On behalf of Soccer Over Gotham we are full of mixed emotions from the constant scandal after scandal that has emerged from the league we cover and love. Our first thought every time a new scandal breaks are the players. #protecttheplayers. The players are why we love this sport. It’s the reason we decided to start a podcast. We wanted to grow the sport and amplify voices in the sport.
We stand with the NWSL players association and want every person involved in the abuse and coverup of abuse to face serious consequences from the top down. Starting with the owners and organizations that enabled and protected this system of abuse.
We welcome FIFA and US soccer’s outside investigations because time and time again the NWSL and the NWSL leadership has failed us and have proven they are incapable of holding themselves accountable and will only protect their own interest over players and fan safety.
As we have previously stated many times. The quickest way to remedy this situation is to give players and former players the levers of power. We demand more former players as coaches, General Managers and serving on boards. We need Union power behind the players as well.
We ultimately want this league to succeed. We want the NWSL to fulfill the promise of being the premier women’s soccer league in the world. It is in no one’s interest that this league fold. We just want accountability and at the very least a safe work environment for players and staff. We want a league we can be proud of.
You can help us grow the league in many ways. Here are a few:
- Donate to NWSLPA. https://www.nwslplayers.com/ Click donate in the upper right corner
- Join supporters’ groups or donate. Supporter’s groups are the way fans take ownership of their teams and the league. https://www.officialisc.com/ Gotham FC official supporter group can be found here: https://twitter.com/Cloud9GOTH
- Believe and amplify voices of victims and anyone who voices support for this fight. encourage others to voice their opinions as well.
- Voice support for union power behind players. https://aflcio.org/press/releases/afl-cio-welcomes-national-womens-soccer-league-players-association-57th-affiliate
- Support and share all your favorite NWSL content creators and news articles. News, podcasts, articles, etc.
- Demand ESPN and other major outlets cover NWSL outside of the scandals.
- Get season tickets for your local club. Even if you do not live near a stadium or can attend the games. You can contact the front office and donate your tickets. Most front offices know of people and groups of people that can use tickets but can’t afford them.
These are just some initial thoughts. More to be added
Gary Gibson
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