An inquest into the death of Sheffield United women's footballer Maddy Cusack has concluded that she took her own life. The 27-year-old was found dead at her home in Derbyshire in September 2023.
Inquest Findings and Family Reaction
The inquest, held at Derby Coroner's Court, heard that Cusack had been struggling with her mental health. Assistant coroner Matthew Kewley recorded a conclusion of suicide. Cusack's family said they hope the inquest will lead to changes in football culture, particularly around the treatment of players.
Football Community Mourns
Cusack, who also worked as a club ambassador, had been with Sheffield United since 2019. Her death sparked an outpouring of grief from the football community. Sheffield United said they were "deeply saddened" and have launched a review into their welfare policies.
According to the inquest, Cusack had expressed feelings of anxiety and pressure. Her mother, Deborah Cusack, said: "Maddy loved football, but the environment she was in contributed to her feeling isolated and undervalued."
Calls for Cultural Change
The case has reignited calls for better mental health support in women's football. The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) said it is working with clubs to improve well-being services. A PFA spokesperson stated: "We must ensure players have access to the support they need, both on and off the pitch."
Cusack's family has urged football authorities to take action. Her father, Ian Cusack, said: "We don't want another family to go through this. The sport needs to change."
