Full Breakdown
USA Gymnastics Faces New Lawsuit Over Alleged Failure to Protect Athletes from Sexual Abuse
12/6/2025, 12:00:46 AM
Allegations Against Coach Sean Gardner
USA Gymnastics is embroiled in a new lawsuit alleging negligence in protecting young athletes from sexual abuse by coach Sean Gardner. The lawsuit, filed by gymnasts Finley Weldon and Hailey Gear, claims that Gardner, who was coaching at Chow’s Gymnastics and Dance Institute in West Des Moines, Iowa, engaged in mental, physical, and sexual abuse of the athletes when they were 11 and 12 years old in 2018. The plaintiffs assert that USA Gymnastics, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and Chow’s failed to adequately vet Gardner, despite a history of complaints regarding his behavior.
The allegations against Gardner include inappropriate physical contact, such as requiring long hugs after training sessions, and verbal abuse. Reports indicate that Gardner was known to have engaged in grooming behaviors, including excessive alcohol consumption in front of athletes and making sexual jokes. The FBI arrested Gardner in August on federal child pornography charges, which surfaced after investigators seized a cellphone and computer containing illicit images of young girls.
Background on USA Gymnastics' History of Abuse
This lawsuit comes in the wake of USA Gymnastics' previous settlement of $380 million with 500 survivors of sexual abuse perpetrated by former Olympic team doctor Larry Nassar. The organization faced significant backlash for its handling of abuse allegations, leading to the establishment of the U.S. Center for SafeSport aimed at preventing future incidents. However, critics argue that the measures taken have not been sufficient to protect athletes from known predators like Gardner.
Official Statements & Responses
John Manly, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, criticized USA Gymnastics for its inaction, stating, "USA Gymnastics was aware … in 2017 that Gardner was a serious and present danger to children." In response to the ongoing litigation, a spokesperson for USA Gymnastics declined to comment, citing the legal proceedings.
Criticism & Opposition
The ongoing lawsuits have drawn sharp criticism from various stakeholders, including former athletes and advocates for abuse survivors. Many survivors of Nassar's abuse have expressed frustration over the organization's continued failures to protect athletes, arguing that the systemic issues within USA Gymnastics remain unaddressed.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the lawsuit details specific allegations against Gardner, there are discrepancies regarding the extent of USA Gymnastics' knowledge of his behavior. Some reports indicate that complaints were made as early as 2017, while others suggest that the organization may not have acted on these reports adequately.
Verbatim Quotes
- “USA Gymnastics was aware … in 2017 that Gardner was a serious and present danger to children. USAG said nothing and permitted a predator to prey upon children in Iowa without warning to parents. Their conduct is shocking and despicable,” — John Manly, Attorney
- “As litigation is ongoing, we cannot offer comment,” — USA Gymnastics Spokesperson
The situation surrounding USA Gymnastics and the allegations against Sean Gardner highlights ongoing concerns about athlete safety and the organization's accountability in preventing abuse.
