The Washington soccer team has reached a deal with its former cheerleaders who were featured in indecent videos shot without their knowledge during bathing suit photo sessions in 2008 and 2010.
Lawyers from both sides confirmed the agreement, which according to a source was indeed concluded in 2020, but without specifying the exact date. The terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The Washington Post was the first to report on the settlement. No lawsuit was filed.
Over the years, when certain private clips were exhibited, two videos were made. Props were used to protect these body parts, and sometimes these props were insufficient.
The Washington Post reported extensively on the filming in August, and a former employee, Brad Baker, said employees were instructed to record the video for owner Dan Snyder, who denied the allegation. Baker worked in the franchise’s broadcast department from 2007 to 2009. Two other sources told the Post that a similar video was made at the request of the team’s former vice president and broadcaster, Larry Michael. He too denied the allegation.
Following a series of reports in the Washington Post last summer, the NFL continues to investigate the culture of the organization. The reports included allegations of sexual harassment by 15 women against former teammates. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said last week that the investigation, led by Beth Wilkinson, is “nearly complete.
“It’s important to me that the Washington Soccer Club has already made a lot of changes,” Goodell said. “Dan and Tanya [Snyder] are going to make those changes for the soccer club. It’s nice to see that. But I expect Beth’s recommendations will complement it.
Meanwhile, the franchise has also announced the suspension of its support program as part of its rebranding while changing its name and logo. According to multiple sources, the move is unrelated to the investigation. In addition, several sources stated that they expected the endorsement program to return in some form.
The franchise also informed the group, which was founded in 1937 when the franchise left Boston, that it too would be suspended. However, according to a source, the group should also return.
The team first wants to choose a name and design a logo, and then see how they want to rename their other traditions, such as cheerleading and orchestra.
A game day manager must also be appointed, who will play a key role in organizing the fan experience at FedEx Field. Because of COWID-19, no bands or cheerleaders have performed at the stadium this season.
In a statement, team president Jason Wright said, “It’s time to rethink our entire game day experience to reflect our modern identity and align with what the modern fan wants.
The position of support group leader has been abolished. According to a source, Jamilla Keen, who filled the role, is weighing the pros and cons of keeping the franchise in another capacity.
Last summer, the franchise abandoned its old name. In the fall, Wright told ESPN that it would take up to a year to not only find a new name, but to complete the branding strategy. He said that even if a new name is chosen this season, they will keep it secret while they complete the branding process. He said that “the soccer team,” originally chosen as the established name, is a possibility for a permanent name.
