The NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League) has postponed its weekend slate of games amidst allegations of sexual misconduct levied against several former coaches. The NC Courage fired head coach Paul Riley after it was revealed that numerous claims of inappropriate comments, and abuse were brought forth against him.
Riley becomes the third prominent coach to be dismissed since August, joining Richie Burke (who was relieved of his duties by Washington) and Christy Holly (who was fired “for cause” by Louisville). NWSL commissioner Lisa Baird issued the following statement:
For his part, Riley alleges that the claims against him are “completely untrue”. The NWSL players association convened an emergency meeting in the wake of the latest allegations, leading to the Commissioner’s office announcing that Friday and Saturday’s games would be postponed as part of a collaborative decision with the PA. It is currently unclear whether the postponed matches will be made up at a later date.
Influential figures in the sport have already taken to social media to voice their outrage, including Christine Sinclair, Alex Morgan, and Megan Rapinoe amongst others.
The NWSL’s next scheduled games fall on Wednesday Oct. 6th, with 6 teams in action. At the moment no decision has been formally announced as to whether these games will proceed as scheduled.