Broken Reforms and Unfulfilled Promises
The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) promised a series of ‘historic’ reforms in the wake of a 2011 child sex abuse scandal but has largely failed to implement them. Despite pledges for mandatory training and barring banned coaches, investigations by ProPublica and The Washington Post reveal significant shortcomings in safeguarding young athletes from abuse.
The AAU’s credibility is under question as it hosts events for approximately 760,000 athletes and coaches nationwide. Key competitions involve children at venues like the world’s largest volleyball championship in Orlando, Florida, and storied basketball championships at Disney World.
Promises Unkept
The organization vowed reforms after allegations surfaced against an AAU executive in 2011. These included safety training and vetting procedures. However, it has yet to prevent many accused coaches from participating. Additionally, a hotline meant for abuse reporting redirects to a general office line with no option to report abuse.
Handling Allegations
The Board of Review, responsible for addressing allegations of sexual misconduct, acts without interviewing witnesses. Quotes from former board members reveal decisions were often based on emotions.
AAU’s attempt to restrict public visibility into allegations violates trust. A practice of resolving claims through confidential arbitration shields it from lawsuits, a method unlikely seen in other major organizations. This policy stirs criticism, drawing parallels with tactics used by the Catholic Church in suppressing abuse allegations.
SafeSport and Organizational Loopholes
The AAU’s separation from the U.S. Center for SafeSport allows circumvention of standard practices established for national governing bodies. SafeSport, designed to impose stricter safety measures, does not extend to the AAU, enabling an environment protective of the organization rather than the children under its care.
The Case of Ashlee Orndorff
Ashlee Orndorff brought forward allegations against AAU executive Matt Williams. Insufficient investigation left the case unresolved and did little to change entrenched practices. The board relied on lack of formal witness lists and disregarded past allegations against Williams.
AAU’s Growing Revenue Contrasts with Inaction
Despite failing reforms, AAU’s revenue increased markedly post-2015. The organization’s wide reach across sports contrasts its indirect approach to strengthening safety protocols.
Case Examples Show Organizational Flaws
Stories of multiple coaches, who were initially barred under SafeSport but continued within the AAU, highlight the failings of AAU policy enforcement. The case of Elias Perez, who faced SafeSport suspension yet coached in AAU-affiliated clubs, exemplifies the gap in the organization’s stated safety measures.
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