This past Friday ABCs 20/20 did a feature story about sexual misconduct within the USA Swimming organization. The story focused on incidents where swim coaches committed offences against female swimmers. I watched the story online after seeing the numerous Facebook stat updates from loyal USA Swimming members and swimfans.
FIRST, I am fully behind the notion of organizations like USA Swimming having very strict guidelines and penalties in place dealing with potential molestation/sexual assualt of underage kids. I can't think of anything so horrible as a child being traumatized by someone they trust. These kids are chasing a dream that involves complete trust in coaching staff. Whatever USA Swimming, and other sports organizations, have to do to protect the rights of children, they should do it. No question, no exceptions.
SECOND, I am not too happy with the way the organization was portrayed. The crimes mentioned in the story were unthinkable and disgusting. To have repeat offenders moving from town to town searching for the next victim is totally scary and something no parent wants to think of. Even though those monsters were not caught immediately, that does not mean that the organization is unconcerned about the safety of kids in the organization. USA Swimming is tirelessly dedicated to helping youth reach their goals and become confident, accomplished athletes and people.
Having said that, it is so so so important that the organization not only completely investigates any and all accusations, but also have very strict rules about coaching staff conduct around underage swimmers.
Just think of the lives that were shattered, and the potential that the world never got to see because a kid had to suffer abuse at the hands of a trusted coach! Whenever kids are involved with an activity, a sad part of reality is that there are predators waiting to take advantage. The best defense comes from home, and organizations like USA Swimming being very firm and watchful over the kids' interests.
