The National Women's Soccer League will kick off its season earlier than ever before next year to work around the Women's World Cup in Brazil. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman gave a wide-ranging midseason State of the League address Wednesday during which she discussed next season's schedule, the impact of the men's World Cup and other topics impacting the league. The league's 15th season will open on Feb. 11, more than a month earlier than this season. The NWSL will pause from June 24 to July 25 during the Women's World Cup as many of the league's players will be on national teams that qualify for the tournament. The men's domestic league, Major League Soccer, will shift its season to a summer to spring calendar next year.