The crisis is growing in the NWSL. Commissioner Lisa Baird and Senior League Legal Counsel Lisa Levine have been removed from their respective positions by the Board of Directors, reported The Athletic Friday.
This decision comes the day after the dismissal of a coach for allegations of sexual misconduct against players. As a result, the weekend games have been postponed.
This week and most of the season has been very traumatic for our players and staff, and I take full responsibility for the role I have played. I’m sorry for the pain that many feel
, said Commissioner Lisa Baird in the wake of the cancellation of the weekend program.
FIFA also got involved on Friday and opened an investigation.
As part of this investigation, FIFA will communicate with the various parties, including US Soccer and the NWSL, regarding the protection of players and the allegations of abuse that have been made.
, the organization wrote in a statement.
US Soccer also announced the opening of an investigation into the conduct on Friday. odious
reported in the testimonies. The federation says it will call in an experienced investigator who will be granted a total independence
and undertakes to make the findings of the investigation public.
An article from the site The Athletic published Thursday featured testimonies of harassment and sexual coercion from many players who have worked with Paul Riley since 2010. North Carolina Courage responded hours later by firing the coach.
