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Investigation Results in Termination of Houston Dash Goalkeeper Coach
The Houston Dash recently made the decision to terminate their former goalkeeper coach, Matt Lampson, as confirmed by an NWSL spokesperson. This action was taken following an investigation into allegations that Lampson had breached “professional boundaries with a Dash player,” which is a violation of multiple league policies.
Lampson’s Suspension and Lack of Cooperation
Lampson has been suspended from future employment within the NWSL until the conclusion of the 2024 season due to these violations and a lack of full cooperation during the investigation, according to the spokesperson.
The investigation was carried out by a third-party attorney jointly appointed by the NWSL and the Houston Dash.
The NWSL spokesperson stated, “The investigator concluded that Lampson had violated the NWSL Anti-Fraternization Policy and NWSL Coach Code of Conduct, which mandate coaches to strictly adhere to professional boundaries. However, there was no finding of a violation of the NWSL Anti-Harassment Policy, which specifically aims to prevent abusive, discriminatory, or harassing behavior.”
Policy Details and Notable Findings
The Anti-Fraternization policy of the NWSL, though not publicly available, outlines restrictions on engaging in any romantic or sexual relationships with individuals (including NWSL players or trialists) under their supervisory influence or management authority. This prohibition extends to pre-existing relationships, as specified in the policy.
The Equalizer was first to report Lampson’s alleged relationship with a player and subsequent dismissal from the team.
Implications and Ongoing Reforms in the NWSL
Lampson was placed on administrative leave during the investigation, prompted by third-party reports of inappropriate conduct with a Dash player, and this leave commenced in January. His termination was officially announced on Monday.
This development comes amidst the NWSL’s broader efforts to address systemic abuse within the league, exemplified by earlier investigations that led to the termination of coaches implicated in sexual coercion and harassment allegations.
Following these investigations, several coaches faced sanctions, and changes in ownership were seen in teams like the Chicago Red Stars and Portland Thorns FC.
The NWSL’s intensified focus on preventing misconduct has led to the establishment of updated reporting procedures, including a RealResponse Hotline for anonymous player complaints and an email address for league human resources.
NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman highlighted the importance of creating robust policies and procedures to ensure a safe and respectful environment within the league and hopes to set a standard that can be emulated by other sports organizations.
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