Ian Moss was fired as executive director of Gymnastics Canada on Thursday, a move that comes amid calls for drastic changes to the organization’s management structure.
Gymnastics Canada (GC) released a statement in which the organization said it made the decision “today” to “make substantial changes to its leadership.”
Moss’ departure therefore came months after Gymnasts for Change Canada, an advocacy group made up of several hundred former gymnasts and other active members, called for his departure.
“We have heard loud and clear about the faults related to culture and behavior that have hurt individuals and our sport,” said Bernard Petiot, who is acting chair of GC’s board of directors, in a press release. We recognize the implications and we are moving forward. »
The gymnasts had written an open letter to Sport Canada in March 2022 asking for a federal investigation into the toxic culture in their sport.
Moss had appeared on the matter on January 30 during the hearings on the safety of women in sport, an initiative of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women. In particular, he was questioned by the deputies about the allegations which claimed that he had been made aware of the complaints of several athletes against two coaches, but did not intervene.
Gymnastics Canada said it will work with Moss to “ensure a smooth transition” for the arrival of a new general manager.
“There’s a lot to do,” Petiot said. New leadership positions and renewed governance are important steps forward. The McLaren report has provided us with a framework for change and a renewed commitment to accountability, transparency and safety excellence in sport. »
The organization is also looking for a new chair for its Board of Directors, after Jeff Thompson resigned earlier this month.