Former Cheltenham Town Women captain Emily Owen has accused an unnamed individual of turning the club into a "dictatorship where players feel psychologically unsafe." Owen, who made more than 130 appearances over four years, announced her departure on Monday. In a subsequent message, she cited "a lack of an individual's principles and outright failures in processes" as the reason for leaving.
Allegations of Unsafe Environment
Owen stated that one person holds excessive control within the team, creating an environment where players feel psychologically unsafe. She also claimed that three other players have left the club "on moral grounds as boundaries were crossed, that shouldn't be crossed in women's football."
Club Response
A spokesperson for Cheltenham Town Women said the club takes all matters relating to the welfare and wellbeing of its players "extremely seriously" and is committed to ensuring every player, staff member, and volunteer is treated with respect and feels safe, valued, and supported. The club added that any concerns brought to its attention will be handled appropriately, sensitively, and in line with relevant policies and procedures.
