An alarming number of parents and businesses have come forward with claims that they lost substantial sums of money to former international footballer Natasha Harding, now known as Natasha Allen-Wyatt. Reports suggest that the total financial loss may approach £70,000, raising concerns about the legitimacy of her coaching services.
Harding, a notable figure in Welsh football and former captain of Reading FC, is facing multiple allegations regarding her coaching academy. Parents assert that they paid for one-on-one coaching sessions for their children, which were never delivered. In response to these claims, Harding acknowledged that she had to cancel “some sessions” due to circumstances beyond her control and expressed apologies to those affected.
Since the initial allegations surfaced, parents and businesses from regions including south Wales, north Wales, Gloucestershire, and Worcestershire have reported losses totaling approximately £27,000. Furthermore, a parent who organized a WhatsApp group for those impacted indicated that their combined claims could reach around £40,000.
Authorities have been alerted to these incidents, with reports filed to various police forces across Wales and England. Some allegations have also been forwarded to Action Fraud, which specializes in coordinating fraud complaints nationally. According to Action Fraud, at least one report is currently under assessment by the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau.
Former teammates of Harding disclosed that her actions also adversely affected them and their families.
In light of these developments, Manchester City FC has faced calls to sever ties with Harding in her capacity as a pundit and commentator.
Several individuals who engaged with Harding’s coaching services have shared their disillusionment. Andy Hughes, a voluntary coach for Northop Hall Girls' under-12s and under-13s teams, recounted how Harding enlisted 12 players for coaching sessions at a cost of £280 each, yet only two blocks were conducted before cancellations ensued.
Hughes expressed profound disappointment: “For someone who played at such a high level and is an icon for aspiring female footballers, it’s disheartening when expectations are not met.”
Similarly, Daniel Rees from Cardiff Classic Shirts described how he sponsored Harding with £500, expecting promotional benefits that never materialized. He was left without any evidence of the promised advertising on training apparel.
Kate Parker purchased coaching sessions as a Christmas gift for her niece but reported similar issues; after spending £1,335 on sessions and sponsorships, only one session was completed. Despite requests for refunds, she has only received £350, leaving an outstanding balance of £885.
The unfolding situation involving Natasha Harding highlights significant concerns regarding accountability within youth sports coaching programs. As investigations continue and more victims come forward, the broader implications for athlete-led initiatives remain uncertain. Stakeholders in youth sports must prioritize transparency and integrity to safeguard against such incidents in the future.
Allegations Mount Against Former Footballer Natasha Harding Allegations have surfaced from approximately 70 parents and businesses claiming financial losses tied to former international footballer Natasha Harding, now known as Natasha Allen-Wyatt.
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