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Post by Laura (Lori) on Sept 18, 2012 19:09:05 GMT -8
It’s been a few days since the news broke of the skaters’ grievances against USS and their coaches. This is likely to be a long process, and will certainly involve passionate differences of opinion on many different fronts, so as the head admin here at BB I think this is an appropriate time to clarify where our forum administration stands on the matter. We do not pretend to speak for all fans, nor all members here at BB - but my hope is that in writing this, it will clarify to our readers and members our leanings on how this discussion will be moderated.
1) Regarding the allegations of physical abuse, sexual harassment and other personal improprieties by the coaches and USS employees (Edit... also the 'skate-tampering' allegations against Simon Cho): These are the types of things that could destroy reputations, lives and careers - not just those of the accused, but the accusers as well. We will tread lightly and with sensitivity to both sides while the investigation is ongoing - discussion on this subject is welcome, but will be closely monitored.
2) Regarding allegations of overtraining, resulting in increased athlete injuries: Posts on this subject will be moderated only if they violate our board's current overall posting rules.
3) Regarding the allegations of mismanagement against USS as a whole: While many of the specifics of these complaints come as news to us, we have seen this day coming for a long time. We have had misgivings about USS’ governance structure, financial management and lack of transparency from the very beginning of our interest in the sport. Our creation of The Rocker Fund in 2007-08 was a direct result of this mistrust. That being said, we've had amicable relations with USS over the years and have met some fine people. Unfortunately, many of those souls have been the first to get the axe when the pressure is on to clean house - leaving the powers-that-be (i.e., the 'good old boy network') virtually intact. This NGB is broken and it needs to be fixed - from an OUTSIDE source, 'cause they've proven over and over again that they can't do it from the inside out. We believe that this is the root of all of the current problems, and comments on this subject will be moderated only if they violate our board's current overall posting rules.
4) Regarding the skaters making the allegations - and those who opted out of joining them: Although many of us have stated support of 4APTE’s decision to stand up against USS, it does not in any way mean we are ‘against’ those who chose to remain with the status quo. Nothing will change with regard to our support of ALL of these athletes and promotion of their achievements. Whatever the personal dynamics are between the two groups is their private matter, and we will not condone any comments that incite the skaters or their families against each other.
We fully understand that there are two sides to every story - so opposing views to any member’s comments are welcome. As long as they are stated with reason and civility, your views will be treated with the same respect as any other, and you will NOT find yourselves in a ‘lion’s den’.
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