Former Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack’s father revealed at an inquest that she expressed distress over her ex-coach joining her new football club just months before her untimely passing. The Chesterfield Coroner’s Court heard that the 27-year-old feared facing stigma and mockery within the club, a concern that weighed heavily on her before she was discovered unresponsive at her residence in Horsley, Derbyshire, on September 20, 2023.
David Cusack, her father, disclosed that in a written complaint to Sheffield United, the family highlighted issues arising from Maddy’s interactions with the women’s team head coach Jonathan Morgan. Maddy, who had previously worked with Mr. Morgan in Leicester, was initially thrilled to join Sheffield United in January 2019, where she also took on a part-time role in the marketing department. However, her happiness was overshadowed when Mr. Morgan resumed his coaching duties at the club in February 2023, leading to a challenging period for Maddy, reminiscent of her time at Leicester.
Describing Mr. Morgan as a unique individual in Maddy’s life, Mr. Cusack expressed his daughter’s disappointment and unease at the prospect of his return. He recalled Maddy’s struggle with maintaining a healthy lifestyle and motivation, indicating a shift in her demeanor before her demise. The inquest further revealed that Maddy’s concerns extended to her football contract, causing her distress as she tried to balance her training commitments with her marketing job at the club.
Despite her talent and passion for sports, particularly football, Maddy’s mental well-being deteriorated as she navigated the challenges of her dual roles at Sheffield United. Her father emphasized the importance of addressing the grievances they had raised, with Mr. Morgan at the center of their concerns. Sheffield United’s internal investigation, concluding in December 2023, found no evidence of misconduct.
The inquest proceedings are ongoing, seeking to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Maddy Cusack’s tragic passing.
For mental health support, please contact the Samaritans at 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org for assistance.