More speak of soccer’s toxic culture

PLAYERS, parents and members of the football community from grassroots through to the elite level have expressed concerns about the toxic culture within women’s soccer.

Following Matildas legend Lisa De Vanna’s allegations of indecent assault, sexual harassment, harassment, bullying and grooming during her career with the Matildas, News Corp Australia has been inundated with more allegations at every level.

The majority of people contacting NCA will only speak on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution.

Some parents have revealed their teenage daughters had been subject to bullying and grooming at the top grade levels.

Australian of the Year Grace Tame reached out to De Vanna for her courage to call out the toxic culture.

Ms Tame went public to tweet: “Thank you for your voice and bravery, Lisa. Sending you support, love and respect.”

De Vanna’s allegations have sparked a national discussion about sexual harassment in sport, and follow international incidents involving women’s football in the US, Finland and other countries.

The FA will hand over the investigation to Sport Integrity Australia after De Vanna and other players broke the code of silence.