Sheffield United’s former voluntary chaplain, Dr Delroy Hall, told an inquest on 10 July 2026 that Maddy Cusack begged him not to inform anyone at the club about their conversations. The revelation adds a new layer to the ongoing investigation into the tragic death of the 23‑year‑old midfielder on 20 September 2023.

What did Hall say?

Hall, who volunteered from 2017 until November 2023, said Cusack approached him several times in August 2023, including on 23 August, and asked three or four times, “Please don’t tell anyone I’m talking to you.” He stressed that she never appeared suicidal, but she voiced pressure from juggling a dual role as a player and a marketing employee. Hall warned that a seven‑day work‑training schedule was “not sustainable”.

How did the club respond?

Two senior officials – chief executive Stephen Bettis and head of football administration Carl Shieber – testified that they were unaware of Cusack’s struggles. Both defended the club’s handling of the women’s team’s transition to full‑time status after the 2022‑23 season, explaining the delay was tied to waiting for the men’s side to secure Premier League promotion, which finally happened on 26 April 2026.

Why does this matter now?

The inquest highlights a possible breakdown in communication between players and club welfare services. Hall resigned in November 2023, citing uncertainty over reporting lines. Shieber also disclosed that at one point the club considered cutting funding for the women’s team, a move that could have intensified stress on players.

What’s next for Sheffield United?

The court will consider whether the club’s governance around player welfare needs reform. With the men’s team now in the Premier League, financial backing for the women’s side is more secure, but the episode may prompt a review of support structures and reporting protocols to prevent similar situations.

The inquest continues, and families, fans, and officials await further findings that could shape the club’s approach to mental‑health care and staff responsibilities.