A group of former women’s soccer players from Boston University have come forward to defend their former coach, Nancy Feldman, amidst allegations of sexual harassment made by podcaster Alex Cooper. Cooper’s claims emerged in her recent Hulu documentary, “Call Her Alex,” where she detailed her negative experiences within the soccer program. Following the release of the documentary and a subsequent Q&A session, Cooper expressed her feelings of anger towards her coach, the university, and the broader system that allowed such behavior to occur.
The controversy intensified after Boston University issued an official statement on the allegations. In response, TMZ Sports obtained a letter from 99 alumni who voiced their support for Feldman, emphasizing that they did not wish to undermine anyone’s individual experiences but felt compelled to stand by their former coach. The alumni collectively stated that they had “never felt unsafe” during their time at the university, reinforcing that they did not witness or experience any form of inappropriate behavior or sexual harassment from Feldman. They characterized her leadership style as professional and dedicated to the team’s success.
Cooper’s allegations were serious, claiming that Feldman made inappropriate comments about her body and personal life, sought alone time with her, and displayed a concerning fixation. This made Cooper feel isolated and targeted compared to her teammates, fueling her anger and prompting her decision to share her story publicly. Her statement highlights the emotional toll such experiences can take on individuals, especially in a collegiate environment that is supposed to support and protect student-athletes.
Despite the gravity of Cooper’s claims, Boston University did not take immediate action against Feldman, which added to Cooper’s frustration. She and her family expressed their disappointment in the university’s handling of the situation, noting the lack of an investigation into her allegations. Notably, Cooper retained her athletic scholarship despite the claims, raising questions about the university’s commitment to addressing sexual misconduct within its programs.
In light of these allegations, Boston University reaffirmed its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment. The university stated that it has a comprehensive support system and a thorough reporting process through its Equal Opportunity Office, encouraging community members to report any concerns. This statement reflects a broader commitment to ensuring student safety and creating a secure campus environment, which is crucial in academic settings.
As the situation unfolds, it underscores the complexities surrounding allegations of harassment in collegiate sports. The divide between those who support Cooper’s claims and those who back Feldman illustrates the challenges universities face in navigating such sensitive issues. The ongoing dialogue surrounding these events highlights the need for transparency, accountability, and a thorough examination of practices and policies regarding safety and wellbeing in sports programs.
