Cerritos College officials in Norwalk have placed the women’s soccer coaching staff on administrative leave and have hired an independent investigator following a sudden spree of misconduct allegations brought forth by former players on social media.

College officials were notified online about allegations of misconduct against the women’s soccer team coaching staff, according to Miya Walker, director of college relations and public affairs.

“These allegations are incredibly serious, do not reflect our values and we do not take them lightly,” Walker wrote in an emailed statement. “Coaching staff has been placed on administrative leave, pending the investigation.”

It was unclear how many coaches were affected. The players have named some of the coaches on social media, but the college did not release any names.

Ashley Webb, who played for the team in 2014, made a post on her Instagram account on Tuesday in which she claimed women “are still going through harassment.”

Webb said over 20 women had privately messaged her about their own experiences with the team after she made the post. With their permission, she posted screenshots of the players’ allegations publicly on her Instagram story.

Webb said she experienced discomfort after a member of the coaching staff continuously texted her while she was on the team in 2014.

“He had invited me back to his apartment and stuff like that, and that’s pretty inappropriate,” she said. “Asking us to buy us alcohol or party at one of their apartments.”

Walker said the school was notified of the allegations on Tuesday, and by Wednesday an independent investigator was hired to look into the allegations.

“Let it be clear that head coach Ruben Gonzalez, himself, has not been accused of any sexual misconduct or harassment by any current or former students,” a statement from Gonzalez’ legal representative said. “Mr. Gonzalez is mindful of the seriousness of these allegations and has offered his full cooperation.”

Editor’s note: This story has been updated with comment from the head coach’s legal representative.