U.S. Soccer (
) head of the program, former national team woman Cindy Pallo, said somberly, "The truths uncovered in this report are heartbreaking and raise deep concerns. The abuses detailed in the report should never happen in any sport, on any training ground, or in any workplace.
"As the governing body of the program at the national level, we
Every effort will be made to ensure that players at all levels can thrive, learn and compete in a safe and respectful environment. We have taken all possible steps quickly and plan to convene the heads of soccer programs at all levels across the country to explore ways to work together to bring about substantial and lasting change in the soccer ecosystem." Palo struck a firm tone.
It's worth noting that while the report didn't focus directly on youth soccer, it did reveal potential pitfalls: "The roots of abuse in women's soccer run deep, and can't be eradicated by NWSL reforms alone." In addition, a series of investigations by the Guardian last year revealed frequent allegations of sexual harassment and forced sexual behavior in U.S. college women's soccer leagues.
