Former Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack’s father revealed at an inquest that she felt “disheartened” about her ex-coach joining her football club shortly before her passing. The Chesterfield Coroner’s Court heard that Cusack, aged 27, had concerns about potential stigmatization and mockery at the club. She was discovered unresponsive at her residence in Horsley, Derbyshire, on September 20, 2023.
David Cusack, her father, mentioned that their family had raised issues to Sheffield United regarding her relationship with the women’s team head coach, Jonathan Morgan. Cusack had expressed happiness after leaving Leicester, where she initially collaborated with Morgan, but her spirits dampened upon his return as her coach at Sheffield United in February 2023. Allegedly, her experience at Leicester was marred by unpleasant circumstances.
Describing his daughter’s demeanor, Mr. Cusack noted that she had never encountered someone like Morgan before, particularly criticizing his interpersonal skills. Cusack thrived upon joining the South Yorkshire club in January 2019 and also began working part-time for the club’s marketing team.
Expressing his daughter’s reservations, Mr. Cusack admitted that she was apprehensive about Morgan re-entering her life but tried to remain optimistic about the fresh start it could offer. Concerns were raised about Cusack’s declining motivation and change in dietary habits leading up to her demise.
Mr. Cusack disclosed that Cusack was troubled by her football contract during the summer of 2023, feeling a sense of dissatisfaction. Balancing her full-time football commitment with her marketing role posed challenges, causing a decline in her enthusiasm due to reduced earnings compared to the previous year.
The inquest also revealed Cusack’s concerns about mental health support within the team, as she feared repercussions if she sought help. Despite being prescribed medication, she avoided disclosing her mental health struggles to avoid potential exclusion or ridicule.
Regrettably, Cusack’s life was cut short, prompting her family to demand accountability from those they believed were responsible for her struggles. Sheffield United’s internal investigation, concluding in December 2023, found no evidence of misconduct. The inquest is ongoing, exploring the circumstances surrounding Cusack’s tragic passing.
