Two provincial organizations have federal support in call to oust Gymnastics Canada leadership

TSN Senior Correspondent

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Two provincial gymnastics associations have called for the removal of Gymnastics Canada chief executive Ian Moss and board chair Jeff Thomson and are being supported in their call by Canada’s sport minister.

In a Sept. 7 letter addressed to Thomson and the organization’s directors, Gymnastics B.C. chief executive Nigel Loring and Alberta Gymnastics Federation chief executive Robin McDougall wrote that Thomson and Moss have lost the confidence of their provincial organizations.

“You have not shown capacity to be innovative, forward thinking or collaborative as we strive for excellence in the future of the sport of gymnastics in Canada,” Loring and McDougall’s one-page letter said. “Our members deserve better.

“Collaboration, dedication, excellence, innovation and integrity. These are the five values of Gymnastics Canada. These words are strong, impactful and should have meaning. They represent the empty promises of our [national sport organization]. We watch our foundation cracking and our athletes and coach’s (sic) struggle; you have failed to inspire and be engaged.”

Sport Minister Pascale St-Onge wrote in a statement to TSN that she supported Loring and McDougall.

“I share the concern and sense of urgency for change,” St-Onge wrote. “The calls from these two provincial-level organizations are an example of people in leadership taking their responsibilities seriously and demanding change within their sport. It is a decision that sends a clear message to people in a leadership role at Gymnastics Canada.

“We must engage in a profound culture shift to contribute to a healthier culture in sport. I commend those in current leadership positions who are holding their peers accountable