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An increase of transparency was among the agreements reached Friday by U.S. Speedskating and seven individual claimants in the resolution of the athletes' dispute, which was pending before a U.S. Olympic Committee hearing panel.
U.S. Speedskating also agreed to improve its internal grievance process and strengthen future team selection procedures. It will also continue to review its policies on conflict of interest to ensure that the best people serve in governance positions.
Under recently adopted bylaws, USS will be electing a new board of directors, including four independent directors, who will take office on July 1, 2014. In return, the claimants will voluntarily dismiss their complaint with prejudice.
"We are very pleased to put this behind us," said U.S. Speedskating President Mike Plant. "U.S. Speedskating has been working tirelessly over the last few months to improve the organization and our governance, which we believe will mean better results on the ice for our athletes. This resolution will allow the organization and the individuals involved to move forward and work together as we get ready for the upcoming Olympics in Sochi."