Sad News Comes to Stow

We have been a member of the Five Star Gymnastics “family” for over 5 years, since we moved to Stow. My children have been members of the team and summer pool, attended classes, sleepovers, and more. My wife and I are completely disappointed and disheartened by the news we have learned concerning Steve DiTullio and his friend Steve Infante.

I have talked to many parents over the past several days. Some are defensive and want to support the gym. I appreciate this is a common first reaction. Many do not know what to do and are searching for answers. As a parent, teacher, and sexual abuse survivor, I can safely say that not talking is not helpful. I encourage parents to talk with one another to figure out how to deal with the situation and how to explain it to your children. This may be a good time to utilize the school counselors if you are unsure what to say.

There is also concern by many parents that there be a rush to judgement about Steve DiTullio and Five Star. While I agree with this sentiment, it is deeply troubling that the facts make it difficult to believe Steve DiTullio did not know that Steve Infante was banned from USA Gymnastics nearly 10 years ago. The two Steves are close friends. Yet Infante was allowed to attend numerous meets (that included sleepovers my daughter attended), the Five Star Gymnastics Camp in Springfield every summer, the team trip to Puerto Rico, and even coach. There was never any warning from anyone at Five Star that Infante was banned or was a threat to the safety of our children.

I can imagine the pain and suffering that the girls who came forward have endured. The effects of childhood sexual abuse are long lasting and pervasive. While I feel for the DiTullio family, I feel more strongly for the girls who may have been hurt and were not protected.

Indeed this is a sad time for Five Star and Stow. I feel personally hurt and my trust in the "Five Star Family," as it is often called, is completely shattered. If Steve DiTullio is innocent, I will be happy. But I will always believe he is at the minimum negligent. While this may not be a crime, it speaks volumes about the man.