New USOC CEO Named; wants to listen amid wake of abuse scandal
New U.S. Olympic Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Hirshland, will step into the new role in the wake of what’s been described as “the worst sex abuse scandal in sports.”
Last year, former USA Gymnastics doctor, Larry Nassar, was accused of molesting at least 250 young athletes over the course of 25 years. He eventually pleaded guilty to ten counts of sexual assault on minors. Since then, assault allegations have surfaced within other Olympic National Governing Bodies, including USA Swimming, USA Tae Kwon Do, and USA Volleyball.
The Olympic Committee has been in search of a new leader since Scott Blackmun announced his resignation in February.
In addition, the organization has been under the Congressional microscope during a series of hearings, including calls from some to revoke or rescind the USOC’s charter.
Hirshland is currently an executive with the U.S. Golf Association.
Friday, Hirshland toured the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs.
“It’s an incredibly inspiring place,” smiled Hirshland.
As for how she will begin repairing the broken trust between athletes and the U.S. Olympic Committee?
“I think the most important thing for a leader to do is to listen to their constituents. That’s where we’ll start,” said Hirshland. “I’m coming at a point in time where a lot of work has been done. The organization has built an action plan with several important pillars. And so, I’ll come in and look at that plan and make sure that is the right plan going forward.”
Hirshland cited the the independent Center for SafeSport as a start in the right direction. Since opening in March 2017, the center has taken more than 800 reports from athletes.
She fell short, however, on specifics when asked whether the USOC would enact more oversight and accountability on Non-Governing Bodies.
“It would be incredibly premature to comment on that at this point,” said Hirshland.
As of Friday, she admitted she had yet to contact the Athletes Advisory Council — which acts as a mouthpiece for Olympians — but said she planned to.
The incoming CEO will officially start in late August 2018.
