ATOS have just announced that both Andre Galvao and his wife Angelica have been removed from their positions within the organization. Andre was the head coach at ATOS headquarters in San Diego, California and Angelica took the lead in their female competition team, but now they will no longer be a part of ‘the teaching, administrative work, or operations of ATOS.’ This is the first official statement that the organization has made on the allegations, but Galvao has previously claimed that they are ‘false rumours’. ATOS have not made any claim as to the veracity of the allegations either way, instead stating that they ‘do not adjudicate matters through social media.’
The news of allegations against Galvao began to surface just a matter of days ago and although it was largely rumours initially, it wasn’t long before the allegations actually came to light fully. Former ATOS teenage competitor Alexa Herse publicly detailed the allegations that she has since reported to local law enforcement, and dozens of their affiliates around the world have now distance themselves from ATOS as a result. It’s unlikely that any of them will return now that Andre and Angelica have been removed though, and the exodus that the organization has experienced will greatly diminish their presence at major events moving forward.
ATOS released their full statement on both Andre and Angelica Galvao being removed from leadership positions in a recent post to their official Instagram account, and the full transcript can be found below:
“We are deeply saddened with recent events and circumstances and after careful consideration ATOS has made the decision to immediately and indefinitely separate Andre Galvao and Angelica Galvao from their position and all associated roles within the organization. This decision was made in the best interest of our students, affiliates, and the broader ATOS community and reflects our commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability.”
”We do not adjudicate matters through social media. All appropriate actions are being addressed through the proper legal and administrative channels. We are moving quickly to engage with a third-party to investigate these allegations and in the meantime, Andre and Angelica will no longer be involved in the teaching, administrative work, or operations of ATOS. As you may expect, the official reflection of these legal and business changes will take some time but it is being actively pursued, as we are taking this match very seriously.”
”ATOS is a team built and led by multiple athletes, instructors, and role models. We will continue our work guided by our core principles, providing high-quality Jiu-Jitsu in a safe and respectful environment, led by our experienced, qualified, and trusted staff. We extend our support to our community and remain available to assist as needed. Students and parents are encouraged to reach out directly. For over 15 years, ATOS has served hundreds of students, athletes, and visitors worldwide and has been recognized as one of the most accomplished teams in the history of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. To preserve the integrity of our organization, we will remain united and take the necessary measures to continue our mission responsibly and ethically.”
