Real Salt Lake sued by former goalkeeper over locker room hazing allegations

Jeffrey Dewsnup, a former Real Salt Lake goalkeeper, has sued the MLS club seeking $100 million in punitive damages, alleging a culture of hazing and misconduct that severely affected his career. Dewsnup, 22, says locker room misconduct and verbal abuse stunted his development; he signed a professional contract with RSL in 2021.

The lawsuit details multiple instances of alleged player-to-player misconduct. Dewsnup claims defender Aaron Herrera exposed his genitals, that David Ochoa made explicit comments about his body, and that three players, including Herrera, threw a ball at him while he was changing.

The club denies the allegations and said it takes athlete safety extremely seriously, adding it will vigorously defend itself through the legal process. The complaint also accuses goalkeeper coach Ignacio Hernandez of forcing Dewsnup to train with an injured shoulder in 2021 and labeling the injury as faked.

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