NWSL: National Women’s Soccer League gives life bans to four coaches following abuse and misconduct investigation | Football News

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has permanently banned four people from coaching in the competition in response to an investigation into alleged abuse and misconduct.

Former North Carolina coach Paul Riley, ex-Chicago Red Stars coach Rory Dames, former Washington Spirit coach Richie Burke and ex-Racing Louisville coach Christy Holly have all been given bans.

The investigation stemmed from allegations of harassment and sexual coercion made by two former players against Riley, who was among five NWSL coaches who were either dismissed or resigned amid claims of misconduct in 2021.

US Soccer also investigated reported misconduct in the league.

NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman said: “The league will continue to prioritise implementing and enhancing the policies, programmes and systems that put the health and safety of our players first.

“Those actions are fundamental to the future of our league, especially as we build a league that strengthens our players’ ability to succeed and prosper on and off the pitch.

“As part of our commitment to accountability and deterrence, the league has determined that further corrective action with respect to certain organisations and individuals identified in the Joint Investigative Report is appropriate and necessary.”

The NWSL Players Association said in a statement: “Today the NWSL announced disciplinary sanctions for clubs and individuals who committed or enabled misconduct since the league began in 2013.

“This marks a critical step towards holding clubs and team leaders accountable for their actions, or inactions, that compromised and betrayed player safety.

“People in positions of power who have perpetrated harm on players have been relieved of their duties, banned from the league, suspended or fined.”

More to follow…