Former AIS Athletes Urge Channel 9 to Withdraw Harmful Documentary
Former athletes of the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) have expressed significant concerns regarding a forthcoming documentary titled “Forging Champions.” Scheduled to air on Channel 9, this documentary looks back at the AIS’s 40-year history and features testimonials from notable Australian sports figures.
However, many former athletes claim that the documentary could evoke distressing memories for those who suffered physical and psychological abuse during their tenure at the institute. They fear it may create a misleadingly positive portrayal of the AIS, potentially exacerbating trauma among its former athletes.
Documentary Raises Concerns Among Former AIS Athletes
- The documentary is set to air on Channel 9 this Monday.
- It is produced by the Australian Sports Commission.
- Concerns have been expressed that it may trigger negative memories for former AIS attendees.
Jenny Richardson, a former AIS gymnast, has voiced her objections directly to Kieren Perkins, the chief executive of the Australian Sports Commission. She insists that the documentary should not be aired without addressing the institute’s controversial history.
Recognition of Past Abuses
In 2021, the Australian Sports Commission officially acknowledged that unacceptable practices occurred within the AIS’s live-in scholarship program, operational from 1981 to 2012. Following this acknowledgment, the ASC initiated a Restorative Program aimed at supporting former athletes who suffered mistreatment during their time at the institute. This program offers restoration payments of up to $50,000.
Richardson’s communication with Perkins revealed her anger about the potential impact of the documentary on her and other former athletes. She remarked, “I want him and the restorative team to prevent this from airing, as it could be damaging to many.”
Former AIS athlete “Grace,” who represented Australia in the 1980s and 1990s, expressed her dismay over Perkins’s email informing athletes about the documentary. She described it as “traumatic” and echoed Richardson’s worries about the potential impact on those who suffered abuse.
Historical Context and Athlete Experiences
- The Australian Institute of Sport has faced criticism for its treatment of scholarship athletes.
- Former athletes have shared stories of severe psychological and physical abuse.
- Many claim the environment fostered a culture of fear and silence.
The nature of abuse at the AIS has been detailed by numerous athletes, who describe instances of severe mistreatment, including food deprivation and bullying. Richardson shared her struggle with an eating disorder, attributing her ongoing battle to her experiences at the institute.
Funding and Support for Athletes
Despite the controversies surrounding the documentary, Perkins emphasized the ASC’s commitment to addressing past wrongdoings. He noted that the Restorative Program’s funding will conclude by December, raising further concerns about ongoing support for those affected.
In light of these discussions, film and sports advocates have urged the Australian Sports Commission and Channel 9 to reconsider the airing of “Forging Champions” without giving a full account of its troubled history.
Support services remain available for former AIS athletes and anyone affected by these issues. Lifeline, Kids Helpline, and other organizations continue to offer assistance to those in need.
