The National Women’s Soccer League’s players are in support of players who accused coach Paul Riley due to sexual misconduct.
In support of the allegations against North Carolina Courage coach Paul Riley, the league players from both teams linked arms on the center circle and paused the game for the six-minute mark.
The National Women’s Soccer League Players Association shared a statement to social media. It explained, “Teams will stop play in each of tonight’s games at the 6th minute. Players will join together in solidarity at the center circle for one minute in recognition of the 6 years it took for Mana, Sinead, and all those who fought for too long to be heard.” The association also shared a list of demands for the league regarding investigations into abusive conduct.
Owner and CEO of the Portland Thorns FC, Merritt Paulson said the team terminated Paul six years ago after receiving the complaint from the team member Mana. However, coach Paul deny all the allegations against him and said these are “completely untrue”. He also said, “I have never had sex with, or made sexual advances towards these players.”