LANSING -- Olympic gold medalist Aly Raisman called for sweeping changes in her sport while addressing serial abuser Larry Nassar during his sentencing Friday.
Raisman told Nassar that she would not rest until his influence was erased from the sport she loves.
"The tables have turned, Larry," Raisman said. "We are here. We have our voices and we are not going anywhere. And now it’s your turn, Larry, to listen.”
Raisman also took the opportunity to target the failings of USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic Committee. She said on the very day USA Gymnastics announced it was parting ways with training center at the Karolyi Ranch in Texas, there were athletes still training at the facility.
“It’s clear now, if you leave it up to these organizations, history is likely to repeat itself,” Raisman said.
She noted that Nassar served on boards within USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Olympic Committee that developed the very policies meant to protect athletes.
"This monster was also the architect of policies and procedures that are supposed to protect athletes from abuse for both USA Gymnastics and the USOC," Raisman said.
Raisman arrived in court at 9 a.m. accompanying her 2012 teammate Jordyn Wieber, who made the first victim statement of the morning. Wieber and Raisman had contacted the Michigan Attorney General's Office earlier this week asking for permission to speak on Friday, officials said.
Wieber was the first speaker after a late morning break.
After spending time in a small conference room in the courthouse, Raisman took a few minutes to mentally prepare herself, pacing in the hallway outside the coutroom.
“I’m ready,” she said. “I’m ready I’m ready I’m ready.”
Kaylee Lorincz, hobbling out of the courtroom on crutches, stopped to chat.
“We’re gonna change things so the next generation doesn’t have to deal with this,” Raisman said. They hugged.
“I’m gonna watch you on Monday,” Raisman said. “I’m not gonna be here but I’ll watch you. I’m rooting for you.”
