San Diego Wave president sues former employee for defamation over alleged abusive behavior
SAN DIEGO — San Diego Wave president Jill Ellis has sued former team employee Brittany Alvarado for defamation following allegations of a poor work environment.
Alvarado, former video and creative director, posted on X and on Instagram on July 3 that “the treatment we have endured under Jill Ellis’ presidency has been nothing short of heartbreaking and devastating to our mental health.”
Alvarado accused Ellis of having a “narcissistic personal agenda, fostering an environment where abusive behavior among her subordinates can flourish.” She called on the National Women’s Soccer League to ban Ellis from the team and the league.
Ellis released a statement the next day, calling the allegations “false” and “personally damaging.”
In a complaint filed Monday in California Superior Court in San Diego, Ellis claimed defamation and intentional interference with contractual relations.
“As a direct and proximate result of the publication of false and defamatory statements, Plaintiff has suffered general and special economic and emotional harm, damages, losses and injuries, reputational harm, anxiety, embarrassment, humiliation, shame and severe emotional distress,” the lawsuit states.
A message seeking comment was left with Alvarado’s attorney, Casey Hultin.
Ellis sought an injunction against Alvarado preventing him from publishing defamatory statements against him.
The complaint states that Alvarado was hired on March 20, 2023. It states that she filed a complaint with the league on February 5 of this year and that the NWSL completed its investigation on April 26, finding no violations of law or league policy. The complaint states that Alvarado resigned on June 7.
Ellis, 57, coached the U.S. women’s national team from 2014 to 2019. She led the team to World Cup titles in 2015 and 2019, winning the FIFA Women’s Coach of the Year award both years.
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