Investigation uncovers systemic abuse in pro women’s soccer

Sexual misconduct, verbal abuse, and emotional abuse have "become systemic" in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), the top pro league for women's soccer in the US, per an investigative report published yesterday by the US Soccer Federation. (TW: this story contains details of SA.)

⚽ A deeper dive… The independent probe was run by former acting Attorney General Sally Q. Yates. It began last October, after a report from The Athletic detailed allegations of sexual harassment and coercion dating back a decade against an NWSL coach who was still active in the league.

• Yates’ investigation also uncovered numerous instances of abuse, carried out by two other coaches. These included sexual misconduct, coercive tactics, and "manipulation that was about power, not improving performance."
• The report describes consistent missteps by team executives, league officials, and the US Soccer Federation after they were told about – and provided with evidence of – abuse allegations. "Abusive coaches moved from team to team, laundered by press releases thanking them for their service, and positive references from teams that minimized or even concealed misconduct," it said.

📝 Bottom line: Yates' report concluded the league was more concerned with the risks of drawing negative attention than player safety and well-being. Alongside its publication, the US Soccer Federation announced it'll immediately begin implementing the recommendations included within, including forming a safety task force consisting of at least one-third membership of athletes.