The recent revelation by acclaimed retired Matildas player Lisa De Vanna of sexual abuse in women’s soccer is sobering.
Sexual Harassment, Grooming, and Bullying
Ms De Vanna: “suggested she suffered sexual harassment, indecent assault, grooming and bullying from senior players throughout her career with incidents since 2001.”
Ms De Vanna’s allegations further illustrate what goes on in the locker rooms of elite Australian athletes.
What is especially worth noting is that sexual abuse is not restricted to men abusing women. The abuse she says she was subjected to was by senior female players but also mentions coaches and administrators that could very well be men. Ms De Vanna mentions no names.
Football Australia has Received Ms De Vanna’s Complaint
Football Australia has received her complaint calling on players and coaches and administrators to come forward with their experiences.
Again as has been said and underlined in previous posts on this site, naming and shaming alleged sexual abuse does little to right any wrongdoing if it exists.
Complainants should lodge a complaint with police to investigate the matter to determine whether there is a prima facie case to answer.
