Sophia Michaels
The subsequent content involves discussions of sexual assault, child abuse, and references to suicide.
There have been numerous scandals tied to USA Olympic swimming over the years, involving athletes, coaches, and board members. These controversies transcend incidents like Michael Phelps’ DUI or Ryan Lochte’s notorious alleged robbery in Rio de Janeiro. The organization has a track record of overlooking problems and perpetuating a culture of sexual misconduct that has persisted for an extended period.
Similarly to the situation in USA Gymnastics, where exploitation of young athletes occurred, the #MeToo movement shed light on sexual abuse cases within USA Swimming, underscoring significant flaws within what was once a reputed institution. The authorities have responded by implementing a no-tolerance policy in 2018, aiming to restore the organization’s tainted reputation after widespread allegations emerged.
Despite these controversies, swimming remains a popular Olympic sport. As attention turns towards the 2024 Olympic Games, let’s reflect on some of the notable scandals that have rocked USA Olympic Swimming over the years.
Michael Phelps’s Controversial Bong Incident
Michael Phelps found himself in hot water in 2009, not due to his swimming prowess but because of a photograph showing him smoking marijuana from a bong that made headlines. Phelps promptly issued an apology, expressing regret for his actions and using poor judgment. He faced consequences, losing a lucrative contract with Kellogg and receiving a three-month suspension from USA Swimming, including a cessation of his monthly stipend.
46 Coaches Banned for Prolonged Misconduct
In 2010, USA Swimming faced the aftermath of decades of sexual misconduct coming to light. The organization banned 46 individuals, with approximately 36 implicated in sexual misconduct. Victims criticized the lack of transparency from USA Swimming in addressing and publicizing these issues, pointing to a lack of visibility for the offenders’ list on the organization’s website.
Michael Phelps’s Struggle with Suicidal Thoughts Post-DUI
In 2015, Michael Phelps faced further challenges when he was arrested for a DUI, resulting in a six-month suspension from USA Swimming and exclusion from the 2015 FINA World Championships. Subsequently, Phelps sought treatment, spending time in rehab to address the issue.
#### Michael Phelps’ Struggles and DUIs
Throughout his career leading up to the 2016 Olympic Games, Michael Phelps faced severe mental health challenges exacerbated by overwhelming media attention. He found himself in a dark place, expressing thoughts of not wanting to live anymore. Additionally, in 2004, Phelps encountered his second DUI incident, having been previously arrested for driving under the influence. He acknowledged his mistakes, emphasizing the importance of learning and evolving from them.
#### US Olympians Involved in Rio Gas Station Incident
During the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, four American swimmers, Ryan Lochte, Jimmy Feigen, Gunnar Bentz, and Jack Conger, created chaos at a gas station by allegedly vandalizing a bathroom. Termed as “Lochtegate,” the incident unfolded when the swimmers reported a robbery after leaving the facility. However, inconsistencies emerged in Lochte’s narrative, leading to his suspension from USA Swimming for ten months. Contradicting claims and security footage dismantled their initial robbery allegations.
#### Ex-Coach John Bitter’s Embezzlement Scandal
Former CEO and head coach of the Santa Clara Swim Club, John Bitter, faced legal troubles for embezzling over $750,000 from the club. Following his firing in 2018, Bitter was ordered to repay the embezzled funds along with punitive damages. He resorted to selling his Arizona bar to meet financial obligations, having admitted to misusing a substantial loan from the club. Bitter expressed remorse for his actions and received a prison sentence in 2021 for forgery, grand theft, and embezzlement charges.
#### Ariana Kukors’ Allegations of Sexual Abuse
Ariana Kukors, a former Olympian, filed a lawsuit against USA Swimming and her ex-coach, Sean Hutchinson, in 2018, accusing Hutchinson of sexually abusing her since she was 16 years old. She claimed that officials concealed these actions instead of safeguarding her. Kukors recounted instances of Hutchinson grooming and engaging in inappropriate behavior with her when she was a minor. Despite Hutchinson denying any pre-legal romantic involvement, Kukors stated that their relationship was “an open secret” within the swimming community.**Covering up Sexual Abuse Allegations**
Six women filed a lawsuit against USA Swimming, accusing the organization of concealing decades of sexual abuse by its coaches. The lawsuit involved allegations dating back to the ’80s and named individuals such as former U.S. Olympic coach Mitch Ivey, former U.S. national team director Everett Uchiyama, and former coach Andrew King.
Debra Grodensky, one of the plaintiffs, shared her experience of being sexually assaulted at the age of 12 and later forced to engage in a non-consensual relationship with her coach. Tracy Palmero accused Uchiyama of grooming and assaulting her as a teenager. Suzette Moran claimed that she was sexually assaulted by Mitch Ivey, leading to a traumatic experience and impacting her Olympic training.
The accused coaches were banned from Olympic sports, with Andrew King receiving a lengthy prison sentence for his actions.
**Online Solicitation by Coach Nathan Bernier**
In 2024, Nathan Bernier, a former Texas swim coach, faced charges for soliciting a minor online. Using his coaching position, Bernier offered swim lessons to a minor while attempting to engage in inappropriate conversations. An undercover agent posed as a 14-year-old girl on a messaging app, leading to Bernier sending explicit messages and images.
After making plans to meet with the supposed minor, Bernier was arrested for online solicitation of a minor and later received a lifetime ban from USA Swimming.
**Coach Mark Black’s Exploitation of Minors**
Mark Black, the former president of the Arlington Aquatic Club, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexually exploiting minors. Black pleaded guilty to producing child pornography and engaging in coercive behavior online. He was involved in a group that shared explicit content of minors, leading to his conviction.
Despite his legal background and involvement with a well-regarded swim club, Black engaged in reprehensible actions that harmed multiple children.
**Failure to Address Underage Sexual Assault**
Amanda Le came forward with allegations of being sexually assaulted while underage under the watch of USA Swimming. The organization faced criticism for its failure to prevent such incidents and protect young swimmers from harm. The case added to the growing concerns regarding the safety and well-being of athletes within the swimming community.Former Hall of Fame coach Joseph Bernal, who passed away in 2022, was accused of abuse by one of his former athletes, Le. Le sued the organization, alleging that officials were aware of Bernal’s actions but did not intervene. Bernal coached Le during her time at the Gator Swim Club of New England, starting when she was 13 years old.
Le shared that the abuse began when she was 15, with Bernal kissing her after practice and manipulating her by taking advantage of her aspirations to excel in swimming and secure a college scholarship. Bernal had a strong reputation within the organization, having coached at Fordham and Harvard University and served on the U.S. coaching staff during the 1984 and 1988 Olympic Games.
Another individual, Kimberly Stines, also came forward with allegations of emotional and sexual abuse against Bernal in a lawsuit filed in 2021. Stines recounted how the abuse started in the late ’70s, with Bernal kissing her when she was young and causing confusion about the nature of the relationship.
For support or assistance related to sexual assault, child abuse, or crises, resources like the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) and the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline can be contacted. Additionally, individuals can reach out to 988lifeline.org for help through calls, texts, or online chats.
