A former Utah Royals FC player (and Utah native) speaks out on emotional health, and club responds
Utah native Carly Nelson was a goalkeeper for Utah Royals FC, playing 90 minutes in goal for a suspended starter. But her return home was cut short, initially citing mental health.
Long-time readers of this newsletter know our experience with Carly Nelson, the former Timpanogos High and University of Utah goalkeeper who made her way home for the rebirth of Utah Royals FC.
Nelson was a goalkeeper for the Royals 2.0, playing 90 minutes in goal for a suspended starter in Utah’s season opener. She also stood up as a role model for queer youth in her home state, the type of which she says she didn’t have when she publicly came out at 13.
But her return home was cut short midway through the 2024 season, initially citing mental health and other concerns.
On Friday, she spoke out even more. The 26-year-old native of Lindon, Utah, who also played for Seattle, Kansas City, Orlando and with FC Nordsjælland in the Elitedivisionen released a statement on social media alleging a number of serious allegations against the club that released her following the season.
“This is merely a fraction of it,” she said. “I eventually will share the full thing. For now, this is what I can say.”
She then released the following statement, printed in its entirety:
“After deep reflection on my time with the Utah Royals, I can no longer stay silent about the emotional and psychological abuse I endured there. Despite raising concerns internally and seeking support for my mental health, I was met with resistance and public retaliation from the coaches responsible.
“Taking mental health leave back in May wasn’t optional for me. It was the only way to survive the relentless toxicity I was subjected to.
“This experience revealed a harsh truth: the culture of any organization is shaped by its leaders. When they prioritize power over people, abuse thrives unchecked.
“The retaliation and discrimination I faced for prioritizing my mental health made it clear that the club cared more about control than accountability.
“While some responsible were eventually removed, the damage had already been done — not just to me, but to others as well. Toxic environments harm physical health, emotional well-being, and derail careers.
“The abuse I faced impacted my livelihood and undermined the 22 years of my life it took to get to this level. This problem goes beyond individual experiences — it’s systemic. Women are often exploited while organizations profit off their talents.
“It’s time to hold those in power accountable and foster cultures that prioritize respect, safety, and support.
“By speaking out, I hope to shed light on these issues and advocate for change, so future athletes won’t have to face the challenges I did. I’m committed to this fight as I continue my own journey of healing.
“No one should endure this alone.”
Following Nelson’s statement, Utah Royals FC released the following statement:
“Utah Royals FC prides itself in creating a positive and supportive experience for our players and staff. We take any allegations counter to this with the utmost seriousness and urgency. We were saddened to learn of a former player’s experience.
“Everyone deserves safe and supportive environments on and off the field of play. Our goal is to enable our athletes, our staff and employees to enjoy a nurturing, healthy and respectful workplace for all.”
Nelson’s statement was also met by dozens of comments of support, including from several current and former Royals players (and teammates).
“So proud of you, thank you for sharing and continuing to push this league forward,” said Royals fullback Imani Dorsey, who has openly shared her struggles with mental health and championed more awareness from the NWSL. “Current and future players are lucky we have you.”
More support came from Cameron Tucker, the Utah native and former BYU star who was waived by the Royals following the season, and Addisyn Merrick, who was released by URFC so she could sign with Carolina Ascent in the USL Super League.
“Speaking truth to power!!!!!” said Darian Jenkins, a recently retired NWSL player who grew up in Riverton, Utah. “Your bravery has already inspired so many and is going to continue to do so. Thank yo ufor speaking up for yourself and for being the voice of those who can’t.”
Nelson’s statement comes a day after Michele Vasconcelos, the Sandy native who played at Alta High and BYU, announced she had agreed with the Royals to mutually part ways so she could become a free agent.
In that announcement, Vasconcelos said, in part: “It can be hard and disappointing when we have such high hopes for an opportunity and it falls short, but I learned a lot this year and am grateful for the amazing women I got to call my teammates!”