Bay FC Criticizes San Jose Earthquakes for Hiring Gavin Wilkinson as Consultant

Bay FC has publicly denounced the San Jose Earthquakes’ decision to hire Gavin Wilkinson as a consultant, citing concerns over his previous conduct in professional soccer. The team expressed its position through a statement to ESPN, asserting that “the actions and history associated with Wilkinson’s time in professional soccer are inconsistent with the standards we hold for those entrusted to lead in our sport.”

Wilkinson, who served as president of soccer operations for the Portland Thorns FC and Portland Timbers, was dismissed from both roles in 2022 following the release of the Yates Report. This report detailed systemic verbal, emotional, and sexual abuse perpetrated by multiple NWSL managers.

Although Wilkinson did not face formal sanctions arising from the report, it was revealed that he had provided a favorable job reference to former Thorns manager Paul Riley in 2016. Riley has been accused of sexual coercion against Thorns players Mana Shim and Sinead Farrelly and was hired by the Western New York Flash after receiving Wilkinson’s endorsement.

Additionally, Wilkinson was associated with a domestic violence allegation involving then-Timbers midfielder Andy Polo in May 2021. The Timbers and Wilkinson failed to report the incident, which violated MLS protocol. While an investigation concluded that the club was unaware of the reporting requirement, the Timbers were fined $25,000.

Despite no direct organizational connection between Bay FC and the Earthquakes, both teams share facilities, including PayPal Park. In light of Wilkinson’s hiring, Bay FC reiterated its commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment, stating, “We stand with the players, survivors and advocates who have worked tirelessly to make soccer a safer and more inclusive place, and we will continue to put the safety, dignity, and well-being of our players and our community first.”

Wilkinson’s hiring was first reported by ESPN, which noted that he is serving as a consultant on roster management until the end of the year. The Earthquakes are currently looking to fill a management position following the passing of Head Sporting Strategist Vassili Cremanzidis in February.

After a recent game, Earthquakes head coach Bruce Arena refrained from commenting on Wilkinson’s hiring, directing inquiries to the team’s president, Jared Shawlee, who was unavailable for follow-up. Sources revealed that prior to joining the Earthquakes, Wilkinson had undertaken consulting work for the MLS league office on a “competition project.” According to a knowledgeable source, he underwent a “restorative accountability process” approved by the league, which led to his qualification as a consultant for MLS.

The decision to hire Wilkinson has sparked backlash from segments of San Jose’s fanbase. A banner stating “GW Out” was displayed during a recent match, indicating opposition to his appointment. Crystal Cuadra-Cutler, president of the Faultline supporters group, emphasized that hiring Wilkinson contradicts the community’s values, stating, “There is no leniency here. Either we stand by our values or we don’t… We know what Gavin has done. We know his history.”

Cuadra-Cutler elaborated that the core value in question is the protection of women, citing the implications of Wilkinson’s past actions related to both the Yates Report and the incident involving Polo. She criticized what she described as a failure to take decisive action for the greater good while holding a position of power.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn