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SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Royals FC issued a statement Friday night in response to claims of abuse made on social media earlier in the day by former goalkeeper and Lindon native Carly Nelson.
"Utah Royals FC prides itself in creating a positive and supportive experience for our players and staff. We take any allegations counter to this with the utmost seriousness and urgency. We were saddened to learn of a former player's experience.
"Everyone deserves safe and supportive environments on and off the field of play. Our goal is to enable our athletes, our staff and employees to enjoy a nurturing, healthy and respectful workplace for all."
Nelson posted several slides of text on Instagram and X after taking a season-long excused mental health absence from the team beginning in May 2024.
We shouldn't have to choose between our mental health, & our careers. These organizations need to foster safer environments, ensuring all athletes, employees & staff are supported & cared for, not harmed. Organizations need to be part of the solution, not the root of the problem. pic.twitter.com/jNEHerGOja
— Carly Nelson (@thereal_icarly) January 10, 2025
"After deep reflection on my time with the Utah Royals, I can no longer stay silent about the emotional and psychological abuse I endured there," Nelson said. "Despite raising concerns internally and seeking support for my mental health, I was met with resistance and public retaliation from the coaches responsible.
"Taking mental health leave back in May wasn't optional for me. It was the only way to survive the relentless toxicity I was subjected to."
Nelson played four seasons of college soccer at the University of Utah between 2016 and 2019 before beginning her professional career with the Seattle Reign in 2020. She played for the Kansas City Current, Danish club FC Nordsjælland and the Orlando Pride before being traded to Utah in December 2023.
The Royals announced the signing of University of Texas keeper Mia Justus on Dec. 30 to serve as the team's third keeper behind Mandy McGlynn and Cristina Roque with Nelson no longer part of the roster.
NWSL teams can begin preseason preparations on Wednesday, Jan. 15 before the start of the 2025 season in mid-March.
