Dalilah Sappenfield, the U.S. Olympic pairs figure skating coach, has been permanently banned by the U.S. Center for SafeSport after a 2½-year investigation, citing violations including physical and emotional misconduct, retaliation, abuse of process, and failure to report potential SafeSport violations.
Ju’Riese Colon, CEO of SafeSport, remarked on the significant culture change underway, stating that actions once tolerated are no longer acceptable, and accountability is being prioritized. She emphasized the importance of fostering safe environments for athletes to thrive.
Sappenfield, who has the right to appeal the lifetime ban, did not immediately respond to inquiries after the announcement. Temporary measures were previously imposed on her in September 2021, including restrictions on contact with certain skaters and supervision requirements while coaching.
The investigation into Sappenfield followed allegations of verbal abuse, with one incident leading to a skater’s self-harm. Tarah Kayne, a former national pairs champion, disclosed instances of Sappenfield’s inappropriate behavior, including constant sexual comments and ridicule, which prompted her to injure herself in 2019.
Another incident involved housing a minor athlete, leading to an operation directed by U.S. Figure Skating to remove a 16-year-old Russian skater from Sappenfield’s residence. This violated SafeSport program guidelines, leading to reporting to SafeSport.
Sappenfield’s close association with John Coughlin, who faced allegations of sexual abuse before his death, has also drawn attention. Sappenfield staunchly defended Coughlin on social media posthumously. The investigation also highlighted allegations of sexual assault against Coughlin, including one involving Ashley Wagner, a former Olympic medalist.
Despite temporary restrictions, Sappenfield continued coaching at the highest level, notably appearing at the 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in January. SafeSport’s ongoing process and an appeal filed by Sappenfield contributed to the prolonged investigation. U.S. Figure Skating affirmed its cooperation with SafeSport in monitoring Sappenfield’s activities.