German Gymnast Elisabeth Seitz Exposes Abuse in Training Centers

Seitz calls for accountability in German gymnastics after detailing years of abusive practices and systemic failures.

Elisabeth Seitz, a record-holding German gymnast, has accused the Mannheim training center and national youth coach Claudia Schunk of abusive and authoritarian practices.
Seitz reported the issues, including physical and mental abuse, to the German Gymnastics Federation (DTB) as early as 2014 but says no action was taken.
She recounted being forced to train despite physical exhaustion, leading to injuries such as a split lip and damaged tooth during a failed routine.
The DTB has hired a law firm to investigate allegations of abuse across multiple training centers following numerous public complaints from former athletes.
Seitz has demanded comprehensive reforms, including the removal of individuals responsible for abuse, to prevent future harm to young athletes.