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Sophia Woodland, a former Boston University (BU) women's soccer player, has come forward with allegations of psychological abuse and manipulation by former coach Nancy Feldman, echoing similar claims made by Alex Cooper in her Hulu documentary Call Her Alex.
Woodland's Experience
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Woodland revealed that she faced constant scrutiny and criticism from Feldman regarding her body, with the coach allegedly telling her she needed to gain weight to be successful. Woodland claimed that Feldman's behavior was "humiliating" and made her feel uncomfortable.
Woodland also shared that she and her teammates would schedule sessions with the university's psychologist to discuss their experiences with Feldman, and that they would often cry and share similar stories of abuse.
Feldman's Retirement and Investigation
Feldman announced her retirement as the head coach of the BU women's soccer team in April, after 27 years at the helm. Boston University has stated that they have a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment and encourage members of their community to report any concerns.
The university conducted an investigation into claims against former coach Casey Brown, who was accused of acting inappropriately by a different player. However, the investigation found no evidence of sexual harassment, and Brown parted ways with the university.
Empowering Others
Woodland hopes that by sharing her story, she can empower others to speak out against abuse and create a better landscape in college athletics. She believes that the more people speak out, the more conversations can be pushed forward to create change.
"I have a voice and I have an experience, and I feel like I have the ability to voice my experience," Woodland said. "My hope is that just being a regular person now speaking out can hopefully empower other people to share their experience and own their experience."
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or go to 988lifeline.org.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or go to rainn.org.