America One responds to US Sailing lawsuit

America One responds to US Sailing lawsuit

This statement comes from the AmericaOne Foundation following recent legal action by US Sailing against the organization:

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As the largest private financial supporter of US Sailing Association (USSA) and the US Olympic Sailing effort for more than a decade, this has been a disheartening and disappointing week for us at the AmericaOne Foundation. Now, in the final run-up to this year’s Olympics, we have been laser-focused on providing support for our American sailors. US Sailing should be doing the same.

Unfortunately, instead of putting their efforts into what matters most – our Olympic athletes – US Sailing is pursuing a meritless lawsuit against AmericaOne. Despite the unprecedented levels (over $6M) of assistance AmericaOne has provided to USSA and our sailor athletes over the past 15 years, USSA is actively defaming our reputation.

The accusations being levied against Bill Ruh, Paul Cayard, Jose Spina, and AmericaOne by the US Sailing Board of Directors are unfathomable. But what is even more egregious is that they would take this action immediately after the U.S. Olympic trials – a time when we should be celebrating our athletes who have trained so hard for the past four years and supporting them as they get ready for the biggest race of their lives.

Now is when our sport’s national governing body should be doubling down to help our sailors, but instead, USSA is trying to attribute blame for their shortfalls to AmericaOne. Instead of ramping up focus on fundraising and athlete support, they are working to divide our community by publicly attacking their largest supporter.

Here are some facts:
Prior to the arrival of Bill and Paul, US Sailing had no significant donors and a multi-million dollar hole in its Olympic budget. Upon starting his employment, Paul was asked to defer half his salary, which he accepted.

In 2021-2022, Bill and Paul – through their own personal contacts – secured $18 million in commitments for our U.S. Olympic effort. Every donor committed because they could see a clear plan to support sailor athletes, a plan focused on returning the U.S. to the Olympic podium, credible leadership, and responsible oversight of the funds. – Full report