Additional Coverage:
Hartford, CT – At 90s Con, two members of the Magnificent Seven, the US women’s gymnastics team that won gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, reflected on their experiences and advocated for a safer environment for today’s young athletes. Dominique Moceanu and Shannon Miller, though not personally abused by Larry Nassar, shared their perspectives on the importance of support and protection in gymnastics.
Moceanu, who has been outspoken against abusive coaching practices, became a source of comfort for Nassar’s victims. She described herself as an “underground call center,” working to change the culture of gymnastics. Moceanu acknowledged the difficulty of this journey, particularly the isolation she experienced after speaking out.
In contrast, Miller had a positive experience in gymnastics, describing it as a “healthy outlet.” However, she acknowledged the reality of abuse in sports and emphasized the importance of parental involvement.
Miller encouraged parents to be proactive in asking questions and looking for red flags, while also highlighting the valuable life lessons and benefits that sports can offer. She stressed the importance of finding a balance between vigilance and allowing children to experience the positive aspects of athletics.