Here we go: #NWSL con call to address media questions about the Challenge Cup has just started. Commissioner Lisa Baird, Dell Loy Hansen, and Dr. Daryl Osbahr out of Orlando on the call.

Baird says it took her and the league over 2 months to put together the plans for the Challenge Cup, running through scenarios with owners and consulting with a medical task force of 15 physicians #NWSL

Baird: Final rosters for the Challenge Cup due June 21. Tourno starts June 27. Obviously, very compressed timeline here. She doesn't know yet which #USWNT players might opt out.

#NWSL is dealing with Homeland Security to clear visas for players outside the US to come into the country to play, they're working with an immigration attorney on the issue

Dell Loy Hansen: lots of parts to #NWSL athlete village for Challenge Cup, including taking over a complete Embassy Suites hotel they have equity ownership in, a "robust area" to congregate for meals+recreation while staying in safety protocls, an apt complex, etc.

Baird: #NWSL is sensitive to the fact lots of teams have local sponsors in their own markets that could be put out by the Challenge Cup being in 1 location, she doesn't have details for media yet on that but they're aware it's an issue

Baird: she's been on a call specifically with parents in #NWSL to discuss accommodations for children/families, moms will be able to have child+caregiver join them, but can't comment more yet

Dell Loy Hansen: Part of Utah's successful bid was the state sports commission had already pioneered some sports opening (golf, motocross) so they could build off that, they could offer 8 practice fields, 2 stadiums (large and small). They can give players "robust training."

#NWSL's insurance for players is paying for COVID-19 PCR testing.

Baird: "Being small and nimble has been to our advantage along the way this season." It was still an enormous challenge but she can get every one of her owners on the phone when she needs and building consensus is easier. Bigger league = more challenging. #NWSL

Baird says "230 players plus staff" that Utah Royals staff have been having to handle logistical details for (in addition to the league and other clubs, but obvs Utah staff are dealing with the situation on the ground) #NWSL

Baird, on how strict quarantine will be and if there's some kind of monitoring of players possibly leaving isolation: part of touring Utah's bid sites was wanting it to feel like a welcoming village environment, not like a restriction, so players don't feel trapped
#NWSL

DLH adds there will be essentially "concierge" level service, anything the players need can be brought to them, they "opened the checkbook" and will get them whatever is requested, from snacks to recreation #NWSL

DLH: reinstating some full salaries due to this #NWSL tournament, hotels and apartments are bringing in workers, RSL/Royals org is recalling staff, he is emphasizing the Challenge Cup is creating a lot of jobs in response to Q from @lucaswmuller about furloughing workers