Text of statement from Victoria diver Riley McCormick about charges of sexual exploitation being laid against his former coach, Trevor Palmatier
I have been approached and asked to comment on the unfortunate events currently reported by the media with respect to my former diving coach Trevor Palmatier.
As most of you know, diving has been an amazing and seminal part of my life since I was four years old, culminating in my competing for Canada in the finals at the Olympics in 2012 and so I’m personally deeply saddened and profoundly affected by the reports I have read and trust that none of this will reflect on Dive Canada or diving.
I can say that this sadness and sense of loss is mercifully tempered by my absolute faith Canada’s justice system.
As I am not involved in this matter, to comment beyond this specifically at this time would be premature. I will comment generally, as a beneficiary of sport and a huge believer in its transformative power, that there is no room for the abuse of power or authority in any aspect of our lives and this is especially true for the youth of our society and their families who turn to sport and are particularly vulnerable due to their tender years and the overwhelming power of their dreams.
I feel for all victims of abuse and I trust that, in each case, justice will mete out appropriate punishment and rehabilitation, and pray each victim will not let these events define them in any way, but they will define themselves in sport and beyond with great success. And I ask that each of us celebrate and welcome every individual who has the courage to speak out about abuse and pursue justice.
