Local reaction to former gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar's sentencing

SUGAR LAND, Texas (FOX 26) - It seems everywhere you go everyone is talking about former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar’s sentencing.  

In Sugar Land, local gymnasts have been following the news closely.

There was a time when the goal for gymnasts, like those at Sugar Land Gymnastics, was to be “just like” the Olympic gymnasts they look up to, but now many adults say the goal is to keep up and coming athletes safe so they aren’t victimized, too.

Those in charge at Sugar Land Gymnastics and Karate say they are sickened at how Nassar victimized so many girls, who grew up to be brave women that put him away for life.

"As I watched them stand before him, I was very proud and felt, wow these girls are very strong women," explains Alberta Sifuentez, the manager at Sugar Land Gymnastics.  

Sifuentez says their objective isn’t only to train gymnasts, but do to it safely while protecting the kids. She points out, their coaches are never allowed to be alone with children and she says there are plenty of safeguards in place, as well as constant training.

"Maybe more places that work with children as we do, maybe that’s an area that needs to be looked into that there’s training going on every so often," Sifuentez adds. 

All over the Houston area, people are outraged by what Nassar did and grateful he’s being sent to prison for 175 years.

"I think he got what he deserved," says Amanda Clawson.

"There’s a special place in hell for people who prey on children," adds Dorrie Marten.     

The parents we spoke with say Larry Nassar is certainly a reminder there could be monsters among us hiding in plain sight, and they say you can never be too cautious when it comes to protecting your children.