Women's soccer team owned by Gov. Murphy, wife faces criticism amid scathing report of systemic abuse

Since 2008, the governor and his wife have co-owned Sky Blue women's soccer team, which was later renamed Gotham FC.

News 12 Staff

Oct 4, 2022, 10:30 PM

Updated 736 days ago

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The women's soccer team owned by Gov. Phil Murphy and his wife is facing criticism Tuesday following a scathing report of systemic abuse throughout the sport.
An independent investigation into the scandals that erupted in the National Women's Soccer League last season found emotional abuse and sexual misconduct were systemic in the sport, impacting multiple teams, coaches and players.
According to the report, players reported living in houses with broken windows, cracked floors, leaking ceilings, dried mucus on the walls, and, in one instance, a whole human toenail siting on a windowsill.
More than 200 people were interviewed by investigators, including first lady Tammy Murphy. Since 2008, the governor and his wife have co-owned Sky Blue women's soccer team, which was later renamed Gotham FC. The team currently holds its home matches at Red Bulls Arena.
A spokesperson for Gotham FC issued a statement saying, "The U.S. soccer report brings to light several past issues regarding living and playing conditions that have long since been addressed. The team now resides in upscale luxury apartments in northern New Jersey, which has been the case since 2019. The team also plays in the world-class, state-of-the-art Red Bull Arena and trains at the Red Bull's practice facilities. Ensuring high quality living conditions has been a priority for ownership. This was Tammy Murphy's first order of business when she became club chair in 2019. We welcome any recommendations from our players that will enhance their experience and our professional environment."