UC Berkeley softball player sues former coach Chelsea Spencer

A former University of California, Berkeley softball player has filed a lawsuit against the university and former head coach Chelsea Spencer, alleging sexual assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The plaintiff, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, claims that Spencer exploited an unequal power dynamic to coerce her into a sexual relationship beginning in 2024.

The lawsuit, filed in Alameda County Superior Court, alleges that when the player attempted to distance herself from the coach, Spencer reduced her playing opportunities, causing her to miss her senior year and potential professional career opportunities. The complaint further accuses the University of California of negligence, stating that the school failed to protect the student and did not remove Spencer from her position of authority even after athletics department staff became aware of the inappropriate relationship.

According to the filing, a university investigation found that Spencer had violated campus policies regarding conflicts of interest in consensual relationships. The plaintiff is seeking unspecified damages and a jury trial. Spencer, who resigned from her position to prioritize mental health and family, has not provided a public response to the allegations.