When the NWSL was founded in 2012, it set new standards for the top division of women’s soccer in the United States. Over the years, with increasing investment, the league grew steadily. However, much of that progress was undone when the league was rocked by abuse allegations that came to light in 2021. 

The situation was extremely difficult for all players, especially those from the Portland Thorns. In response, the NWSL brought in former U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates to investigate the reported abuse, with the results being released on October 3, 2022. Former Portland Thorns player and USWNT legend Becky Sauerbrunn opened up about how they managed to win the NWSL title during such a challenging time.

“It was terrible, absolutely terrible. I remember we were with the national team in England because we had a game at Wembley, and the report came out. We were all kind of reading it, and they asked me to do media, to be the first person to talk on it.” Sauerbrunn told Sam Mewis on her podcast, ‘The Women’s Game’. 

For the defender, it was about carrying the responsibility of speaking out and saying what needed to be said. She also reflected on the importance of players taking care of each other during the changing times. “It was a huge learning experience for all of us, and it’s so sad that it took these things to happen for these changes to be made,” she added. 

Following the NWSL scandal, numerous other national teams came forward with allegations, including players from the Venezuelan and Australian national soccer teams. Five of the then 10 NWSL coaches were fired and there was a significant staff turnover at the top. Since then, there have been several improvements to ensure women have a safer working environment in the sport.

Trinity Rodman grateful for changes in NWSL post-scandal 

In an interview with The Attacking Third ahead of this year’s NWSL final, Trinity Rodman, the star of the Washington Spirit, expressed her appreciation for how far the league has come since 2021. “I think less chaos behind the scenes, more calmness, and yeah, not having to worry about all the stuff behind the scenes and just being able to focus on soccer,” says Rodman. 

And indeed it has been a game-changer for the women’s league. With the new CBA agreement, team expansions, and a chance in the inaugural FIFA Women’s Club World Cup, the league has experienced a phenomenal rise over the past three years.

With more foreign talent joining the league, USWNT legend Alex Morgan believes this will raise the standard and create tougher competition for homegrown players. However, this will be beneficial in the longer run, particularly for Emma Hayes‘ squad, many of whom play their domestic football in the United States.