“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.
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“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.”
WA Police confirmed on Saturday that “matters involving potential criminal conduct were brought to the attention of WA Police for independent assessment”.
“Given the sensitive nature of this matter in respect to potential victims, WA Police will not be providing any details regarding specific matters raised, or confirmation of any potential investigations that may have commenced,” the statement said.
“WA Police will continue to liaise with representatives of the group of athletes and will support any individual that makes a criminal complaint.”
The Weekend Australian also reported that Parnov was believed to be in Russia.
The Weekend Australian reported that young athlete Simone Carre, who said Parnov tried to have sex with her while she was babysitting one of his daughters, was so often harassed that she tried to take her own life.
AA said Parnov’s accreditation had been revoked after the 2019 investigation.
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“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 AA to prevent his participation in any athletics-related activity both in Australia and abroad,” AA said.
“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.”
Sport Integrity Australia will review the processes AA followed in its probe of Parnov’s behaviour.
“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,” AA said.
“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.”
