Penn State Assistant Fencing Coach on Administrative Leave Following Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Penn State assistant fencing coach George Abashidze was placed on administrative leave by the university after allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct, as first reported by The Daily Collegian and confirmed by Assistant Athletic Director Jeff Nelson.

The U.S. Center for SafeSport, the United States Olympic Committee-formed program to combat all forms of abuse in athletics, reports sexual misconduct and sexual harassment violations under Abashidze’s disciplinary record.

No further details on the specifics of the allegations or their time frames are included on the SafeSport website. A representative said the center does not speak about “specific matters” according to its policy.

Screen shot via U.S. Center for SafeSport

“We take matters of this nature very seriously,” Nelson said. “We are aware of this situation and continue to gather information.”

USA Fencing also suspended Abashidze’s membership for three years beginning on August 1, though the suspension is subject to appeal.

Abashidze remains listed as a staff member on the Penn State Athletics website as of publishing time. Before coaching the Nittany Lions, he coached fencing at Ohio State, helping athletes win five individual NCAA championships during his tenure with the Buckeyes.