US Gymnastics head quits over inaction on sex abuse cases

Picture for illustration purposes only.

PHOTO BY ARCHIVE

American Olympic committee had pushed resignation of Steve Penny

CALIFORNIA – Steve Penny has stepped down as head of USA Gymnastics last Thursday following criticism and pressure on the organization for its handling of sex abuse cases involving former team doctor Larry Nasser.

Penny’s resignation came after the US Olympics Committee (USOC) had recommended to USA Gymnastics chairman Paul Parilla that Penny quit.

In a statement, Penny said, “My decision to step aside as CEO is solely to support the best interests of USA Gymnastics at this time.”

Now that Penny has resigned, USOC head Larry Probst said “USA Gymnastics will be able to shift its attention to the future with a secure environment for its athletes and continued success in competition.”

Parilla, for his part, said, “the board believes this change in leadership will help USA Gymnastics face its current challenges and implement solutions to move the organization forward in promoting a safe environment for its athletes at all levels.”

The challenges referred to by Parilla were the sexual abuse of gymnasts by Nasser in the past.

Jamie Dantzscher, a member of the 2000 Olympic team, sued Nasser for sexual abuse and the USA Gymnastics for not acting accordingly on the issue.

Dantzscher, three-time US rhythmic gymnastics champion Jessica Howard and former national gymnastics team member Jeanette Antolin revealed in the TV show “60 Minutes” show that Nassar touched them inappropriately under the guise of treatment for body pain. GAC/Expat Media

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