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U.S. Rep. Martha McSally says she was sexually abused by a coach when she was in high school, The Wall Street Journal is reporting today.

McSally, a ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Republican, is running for the Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Jeff Flake.

The interview with the newspaper is the first time the former fighter pilot has discussed publicly the alleged sexual abuse of her by the coach, who she said is 20 years older than she.

Later Monday, McSally’s campaign released a written statement from the congresswoman.

“During the course of a recent interview about my path as an endurance athlete and completing the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon, I shared some dark experiences from my past,� McSally said in the statement.

“These experiences don’t define me, but only deepened and strengthened my resolve to not be powerless, and dedicate my life to fight for others, especially girls, women and the vulnerable.�

McSally was 17 at the time of the alleged abuse.

“It took a while for me to come to a place where I understood what the hell I had been through,� McSally, now 52 years old, says in the interview with The Wall Street Journal. “At the time, I was so afraid. I now understand — like many girls and boys who are abused by people in authority over them —there’s a lot of fear and manipulation and shame.�

McSally attended an all-girls Catholic school in Rhode Island.

The former coach denies her allegation.