The world of professional women’s soccer should be defined by strength, skill, and empowerment, but too many players have endured sexual abuse, harassment, and systemic betrayal by those in positions of power. Coaches, trainers, and officials who exploit their authority can shatter careers and lives, while leagues and organizations too often turn a blind eye. At Phillips Law Group, we stand with survivors of sexual abuse in professional women’s soccer, and we are determined to hold abusers and enablers accountable under the law.
Changing the Culture Around Abuse in Sports
Recent investigations have exposed alarming cases of sexual misconduct in women’s soccer, from youth leagues to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Predators thrive in environments where institutions prioritize reputation over safety – institutions that ignore or bury complaints to avoid scandal.
In some cases, the abusers manipulate power dynamics by using their influence to coerce, intimidate, and silence players. Then, those players who have faced sexual abuse in professional women’s soccer may fear retaliation and worry about what will become of their careers if they speak out.
In 2022, a report detailing “sexual misconduct, verbal abuse, and sexual coercion by coaches in the National Women’s Soccer League” was released which found that inaction to address known issues was a problem in the league, according to NPR.
“Our investigation has revealed a league in which abuse and misconduct – verbal and emotional abuse and sexual misconduct – had become systemic, spanning multiple teams, coaches, and victims,” the report revealed.
“Abuse in the NWSL is rooted in a deeper culture in women’s soccer, beginning in youth leagues, that normalizes verbally abusive coaching and blurs boundaries between coaches and players.”
Turning to the Legal System for Justice
The tide began to turn after a few players went public with accounts of sexual misconduct by coach Paul Riley. Players claimed he subjected them to “unwanted sexual advances, expressed inappropriate interest in their personal romantic relationships, and had once urged two players to kiss each other or else face difficult training exercises,” NPR reported.
The investigation ultimately ended with a settlement with the league to create a $5 million victims’ fund and to put in motion other reforms. It stemmed from a criminal inquiry led by the District of Columbia attorney general. D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb told reporters, “Coaches verbally abused players, sexually assaulted players, coerced them into inappropriate relationships, and retaliated against those who resisted or spoke out,” according to NPR.
“The league was aware of this pervasive illegal conduct, and yet time and time again did nothing to protect its players.”
But the tide is turning. Brave athletes are coming forward, and we believe them and their stories. The legal system can be a powerful tool for justice, and in cases of sexual abuse in professional women’s soccer, we want to help women utilize that system.
Legal Options for Survivors
Sexual abuse in sports isn’t just a moral failing; it’s often actionable negligence. Survivors may have claims against individual perpetrators, teams and leagues, sports clubs, and more.
Taking action may result in securing compensation for medical care, therapy, lost wages, and the profound emotional toll of abuse. More importantly, it forces institutions to change.
Often, sports organizations have deep pockets and legal teams dedicated to protecting their interests. Survivors need attorneys who understand both the trauma they’ve endured and the aggressive litigation required to challenge powerful systems. Our team at Phillips Law Group can help.
Work with Phillips Law Group
If you or someone you love experienced sexual abuse in professional or elite women’s soccer, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Together, we can demand accountability, expose systemic failures, and help prevent future harm.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free, no-obligation, confidential consultation. Your voice has power, and justice is possible. Call 602-222-2222 to learn more.
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