Aimee Boorman Takes Charge at Stuttgart Gymnastics Center Amid Scandal

Renowned coach Aimee Boorman approaches her challenging role at the Stuttgart Artistic Gymnastics Forum with an open mind and enthusiasm. „I know nothing about what happened here,“ she stated regarding the abuse scandal surrounding the facility. Her primary aim is to assist the athletes and prepare them for the upcoming season, the 51-year-old American explained. She described the atmosphere in the gym as „lovely.“

Boorman served as coach to American gymnast Simone Biles from 2005 to 2016, during which Biles amassed eleven Olympic and thirty World Championship medals. In Stuttgart, Boorman is temporarily coaching a small group that includes German hopeful Helen Kevric. This engagement started in early March and is initially set for five months.

Allegations of Abuse Surface

In recent months, serious issues at the Stuttgart Artistic Gymnastics Forum have come to light. Several former and current gymnasts have criticized the facility for „systematic physical and mental abuse“ as well as deplorable conditions. Two coaches have since been suspended, and the State Criminal Police Office of Baden-Württemberg is investigating a former trainer. The public prosecutor’s office is pursuing a case based on allegations of coercion in multiple instances.

The Schwäbische Turnerbund and the German Gymnastics Federation are currently engaged in addressing these issues, having enlisted a law firm from Frankfurt am Main since mid-January. An independent expert committee is also being established by the State Sports Association (LSV). Meanwhile, the temporarily frozen funding from the state could soon be reinstated.

Kevric’s European Championship Status Uncertain

According to Boorman, the athletes in Stuttgart initially approached her with some caution, but they are gradually getting to know each other better, engaging in conversation and humor.

Helen Kevric, in particular, is viewed as a significant future talent in German gymnastics. However, she will not compete at the DTB Cup in Stuttgart from March 27 to 30. It remains uncertain whether she will participate in the European Championships in Leipzig from May 26 to 31.