Advertisement Nebraska softball players consider practice boycott over alleged mistreatment by Revelle Nonprofit advocacy group alleges UN-L threatened softball players into silence over coach Share Shares Copy Link Copy

A nonprofit group which advocates for athletes says UN-L softball players have discussed boycotting practice, over their concerns about coach Rhonda Revelle.The "College Athlete Advocacy Initiative" issued a statement Friday in support of players who complained to administrators allegations of persistent verbal and psychological abuse by Revelle and others in the program.Revelle was placed on administrative leave in July without an explanation.On Sunday, Athletic Director Bill Moose reinstated Revelle, saying members of the softball team brought forward concerns about the coach. "After reviewing the findings, I have concluded that Coach Revelle will continue to lead our softball program," said Moos. "Coach Revelle and her staff understand the seriousness of the student-athlete concerns and are committed to providing a complete and positive student-athlete experience..." The CAAI says the NU investigation falls short.In its statement, the group said the players, whose names haven't been released, complained of verbal and psychological abuse, fat-shaming, and disregard of injuries."At least one athlete expressed suicidal thoughts in a meeting with athletics administrators, who were made aware that several of the young women were experiencing mental health issues," said the CAAI in its statement.Student athletes allege they were subjected to bullying, harassing text messages, and intrusion into their personal lives by Revelle. Some say they were ridiculed for being injured and discouraged from seeking medical treatment. THE CAAI statement also alleges the team regularly exceeded NCAA-imposed practice limits.In its own statement, Nebraska Athletics said "We initiated a comprehensive review, and Coach Revelle and her staff understand the seriousness of the student-athlete concerns. As a result of the issues that were raised we have worked with Coach Revelle to address and alleviate those concerns moving forward."The CAAI says Nebraska softball players have been denied oportunities to speak with Moos, and not allowed to speak with the media and the group says athletes discussed boycotting fall practice in the wake of the University's decision. Practice is scheduled to start Sunday.The College Athlete Advocacy Initiative provides legal and advisory help to college athletes.