Maddy Cusack death: Sheffield United launch ‘external investigation’ after family claims player’s ‘spirit was broken’ A statement shared on behalf of Cusack’s family said there was a gradual change in her attitude from February. The player died at her home in September.
A “thorough external investigation” has been launched into the death of Sheffield United FC midfielder Maddy Cusack, after her family said her spirit was “allowed to be broken”. The club agreed to carry out the investigation at the request of Cusack’s family, after the 27-year-old died at her home in Derbyshire on 20 September.
Just before her death, Cusack had started her sixth season with the Blades in the Women’s Championship and was the longest-serving player in their squad, with over 100 appearances. Derbyshire Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. Last month, a coroner opened and adjourned an inquest into her death, local media have reported. On Monday, the Maddy Cusack Foundation, launched by the footballer’s family, shared a speech on social media attributed to Cusack’s mother, Deborah.
Originally made in late October, the statement was made during the former vice captain of the Blades’ memorial service.
Her mother said in it that Cusack’s “happy-go-lucky” demeanor had gradually soured after February and that football was the reason she was giving a speech at the memorial.
“The unbreakable, unquenchable spirit—Maddy—that I had so bravely guarded was allowed to break starting in February of this year. removing her from my presence,” the statement said.
“Those who knew Maddy well will know that she never struggled with mental health issues or problems for a long time. If there were, it wouldn’t be anything to be embarrassed of, but there weren’t. That should be known by those who were unaware of her.
“Maddy was a carefree, happy-go-lucky girl who had everything to look forward to. She was at her happiest by last Christmas.” Everything gradually changed starting in February of this year.”
The statement went on to say: “Sheffield United Football Club have agreed at the request of Maddy’s family to carry out a thorough external investigation into the events that her family believe contributed significantly to her passing at the tender age of 27.”
There’s “no secret, nor should there be” regarding the investigation, it stated.
Former Sheffield United goalkeeper Nina Wilson shared the later-modified social media post and expressed support, saying: “Very important read, time to do better football.” We won’t forget her.”
The Chelsea FC Women forward Lucy Watson continued, “Never going to stop loving you Mads,” as she shared the image on her Instagram story.
The Sheffield United FC chose not to respond.
Cusack was employed by the team as a marketing executive prior to becoming a player.
In July, the ex-youth international for England inked a new contract extension with the Blades.
