Players Association Calls for Change After Angel City FC Incident
In a dramatic turn of events that has sent ripples through the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the Players Association has voiced strong concerns over the handling of a medical emergency during a recent match. The incident in question occurred during the game between Angel City FC and the Utah Royals on Friday. The match was marred by a nearly 10-minute delay as medical personnel attended to Angel City defender Savy King, who collapsed on the field.
The Players Association has made a compelling case for the NWSL to revise its protocols, advocating for the abandonment of any match that necessitates life-saving measures. This call to action comes after King was rushed to a local hospital in Los Angeles, where she underwent surgery on Tuesday. Doctors discovered a heart abnormality, but the team has since assured fans that her “prognosis is excellent.”
Despite the gravity of the situation, Friday’s match resumed and concluded after King was transported off the field. The emotional toll on the players was evident, as members from both teams gathered in the center circle, locking arms in a show of solidarity and concern.
The NWSL Players Association released a statement emphasizing the need for humanity and sound judgment in such critical moments. “These moments demand humanity, sound judgment, and restraint,” the statement read. “Any medical emergency that requires the administration of life-saving care should bring play to an end. The match should not have continued.”
The statement further highlighted the need for automatic suspension of matches in incidents of such severity, underscoring the importance of prioritizing collective humanity. “Our members are elite, world class competitors who have proven they can perform under unimaginable conditions. That does not mean they should have to,” the statement concluded.
The incident has sparked reactions from across the league, with notable figures like Trinity Rodman of the Washington Spirit and the United States national team taking to social media. Rodman expressed her disapproval, stating, “In no world should that game have continued.”
In response, the NWSL issued a statement on Saturday, asserting that “league protocols were followed from both a medical and game operations perspective,” while also committing to a further evaluation of its processes. However, the league did not disclose the specifics of these protocols or identify who made the final decision to continue the match. Angel City emerged victorious with a 2-0 win.
On Wednesday, the league released another statement, reiterating its commitment to player safety. “Player safety is paramount to the NWSL. The seriousness of this incident requires a deliberate process that is careful and methodical. That process is underway and will include necessary revisions that prioritize the consideration of player, staff and fan well-being. Please continue to respect Savy’s privacy.”
- The Players Association is advocating for match abandonment in life-threatening situations.
- Angel City FC’s Savy King underwent surgery for a heart abnormality.
- The NWSL is reviewing its protocols following the incident.
- Trinity Rodman and other players have publicly criticized the decision to continue the match.
As the league navigates this challenging situation, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of all players, staff, and fans. The incident has undoubtedly sparked a necessary conversation about the protocols in place and the need for potential changes to better protect those involved in the sport.
Originally Written by: Jeff Kassouf
