Former Real Salt Lake goalkeeper sues over locker room hazing
Jeffrey Dewsnup is suing the MLS club for $100 million, alleging a toxic environment and misconduct that negatively impacted his career.
Former Real Salt Lake goalkeeper Jeffrey Dewsnup has filed a $100 million lawsuit against the MLS club, citing a culture of locker room misconduct that he claims derailed his career. The 22-year-old alleges that the club failed to implement mandatory child protection policies during his tenure, which began when he started training with the first team at age 15.
The lawsuit details several instances of player-to-player misconduct, including allegations of verbal abuse and physical harassment within the locker room. Dewsnup also claims that a member of the coaching staff, Ignacio Hernandez, forced him to train through a shoulder injury while dismissing his physical pain as feigned. These experiences, according to the complaint, have left him suffering from PTSD.
Real Salt Lake has formally denied all allegations. In a statement, the club emphasized that it takes athlete safety with the utmost seriousness and intends to defend itself vigorously through the legal system. Major League Soccer has also acknowledged the situation, confirming that the league is currently reviewing the claims.
The allegations described in the complaint are serious, and the League is reviewing them carefully. Player safety and well-being are core priorities for the League, and we are committed to maintaining standards, policies, and reporting processes intended to promote a safe environment. MLS Spokesperson
Dewsnup, who signed a professional contract with the club in 2021, retired in 2022 before a brief return to training years later. His lawsuit seeks $20 million in medical expenses and $80 million for lost wages, arguing that the club's failure to address a toxic environment ended his professional potential.