San Diego Wave FC and President Jill Ellis have refuted allegations from a former National Women's Soccer League employee of creating an 'abusive' environment, denying it as 'inaccurate and defamatory,' the Associated Press reported.
Former Wave FC's Employees Accusations of a Hostile Environment
Brittany Alvarado, who resigned as the Wave's videographer last month, detailed her accusations in a statement on social media Wednesday, highlighting that the time to make the National Women's Soccer League accountable is now.
For those who have endured abuse.
— Brittany Alvarado (@bavacado2) July 3, 2024
For those who are afraid to speak up.
I see you and I will fight for you.
This is for you.
The time for accountability in the @nwsl is now. pic.twitter.com/ljdC1XUHCQ
Alvarado stands for those who have endured abuse and were afraid to speak up, claiming that the Wave frequently engaged in discrimination against women and showed a complete disregard for their long-term mental well-being. Since the team's establishment, more than 30 employees have either been fired or resigned, with 75% of women describing her and her former colleagues' experiences under club President Ellis as life-altering and devastating. Ellis prioritizes her narcissistic personal agenda at the expense of others, fostering an environment where abusive behaviors among staff are allowed to thrive, Alvarado's post reads.
San Diego Wave FC Denying Allegations
San Diego Wave FC responded by asserting that the post included a fabricated email and emphasized that the allegations, particularly those aimed at President Jill Ellis, are categorically false.
According to Ellis, mental health concerns are a priority for the club, having support measures such as an employee assistance program in place. The team also conducts investigations when allegations of mistreatment arise and sometimes engages independent third parties to assess the workplace, which has never uncovered any wrongdoing.
The Wave further claims their efforts are centered around nurturing a respect, inclusivity, and excellence culture. The statement reads that the false accusations made in Wednesday's post are not only personally harmful but also detract from the team's remarkable achievements and progress.
According to the Times of San Diego, aside from Alvarado, another Wave freelance photographer, Jenny Chuang, revealed that she was placed under suicide watch in 2022, adding she pleaded for assistance as her mental health deteriorated rapidly but was instead pressured to resign.
Chuang expressed in response to Alvarado's post that it breaks her heart that "nothing has changed in the past 2 years."
While Chuang clarified on X that the individuals who allegedly caused her suffering no longer work with the Wave, she has maintained a positive working relationship with the club as a freelancer and has strived to avoid involvement in internal politics since returning to the league.
The National Women's Soccer League also released a statement to address the allegations, citing the safety, health, and well-being of everyone involved with the league as their top priority. All reports of potential misconduct are being taken seriously, and qualified independent investigators are being employed to thoroughly review these allegations, where individuals may be removed from their positions if found guilty of violating their standards and values.
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