Maddy Cusack, a 27-year-old former Sheffield United women's player, was found unconscious and died on September 20, 2023, at her family home in Derbyshire [1, 2, 3].
During an inquest held at Chesterfield Coroner's Court on June 30 and July 1, 2026, witnesses described how Jonathan Morgan, Sheffield United women's team coach since February 2023, called Cusack a "psycho" and played mind games with her, causing stress [1, 2].
Grace Riglar, a teammate, testified that Cusack felt uncomfortable under Morgan’s management, viewing decisions such as being dropped from the starting lineup as personal attacks. Riglar said, "She was used to starting every game, she was an important member of the team. When Jonathan came, she was in and out from the starting team a bit" [1].
Morgan also made comments about Cusack’s weight and relationship status, requiring players in relationships to disclose details and referring to Riglar as "Mrs Cusack" [1, 2]. Riglar recalled Cusack’s eating habits changed following these comments [1, 2].
Former team physiotherapist Francesca Carr described the summer 2023 transition at Sheffield United from part-time to full-time women's football as "rushed" and lacking sufficient resources. Carr said, "In my personal opinion, yes. We didn’t have the luxury of having all the roles in place when the season started" [3].
Carr also noted mental wellbeing concerns for players, including Cusack, who was visibly distressed on at least one occasion. Carr raised her concerns with Morgan but believed Cusack's reaction to the stress was "excessive" and "not a normal reaction" [3].
Morgan represented himself during the inquest and challenged some testimony, including whether Cusack had an injury that would have ruled her out of playing in his first match. Morgan claimed she did, but Riglar disputed this [2].
The inquest continues with Sheffield United chief executive Stephen Bettis scheduled to give evidence on July 8, 2026 [3].
