Snowboarder, 24, claims she was sent nude pictures and sexually harassed over Snapchat – and that her complaints went ignored for YEARS
- An elite female snowboarder came forward with explosive allegations
- Ellise Turner wrote to Ski & Snowboard Australia about sexual harassment
- The letter alleges at least 10 other female teammates had similar experiences
An elite female snowboarder claims she and teenage teammates were regularly subject to sexual harassment while competing and that pleas for help made to the sport’s local governing body were ignored.
Ellise Turner, 24, recently wrote to Ski & Snowboard Australia about the intimidation she felt when she first complained about sexual harassment two-and-a-half years ago.
The letter, sent in May, alleged that at least 10 other female Australian teammates were also subjected to sexual harassment, including some under the age of 16.
Turner released her letter to The Australian after the governing body publicly denied on Friday that any complaints had been made.
Ellise Turner, 24, recently wrote to Ski & Snowboard Australia about the intimidation she felt after being sexually harassed
‘Being on the other side of the globe juggling things like training, language barriers, competition stress, etc, sexual harassment… was the last thing I expected,’ Turner wrote to SSA chief executive Michael Kennedy.
‘Subsequently the lack of action and support from SSA was extremely demoralising. This is not an isolated incident, which can be verified by at least 10 other female Australian teammates. I can confirm that some girls targeted were under the age of 16.’
Turner pleaded with Mr Kennedy to ‘consider the international ramifications and damage to the Australian reputation among elite athletes’.
‘It makes me sad for Australia’s future female athletes in skiing and snowboarding. If matters like this are continually being ignored… it shows a lack of support for female athletes which may be contributing (to) the large number of girls quitting,’ she said.
Turner declined offers from SSA for counselling, and also refused to name the 10 other athletes she said were also sexually harassed.
The public release of her letter comes after it was claimed on Friday that underage athletes were sent lewd images.
Turner (pictured) pleaded with SSA boss Michael Kennedy to ‘consider the international ramifications and damage to the Australian reputation among elite athletes’
Parents of female athletes said police were brought in to investigate claims skiers and snowboarders were sent pictures of male genitals via Snapchat.
Parents of some of the female athletes said their children were left so disheartened by the alleged incidents they left the sport.
Last Friday, Ski & Snowboard Australia addressed the allegations.
‘SSA does not tolerate any form of harassment especially when children or young adults are involved,’ the statement read.
‘SSA became aware of these allegations in early 2018 and has taken the matter extremely seriously.
‘SSA brought it to the attention of police immediately, but police required a direct allegation from a complainant to proceed to an investigation. At that time, the complainant chose not to involve police.
‘SSA has also conducted its own investigations, including reaching out individually to other athletes and offering support. No formal complaint has been received.’
In July this year, NSW Police informed SSA they had received a formal complaint.
SSA cooperated fully with police including the provision of all exchanges and evidence it held. Police have since advised they will not be taking the investigation any further.
Turner (pictured) sent a letter in May, alleging that at least 10 other female Australian teammates were also subjected to sexual harrassment, including some under the age of 16