Maddy Cusack: Sheffield United release findings after investigation into tragic death
Maddy Cusack died at the age of 27 on September 20
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Sheffield United have disclosed the findings of an investigation following the death of Women's vice-captain Maddy Cusack.
The Blades midfielder died at her home in Derbyshire on September 20.
Sheffield United confirmed they would conduct an investigation after the tragic news broke using an independent third party.
The club have now released a statement saying there was 'no evidence of wrongdoing', while also offering support to Cusack's family.
Sheffield United have released a statement after an investigation into the death of Maddy Cusack
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"At the request of and with cooperation from Maddy's family, we appointed an independent third party to carry out a formal investigation into concerns the family raised about processes and conduct at the club," the statement read.
"Following a thorough review of the valuable input provided by each of the key witnesses put forward by Maddy's family and the club, the investigation has found no evidence of wrongdoing.
"The club is always looking for ways to evolve and will reflect on the outcomes and recommendations arising from the investigation to consider how processes and policies may be improved.
"Following Maddy's death, the club provided staff with the opportunity to engage with additional external support.
"As part of the club's commitment to continual improvement, we have and will continue to review and expand the club-wide wellbeing support offered to our staff and to increase the learning and development opportunities for all staff around language and culture, welfare and mental health awareness.
"We have also recently strengthened our women's and girls' structure with the addition of a new highly experienced head of women's and girls' football and other key appointments.
"We wish to offer support to Maddy's family and the Maddy Cusack Foundation, MC8, and we hope to work with them to continue the lasting positive impact Maddy had on those who knew her."
In November, Derbyshire Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.
Cusack's mother, Deborah, said at a memorial service in October that football broke her daughter's spirit.
"My beautiful daughter, Madeleine," she said.
"The saddest and most utterly heart-breaking reason why I am having to stand here and speak to you today is because of football.
"From February this year, the indomitable, irrepressible spirit, the spirit called Maddy, the spirit that we had so fiercely protected, was allowed to be broken, taking her away from me."
The family also released a statement saying Maddy hadn't been known to suffer from any long-standing mental health issues before her death.
"Those who knew Maddy well will be aware that she had no long-standing mental health issues or troubles.
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Maddy Cusack's family have been offered support by Sheffield United after her tragic death
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"Not that there would be anything to be ashamed of if there were, but there were not. Those that didn't know her need to know that.
"Maddy was a happy-go-lucky, care-free girl with everything to live for and last Christmas could be described as being at her happiest.
"This all changed gradually from February this year.
"It is no secret, nor should it be, that Sheffield United have agreed, at the request of Maddy's family, to carry out a thorough external investigation into the events that her family believe contributed significantly to her passing at the tender age of 27.
"The Maddy Cusack Foundation — Fierce, Determined and Spirited #MC8."
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