U.S. diver Mary Ellen Clark angered USOC officials when she
"forgot" to change from a Speedo warmup into an official USOC-
issued Champion warmup during her medal ceremony. Clark's coach,
Ron O'Brien, called it an "innocent mistake," but the miscue
could result in Clark being sent home before next Sunday's
closing ceremonies. The violation could also cost Clark $15,000
in Operation Gold money for the bronze medal, $1,000 in monthly
Olympic stipends, all Olympic items and team apparel and the trip
to the White House. USOC spokesperson Mike Moran: "She knows
the rule as well as anyone in the world. She's been to two
Olympics." Clark was not available to comment, but O'Brien
penned an apology to USOC VP Ralph Hale. Moran said Clark's fate
would be determined in the next few days, adding, "She's not the
only athlete in violation." He would not reveal other names.
Janet Shaner, Champion's Olympic Marketing Dir, said it is the
USOC's job to check what athletes wear. Shaner: "This is a
concern for us after spending the money we did to be a sponsor"
(Sharon Robb, FT. LAUDERDALE SUN-SENTINEL, 7/28).
NEWS & NOTES: USA TODAY features a "midterm marketing report
card." High marks go to Kerri Strug, Dominique Dawes, Mia Hamm,
and Karch Kiraly. Tom Dolan is noted, but not ranked as highly.
Dropping: Dominique Moceanu and Janet Evans (Dottie Enrico, USA
TODAY, 7/29). General Mills Dir of Communication David Dix said
Strug would be a likely candidate for the Wheaties box, but they
will make no offer unless she hires an agent (ARIZONA REPUBLIC,
7/29).
