Maddy Cusack's eating habits changed after manager's comment, inquest hears
Quick summary
The inquest into the death of footballer Maddy Cusack heard testimony from her girlfriend that her eating habits changed after a comment from manager Jonathan Morgan.
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Attributed to original sourceGrace Riglar fights back tears giving evidence
Cusack called Sheffield United omission a ‘personal attack’
The girlfriend of the late Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack has told an inquest that Cusack’s former manager Jonathan Morgan called her a “psycho” and that her eating habits changed after he allegedly made a comment referencing her weight.
Grace Riglar, who played for Sheffield United for one season alongside Cusack, fought back tears multiple times during an emotional and lengthy evidence session at Chesterfield coroner’s court on Tuesday. At one stage she had to take a break while being cross-examined by lawyers representing Sheffield United.
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What happened
An inquest into the death of Maddy Cusack, a Sheffield United women's team player, has heard from her girlfriend that her eating behavior changed following a comment made by manager Jonathan Morgan. The testimony is part of the ongoing inquest examining the circumstances surrounding Cusack's death. The article reports on details emerging from the inquest hearing, focusing on the impact of the manager's remark on Cusack's wellbeing. This is a deeply sensitive case with significant implications for safeguarding and duty of care standards in women's football.
Chance analysis
This case carries significant implications for managerial accountability and safeguarding protocols in women's football. If the inquest establishes a causal link between the manager's conduct and Cusack's deteriorating mental and physical health, it could prompt policy reviews across the WSL and lower divisions. The story also raises broader questions about the duty of care clubs owe to players and the power dynamics between managers and athletes, particularly in women's football where support structures have historically been less robust.
Potential negative impact on Sheffield United Women's reputation and Jonathan Morgan's career; broader implications for safeguarding standards in women's football.
This inquest testimony may lead to disciplinary action, policy changes, or legal consequences for Sheffield United Women and may affect women's football governance more broadly.