Limerick soccer CEO faces backlash from fan group

A conflict has emerged between Ciara McCormack, the CEO of Limerick soccer club Treaty United, and the club's main supporters' group, the Blue Army. McCormack, the first woman to hold this role in a League of Ireland club, skipped a recent match after claiming she was "bullied" by supporters. During the game against Wexford FC, fans unveiled banners demanding McCormack's resignation. Some supporters chanted for her to leave, which McCormack described as a personal attack. She later expressed her feelings of being verbally assaulted and labeled some fans as "unhinged." In response, the Blue Army rejected McCormack’s claims of bullying. They argued that the problems stem from her management style and decision-making. The fans feel their concerns have been ignored, particularly regarding changes at the club. McCormack, who took leadership of the club in 2023, stated she opted out of the game to protect her mental health amidst the ongoing protests. She mentioned she has faced harassment after promoting equality between the men's and women's teams. Her supporters’ comments painted her efforts as biased. The Blue Army argues that the recent tensions have wrongly been framed as a debate between men and women. They highlighted their support for the women's team and criticized the need to prioritize funding for the men's team, which they believe drives revenue. In a follow-up statement, McCormack highlighted positive developments within the club, including competitive performances from both the men's and women's teams. She emphasized the need for a safe environment for all involved with the club, encouraging collaboration rather than division.