In the past week and a half, four former footballers—Paul Stewart, David White, Steve Walters, and Andy Woodward—came out as victims of sexual abuse from when they were youth players. In the wake of their allegations, the UK-based charity NSPCC (The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) set up a hotline to address concerns on Thursday and received over 50 calls in just the first two hours of taking calls, according to the BBC.All four of the former footballers alleged that coaches from their youth training had sexually abused them. In the cases of White (49), Walters (44), and Woodward (43), all claimed to be victimized by manager and convicted pedophile Barry Bennell. Woodward and Walters say they were abused by Bennell while playing at Crewe Alexandra, and White said he was abused by Bennell when he played for the Whitehill FC junior team. Stewart, on the other hand, refused to name his perpetrator, but said he was abused daily for four years, up until he was 15.The news comes as a blow to the country's youth programs, which consist of highly competitive academies linked to larger clubs. Dr Rosena Allin-Khan, the UK's shadow sports minister thought that the scandal would "seriously damage the reputation of football" in the country.The Football Association has shown support for players seeking to come forward, and spoke with Woodward on Thursday about the allegations. FA chairman Greg Clarke said, "I'd like to share my regret at the pain victims suffered and make sure no stones are left unturned in making sure there isn't a new generation of victims—and victims that have been hurt are truly helped."The FA has also backed the NSPCC hotline, which said many of its calls so far have been from concerned parents.From the BBC:NSPCC chief Peter Wanless said there must be "no hiding place" for abuse, adding: "There may be many others who suffered through such horrors as young players but have never come forward."As this week's revelations have been laid bare, people must be able to speak out and get the help they need, and we know that can often be more difficult for men and boys," he added."We welcome the FA's commitment to helping those in the game get the help and support they need."The children's charity said boys are more than five times less likely to speak up about sexual abuse than girls.The hotline is 24 hours, and the number, from the UK, is 0800 023 2642.
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