Washington Spirit CEO stepping down amid allegations of toxic workplace

National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team Washington Spirit CEO Steve Baldwin is stepping down amid allegations of a toxic workplace. 

In a statement posted to Twitter, Baldwin said he’s listened to team leadership and players regarding their concerns “about the Spirit’s workplace culture and our prior coach’s conduct.”

He added that everyone, including him, is committed to improving the culture at the club and “returning the focus to the players and the pursuit of a championship.”

“With that goal in mind, and at the recent request of our players, I have decided to resign as CEO and Managing Partner of the Washington Spirit, effective immediately,” Baldwin said.

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— Washington Spirit (@WashSpirit) October 5, 2021

The news comes a week after the team fired coach Riche Burke amid allegations that he was emotionally and verbally abusive towards players.

In August, the team said it was investigating after former Spirit defender Katie McCullough told The Washington Post that Burke would yell obscenities and insult her during a practice session, and that he also made jokes about her race. 

In his statement, Baldwin said the decision to resign was “an extremely difficult decision for me.”

“I have no doubt made some mistakes, but my efforts and focus were always on building a professional experience for our players, the club’s profile and the beautiful game in the DMV. I hope that stepping back removes me as a distraction and allows the club to thrive,” he said.

Allegations of harassment within the NWSL have come to light in recent weeks. Aside from Burke, North Carolina Courage coach Paul Riley was fired last month after he was alleged to have sexually coerced players.

NWSL Commissioner Lisa Baird resigned last Friday amid abuse allegations against coaches.