In a groundbreaking revelation that has sent ripples through collegiate athletics, Alex Cooper, renowned podcaster and host of Call Her Daddy, has publicly accused her former Boston University (BU) soccer coach, Nancy Feldman, of sexual harassment. This disclosure, made in Cooper’s 2025 Hulu docuseries Call Her Alex, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about abuse and accountability in sports.
The Allegations: A Pattern of Harassment
Cooper alleges that during her sophomore year at BU, Coach Feldman subjected her to a series of inappropriate behaviors. These included unsolicited comments about Cooper’s body, invasive questions about her sex life, and attempts to isolate her from teammates. Cooper describes the experience as a “psychotic game,” where her participation on the team was contingent upon divulging personal details .
Despite reporting these incidents to BU officials, including a meeting with the dean of athletics, Cooper claims that her concerns were dismissed, and no formal investigation was initiated. This lack of institutional response led her to resign from the team before her senior year, though she retained her scholarship.
The Documentary: A Platform for Truth
Call Her Alex serves as more than just a recounting of personal trauma; it is a call to action for systemic change in collegiate sports. Directed by Ry Russo-Young, the docuseries delves into Cooper’s decade-long silence, the emotional toll of her experiences, and the challenges of confronting an authority figure in a male-dominated arena. Cooper’s decision to share her story publicly is both an act of courage and a plea for greater accountability within athletic programs.
Institutional Response and Accountability
As of now, neither Boston University nor Nancy Feldman has publicly addressed the allegations. This silence raises critical questions about how educational institutions handle claims of harassment and the measures they take to protect students. The absence of a public response from BU underscores the need for clearer policies and more transparent procedures when dealing with such serious accusations.
Implications for Collegiate Athletics
Cooper’s allegations highlight a broader issue within collegiate sports: the vulnerability of athletes, particularly women, to abuse by those in positions of power. Her story has ignited discussions about the necessity for universities to implement proactive measures to create safer environments for their athletes. The rise of social media and increased public scrutiny are likely to pressure institutions to adopt more stringent policies and foster a culture of transparency and accountability.
The conversations sparked by Cooper’s allegations could lead to larger movements within collegiate sports, pushing for reviews of practices surrounding athlete welfare and the respectful treatment of women. How Boston University responds—or fails to respond—will set a precedent for the future of sports and the protection of student-athletes.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Change
Alex Cooper’s brave decision to share her story is a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against abuse in collegiate athletics. Her allegations against Nancy Feldman serve as a stark reminder of the power dynamics that can exist within sports programs and the importance of institutional accountability. As her story gains traction, it is hoped that it will inspire other survivors to come forward and that educational institutions will take meaningful steps to ensure the safety and dignity of all their students.
