Steve Malik, North Carolina Courage's owner, stated Wednesday that the National Women's Soccer League club was aware of the 2015 investigation into Paul Riley. However, he said they were "assured he is in good standing."
Last week, the league was rocked by allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct involving Riley. This situation prompted Lisa Baird, commissioner of the league to resign Friday.
Murray: The NWSL's Riley controversy highlights larger league failures
Malik stated via statement that "When we purchased the Western NY Flash, 2017, we did our due diligence to continue working with Mr. Riley's coaching staff." "We were informed of an investigation into Mr. Riley’s 2015 behavior and were later assured that he was in good standing."
Malik apologized for not creating a safe environment, but stated that during Riley's employment with the Courage we did not know of any allegations of sexual harassment and coercion.
The Courage fired Riley last week following allegations that Riley had engaged in harassment and sexual coercion of players while he was with the Portland Thorns.
In 2015, Riley was the subject of an investigation by the Thorns. The reason for Riley's termination was not made public. The Western NY Flash hired Riley shortly thereafter. They later sold Riley to Malik, and the team was relocated.
ESPN has yet to receive clarification from The Courage about whether it was Riley's league that gave assurances.
The NWSL launched an independent investigation into the handling of Riley's accusations. The reports are also being investigated by FIFA and U.S. Soccer. Riley has not yet responded to The Associated Press' request for comment, but has denied all the allegations.
