Nearly 100 former Boston University women’s soccer players have rallied behind coach Nancy Feldman, refuting allegations of sexual harassment made by Alex Cooper in her new Hulu docuseries, “Call Her Alex”. The group of alumni signed a letter expressing their support for Feldman, stating that their experiences with the coach were nothing like what Cooper described in her documentary.
The former players emphasized that they never felt unsafe or witnessed any inappropriate behavior from Feldman during their time at BU. They described Feldman as a professional leader who always prioritized the team’s success. The signatories, spanning several decades of alumni, affirmed their continued support for Feldman, who retired from coaching in 2022 after 27 years at the university.
In “Call Her Alex”, Cooper alleged that Feldman had fixated on her during her sophomore year, making comments about her body and pressuring her to share details about her personal life. Cooper claimed that Feldman’s behavior was manipulative and made her feel uncomfortable. However, the former players who signed the letter maintained that their interactions with Feldman were positive and respectful.
Boston University responded to the allegations by reiterating their zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment and encouraging anyone with concerns to report them through the Equal Opportunity Office. Cooper, who graduated from BU in 2017, studied film and television at the university.
Despite the support from the alumnae, Feldman has not responded to requests for comment on the matter. The controversy surrounding the allegations highlights the importance of addressing issues of sexual harassment in sports and ensuring the safety and well-being of all athletes.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, you can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) for support and resources. It is crucial to create a safe and secure environment for all individuals, especially in the realm of collegiate athletics.
