NWSL Settlement creates $5 million fund for players as players went public with allegations of abuse in 2021.
NWSL Settlement agrees to create a $5m fund to compensate players who experienced abuse.
In 2021, players from all around the United States’ top division National Women’s Soccer League went forward with claims of misbehaviour by referees and coaches that dated back more than a decade.
The NWSL was “permeated by a culture of abuse,” according to the results of a joint inquiry into the claims that the solicitors general initiated in 2022. Additionally, it revealed that some teams failed to perform background checks, allowing coaches who had been fired for misconduct to be employed again by other teams.
The NWSL must establish a $5 million fund to compensate players and reform league-wide policies to enhance player safety as part of the settlement, which the solicitors general announced on Wednesday.
“For too long, the hardworking and talented women of the National Women’s Soccer League were forced to endure an unacceptable culture of abuse, harassment, and retaliation,” New York attorney general Letitia James, a Democrat, said in a statement.
She said the settlement “sends a clear message that such misconduct will not be tolerated and ensures players receive the compensation and protections they deserve.”
The NWSL must also continue to adhere to significant modifications to its procedures, which include stringent screening of potential coaches and instruction for players and staff on how to avoid sexual misconduct, under the solicitors general’s supervision.
According to the attorneys general, NWSL might also be subject to $2 million in fines if it violates any of the agreement’s provisions.
Before the 2021 season ended, five of the league’s ten teams fired their head coaches due to player complaints, and the NWSL was rocked by the aftermath from the accusations, which led to the resignation of previous commissioner Lisa Baird and calls for reform.
US Soccer established the NWSL in 2012 and served as its manager until 2020, offering financial and logistical assistance. It is still in charge of regulating the league.