Stuttgart Artistic Gymnastics Center Undergoes Leadership Changes Amid Abuse Allegations
Resignation of Long-Time Director and Appointment of New Successor
The Stuttgart Artistic Gymnastics Center, recently embroiled in a storm of controversy over abuse allegations, has announced the impending retirement of its long-serving director, Michael Breuning. After more than 38 years at the helm, Breuning will step down effective March 1st, 2023.
Succeeding Breuning will be Nicolas Windelband, a 35-year-old who joins the center from the Baden Gymnastics Federation, where he previously held the position of Coordinator for Elite Sports. The Schwäbische Turnerbund (STB), the governing body for gymnastics in the region, expressed its confidence in Windelband’s abilities, describing him as a "strong successor" who will bring "new impetus" to the organization.
High-Profile Abuse Scandal Sparks Leadership Changes
Breuning’s departure comes amid a high-profile abuse scandal that has rocked the German gymnastics community. Former national team athletes Tabea Alt and Michelle Timm have publicly made serious accusations of "systematic physical and mental abuse" and inadequate conditions at the Stuttgart training center. Similar allegations have been leveled against the Mannheim training center, including harsh and authoritarian training methods.
In response to the allegations, the STB and the German Gymnastics Federation (DTB) have initiated investigations. A Frankfurt-based law firm has been engaged to conduct a comprehensive review, and a coaching duo has been suspended from their positions at the Stuttgart center.
Criminal Investigation Launched Against Former Coach
Furthermore, the Baden-Württemberg State Criminal Police Office has opened an investigation against a former coach at the Stuttgart center. According to the Stuttgart public prosecutor’s office, the investigation centers on allegations of coercion in multiple instances, and searches have been conducted, including at the STB headquarters.
The DTB has acknowledged its involvement in the criminal investigation as a "third party" but emphasized that neither the organization nor any of its officials are accused of wrongdoing. Both the STB and DTB have welcomed the criminal investigation as an essential step towards addressing the allegations.
Breuning’s Planned Promotion Canceled
It is notable that Breuning’s departure coincides with the cancellation of his planned promotion to Vice President for Olympic Elite Sports at the STB. Initially slated to take effect in June, this promotion has been withdrawn, further highlighting the tumultuous nature of the current situation.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
The leadership changes at the Stuttgart Artistic Gymnastics Center and the ongoing investigations underscore the ongoing commitment of the STB and DTB to transparency and accountability. The organizations have emphasized their determination to address the allegations thoroughly and to implement necessary reforms to prevent further abuse and ensure the well-being of athletes.
As the investigations continue, the gymnastics community remains under close scrutiny. The revelations of abuse and the subsequent fallout have cast a shadow over the sport, and it is crucial that all involved parties work diligently towards restoring trust and ensuring a safe and supportive environment for athletes at all levels.
