Local Olympic Swim Coach Says Lochte, Swimmers Will Likely Be Penalized
By Kristen Johanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Renowned Olympic swimming coach Richard Shoulberg has coached for more than 55 years, helping to produce more than a dozen Olympians from our area, largely from Montgomery County.
"I think what has transpired is horrible. I think it's a sign of immaturity on the part of the athletes that were involved," he said. "It gives us a black eye."
Shoulberg has been a part of several swimming oversight committees, including the Olympic International Development Committee, the Olympic International Operational Committee, the United States Swimming Steering Committee and the USS Rules Committee.
He says Ryan Lochte, and his teammates may have broken USA Swimming's Code of Conduct.
"It's a contract, and you have do's and don'ts. And you are held accountable for negative actions, and there will be a fair and just investigation-- and there will be a penalty to pay," says the 77-year-old.
"I am sure powers at be with USA Swimming, and the IOC will handle it properly after a complete, full investigation."
Shoulberg says this is an isolated case, and hopes the scandal doesn't undermine Team USA's golden moments in Rio.
"The behavior of four athletes on the team should not take away the excellence of 40 others on the team," he said. "A week ago, United States swimming had a wonderful meet and that shouldn't take away from the achievements of our athletes."
