NWSL says ‘no finding’ KC Current retaliated against players, announces sanctions

The National Women’s Soccer League on Monday released a multitude of corrective actions taken in light of findings contained in the U.S. Soccer Federation’s investigative report on misconduct across the league, as well as a joint investigation by the NWSL and NWSLPA.

The KC Current were named in the joint investigation after “concerns” were raised about possible instances of retaliation taking place within the club. The report detailed a number of claims against former Current head coach Huw Williams.

The league said Monday that it did not find evidence the Current retaliated against players.

“While it is concerning that several players raised concerns about being mistreated or retaliation upon raising those concerns, there is no finding that the club retaliated against players,” the NWSL said in a statement.

Williams and the Current parted ways in November, a split that was not made public until the day the joint investigative report was released.

Four other former NWSL coaches were barred from coaching in the league again. Paul Riley, Christy Holly, Rory Dames and Richie Burke are permanently banned from the league.

In addition, Level One Organizational Sanctions — which include a fine of no less than $1 million and orders to implement systemic changes — were levied against the NWSL’s league office and U.S. Soccer as governing bodies, as well as the Chicago Red Stars and Portland Thorns organizations.

The Red Stars’ and Thorns’ principal owners, Arnim Whisler and Merritt Paulson, respectively, will be selling their stakes in their organizations, with the aid of the NWSL ,in an “expeditious and appropriate manner.”

The NWSL also levied fines against Racing Louisville, the North Carolina Courage, OL Reign and Gotham FC.

“The league will continue to prioritize implementing and enhancing the policies, programs and systems that put the health and safety of our players first,” NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman said in a statement.

“The league and its clubs have taken meaningful steps to begin this structural reform and understand and accept the continual commitment to enhancing league standards that are necessary to build a safe and positive environment for our players, staff, fans and partners. ...

“These changes will require leadership, accountability, funding and a willingness to embrace this new way of conducting business.”

This story was originally published January 9, 2023 at 3:45 PM with the headline "NWSL says ‘no finding’ KC Current retaliated against players, announces sanctions."