Athletics Australia acknowledges the highly concerning reports about the conduct of Alex Parnov during his time as a pole vault coach at the Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) between 1998 and 2019, as well as the subsequent WAIS responses to complaints that were made.
The reports identify patterns of behaviour that are totally unacceptable and deeply distressing, and we are profoundly sorry for the harm that they caused to athletes and staff.
The well-being and safety of all participants in our sport is paramount, and we recognise the courage of those who have come forward to share their experiences. We support those who have spoken up and encourage any others who may have experienced unacceptable behaviours to come forward and speak to us confidentially so that further action can be taken.
Upon being informed of the WAIS investigation findings in 2019, Athletics Australia revoked Mr Parnov’s coaching accreditation and imposed a lifetime ban on obtaining re-accreditation, ensuring he could no longer be involved in the sport in Australia. In subsequent years, clear directives were issued by Athletics Australia to prevent his participation in any athletics-related activity both in Australia and abroad.
While Mr Parnov was employed by the WAIS, we acknowledge his role as a coach on various Australian teams abroad and the trust that Athletics Australia placed in him. We recognise the significance and importance of robust safeguards and collaboration across the sporting landscape to prevent such conduct from occurring, to protect athletes at every level, and to provide safe avenues to raise concerns.
Athletics Australia has asked Sport Integrity Australia to support a review of how Athletics Australia acted during the period Mr Parnov was coaching in our sport, including how any complaints about his behaviour were managed.
Athletics Australia remains committed to continuous improvement in athlete safety and wellbeing and fostering a culture of respect and safety across all areas of the sport. International sporting success and gold medals should never be a higher priority than athlete welfare.
We will continue to work with athletes and coaches, Sport Integrity Australia and Institutes of Sport to ensure that athletes are protected from harm.
For those impacted, we offer our unwavering support. Confidential support services are available through Athletics Australia and the Mental Health Referral Network.
Simon Hollingsworth
Chief Executive Officer
Athletics Australia
Posted: 14/12/2024