MLS eyes replacements

Major League Soccer is prepared to start its season this weekend even if there isn’t a labor deal with its referees and other on-field officials. The Professional Soccer Referee Association was certified by the National Labor Relations Board last May to represent referees, assistant referees and fourth officials. It has not reached an agreement with the Professional Referee Organization, which was created by the U.S. Soccer Federation and MLS in 2012 to manage game officials in U.S. and Canadian pro leagues. MLS commiss- ioner Don Garber said “nothing is going to stop us from having a strong opening and to continue to grow the league.” – AP