Former international footballer Natasha Harding (now Allen-Wyatt) is facing serious allegations from up to 70 parents and businesses who claim to have lost money through her coaching academy. The total financial loss could be approaching £70,000, with claims spanning across south Wales, north Wales, Gloucestershire, and Worcestershire.
Multiple individuals have shared their experiences of financial loss and unfulfilled promises. Andy Hughes, a voluntary coach for Northop Hall Girls’ under-12s and under-13s, reported that Allen-Wyatt signed up 12 players for coaching sessions at £280 per player. However, only two blocks of sessions were delivered, with subsequent sessions cancelled after she cited family bereavements. No refunds were provided.
Hughes expressed deep disappointment, stating, “How do you explain to an 11-year-old girl that their Welsh hero isn’t going to come and coach them after all?” He emphasized the importance of these sessions for young aspiring footballers.
Another victim, Daniel Rees from Cardiff Classic Shirts, sponsored Allen-Wyatt with £500, expecting advertisement on academy training shirts and two Wales match shirts. He received neither the advertising nor the promised shirts and was unable to contact her for an explanation.
Kate Parker, a Wales football fan, purchased coaching sessions as a Christmas gift for her niece, spending a total of £1,335. Only one training session was delivered, with a second one cancelled. She has only received £350 in refunds, leaving £885 outstanding.
The allegations have spread widely, with reports made to multiple police forces in Wales and England. Some complaints have been passed to Action Fraud, and the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau is currently assessing at least one report.
Former teammates have also indicated that her actions have impacted themselves, their families, and friends. Manchester City, where Allen-Wyatt works as a pundit and commentator, has been urged to cut ties with her.
Allen-Wyatt has acknowledged cancelling “some sessions” due to circumstances outside her control and has apologized to those affected. However, BBC Wales attempted to contact her for comment about the latest claims but received no response.
A parent who established a WhatsApp group for affected individuals estimates the total claims at around £40,000. The widespread nature of these allegations suggests a systematic pattern of unfulfilled promises and financial misconduct.
The situation highlights the potential risks in youth sports coaching and the importance of due diligence when engaging with professional athletes offering training services. For many young athletes and their families, these unfulfilled promises represent not just financial loss, but also a significant emotional disappointment.
