In Alhama de Murcia, a group of players from the Women’s First Division club spoke out to defend their coach, Randri García, amid accusations circulating publicly. A subset of the squad, totaling 15 of the 24 players, released a video in which the group asserts their support for García and clarifies their stance regarding harassment claims that had been reported by some media sources. They state that a unanimous complaint from the entire team was not filed and emphasize that the allegations of serious sexual harassment against the coach are not supported by what they have observed. The prior statement from players, issued the previous Tuesday, carried 17 signatures.
Some players who are not yet on the roster but are expected to join in the coming hours confirmed their participation in the video and stance via social media posts.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT. pic.twitter.com/ZfpNRI2n1O
—LUCIA RAMIREZ (@luciaramirez_03) 19 April 2023
The status of Alhama de Murcia, a team competing in the Women’s First League, has been under scrutiny for some time. Reports and internal discussions have highlighted a challenging environment within the club’s locker room, with allegations of ongoing disrespect toward both the coach and players. It has been noted that instances of harassment, including a sexually explicit image reportedly sent by the coach to players via messaging apps, have been part of ongoing conversations about the club’s culture.
What is considered harassment?
The relevant players’ association notes that the women’s football collective agreement includes a protocol that outlines a roadmap for addressing harassment since 2020. The framework covers non-verbal sexual harassment, such as the display of obscene or pornographic images, written or electronic messages, and any other inappropriate sexual content. It also clarifies that sexual harassment can be directed at a specific individual or be directed at a group through actions, writings, gestures, or words, creating an offensive environment for others.
Based on the documented events and the guidance provided by the agreement, FUTPRO, the players’ union, has indicated that multiple authorities may review the case. These include the Labour Inspectorate, the Supreme Sports Council, and the Spanish Federation. The union also stressed that once evidence is gathered, the club will be notified to activate the Collective Agreement protocol to safeguard players’ rights. The union further stated that indications of such behavior should lead to temporary measures to remove the trainer while investigations proceed, ensuring immediate protection for the players. This stance reflects a commitment to upholding the agreed standards and safeguarding the wellbeing of those involved, with ongoing collaboration among the club, the federation, and the union to determine appropriate actions and resolution.