Golgotha Files Abuse Complaint with FRG

[Amber]

I think because Ponor has been a very vocal supporter of the Voineas

There was also the extraordinary incident at 2023 Worlds where FIG had to remove Ponor from PT (even though she was there as athlete rep) for bullying Barbosu - I think Kiens complained about Ponor's aggressive behaviour towards Barbosu. It seems to be part of attempts by the old guard to support the Voineas' methods as superior. Ponor, Silivas and IIRC a journalist called Alexoi have all been involved in attacking (non-Sabrina) Romanian gymnasts in the media.

Thank you!

 

[Angelika]

I always had the impression that Ponor was an angry, hostile, aggressive person.

But I never had Silivas as being like that

 

[KristyJ]

I hope that Denisa's complaint accomplishes something. They've been able to run roughshod over Romanian gymnastics for a half dozen years now and it's ridiculous that this has been allowed to go on.
I will say most people involved grew up in a time when perhaps bullying wasn't so frowned on, so perhaps there is an education component for some, even up to Ponor. But there is no excuse for the physical violence or threats thereof.

 

[MaryClare]

But I never had Silivas as being like that

Considering she lives and coaches in all this, she is weirdly involved and invested in it all

 

[ArnoldRimmer]

If even half of this is true, one wonders how Camelia in particular hasn't been on the receiving end of a few slaps herself. Maybe she has.

 

[KristyJ]

My guess is she almost assuredly has, sadly

 

[IratePanda]

I'm disappointed but not surprised that Silivas has voiced support for the Voineas. She and Mama C were teammates for years. Who knows what kind of a bond they forged over bad haircuts and abusive coaching.

I'd be more upset if Ecaterina Szabo took the Voineas' side. I recall reading or watching an interview that suggested she had a gentler approach to coaching. In fact, she said she couldn't best to be strict with young children. That might be a direct result of her own experiences. Her parents supposedly dumped her at the Karolyis' feet when she was six or seven.