USA Gymnastics has revealed that it will be paying for regular visits for mental health providers to speak with National Team athletes and coaches.
Under a new athlete health and wellness program this autumn, the funding derives from the organisation’s recent partnership with GK Elite.
With the firm being the official USA Gymnastics National Team competition and training apparel partner through 2024, the collaboration aims specifically to support mental health services.
“Athlete health and wellness is at the core of our value system, and the importance of mental health has been paramount not just for athletes but for everyone in recent years,” commented USA Gymnastics CEO, Li Li Leung.
“Being able to fund services that athletes and their coaches can receive in their hometowns, by their preferred providers, is essential for wellbeing and something we have always wanted to do. We thank GK for providing the additional funding that has enabled us to make this program a reality.”
In detail, the pair outlined that each National Team athlete in all disciplines will receive up to eight mental health visits every year, and coaches are eligible for up to four visits per year – with a reimbursement of up to $125 per visit.
Matt Cowan, President of GK Elite, added: “GK Elite’s dedication to improving the lives of our athletes is a core foundation of our brand.
“As we continue our longstanding partnership with USA Gymnastics, it is both an honour and a duty to help fund and support mental health services to National Team athletes and coaches.”
The visits are part of an existing athlete mental health support system that USA Gymnastics has been developing over the past three years, which includes features such as a mental health emergency action plan in place for every National Team camp and competitive event.
