Rutgers Gymnastics Under Investigation Amid Abuse Allegations

PISCATAWAY, N.Y. — Rutgers University has initiated an investigation regarding allegations of bullying, favoritism, and retaliatory behaviors involving the gymnastics program’s coach, Umme Salim-Beasley. This decision was announced by President Jonathan Holloway earlier in the week.

The hiring of law firm Lowenstein Sandler, led by partner Matthew Boxer, comes in the wake of serious claims made by current and former athletes. These allegations surfaced alongside the unexpected retirement of Scarlet Knights Athletic Director Pat Hobbs, who stepped down due to health issues on August 16.

Matthew Boxer has considerable experience in this arena, having previously served as a New Jersey state comptroller and federal prosecutor. He led a similar investigation into Rutgers’ softball program in 2020, where multiple athletes reported emotional abuse and detrimental training practices by the coaching staff.

NJ Advance Media has reported firsthand accounts from seven former gymnasts, along with one current team member, all of whom characterized the environment under Salim-Beasley as “toxic.” Survivors of this atmosphere have bravely outlined troubling experiences that have raised significant concerns about the overall health of the program.

In a statement regarding this new investigation, President Holloway emphasized the importance of a thorough review. He stated, “This effort will ensure that any and all concerns raised about the program are thoroughly reviewed, determining whether appropriate follow-up steps were taken.” Holloway also noted that the investigation would explore any cultural issues within the team, aiming to address concerns that may surface throughout the process.

Holloway assured transparency by confirming that the recommendations or findings from the investigation would be made public. For this investigation, the firm has been contracted with a $50,000 retainer, with initial fees of $225,000 for the first month, subsequently decreasing to $195,000 for the second month. The contract terms stipulate that these fees will be reassessed should the investigation extend beyond the anticipated time frame.

On August 31, Holloway communicated about the external investigation with the university’s governing boards. In his correspondence, he expressed confidence that Rutgers had effectively adhered to its policies concerning the gymnastics program.

“Our learning environment depends upon the safety, health, and mental well-being of all our students,” Holloway remarked. He further emphasized that the university strives to create a supportive environment conducive to student success. “Rutgers Athletics shares this commitment. Whenever concerns or allegations arise about our support for students, the University investigates those concerns in accordance with our policies, the law, and, in the case of Athletics, our NCAA standards,” he added.

The outcome of this investigation could have lasting implications for the gymnastics program at Rutgers. Stakeholders, including current athletes, alumni, and parents, are awaiting the findings and recommendations that will result from this inquiry into the gymnastics environment and its leadership. Ensuring a safe and positive atmosphere for athletes is paramount, as they navigate both their academic and athletic lives.

The allegations emerging from the gymnastics program underscore the need for universities to actively foster an environment where athletes can thrive without fear of bullying or retaliation from coaches and staff. The outcomes of this investigation will be closely monitored as the institution seeks to uphold its commitments to its student-athletes.