Alright, USA Swimming.
Yes, you should apologize. Step up the protection of
our youth and ban these idiots who think they can
get their jollies out on the youth of America.
Do not become like the catholic church and try to sweep
this BS under the rug. Take charge and accept the problems
and DEAL WITH IT!
I am so disgusted and disappointed, and I see Chuck Wielgus as a complete idiot. You are damn right you should apologize! You represent the rest of us (former) and current coaches, parents, and swimmers; and what has been happening for at least 30 years is far beyond "tragic".
Why not apologize and say, "You know what, we've really screwed up here. We need to take a very close look at the people who have access to our young athletes." Nah, that would have required some common sense.
Good night. Thanks for the upset stomach before bed, Chuck.
I guess I was not aware that there was a widespread problem with USA swim coaches molesting children. I swam as a child and never heard of any complaints, but by the same token, I don't remember complaints about scout masters, teachers and priests. I think that as long as there are pedophiles in society, you can expect that some percentage of them will gravitate toward activities that give them access to children. I would think that the percentage of incidents or complaints would not be greater in swimming than it would be in other children's sports or activities.
With regard to the Chuck Weilgus interview, I think it may be unfair to criticize him too much. You first have to remember that at the time of the interview, USA Swimming (according to the story) was a defendant in ongoing litigation. I don't know what the facts are in the case that is pending, but there may be no basis for legal liability against USA Swimming. Asking for and giving an apology for conduct could be a factor in establishing liability. If I were representing USA Swimming in the litigation, I would not have allowed him to give the interview and instead would have issued a written statement to 20/20. "News" shows like 20/20 don't sell advertising by presenting a fair and balanced report.
I have three daughters who have all swum on teams. There can be no excuse for this type of behavior; however, I think it is a little unrealistic to think that the national organization for swimming or any other sport can be a the frontline of guarding our kids. The kids, parents and team officials (officers, directors, etc.) are the only people who have direct knowledge of things that go on and all of them should act quickly on knowledge of any inappropriate conduct. This type of conduct should be referred immediately to law enforcement.
I am so disgusted and disappointed, and I see Chuck Wielgus as a complete idiot. You are damn right you should apologize! You represent the rest of us (former) and current coaches, parents, and swimmers; and what has been happening for at least 30 years is far beyond "tragic".
Why not apologize and say, "You know what, we've really screwed up here. We need to take a very close look at the people who have access to our young athletes." Nah, that would have required some common sense.
Good night. Thanks for the upset stomach before bed, Chuck.
I guess I was not aware that there was a widespread problem with USA swim coaches molesting children. I swam as a child and never heard of any complaints, but by the same token, I don't remember complaints about scout masters, teachers and priests. I think that as long as there are pedophiles in society, you can expect that some percentage of them will gravitate toward activities that give them access to children. I would think that the percentage of incidents or complaints would not be greater in swimming than it would be in other children's sports or activities.
With regard to the Chuck Weilgus interview, I think it may be unfair to criticize him too much. You first have to remember that at the time of the interview, USA Swimming (according to the story) was a defendant in ongoing litigation. I don't know what the facts are in the case that is pending, but there may be no basis for legal liability against USA Swimming. Asking for and giving an apology for conduct could be a factor in establishing liability. If I were representing USA Swimming in the litigation, I would not have allowed him to give the interview and instead would have issued a written statement to 20/20. "News" shows like 20/20 don't sell advertising by presenting a fair and balanced report.
I have three daughters who have all swum on teams. There can be no excuse for this type of behavior; however, I think it is a little unrealistic to think that the national organization for swimming or any other sport can be a the frontline of guarding our kids. The kids, parents and team officials (officers, directors, etc.) are the only people who have direct knowledge of things that go on and all of them should act quickly on knowledge of any inappropriate conduct. This type of conduct should be referred immediately to law enforcement.
