The documentary “Surviving Ohio State,” produced by George Clooney, sheds light on the disturbing history of sexual abuse within the Ohio State wrestling program, focusing particularly on the actions of Dr. Richard Strauss, the team’s former physician. This powerful film, which premiered at the Tribeca festival before its HBO release, has sparked significant conversation about the culture surrounding athletic programs and the exploitation of power dynamics.
The narrative highlights the alleged systemic abuse that occurred from the 1970s to the 1990s, revealing how class and authority shaped the experiences of young male athletes. Notably, many of the victims were college-age wrestlers who felt they had no voice against a powerful figure like Strauss. The documentary portrays a grim picture of helplessness, emphasizing the pressure these athletes faced to remain silent, primarily due to the fear of losing their scholarships and the potential consequences of speaking out.
Several former wrestlers, including Dan Ritchie, have spoken out, insisting that Jim Jordan, a former assistant coach now serving in Congress, must have been aware of the abuse. They express frustration at a culture that normalized silence and obedience, which prevented them from reporting their harrowing experiences, including unwanted physical examinations and even instances of rape.
The parallels drawn between this scandal and other high-profile abuse cases, such as those involving Penn State and USA Gymnastics, underline a pervasive issue within sports institutions where the welfare of young athletes was often sacrificed for the sake of preserving reputations. Mark Coleman, another alumnus, poignantly describes the lack of agency these athletes felt, stating, “The scholarship was critical. We were powerless.”
The documentary adds to the ongoing dialogue about accountability in athletic programs, particularly as more victims come forward in the wake of related scandals. Ohio State’s internal report indicates that there were 177 known victims, suggesting that the actual number may be much larger, raising pressing questions about the university’s responsibility and responsiveness to such severe allegations.
“Surviving Ohio State,” set to premiere on June 17 on HBO and Max, is a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and advocacy in protecting young athletes. It also highlights the necessity for continued vigilance against such abuses in the sports community, promoting awareness that can empower survivors and prevent future misconduct. Ultimately, it aims to inform and inspire action toward a safer environment for all athletes.