Al Fong and Armine Barutyan permanently banned by SafeSport

The U.S. Center for SafeSport has issued a permanent ban against elite gymnastics coaches Al Fong and Armine Barutyan. The decision prohibits the pair from participating in any capacity in activities, competitions, or programs under the auspices of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, national governing federations, or affiliated organizations.

SafeSport’s disciplinary database cites several grounds for the ruling, including “emotional abuse,” “physical violence,” “abuse of process,” “retaliation,” and violations of national governing body policies. This follows a multi-year investigation into allegations of physical, emotional, and verbal misconduct regarding coaching methods.

Fong and Barutyan are the owners of Great American Gymnastics Express (GAGE) in Blue Springs, Missouri, a prominent club known for training Olympians and national team members. GAGE has already lost its affiliation with USA Gymnastics. While the ban is currently listed as subject to appeal, the coaches have a ten-day window to contest the decision.