Maddy Cusack's Mother States Sheffield United Coach Caused Daughter's Death
The mother of Maddy Cusack, a Sheffield United Women's player, testified at an inquest that the employment of the team's coach directly led to her daughter's death. Cusack passed away in September at the age of 27.
Alison Cusack informed Chesterfield Coroner's Court that her daughter considered the coach her "nemesis." She alleged that the coach's conduct created an unbearable environment, stating Maddy was "pushed and pushed and pushed to the point where she just broke." The club suspended the coach after Cusack's death, but he was later reinstated following an internal investigation that found no wrongdoing.
The inquest heard that Cusack had been diagnosed with depression in 2023, exhibiting symptoms of low mood, tearfulness, and sleep disturbances. Despite this, she had reportedly seen improvements in her mental health before her death, with her mother noting Maddy had been "back to her usual self" in the weeks prior. However, the ongoing professional dispute and the club's handling of it appear to have exacerbated her distress.
Sheffield United stated in September that the club was "devastated" by Cusack's death, acknowledging her five years of service and status as the first female player to reach 100 appearances for the team.
