Former Banyana Banyana coach Vera Pauw has revealed she was raped by a prominent Dutch football official during her playing days.
“I know going public is going to throw the spotlight on my life in a manner I have never experienced before but I also hope that other young footballers and coaches who were exposed to anything like the rape and abuse I suffered will now feel brave enough to come forward and share their stories.
“This will not be an easy time for me and for my family but for now I ask you all to respect what is left of my privacy. Finally, I would like to thank my Irish back room staff and my players, the FAI's management and board, all my FAI colleagues and the Ireland fans for the support they have shown me as manager of the Ireland team.
“I have always felt safe and continue to feel safe and supported in Ireland and I cannot tell you how good that feels. I hope that support will continue in Ireland for me now that I have shared my story and my pain.”“This is who I am , I don't have to hide any more. I hope I can continue my life in freedom.”
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