Brave Gymnast Breaks Silence: Reveals Abuse Concerns About Elite US Academy Coach

Iowa Gymnast Speaks Out Against Abusive Coach

Finley Weldon, an 18-year-old gymnast from Iowa, recently shared her story about overcoming abuse from her former coach, Sean Gardner. Just days after Gardner’s arrest for child sexual exploitation, Weldon expressed her pride in continuing gymnastics despite the trauma.

Heading into her freshman year at Iowa State University, where she’ll compete for the Cyclones, Weldon discussed her journey with the Associated Press. “I didn’t want him to take away gymnastics from me. I’m one of the few who made it through and is still here,” she said.

Weldon’s bravery echoes the accounts of other gymnasts, including Olympian Aly Raisman, who brought attention to the serious issues in the sport after her own experiences with abuse. Weldon felt compelled to share her story to protect future generations. “If we don’t speak out, it’s a cycle that continues,” she stated.

The Investigation into Gardner

The FBI believes Gardner targeted young athletes while coaching at Chow’s Gymnastics and Dance Institute in West Des Moines, as well as in Mississippi and Louisiana. His alleged misconduct dates back to 2004. Before his arrest, a former gymnast had reported Gardner for inappropriate behavior, prompting investigations.

Weldon, however, took time to process her experiences before coming forward herself in 2024, stating that she only fully grasped the severity of her situation as she matured.

Despite some initial setbacks in the investigation, she praised the police for their thoroughness. “It’s definitely taken a while, but they kept me informed,” she said. The West Des Moines police were eventually able to collaborate with the FBI to support their inquiries.

Weldon’s Personal Journey

Weldon began training with Gardner at age 11 after her family relocated to Iowa. She described a transformation from a vulnerable young girl to an accomplished gymnast under challenging circumstances. Initially, she struggled with her parents’ divorce and found comfort in Gardner’s attention, which she now recognizes as emotional manipulation.

As time went on, Gardner’s inappropriate actions escalated. “It started with hugs and patted backs, and then it progressed,” she recalled. After a particularly distressing incident in 2021, she decided to quit gymnastics but later returned stronger and determined to succeed.

Her resilience paid off as she achieved elite status and secured a place on a Division 1 gymnastics team, proving Gardner wrong.

Reflection on the Situation

After Gardner’s arrest, Weldon was struck by his current appearance. “He seems to have gone through a spiral,” she observed, reflecting on the weight of his actions.

The rise of social media has amplified stories like Weldon’s, making it easier for survivors to connect and share experiences. Conversations on platforms like Twitter and Instagram show growing support for those who bravely come forward.

Experts in the field emphasize the importance of creating a safe environment for young athletes. Organizations like the U.S. Center for SafeSport were established in response to scandals like the one involving Larry Nassar, and they continue to work on safeguarding athletes’ welfare.

As we learn from Weldon and other survivors, speaking out can pave the way for change. It’s essential for victims to voice their experiences to prevent future abuses in sports and beyond. While the journey is difficult, there is hope in resilience and solidarity.

For more on the ongoing investigations and reforms in sports, check out the SafeSport website.

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