The University of Utah announced today that head coach Tom Farden has resigned after being the target of emotional abuse allegations and widespread scrutiny. The resignation follows Farden being placed on administrative leave by the University. Interim head coach Carly Dockendorf, previously associate head coach, will continue to lead the team through the 2024 season.
Former Ute Kara Eaker came forward with a statement in October, detailing her experiences with Farden and announcing her retirement from gymnastics and withdrawal from Utah. Eaker was joined by former team captain Kim Tessen in making a public allegation against Farden. The story has been picked up by major national outlets like USA Today, Good Morning America and the Washington Post.
Eaker’s statement came several weeks after an independent investigation cleared Farden of serious wrongdoing. The University chose to retain Farden at that time.
That report included statements from five former gymnasts, four parents, and two former staff members, and covered both Farden’s head coaching and assistant coaching tenure.
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Article by Emily Minehart
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