UC Berkeley's celebrated women's swim coach, Teri McKeever, was put on leave in May 2022 after explosive accusations were detailed in a comprehensive investigation by the Orange County Register.  The newspaper unveiled documented, reported, discussed and – by some accounts well known – allegations of bullying and abuse by McKeever that went back years.  

Athletes and some parents claim they were stonewalled when they attempted to report the problems and their troubling experiences with McKeever.

Teri McKeever isn’t the only coach under investigation.

In Summer 2021, two former University of San Francisco women’s basketball players filed suit against the University and its head women’s basketball coach, Molly Goodenbour, alleging “archaic and abusive conduct” by Goodenbour.

While McKeever was put on leave and USF prepared for trial, KCBS Radio undertook the important task of exploring the topic of toxic coaching.  We assigned veteran street reporter Holly Quan to investigate.  From the studio where she performed much of her research, to the pool deck where she conducted many interviews, Quan expertly navigated the complex nexus of one of society’s most pressing issues.   

To be sure, Quan uncovered that a great reckoning is underway as a new generation of athletes speaks out – and up.  These are largely uncharted waters – and critics scoff at the sea change.  

Quan delivered a fair, balanced and compelling series – which aired over multiple days on KCBS Radio and our digital platforms – dissecting the fundamental issue:  when does coaching cross the line from “tough” to toxic?  And, whose job is it to make sure coaches don’t step over that – or any – line?

https://www.audacy.com/kcbsradio/news/national/blurred-line-between-toughness-and-abuse-in-college-sports

We supplemented our coverage with public affairs programming.  Our weekly In Depth show immediately following the series was dedicated to this very issue – with Quan joining In Depth host Keith Menconi in conversation with Jessica Chin, San Jose State University Professor of Sports Sociology, and Jason Sacks, President of the Positive Coaching Alliance for a conversation about where to draw the line with coaches, and how to effect positive change.

https://www.audacy.com/podcasts/kcbs-in-depth-288/what-would-it-take-to-make-coaching-more-kind-1469176488

Editor’s note:  UC Berkeley announced on January 31, 2023 that Teri McKeever had been fired, following an investigation into the alleged harassment, bullying and verbal abuse.

Blurred Lines: When Does "Tough" Become Abuse?

KCBS Radio