The NWSL Chicago Red Stars' "protracted silence" in the wake of allegations against former coach Rory Dames "came to an end Thursday -- sort of -- but left several questions unanswered," according to Jeremy Mikula of the CHICAGO TRIBUNE. Red Stars Majority Owner Arnim Whisler in a statement "apologized for the 'unacceptable' experiences players had under Dames," whom several former players accused of "verbal, emotional and racial abuse and controlling behavior in a bombshell Washington Post story published in late November." But the statement -- which "did not specifically name Dames" when it was posted -- "lacked true accountability and details about what the Red Stars knew and when, and why they allowed their longtime head coach and de facto general manager to resign." Dames’ resigned on Nov. 21, "hours before the Washington Post’s story" about the allegations (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 2/11). Whisler said that he has "made changes to the Red Stars’ organizational structure to ensure a safe environment for players," including adding "new investment partners and expanding club oversight and management." In Chicago, Annie Costabile notes fan groups have "called for Whisler to sell his majority stake in the Red Stars," and minority owners have "expressed their displeasure with him" (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 2/11).
