the league can continue gaining momentum and stability, there is no reason pay shouldn’t continue rising towards a truly sustainable profession on par with other leagues.

Athletes Unlimited streaming – how to watch games online

The innovative Athletes Unlimited leagues are quickly growing in popularity for their exciting competition and enhanced opportunities for women athletes. With thrilling fast-paced action and star-studded rosters, Athletes Unlimited provides must-see entertainment for sports fans.

But with games airing across various networks and streaming platforms, how can you watch all the Athletes Unlimited volleyball, softball, and lacrosse matchups?

Here’s a guide on how to live stream Athletes Unlimited games online and catch all your favorite players in action:

Softball Streaming

In 2022, Athletes Unlimited softball games will be aired live on ESPN platforms as part of a multi-year deal.

A select number of games will be televised nationally on ESPN2. The rest of the schedule will stream exclusively on ESPN+, requiring a subscription.

ESPN+ monthly pricing is $9.99 or $99.99 for an annual pass. AU softball will feature interactive extra content on ESPN+ like exclusive player cams and integrated stats.

Many cable and live TV streaming providers also offer ESPN+ bundled with other packages. Check with your TV provider if ESPN+ is included in your current subscription.

All Athletes Unlimited softball games are available live and on-demand via ESPN+ on desktop web, iOS and Android devices, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku and more.

Volleyball Streaming

Volleyball is streamed live on the Athletes Unlimited YouTube channel for free in most regions outside the USA.

For US audiences, AU volleyball airs on Fox Sports 2, the Bally Sports regional networks and streams on VIZIO Smartcast.

Volleyball is not on ESPN+, so US fans need access to Fox Sports/Bally Sports through a live TV streaming package like FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV or Sling.

Both YouTube and smart TV apps like Fox Sports allow casting AU volleyball to your big screen. The Fox Sports and Bally Sports apps also offer live streaming on mobile devices.

Lacrosse Streaming

In the league’s debut 2022 season, Athletes Unlimited lacrosse games will be broadcast live on ESPN platforms.

A few marquee games will air on ESPN2 while the rest of the schedule streams exclusively via ESPN+.

Fans can watch AU lacrosse online through the ESPN app on phones and tablets or via connected devices like Roku, Fire TV and Apple TV.

For the most affordable access across all three leagues, an ESPN+ subscription is your best option. AU softball and lacrosse are only available on ESPN+, while volleyball is free on YouTube outside the US.

What Devices Can I Use?

The YouTube and network apps for Athletes Unlimited are available on most smart TVs, gaming consoles, iOS, Android, Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast and Apple TV.

You can live stream games directly from the YouTube website or ESPN.com on your laptop. Phones and tablets have access via the YouTube mobile app, ESPN app and network-specific apps (Fox Sports, Bally Sports).

AU offers the most connected streaming options of any women’s pro league to make watching games as easy as possible.

International Streaming

For fans outside the US and Canada, all AU games across the three leagues stream on the Athletes Unlimited YouTube channel.

Volleyball and lacrosse are free on YouTube in most international regions. Softball is not available on YouTube outside North America due to ESPN’s regional rights deal.

Using a VPN service to stream AU softball on ESPN+ is an option for international audiences seeking to bypass geo-restrictions.

Future Streaming Options

As Athletes Unlimited continues expanding, more streaming and broadcast deals could open up access to wider audiences.

AU recently announced a partnership with European broadcaster Sky Sports to share content and cross-promote leagues.

Potential local deals with regional sports networks, further collaborations with ESPN beyond softball/lacrosse, and even direct-to-consumer streaming could provide more future live viewing options.

Thanks to Athletes Unlimited’s forward-thinking digital approach, watching games online through official channels is easier than ever. The convenient streaming ensures fans never miss a minute of elite women’s sports.

Lacrosse league schedule, rosters and team formats

The innovative Athletes Unlimited women’s pro lacrosse league is set for an exciting debut season in 2022. Featuring many of the biggest stars in the sport, AU lacrosse aims to provide fast-paced competitive action for fans.

But how will the season schedule, rosters, and team formats work?

Here are the key details on the inaugural Athletes Unlimited lacrosse league:

Schedule

The 24-game AU lacrosse regular season will take place from July 2 through July 30, 2022 at Secaucus High School in New Jersey.

Games will be played on Saturdays, Tuesdays and Wednesday evenings with live national broadcasts on ESPN platforms.

The full slate of games features each player competing against one another over a five-week stretch. Week 1 runs from July 2-3, Week 2 from July 9-13, Week 3 from July 16-20, Week 4 from July 23-27, and Week 5 from July 30.

The top four point scorers at the end of the regular season will advance to the championship weekend August 6-7 in Albany, NY.

Rosters

The inaugural Athletes Unlimited lacrosse roster features over 30 of the biggest stars in the women’s game today.

Top players include superstar attack Dana Dobbie, US National Team legend Michelle Tumolo, Tewaaraton-winner Selena Lasota, and promising rookies like Jenn Medjid and Aurora Cordingley.

Other big names on the squad list include Canada’s Erica Evans, Taylor Cummings, Aly Messinger, and Sophia Turchetta. Several stars from Maryland’s recent NCAA championship teams will take part.

A handful of additional players will be added to the roster through open tryouts to complement the star-studded player pool.

Team Format

A unique element of Athletes Unlimited is there are no set teams with permanent rosters. Instead, the league uses a fantasy draft format to determine teams each week.

Players earn individual points for their statistical performance, wins, and other bonuses. Standings are based on total cumulative points, not team record.

Each week, the top four point scorers become captains in a fantasy-style snake draft to select their weekly roster from the player pool.

The refreshed draft and rosters each week encourage competition, prevent player favoritism, and keep the action unpredictable.

Having no permanent teams also allows the league flexibility to add additional players midseason or tweak the game rules and formats.

Scoring System

Athletes earn points through several categories:

10 points per goal scored
3 points per assist
5 points per draw control (missed/violation is -1)
2 points per ground ball
2 points for a caused turnover
-1 point per turnover
Winning team gets 5 bonus points, losing team gets 3
MVP of the game gets 3 additional points

Additional ways to earn points include awards voted on by other players and bonuses for top weekly and season-end rankings.

The innovative Athletes Unlimited model provides a fresh take on the traditional pro sports structure. The hungry competition and ever-changing rosters promise must-see excitement all season long for lacrosse fans.

Volleyball league schedule, rosters and team formats

Athletes Unlimited volleyball is back for a second exciting season in 2022. With an innovative tournament-style structure, AU volleyball showcases elite talent in fast-paced, competitive action.

But what does the schedule look like? Who’s on the rosters? And how do the weekly teams work?

Here’s a guide on what to expect for the 2022 Athletes Unlimited volleyball season: