Former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates issued a statement on Thursday, stating that NWSL players are “entitled to a safe and professional playing environment and accountability for past misconduct.” The statement comes amidst new allegations of abuse against former Red Stars coach Rory Dames and players’ demanding that US Soccer be held accountable.
In a letter, a group of USWNT players demanded “full transparency and accountability” while asking for the results of the investigation that Yates is leading. The investigation was opened in October by USSF as a result of multiple allegations of abuse within the NWSL.
On Thursday, USSF president Cindy Parlow Cone said that those at USSF are “eager to learn from the investigation about any systemic issues that exist in the sport.”
“The scope of our investigation is broad,” Yates wrote. “We are investigating not only allegations of misconduct, but also factors that may have contributed to, perpetuated, or concealed abuse.”
Just got a statement on behalf of @SallyQYates on the ongoing #NWSL investigation for U.S. Soccer.
— Meg Linehan (@itsmeglinehan) February 11, 2022
“This process requires transparency, and from the beginning of our engagement, U.S. Soccer has committed to making our findings public.” pic.twitter.com/A80cvK8BNg
“Our work has benefited greatly from conversations with dozens of current and former players who have been very open and candid about their experiences.”
Yates then reveals that they have established an “independent and confidential” line for reporting abuses in an effort to encourage people to come forward “on whatever terms they prefer.”
“We are hopeful that all parties and organizations will quickly provide the requested relevant documents and information, consistent with their public commitments to cooperate in the investigation,” she continued. “Players deserve meaningful reform.”