Soccer world reacts to horrible NWSL investigation findings

The National Women’s Soccer League concluded a self-commissioned investigation on various misconducts throughout the league.

According to the Associated Press, “widespread misconduct” occurred in the NWSL since its inception in 2012. The investigation followed a similar one conducted recently that found similar misconduct.

The investigation’s findings were terrible. According to the AP, “The NWSL-commissioned report said club staff in positions of power ‘made inappropriate sexual remarks to players, mocked players’ bodies, pressured players to lose unhealthy amounts of weight, crossed professional boundaries with players and created manipulative working conditions.'”

Additionally, reports of cultural rot led to players being unwilling to speak up. The AP reported, “The reporter said an ingrained culture contributed to players’ unwillingness to come forward, including fears about the instability of the league and job security, the expectation of gratitude and acquiescence, sexism and gender bias, and a lack of confidence in the league’s response.”

Confidence in the NWSL has certainly diminished. And the timing of the revelation didn’t help matters either. Jeff Kassouf tweeted, “NWSLPA exec director Meghann Burke about the timing of the report’s release during Men’s World Cup Game: ‘I have been singularly focused on the players I represent.’ Also didn’t want this hanging over players’ heads over holidays, which are near.”

Kassouf also tweeted a quote from commissioner Jessica Berman. He tweeted, “NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman also follows by reiterating that the timing of the report was about when it was finished, and alludes to disappointment that there might be a narrative around the timing of its release.”

These various instances of misconduct have resulted in various firings and dismissals around the league. The NWSL simply must reevaluate and change course after such shockingly gross findings were made public.

[Associated Press]