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Canada Soccer mishandling harassment allegations: report

TORONTO –

Canada Soccer lacks oversight over its under-20 national team and mishandled sexual harassment allegations against former coach Bob Birarda, according to a report released Thursday.

Canada Soccer has authorized an independent review by McLaren Global Sport Solution. The company conducted 28 interviews, including 23 current and former Canadian Soccer employees and executives. The result was a 125-page report detailing the union’s shortcomings.

“This review clearly demonstrates in black and white how the CSA mishandled harassment allegations in 2008. It provides a schedule of action, details how policies were not followed, and outlines the pattern of failure. Recording the decisions that ultimately led to player frustration and anger said the report continues today.

The report said that due to poor supervision, Birarda abused her position to “groom, threaten, threaten and sexually harass a number of players.”

“Biarda’s conduct was unchecked because of the deplorable nature of the U-20 WNT in Vancouver, poor understanding of harassment policies and reporting procedures among team players, and Birarda’s facade,” the report said. report said. “He is considered “untouchable” because of his strength and influence over the players.”

Canada Soccer parted ways with Birarda at the end of 2008.

Birarda, also a former coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps women’s team, pleaded guilty to sexual assault and groping while in office and is awaiting sentencing. The allegations, which spanned from 1988 to 2008, involved four players.

Major League Soccer is also conducting an independent investigation into Birarda’s connection to the Whitecaps. The report notes that there is no formal agreement between the Whitecaps and Canada Soccer, although many players under the age of 20 belong to both teams.

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