FAI coach accused of abuse by female players

Gardai have launched an investigation into widespread allegations that a former FAI coach made unwanted sexual advances on a number of female players in the 1990s.

FAI President Paul Cooke yesterday briefed members of the General Assembly about an “upcoming media release” relating to a “series of allegations of historical abuse of women”.

An identical message was sent to the organization’s ordinary employees by interim CEO David Courell.

An Garda Síochána later confirmed it was investigating at least one complaint.

A separate complaint was also filed regarding a second senior coach.

The FAI has said it is “shocked and appalled” to learn of “disturbing” allegations of abuse made by women playing in Irish football.

The case is the result of a two-year joint investigation by RTÉ and the Sunday Independent, which saw the candid testimony of many former players, trainers and FAI officials.

Some of those interviewed said that they had never told anyone about their experiences and were afraid to do so.

But they have decided to speak out to help make football safer for the ever-increasing number of girls and young women playing the sport. Former players have spoken of the deep trauma caused by the alleged actions of coaches.

Many of those who experienced unwanted advances were reportedly shocked to discover that their former teammates had had similar experiences.

In one case, a female player claimed she was never selected for the national team again after she fled her manager’s hotel room when he tried to kiss her.

Another player told how she felt she was “banished” from her team by her coach after she noticed he was behaving inappropriately towards female players.

“First of all, I feel sad that I’m not the only one. It’s horrible. I hope God allows this to never happen to another girl again,” one of the interviewees said.

Former coaches have denied any wrongdoing. Former Ireland internationals have told the joint inquiry team they were not surprised by allegations of misogyny and abuse abroad.

They also mentioned similar cases taking place in their country, but they did not believe that such well-hidden secrets would ever see the light of day.

A Garda spokesman said in a statement that police were continuing to contact those who made complaints.

“An Garda Síochána has launched an investigation into at least one complaint.”

“An Garda Síochána is unable to comment further at this time,” a spokesman said.

In a statement released yesterday, the FAI said it was “shocked and horrified” to learn of “disturbing” allegations of abuse made by women involved in Irish football in the 1990s.

“The FAI recognises the enormous courage of the women who have come forward publicly to express their concerns and appeals to all involved in Irish football to report any concerns they may have.”

The association said it had contacted the police and Tulsa about the incidents, in line with mandatory reporting requirements and its own child protection and care legislation.

“The Union believes that everyone involved in Irish football should always feel that they are in a safe environment, with appropriate safeguarding and reporting procedures in place and operating effectively,” it added.

Shortly before the investigation findings were published, FAI president Paul Cooke and interim chief executive David Courell sent a joint email to staff.

The letter read: “Everyone, I wanted to inform you about an upcoming media release regarding a series of allegations of historical abuse against women involved in football in the 1990s.”

“You will be able to see the promoted story in the coming days. I would like to assure you that the Association takes this matter very seriously and is cooperating with both the women involved and the relevant authorities.”

“As always, we are here to support all staff. If any of these stories have affected you or you have any concerns, please feel free to contact me…”

Sports Minister Catherine Martin described the accusation as “very shocking”. She said: “I fundamentally believe that sport has to be a safe place for children of all ages.”

“This matter is the subject of an ongoing investigation by An Garda Síochána. “As a result, as Minister for Sport, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time,” she said.

RTÉ Investigates: Girls in Green will be broadcast next Sunday evening on RTÉ One at 9.30pm.