“These moments demand humanity, sound judgment, and restraint,” boldly remarked the National Women’s Soccer League Players Association, condemning the league and its officials for allowing the Angel City vs. Utah Royals match to continue despite a life-threatening incident involving 20-year-old Savy King, who collapsed due to a heart attack. Although the American defender was taken off the pitch on a cart after a 10-minute stoppage, the match continued until the final whistle. However, the NWSLPA took a stand against this unacceptable decision, prompting the league to investigate the incident further.

This swift action in vocally speaking out resonated not only with players and fans across the league but also with former NWSL star Sam Mewis, who expressed her gratitude for the association’s existence and its commitment to protecting player welfare. This heartfelt confession came on May 21st in the latest episode of the Good Vibes segment of The Women’s Game podcast, which she co-hosted alongside Becky Sauerbrunn.

When the topic surfaced during their tete-a-tete, Mewis said, “I feel so grateful that the players have such a robust union now. Thinking back to years ago when our union wasn’t as strong or even when it didn’t really exist, something like this god forbid could have happened and I don’t think that we would have been organized enough to call for this kind of a protocol change.”

Sam also heaped praise on Meghann Kay Burke, attorney and executive director of the NWSLPA, who had also led the collective bargaining agreement which was successfully approved by the stakeholders. The former Manchester City star praised Burke for making this association so strong that it forced the league to act quickly.

“It takes organization and collective action to call for better from the league and I think that’s exactly what happened here. So with such a horrible situation, I’m grateful that it has worked out the way it has and that we’re in a position to create change,” concluded Mewis.

Notably, the NWSLPA took a dig at the league, stating that any medical emergency requiring life-saving care should result in an immediate halt to play, emphasizing that the match should never have continued under such circumstances. “Incidents of this severity must prioritize our collective humanity and should automatically trigger suspension of the match. The Players Association is committed to making this the standard in NWSL,” the statement added.

Even though players of a world-class caliber rarely ever complain about performing under such “unimaginable conditions,” the NWSLPA stated it hardly gives the stakeholders the right to carry forward with the match. Similar was the viewpoint echoed by fans and other players. Even Washington Spirit star Trinity Rodman voiced her concern over the incident, stating, “In no world should that game have continued.” 

But even though such steps were taken by NWSLPA and those concerned, what did the league have to say in response?

Jessica Berman-led NWSL assures quick action over the Savy King incident

Following the incident, the NWSL initially shared a relieving health update regarding Savy King, insisting that she was out of danger. The next morning, Angel City and the 20-year-old’s family shared a statement that King had undergone a successful heart surgery. Even the former Bay FC defender personally assured fans of her health scare.

“I know God’s got me and I’m looking forward to recovering and getting back out on the field!” she said in a lengthy message shared last week to thank fans, teammates, and everyone who prayed for her the whole time. Later, Commissioner Jessica Berman-led league broke their silence on the issue.

“Player safety is paramount to the NWSL. The seriousness of this incident requires a deliberate process that is careful and methodical. That process is underway and will include necessary revisions that prioritize the consideration of player, staff, and fan well-being.”

Yet, it’s unfortunate that NWSL didn’t live up to their word, eventually ignoring the gravity of the incident and rather carrying forward with the match. No wonder NWSLPA stepped up to take matters into their own hands and fight for Savy King.