Four former NWSL coaches banned for life after abuse investigation

The National Women’s Soccer League permanently banned four coaches on Monday in response to an investigation into alleged abuse and misconduct in the league.

Four former coaches Paul Riley (North Carolina), Rory Dames (Chicago Red Stars), Richie Burke (Washington Spirit) and Christy Holly (Racing Louisville) were banned from coaching in the league. Former Utah Royals coach Craig Harrington and former Gotham general manager Alyse LaHue were suspended from working in the NWSL for two years.

The NWSL and its players association announced the results late last month of the investigation, which found “widespread misconduct” directed at players dating back to the beginnings of the league nearly a decade ago.

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.

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/jan/09/four-former-nwsl-coaches-banned-for-life-after-abuse-investigation