Athletics Australia Statement – Eric Hollingsworth

Updated – 31st of July 2014 (3.22am)

Athletics Australia is bitterly disappointed that Eric Hollingsworth has chosen to make a statement to the media at a time when our focus as a group should be wholly on supporting our athletes’ performances.
 
He acted without the authority of Athletics Australia and in contravention of the specific instructions of the Chief Executive Officer.
 
Athletics Australia condemns in the strongest terms his disparaging comments about Sally Pearson and his timing.
 
We have therefore suspended Eric Hollingsworth as an employee of Athletics Australia until such time as the Athletics Australia Board can convene to consider the matter.
 
Action in regards to Eric Hollingsworth’s role on the Commonwealth Games Team will be determined by the Australian Commonwealth Games Association, as the body responsible for the team.

30th July – Athletics Australia is aware of the statement issued by Eric Hollingsworth. This statement was not made on behalf of Athletics Australia but by Hollingsworth as an individual and in no way should it be read as the opinion of Athletics Australia. Given Hollingsworth’s current role as a Head Coach of Athletics on the Australian Commonwealth Games Team, we will be meeting with the Australian Commonwealth Games Association urgently to formulate a strong response, as is appropriate.