US Olympic Officials Fire Coach and Director Following Sexual Abuse Report
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has terminated the affiliations of coach Gary Colliander and director Eileen Carey after allegations of sexual abuse surfaced. The decision came on March 14, following an investigation by the U.S. Center for SafeSport into claims made by former biathlete Grace Boutot.
Boutot alleges that Colliander, her coach at the Maine Winter Sports Center, sexually abused her starting in 2006 when she was 15 years old. The abuse reportedly continued until 2010, leading to severe depression and a suicide attempt by Boutot in October of that year.
“He denies any conduct in violation of the SafeSport Code or applicable laws and policies and maintains that he has always upheld professional standards throughout his career,” said Simone Montoya, Colliander’s lawyer, in a statement to ABC News.
Carey, who was Vice President at the Maine Winter Sports Center during the time of the alleged abuse, reportedly knew about the situation but failed to take action. In an email dated October 25, 2010, Carey wrote, “I am very supportive of having positive things come out of this situation for everyone involved.”
The U.S. Center for SafeSport launched its investigation into Colliander in December. USOPC spokesman Jon Mason confirmed, “Please note that Mr. Colliander’s case remains active with SafeSport.”
Both Colliander and Carey were fired on March 14, though the USOPC did not disclose specific reasons for their termination. Colliander had been placed on administrative leave in December when the investigation began.
The Maine Winter Sports Center settled with Boutot for $75,000 in September 2011. Boutot came forward with her story following an AP report highlighting similar cases within the biathlon community.
For those affected by sexual assault, support is available through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673), operated by RAINN. Additionally, the U.S. Center for SafeSport offers free online trainings and a Parent Toolkit to help prevent abuse in sports.
As the investigation continues, the USOPC’s swift action underscores the growing emphasis on athlete safety and accountability within Olympic sports organizations.
