NWSL probe issues corrective steps for Bay FC coach
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Bay FC head coach Albertin Montoya was accused of misconduct and bullying. Photo: Eakin Howard/NWSL via Getty Images
An investigation into Bay FC head coach Albertin Montoya found "shortcomings" in his communication style but no violation of workplace harassment policies, the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) said this week.
Why it matters: The league launched an independent probe after the club, which kicked off its inaugural season in 2024, faced allegations of harboring a toxic work environment, with Montoya accused of causing emotional distress through misconduct and bullying.
Driving the news: The NWSL said in a written statement that investigators made a series of recommendations to "facilitate more effective communication and enhance support structures, which the NWSL, Bay FC and Coach Montoya have taken, and are continuing to take, to address such concerns."
- Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, which conducted the probe and interviewed current and former players and staff, did not return requests for comment.
State of play: Bay FC spokesperson Jeff Husted confirmed to Axios via email that the club has already begun implementing some of these recommendations, such as weekly executive leadership coach sessions and twice-a-week meetings with the club's mental performance coach for Montoya.
- Other initiatives include weekly individual check-ins with players, weekly meetings between "non-captain" player representatives and general manager Matt Potter and "individual development programs" for all players.
- The club also hired two full-time staff members during the 2024 offseason to focus on player care and development off the pitch, according to Husted.
What they're saying: Bay FC "will continue to take feedback ... on any additional improvements needed," Husted said.
Catch up quick: The allegations against Montoya, first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, came as the NWSL sought to crack down on sexual misconduct and verbal and emotional abuse, which a 2022 U.S. Soccer report said had "become systemic."
- In February, the league agreed to establish a $5 million fund for players harmed by abuse or harassment as part of a settlement stemming from over a decade of allegations.
What we're watching: The NWSL said it would modify its system for reporting potential harassment after an April report by the Chronicle detailed widespread confusion and flaws in the process.