USA Gymnastics president and CEO Li Li Leung has announced she will step down from her leadership position at the end of December 2024. Leung, who took the helm in the wake of the Larry Nassar abuse scandal, has been a pivotal figure in the organization’s efforts to rebuild trust and reform athlete safety protocols. Her departure marks a significant moment for the gymnastics community nationwide—including in Orlando, where the sport has a thriving presence among youth and elite athletes. Read on as Daily Orlando News examines Leung’s legacy, what comes next for USA Gymnastics, and how local athletes and families may be affected.
A Leader During a Critical Recovery Period
Li Li Leung assumed the role of USA Gymnastics president and CEO in 2019, at a time when the organization was reeling from the aftermath of the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal. Her appointment was seen as a turning point, bringing in a leader with both athletic and executive experience (Leung herself is a former gymnast, as well as a seasoned sports executive).
During her tenure, Leung focused on restoring credibility to USA Gymnastics by prioritizing athlete safety, transparency, and culture change. She spearheaded the implementation of stricter Safe Sport policies, promoted survivor advocacy, and worked to reestablish relationships with sponsors and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. For Orlando’s many gymnastics clubs and coaches, these national reforms set new standards for local programs, ensuring that athlete well-being remains front and center.
Key Reforms and Lasting Impact
Leung’s leadership saw USA Gymnastics make significant progress in a number of areas:
- Safe Sport Initiatives: Mandatory background checks, abuse prevention training, and easily accessible reporting systems became standard under Leung’s watch. Many Orlando area gyms adopted these protocols, providing peace of mind for parents and athletes.
- Survivor Advocacy: The organization worked more closely with survivors of abuse, giving them a voice in policy decisions and offering resources for healing. Local advocates in Central Florida have praised this more compassionate approach, noting increased community awareness and education.
- Cultural Change: Leung championed athlete empowerment, emphasizing mental health and open communication. Orlando gymnasts, from recreational to elite levels, have benefited from a shift towards more supportive, athlete-centered environments.
- Restoring Public Trust: While challenges remain, many believe USA Gymnastics has taken meaningful steps to rebuild its reputation. With Central Florida’s ongoing investment in youth sports—including the recent growth of competitive gymnastics programs—these changes are critical for the sport’s future in our area.
What Leung’s Departure Means for USA Gymnastics
Li Li Leung’s exit comes at a time when the organization is preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics and looking to solidify its post-scandal identity. USA Gymnastics has yet to name a successor, and the transition will be closely watched by athletes, coaches, and families nationwide.
For those in Orlando, the change in leadership could bring both uncertainty and opportunity. Local gym owners and program directors will be monitoring how the new president approaches ongoing reforms and athlete support. There is hope that the next leader will continue to prioritize safety, transparency, and survivor engagement—values that have become increasingly important to the Orlando gymnastics community.
Additionally, with Orlando frequently hosting regional and national gymnastics competitions, the direction of USA Gymnastics’ leadership can impact everything from athlete participation levels to event sponsorships in our city.
Orlando’s Role in the Future of USA Gymnastics
Orlando has a vibrant gymnastics scene, from youth and high school teams to elite training centers that have sent athletes to national and international competitions. The city is also a frequent destination for major gymnastics events, drawing visitors and boosting the local economy.
As USA Gymnastics undergoes another leadership transition, Orlando’s clubs, coaches, and athletes are poised to be influential voices in shaping the sport’s future. Local leaders have already embraced many of the reforms put in place under Leung, and there is growing advocacy for continued progress—especially when it comes to protecting young athletes.
For Orlando parents considering gymnastics for their children, the national conversation around safety and athlete well-being remains top of mind. Leung’s legacy provides a foundation, but the community here will be watching closely to ensure that progress continues, and that gymnastics remains a positive and empowering experience for all.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Gymnastics in Orlando?
Li Li Leung’s decision to step down as president and CEO of USA Gymnastics signals a new chapter for the organization and the sport as a whole. Her tenure brought meaningful reforms and a renewed commitment to athlete safety and advocacy—changes felt right here in Orlando’s gyms and competitions.
As we look ahead to a leadership transition, it’s clear that Orlando’s gymnastics community will play a key role in ensuring that progress continues. Whether you’re a parent, athlete, coach, or fan, your voice matters in the ongoing effort to make gymnastics safe and rewarding for everyone.
What do you think about Li Li Leung’s departure and the future of USA Gymnastics? How has the sport changed in Orlando in recent years? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
