Joseph defends controversial memo

Philippine Swimming Inc. (PSI) president Mark Joseph defended the controversial memorandum on participation of unsanctioned or un-approved meets, for all association-registered clubs, coaches and athletes.

Joseph has been criticized after he sent out a memorandum order dated Jan. 11, 2017, with reference number 2017-01-002, where he sent a stern warning to all swimmers, coaches and clubs of harsh sanctions if they violate Fina rules if they fail to seek approval to participate in tournaments that are not sanctioned or recognized by PSI.

“PSI is the Fina member in the Philippines, we apply and abide by its rules. People choose to violate the rules and blame others for the outcome of their own choices, instead of accepting this simple reality,” Joseph told SunStar Cebu through his Facebook manager.

Part of the memo reads: “If you receive invitations from foreign federations, do request permit from PSI based on Fina GR No. 3.2 in order to compete and so that PSI will recognize the results of the competition and you will not be sanctioned for violating this Fina Rules on unauthorized relations,” the memorandum said.

“For those PSI-registered clubs hosting open meets or wishing to host meets, please be reminded and forewarned to seek approval or sanction from PSI. Failure to do so or using officials who are not recognized or registered by/with PSI or officials who do not respect PSI, in said meets will be sanctioned,” added the letter.

The memorandum drew criticisms from sports officials, especially from Susan Papa, who heads the Philippine Swimming League, a breakaway swimming group, which has been at odds with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) recognized swimming association.

Papa exposed the alleged misdeeds of Joseph in social media, including Joseph’s alleged influence when Cebuana swimmer Loren Dale Echavez was stripped of her gold medal in the Arafura Games in Darwin, Australia 10 years ago.