The inquest into the tragic death of Sheffield United footballer Maddy Cusack has been postponed until July at the earliest, raising significant concerns about transparency in the investigation. Maddy Cusack, who made history as the first player to reach 100 appearances for Sheffield United, passed away in September 2023 at the age of 27.

Delays and Transparency Issues

The inquest, initially scheduled for last week in Chesterfield, was delayed following a pre-inquest review hearing. During the hearing, the Cusack family's legal representative, Maria Mulla, expressed concerns over the perceived lack of transparency, particularly regarding the disclosure of documents. Mulla highlighted issues with the Football Association (FA) report, which was provided to the family with missing pages and extensive redactions.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Coroner Sophie Cartwright explained that the redactions were made under the 'Worcestershire principle,' which allows for the omission of irrelevant information. However, she acknowledged the frustration of the Cusack family and apologized for the delay in compiling the disclosure bundle, which exceeds 700 pages.

Investigations and Accountability

Following Cusack's death, her family raised concerns about the 'processes and conduct' at Sheffield United, including the behavior of former women's team manager Jonathan Morgan. While a club-commissioned investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing, the FA launched its own inquiry to determine if further action was necessary within its jurisdiction.

Future Proceedings

A fourth pre-inquest hearing is scheduled for June 3, with the full inquest potentially taking place as late as the end of the year. The FA and Sheffield United have both stated that they have acted in accordance with legal principles, but the Cusack family continues to seek clarity and transparency.

Maddy Cusack's legacy remains a poignant reminder of the need for accountability and openness in football, particularly in the women's game. Her family's pursuit of truth underscores the importance of thorough and transparent investigations in such tragic circumstances.