TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Control Yuan said Wednesday it has launched an investigation of the National Taiwan Normal University women’s soccer team coach.

The coach is accused of coercing student-athletes into undergoing prolonged blood tests, using the threat of expulsion if they did not comply. The controversy was brought to light by DPP Legislator Chen Pei-yu (陳培瑜), who alleged the coach pressured the players to participate in experiments, per CNA.

The experiments were conducted under the National Science and Technology Council Precision Sports Science Research Project. According to Chen, student-athletes were required to undergo 14 consecutive days of blood testing over several years, with those who refused reportedly facing threats such as expulsion or withheld graduation credits.

In response, Control Yuan members Tsai Chung-yi (蔡崇義) and Lai Ting-ming (賴鼎銘) confirmed that an investigation is underway. The probe will evaluate whether the rights of the players were ignored, review ethical compliance for the blood test recruitment process, assess oversight mechanisms, and investigate any potential misconduct or bullying by those involved in the project.

The NSTC launched the Precision Sports Science Research Project in November 2018, focusing on female athletes. Researchers integrate expertise from fields such as biomechanics, sports medicine, and electrical engineering to develop new technologies and applications that enhance sports science and improve athletic performance.