USRowing Releases Investigative Report on Sexual Misconduct Allegations against Former Penn Coach Ted Nash

The world of competitive rowing was rocked on Tuesday as the governing body released a 154-page investigative report confirming allegations of sexual misconduct against former University of Pennsylvania coach Ted Nash. The report found the accusations made by Jennifer Fox, a documentary filmmaker who reported being sexually abused by Nash as a child in 1973, to be credible.

USRowing took swift action in response to the findings, rescinding honors previously bestowed upon Nash, including the prestigious Man of the Year recognition and the USRowing Medal of Honor. The organization, based in Princeton, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all participants, especially youth athletes.

The investigation, conducted pro bono by the New York law firm Shearman & Sterling, involved interviews with 47 individuals and detailed analysis of primary evidence, including diary entries and notes from the 1970s. The report also revealed allegations of unwanted sexual advances made by Nash against a female rower.

Despite Nash’s significant contributions to the sport of rowing, USRowing stood firm in its commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions. The organization urged other affiliated groups to review the full report and take appropriate action.

In response to the report, the University of Pennsylvania covered the signage at the Coach Ted A. Nash Land Rowing Center, pending further investigation. Fox, who directed the film “The Tale” based on her own experiences of childhood abuse, expressed a sense of closure following the release of the investigative findings.

As the rowing community grapples with the revelations surrounding Nash, USRowing’s decisive actions underscore the importance of addressing allegations of misconduct and prioritizing the safety of all athletes. The sport must continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.