Mary Lou Retton, the 1984 Olympic gymnastics gold medalist, has alleged that she was sexually abused by her coach, Larry Nassar. The scandal has sent shockwaves through the gymnastics community and beyond, and has raised important questions about the culture of abuse in elite sports.
A Timeline of Events
- 1984: Mary Lou Retton wins the all-around gold medal at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
- 1986: Retton’s father, Ron Retton, dies of a heart attack.
- 1989: Retton and her then-husband, Joe Uzelac, divorce.
- 1991: Retton marries Shannon Kelley.
- 1993: Retton gives birth to her first child, a daughter named McKenna.
- 1997: Retton gives birth to her second child, a son named Skyler.
- 2016: Retton reveals that she was sexually abused by her former coach, Larry Nassar.
- 2017: Nassar is sentenced to 40 to 175 years in prison for sexually abusing more than 150 young women and girls.
- 2018: Retton files a lawsuit against USA Gymnastics and Michigan State University, alleging that they failed to protect her from Nassar’s abuse.
- 2019: Retton reaches a settlement with USA Gymnastics and Michigan State University for an undisclosed amount.
- 2020: Retton publishes her memoir, “Stronger,” in which she details her experience of being abused by Nassar.
Impact of the Scandal
The Mary Lou Retton sex abuse scandal has had a profound impact on the gymnastics community. It has led to the resignation of USA Gymnastics president Steve Penny and the entire board of directors. It has also prompted a number of investigations into the culture of abuse in elite sports.
The scandal has also had a significant impact on Retton’s personal life. She has spoken out about the abuse she suffered, and she has used her platform to advocate for change in the gymnastics community. Retton’s courage has inspired other survivors of sexual abuse to come forward and share their stories.
What Needs to Change
The Mary Lou Retton sex abuse scandal has highlighted the need for change in the culture of elite sports. There needs to be a greater emphasis on athlete safety, and there needs to be more accountability for those who abuse their power.
Some of the specific changes that need to be made include:
- Increased oversight of coaches and other adults who work with children. This includes requiring background checks for all coaches and volunteers, and providing regular training on how to recognize and report abuse.
- More support for athletes who report abuse. This includes providing access to counseling and other resources, and creating a safe environment where athletes feel comfortable coming forward.
- A change in the culture of silence. This means speaking out against abuse and holding those who abuse their power accountable.
Conclusion
The Mary Lou Retton sex abuse scandal is a reminder that sexual abuse is a problem in all walks of life. It is important to remember that no one is immune to abuse, and that everyone deserves to be treated with respect.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual abuse, please know that you are not alone. There are resources available to help you heal and rebuild your life.
