BU Women’s Soccer Coach placed on leave
By: Maria Garcia Manzano, AEIC of the Quill
Photo: BU Website
Last week Students at BU found out from the Winnipeg Free Press and the Brandon Sun that the women’s soccer head coach, Jesse Roziere, had been placed on leave due to sexual misconduct allegations. However, students were shocked to find out he remained on the for months despite a school investigation concluding he acted inappropriately with the student-athletes. BU students learned that last fall, a female student approached BU’s athletic director with allegations concerning Roziere’s sexual advances on players, sending out suggestive messages through Snapchat and asking them to be his designated driver when he was out drinking.
Last month, the complainant requested a new probe to consider BU’s sexualized violence policy; however, as reported by Brandon Sun, they were declined by human resources. Last Tuesday, given the media attention, Brandon University gave a statement saying that Roziere had been asked to step away from his coaching duties. At the same time, a new investigation is underway due to the latest information that has come to light. The university did not disclose what further information had come to light but said that a third party would conduct the information.
Three students have come forward and given interviews to the Winnipeg Free Press describing moments where they witnessed or experienced Roziere’s misconduct behaviour. The students identify moments of blackmail in the form of running laps or benching if they told anyone about his behaviour. The students said that this ultimately led them to leave the team. In their separate interviews with the Winnipeg Free Press, one of the students said she witnessed Roziere acting inappropriately toward her peers at parties through messaging and in the soccer environment. She also claimed that the coach’s perverted behaviour is a pattern of grooming and manipulation of players. Over the weekend, one of the affected students said on her social media that they were saddened and disgusted to see that the Women’s soccer team played and, in support of Jesse Roziere, wore his initials on their socks. One of BU’s collectives that were quick to respond and support those affected was the Gender Empowerment Collective. They came out in support of all those affected by this news and offered their support and resources. On a Facebook and Instagram post, they announced they announced that they “will advocate on behalf of all students to show BU that they demand justice for all affected.”
Please note The Quill will continue to report on this matter as new information comes to light and offers their support and resources to those affected.
The complete Winnipeg Free Press and Brandon Sun articles can be found here: