A former San Diego Wave employee called for the NWSL to remove San Diego Wave president Jill Ellis from her post Tuesday afternoon, accusing the former U.S. women’s national team coach of fostering an “abusive” environment within the club.
Ellis coached the USWNT to the 2015 and 2019 World Cup titles, then joined San Diego in 2022. She helped lead the Wave to the 2023 NWSL Shield as the regular season champions.
Yet her alleged treatment of employees behind the scenes was “nothing short of life-altering and devastating to [their] mental health,” per Brittany Alvarado, a videographer who worked for the franchise during the 2023 season.
Alvarado outlined her experiences with Wave, as well as the factors that led to her June 7 resignation, in a social media post Wednesday. Her allegations come days after the club’s controversial dismissal of head coach Casey Stoney, who inked a contract extension earlier this year.
“Ellis’ actions have been life-altering,” Alvarado wrote. “She prioritizes personal gain over employee well-being, fostering an environment that enables abusive behavior.”
For those who have endured abuse.
For those who are afraid to speak up.
I see you and I will fight for you.This is for you.
The time for accountability in the @nwsl is now.
