In a shocking turn of events, former Wales women’s football star Natasha Harding, who now goes by her married name Allen-Wyatt, has been accused of taking money for training sessions she allegedly failed to deliver. The claims, which surfaced in a BBC Wales News report, have sent shockwaves through the Welsh football community.
“Extremely Disappointing” Allegations
The Football Association of Wales (FAW) issued a statement expressing their disappointment over the allegations surrounding their former player. “As a WNT squad that represents our country with pride and looks to inspire the younger generation, it has been extremely disappointing to hear the allegations,” the FAW stated.
According to sources close to the situation, teammates, parents, and even sponsors have come forward, accusing Allen-Wyatt of taking thousands of pounds for coaching sessions that were never fully delivered. The BBC’s report detailed instances of parents and children who felt they had paid for services they did not receive.
Unfulfilled Promises and Missing Funds
One particularly troubling allegation suggests that Allen-Wyatt raised £3,770 from a charity skydive in 2020 but failed to pass the funds on to the intended charities. Parents also claimed to have paid between £180 and £975 for blocks of one-on-one coaching sessions, only to have no more than two sessions actually take place.
“The actions of the individual in question do not represent us as a squad or our values, and some of those actions have also impacted ourselves, our families, and friends,” the FAW emphasized in their statement.
While Allen-Wyatt did not respond to the BBC regarding the claims made by her former teammates or businesses, she did admit to having to cancel “some sessions” she had organized for children. She cited personal issues, such as her “car being written off and the second car breaking down,” and claimed to have provided some refunds.
Support for Those Affected
The FAW confirmed they have been aware of the allegations and have liaised with the police regarding any potential illegal activity. They also stated they have signposted Allen-Wyatt to appropriate support services and offered regular support to current Women’s National Team players affected by her actions.
“The FAW would encourage those potentially affected to reach out for support but also advise that any potential illegal activity should be reported to the police in the first instance,” the association added.
A Tarnished Legacy
Natasha Harding, who scored 26 goals in 103 appearances for Wales, had a prestigious career that included spells at numerous top-flight clubs such as Liverpool, Reading, and Aston Villa. Her social media accounts appeared to have been deleted shortly after the allegations were published, adding to the air of mystery surrounding the situation.
As the Welsh football community grapples with these shocking revelations, questions remain about the full extent of the allegations and the potential fallout for Allen-Wyatt. The FAW’s swift response and support for those affected serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and accountability in the world of sport.
The football world will undoubtedly be watching closely as this story unfolds, with many hoping for a resolution that provides closure and justice for all those impacted by these troubling events.
