Farden’s departure comes after allegations of verbal and emotional abuse
Less than two weeks after being placed on administrative leave, Tom Farden has stepped down as the coach of the University of Utah Red Rocks gymnastics team. The decision was announced on Tuesday night, with the university stating that Farden and the school had mutually agreed to part ways. The move comes after months of controversy surrounding allegations of verbal and emotional abuse by Farden towards past and present gymnasts on his team. While an investigation cleared him of the allegations, the university cited recent conduct and actions that did not align with their values and expectations as the reason for his departure.
Allegations and Investigation
Farden had been under scrutiny for several months following allegations made by anonymous gymnasts and staff members in a Deseret News report. The allegations included claims of degradation, screaming, and object-throwing by Farden. However, many of his former gymnasts came to his defense. An investigation was conducted, which ultimately exonerated Farden of the allegations. Despite this, the university placed him on paid administrative leave on November 12, citing recent conduct and actions that were not related to student-athlete welfare.
Retirements and Criticisms
Former Olympic alternate Kara Eaker announced her retirement from gymnastics last month and alleged that she was a victim of Farden’s verbal and emotional abuse. She also criticized the investigation into Farden as incomplete. These public statements, along with others made by gymnast Kim Tessen, may lead to potential legal action from Farden against them, according to his lawyer. The timing of Farden’s leave coinciding with the reporter’s inquiry about the lawyer’s statements raises questions about the university’s decision-making process.
University’s Decision and Interim Coach
The University of Utah stated that the decision to part ways with Farden was made after extensive analysis and discussion. Athletic Director Mark Harlan emphasized that the move was necessary to provide clarity and stability for the student-athletes and to prevent further distraction from their upcoming season. Carly Dockendorf will continue as the interim head coach of the program. Dockendorf, a former Canadian national team member, has been with the Red Rocks as an assistant coach since 2018.
Farden’s Legacy
During his tenure at Utah, Farden led the Red Rocks to impressive achievements. In his four years as sole head coach, the team won three consecutive Pac-12 championships, three NCAA regional titles, and achieved third-place finishes in three straight NCAA Championship meets. Farden expressed gratitude to the university for the opportunity to coach the gymnastics program and pride in the young women who have contributed to the team’s success.
Conclusion:
The departure of Tom Farden as head coach of the Utah Red Rocks gymnastics team marks the end of a tumultuous period for the program. The allegations of verbal and emotional abuse, the subsequent investigation, and Farden’s placement on administrative leave have all contributed to a challenging time for the team. The university’s decision to part ways with Farden aims to provide stability and clarity for the student-athletes moving forward. As the Red Rocks navigate this transition, they will continue to build on the successes achieved under Farden’s leadership and strive for continued excellence in the years to come.
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