IOWA CITY, Iowa — Finley Weldon reflects on the dark past with her former coach, Sean Gardner, who has now been arrested for serious crimes. This 18-year-old gymnast feels a mix of relief and empowerment as she steps into a new chapter at Iowa State University, joining the Cyclones gymnastics team.
Gardner, who once overshadowed her training, was charged with child sexual exploitation. Recently, he faced accusations of targeting children during his coaching years in Iowa, Mississippi, and Louisiana dating back to 2004. Finley told AP she’s proud of her resilience, saying, “None of the girls I started with are still in gymnastics today.”
Inspired by Olympians like Aly Raisman, who bravely shared her own abuse stories, Finley chose to speak out. “I didn’t want him to take away something I love,” she stated. She believes her voice can spark change, ensuring that other young athletes won’t endure similar trauma.
In 2022, the U.S. Center for SafeSport reported allegations against Gardner, revealing that a fellow gymnast had accused him of inappropriate touching during training sessions. This whistleblowing led to an investigation, but it remained dormant after the initial accuser opted not to pursue charges. It wasn’t until 2024 that Finley came forward herself.
The ongoing investigations into Gardner reveal unsettling details. Authorities seized devices containing inappropriate images, and Gardner is now facing charges in federal court in Mississippi. As police efforts ramped up, they sought FBI assistance when the scope of the case widened.
Expert opinions highlight the need for systemic changes in sports organizations. A 2023 study found that 72% of athletes have reported feeling vulnerable to abuse in coaching relationships. Experts argue better training and support systems are crucial to protect young athletes.
Finley’s journey through gymnastics wasn’t easy. She began training at Chow’s Gymnastics after moving to Iowa in 2015. Amid personal struggles, including her parents’ divorce and the absence of her father, Finley saw Gardner as a father figure. In hindsight, she acknowledges he manipulated her trust.
Her struggles escalated in 2019 with unsettling interactions. What began as affectionate hugs turned into inappropriate touching. She reached her breaking point in 2021 when Gardner’s harsh words left her feeling defeated. “I walked out and told my mom I wanted to quit,” she recalled.
Despite the turmoil, Finley stayed dedicated. She moved from Texas to Utah, training hard and eventually earning a spot on a Division 1 gymnastics team, proving her strength and resilience.
After Gardner’s arrest, Finley felt a mix of emotions as she saw his booking photo. “He looks like he’s been through a lot,” she said, recognizing the weight of his actions.
Finley’s story underscores the importance of speaking out against abuse and staying resilient in the face of adversity. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest moments, the strength to overcome and inspire change can shine through.
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Finley Weldon, Sean Gardner, Julie Weldon, West Des Moines Police Department, sexual abuse, Iowa State University, Gardner, Weldon
