In a statement on Oct. 1, Baird announced that the NWSL games scheduled to take place that weekend would be paused. "This week, and much of this season, has been incredibly traumatic for our players and staff, and I take full responsibility for the role I have played. I am so sorry for the pain so many are feeling," Baird said. "Recognising that trauma, we have decided not to take the field this weekend to give everyone some space to reflect."
Later that day, the league announced that Baird had resigned as commissioner. General counsel Lisa Levine was also removed by the board of directors.