Report: USA Gymnastics Needs "Cultural Change" On Sex Abuse

A report issued today states that USA Gymnastics "needs a 'complete cultural change' after not doing enough to educate its staff, members and athletes about protecting children from sexual abuse and failing to ensure that safeguards were being followed." Former federal prosecutor Deborah Daniels in her 100-page report argued that the "safety and well-being of the governing body's athletes, not world and Olympic medals, must be the focus." USA Gymnastics Chair Paul Parilla said that the NGB's board was "unanimous in accepting the 70 recommendations Daniels made." The body last fall hired Daniels to "review its practices and policies following criticism of its handling of sex abuse complaints, including a case involving the longtime team physician" (USATODAY.com, 6/27).