U.S. Biathlon statement on athlete safety and well-being

For U.S. Biathlon, athlete well-being and providing an environment where athletes are safe and comfortable has been, and continues to be the priority for us. SafeSport plays a vital role in ensuring that athletes, coaches, staff and officials are educated about all forms of misconduct, setting a standard of behavior so athletes can train and compete in a safe environment, free from abuse and inappropriate behavior. 

Today, a news article from the Associated Press reported on a past SafeSport investigation involving a U.S. Biathlon athlete and a former contractor. These incidents are traumatic for the athletes involved and taken extremely seriously by our staff and organization. Upon hearing of the allegations, U.S. Biathlon immediately reported the claims to the U.S. Center for SafeSport, removed the contractor from any further contact with athletes and cooperated fully with the investigation. In its final report, SafeSport issued sanctions against the contractor and did not find any violations of the SafeSport code or protocols by U.S. Biathlon.

Our organization, leaders and staff are fully committed to maintaining an environment where athlete wellness and safety is paramount. In collaboration with athlete leadership, there is a mutual dedication to continually fostering the growth and development of our athletes, placing them first, supporting their health and well-being and providing a safe and supportive environment. We know a healthy and safe community takes effort from everyone involved with our sport and we cannot stress enough that if there is an issue that needs to be brought to the attention of the organization or the U.S. Center for SafeSport, there are multiple contact points. Please visit usbiathlon.org/safesport for information regarding SafeSport policy, reporting, SafeSport helpline, consent forms, and more.