A former softball player from the University of California, Berkeley has filed a lawsuit against a previous head coach. She claims that the coach used her position of power to coerce the player into a sexual relationship. The coach allegedly threatened to reduce the player’s playing time if she attempted to end the relationship.
The complaint was submitted on August 24 in Alameda County Superior Court. According to OutKick, the lawsuit accuses the University of not intervening appropriately. Chelsea Spencer, the former head coach, remained in her position for months after some staff became aware of the alleged situation. Spencer eventually resigned in June last year, a few months after securing a multi-year contract extension. The lawsuit mentions a university investigation found Spencer in violation of policies concerning consensual relationships. However, it does not specify when this investigation began or concluded.
The university spokesperson avoided commenting on the lawsuit or on the investigation into Spencer when contacted by OutKick. The former softball player has engaged the legal services of the law firm Slater Slater Schulman. Gizem Gures, an attorney there, criticized the university’s handling of the investigation in a statement to USA Today Sports. Gures emphasized the responsibility that comes with the university’s prestigious reputation.
“Berkeley proudly holds itself out as the No. 1 public university in the world. That reputation comes with a responsibility to protect its students. As a Cal alum, it is deeply disappointing to see what our client experienced and how the University responded after its own investigation substantiated the conduct. Our client deserved better. Berkeley’s students deserve better. The University needs to do better,” Gures stated.
The complaint also details how Spencer’s advances began in fall 2023 when the unnamed player transferred to the team. Spencer allegedly communicated frequently via phone calls and text messages, which took a personal and romantic tone over time. At one stage, Spencer reportedly complimented the player by saying, “you’re so beautiful” and commented on how lucky the player’s girlfriend was. The complaint adds that Spencer revealed personal details and provided cash gifts to the player.
When the player started ignoring Spencer’s advances, the coach allegedly retaliated by reducing the player’s game time. “When Plaintiff did not provide Spencer the attention she demanded, Spencer yelled at Plaintiff, treated her differently, and reduced or withheld Plaintiff’s playing opportunities,” the complaint states. The player began to understand how Spencer’s personal demands and authority as head coach were linked.
The former player argues that Spencer’s actions and the university’s failure to act resulted in serious emotional distress. She claims these circumstances forced her to quit her college softball career earlier than planned. The player is seeking a jury trial and damages for personal and other losses.