Former Captain Cites Girlfriend's Move as Key Factor in Maddy Cusack's Mental Health Struggles
An inquest into the death of Maddy Cusack, a 27-year-old footballer, has heard testimony suggesting that her mental health challenges were significantly impacted by her girlfriend's relocation to a different football club. Cusack was discovered unconscious by her father at their Horsley, Derbyshire, home on September 20, 2023, and passed away on the same day.
At Chesterfield Coroner's Court, Sophie Barker, who was captain of Sheffield United's women's team at the time, stated her belief that Cusack's girlfriend, Grace Riglar, moving away was the primary cause of Cusack's struggles. Barker recounted telling Cusack's family, "Maddy would still be here" if Riglar had remained local.
Impact of Relocation on Relationship
Barker explained the depth of Cusack's feelings, stating, "When Maddy found out Grace was going to go so far away, that affected Maddy. She was infatuated with Grace." She added that Cusack felt abandoned, requiring Barker to reassure her that Riglar's move did not signify the end of their relationship.
Dean Armstrong KC, representing Cusack's family, proposed to Barker that the behavior of head coach Jonathan Morgan and a perceived lack of club support were the main contributors to Cusack's deteriorating mental health. However, Barker maintained her stance, asserting, "No, I believe Grace was the main reason."
Concerns Regarding Coach Jonathan Morgan
The inquest also touched upon Cusack's past experiences with Coach Morgan. Barker testified that Cusack expressed anxiety about Morgan joining Sheffield United in February 2023, based on their prior working relationship at Leicester City. According to Barker, Cusack described Morgan as "unprofessional" and someone who "sold her dreams that, when she went there, weren't real and he chatted a lot of rubbish." Despite these initial anxieties, the inquest heard that Cusack did not delve deeper into issues concerning Morgan with Barker.
Changes in Behavior and Club Observations
Barker observed a significant change in Cusack's demeanor by June 2023, noting she became "quieter" and "more reserved." She described Cusack as simply showing up, training, and leaving, a stark contrast to her previously "very bubbly" personality. Francesca Carr, then head physiotherapist for United's women's team, also provided testimony, indicating she did not have significant concerns about Cusack's mental health compared to other players.
Nevertheless, Carr recalled an incident where Cusack cried excessively after arriving at the wrong training ground, an emotional reaction Carr deemed "excessive for what happened" and a potential "sign." Previously, the inquest heard Cusack felt Morgan's decision to exclude her from the starting line-up was a "personal attack." Morgan, representing himself, inquired if a "collaborative decision" to not play Cusack in his first competitive game was due to an ankle injury and in her "best interests." Carr confirmed, "I think her not playing then, yes, was in her best interests."
The inquest is ongoing.
Source: BBC News
