Athletics Canada have issued a lifetime ban to coach Dave Scott-Thomas after he was accused of “inappropriate relationships” with athletes.
The trainer, who previously worked with Rio 2016 Olympians and World Championship athletes, was originally suspended in January.
No allegations against him have been proven in court, the Canadian Press reported.
Scott-Thomas has been described as one of Canada’s most successful university coaches in any sport.
However, middle-distance runner Megan Brown came forward in the Globe and Mail last month and alleged she was “groomed” for a sexual relationship aged 17.
He led the Guelph Gryphons to 37 national titles in cross-country and track and field, the Canadian Press said.
The University of Guelph fired him in December.
“Upon receipt of a complaint against David Scott Thomas dated January 21, 2020, alleging that he engaged in behaviour that constitutes a violation of the Athletics Canada code of conduct, the commissioner’s office proceeded to confirm jurisdiction over the complaint and issue a notice of suspension dated January 21, 2020 immediately suspending Mr. David Scott-Thomas from Athletics Canada, its branches and clubs until the complaint had been finally disposed,” an Athletics Canada statement said.
“On March 23, 2020, and pursuant to the authority and discretion afforded to the Athletics Canada commissioner’s office, Mr. David Scott-Thomas is subject to a lifetime ban from Athletics Canada during which time he shall not coach or train a member of Athletics Canada or a member of any affiliated club or association.
“This order takes effect immediately.”
Scott-Thomas will be able to attend competitions and other events that are open to the general public in five years.
