Sportshour

We explore the aftermath of the shocking allegations of abuse in women's football in the USA. The news from the NWSL was particularly distressing for former Irish international Ciara McCormack, because for many years in Canada, Ciara tried to be heard and taken seriously when in 2008 she highlighted alleged mis-conduct by her coach at the Vancouver White Caps, Bob Birarda. In 2019, McCormack wrote a blog post called "A Horrific Canadian Soccer Story – The Story No One Wants to Listen To, But Everyone Needs to Hear." Birarda, who was also the coach of the Canadian women's under-20 team, was charged with multiple sex offences in 2020, which he denies and is await trial. Ciara started by explaining about the atmosphere and power dynamic at the club.The first new sickle-cell treatment in 20 years was announced this week. It's expected to help keep thousands of people out of hospital and reduce health inequalities for black people, who are predominantly affected. Like Nigerian Rugby League star Ade Adebisi, or th