Congresswoman Deborah Ross Leads Letter Urging NWSL to Address Systemic Harassment Against Players

Strategic Insights -

Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) led a letter signed by 41 House colleagues to the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) and U.S. Soccer Federation calling for a thorough investigation into reports of harassment and abuse made by NWSL players. The letter highlights the systemic harassment faced by players, including by former North Carolina Courage coach Paul Riley, and emphasizes the need for the NWSL, U.S. Soccer Federation, and the NWSL Players Association to work together to address the issue.

Key Takeaways:

  • The letter calls for a thorough investigation into harassment and abuse claims made by NWSL players, citing a clear pattern of systemic harassment and serious safety concerns for players in the league.
  • The investigation should include all 12 NWSL clubs represented on the Board of Governors, including the potential NWSL neglect with regard to concerns of abuse raised by players or other staff.
  • The demands of the NWSL Players Association (NWSLPA) include that every coach, general manager, owner, and representative of the NWSL board of governors submit to the investigation into abusive conduct.
  • Former North Carolina Courage coach Paul Riley was fired from his position after reports of abuse and harassment by players, and three other NWSL coaches have been fired in the past three months for similar reasons.
  • The letter highlights the issue as personal for Congresswoman Ross, who is the aunt of a high school soccer player who hopes to play in college.
  • The letter emphasizes that women athletes should not be forced to endure mistreatment to compete in sports they love, and that the NWSL, U.S. Soccer Federation, and NWSLPA must work together to address the issue.

Statistics:

  • 41 House colleagues signed the letter to Congresswoman Deborah Ross, revealing a bipartisan effort to address the issue.
  • Three NWSL coaches have been fired in the past three months for inappropriate comments, creating a toxic environment, and verbal and emotional abuse.
  • The NWSL Players Association has made demands for the investigation to include all 12 NWSL clubs represented on the Board of Governors.

Sources:

  • "Letter to NWSL and U.S. Soccer Federation" by Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02)
  • "North Carolina Courage fires coach Paul Riley over allegations of misconduct" by ESPN

(http://www.espn.com/soccer, Oct 2021)