Lindsay Mintenko resigns as USA Swimming national team director
- Lindsay Mintenko has resigned as managing director of the national team with USA Swimming after nearly two decades.
- Her resignation follows the departure of CEO Tim Hinchey, who faced criticism despite implementing programs to combat sexual abuse.
- Mintenko's leadership has been credited with improving the sport, and a search for her replacement will begin immediately.
Lindsay Mintenko, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, has announced her resignation as managing director of the national team with USA Swimming, effective September 20. This decision comes shortly after the organization parted ways with CEO Tim Hinchey, who had implemented new programs aimed at addressing sexual abuse within the sport but faced criticism due to declining membership numbers. Mintenko has been with USA Swimming for nearly two decades, serving in her current role since 2017. During her tenure, she was responsible for overseeing the performance of the U.S. national team at both the Tokyo and Paris Olympics. Under her leadership, USA Swimming made significant strides, including becoming the first national governing body to hire a full-time staff member dedicated to mental health. This initiative reflects a growing awareness of the importance of mental well-being in competitive sports. Interim CEO Shana Ferguson expressed gratitude for Mintenko's contributions, stating that the sport and team have improved due to her leadership and dedication. The organization is now tasked with finding a suitable replacement for Mintenko, which they plan to initiate immediately. The resignation highlights ongoing challenges within USA Swimming, particularly in maintaining support among grassroots coaches and addressing the broader issues of membership decline. As the organization moves forward, it will need to navigate these complexities while continuing to prioritize athlete welfare and performance.