Larry Nassar case impacts gymnastics

On  September 15, U.S. gymnasts Simone Biles, Aly Raisman, Mckayla Maroney, and Maggie Nichols testified in a Senate hearing about the abuse they suffered from Larry Nassar and how they felt let down by a system, including the FBI, that should have protected them. Nassar was a USA Gymnastics doctor for 18 years, and faces six different charges of second-degree sexual assault. 

The visibility and coverage of the Nassar case has shined a spotlight on gymnastics as a whole and what some gymnasts go through. 

“I believe that sexual or emotional abuse happens in any level of gymnastics, whether it’s within higher level gymnasts or recreational gymnasts,” said senior Kylie Brown.

Gymnasts of all ages and skill levels can be exposed to abuse, but thanks to these brave athletes speaking out, things are starting to change. 

“Being a gymnast, I have noticed a lot of changes within the gymnastics community,” said Brown. “More awareness brought to these types of actions.”

The media has questioned why the accusations against Nassar took so long to be reported. 

“USA gymnastics failed as an organization to report the incident. The amount of reports filed and thrown away was unacceptable,” said Brown. “This case could have been prevented, if the FBI and USAG listened to the cries of young gymnasts.”

“I feel that because of the escalation of this situation and the reputation of Nassar, the case was trying to favor the doctor and not the many reports from the athletes,” said senior Dana Potter. 

Gymnasts were blamed and even ridiculed for telling their stories, but nonetheless, they demanded change and their actions will make gymnastics gyms a safe place for everyone.