Statement on the Independent Investigation into Ted Nash

USRowing is committed to a safe and supportive environment for all participants and takes all allegations of abuse extremely seriously.  

In late 2022, Jennifer Fox contacted us claiming she had been sexually abused as a child by the late Ted Nash in 1973. Upon learning of these allegations against Mr. Nash – an athlete and coach in the rowing community for decades and recipient of several USRowing accolades – we engaged the law firm of Shearman & Sterling (now A&O Shearman), who graciously agreed to conduct a pro-bono investigation. 

USRowing initiated this investigation because we determined that the gravity of Ms. Fox's claims outweighed Mr. Nash's inability to respond to these allegations, as he has passed away. Over a 16-month period, Shearman & Sterling (now A&O Shearman) conducted a thorough and independent examination of Ms. Fox's claims, including attempting to contact 92 individuals with potentially relevant knowledge. Subsequently, interviews with 47 individuals were conducted, and a detailed analysis of additional primary evidence was performed. In addition, Shearman & Sterling (now A&O Shearman) interviewed an additional female rower who alleged Mr. Nash made an unwanted sexual advance against her.    

Having reviewed the investigation's findings, USRowing believes there is compelling evidence supporting Ms. Fox's allegations of child sex abuse by Mr. Nash. Regardless of Mr. Nash's contributions to the sport of rowing, our commitment to the safety and well-being of our participants – especially youth athletes – is of the utmost importance and compels us to act in accordance with our values. 

In the interest of full transparency and the safety of our sport for all current and future rowers, we are making the full 154-page report publicly available here: Report of the Independent Investigation. The report is subject to a sensitive content advisory, as it includes detailed accounts of sexual misconduct and abuse which may evoke strong emotional responses, especially for individuals who have experienced sexual trauma. 

In response to the findings of the investigation, we are rescinding all honors USRowing previously conferred upon Mr. Nash – including 2005 Man of the Year and the 2013 USRowing Medal of Honor – and we will not consider Mr. Nash for any future USRowing awards. While we understand that this outcome may be difficult for some members of our community, our commitment to a safe environment, free of abuse for the rowing community is unwavering. Furthermore, we encourage all other organizations affiliated with Mr. Nash, and who may have granted him similar honors, to review the full report.  

Protecting the safety and well-being of our participants is paramount to preserving and extending the joys of rowing. We take comfort knowing that our sport and governance currently includes a Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policy (MAAPP) and other guidelines designed to prevent and ensure reporting of this type of abuse. It is our shared responsibility and duty as the rowing community to implement these policies and procedures in pursuit of a future free from abuse in sport. 

We want to commend Ms. Fox for having the courage to come forward and share her experience. Furthermore, we would like to express our gratitude to all individuals who took part in this investigation despite the personal challenges and emotional discomfort it might have caused. Listening, supporting, and acting based on survivor reports are essential steps towards creating a society where survivors are heard, believed, and respected. Additionally, we would like to thank the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee for recommending the law firm of Shearman & Sterling (now A&O Shearman) who have conducted a rigorous and meticulous investigation. 

If you have experienced or witnessed misconduct, including sexual abuse, please go visit our Report an Incident page for U.S. Center for SafeSport and USRowing Safeguarding reporting, and emotional support resources. Please direct all other questions or comments about this investigation to TNReport@usrowing.org. 

Amanda Kraus, USRowing CEO 

USRowing Board of Directors