To the gymnastics community,

I am writing today to share some important developments in our ongoing commitment to create an empowered culture focused on the highest standards of care and well-being for our athletes. In the coming weeks, we will share more positive plans that continue to move our organization forward.

Since joining USA Gymnastics in December 2017, I have examined every aspect of the organization’s structure, policies, procedures and personnel to ensure that there is not only alignment with our mission and goals, but also that we set the standard for all other organizations to be measured against. As such, we are transforming our structure to more strongly reflect our commitment to empowering athletes and, as a result, we will be better equipped to support them. I recognize that change can sometimes be difficult for some, but I believe it is necessary and we will not be deterred.

Specifically, we are expanding and decentralizing our Safe Sport Department. It will include five new positions, four of which will be assigned to and live in the regions they will cover throughout the United States. We believe this provides a much-improved structure to better support, train, educate and serve members, including our athletes and parents, club owners and professionals located in various regions throughout the country. USA Gymnastics Safe Sport Department will include:

  • A regional director responsible for the overall efforts of safe sport regional managers;
  • Four regional managers dedicated to help educate, train, support and ensure all safe sport guidelines, policies and procedures are in place throughout the communities we serve.

These individuals join the positions of USA Gymnastics’ Chief Legal Officer, Safe Sport Director of Education, and Safe Sport Counsel. We will continue to add personnel and experts when needed to ensure our organization is best equipped to serve athletes and members throughout the country.

This is one more step in our ongoing mission to ensure athlete safety at all levels of the sport. In the last five months, we have also terminated our lease with the Karolyi Ranch; are promoting the National Gymnastics Foundation’s Athlete Assistance Fund that provides financial support for counseling services; and are building an Athlete Task Force to help shape our organization’s future.

Today, I ask you, member clubs, coaches, athletes, parents, administrators and the entire gymnastics community to align with us in this important effort to create the culture our athletes of all ages and skill levels deserve. Only together can we create a culture of empowerment that truly supports the young men and women who are pursuing their gymnastics dreams today while honoring those who have gone before them.

Thank you.
Kerry Perry – USA Gymnastics President/CEO