EARLIER this month, shocking allegations emerged about abuse in British gymnastics, leading to the announcement of an independent review.
Some of the athletes involved claim they had been bullied, beaten and starved – behaviour that is never acceptable in any part of our society. However, there are many young people who are having a wonderful experience, doing the sport they love and enjoying a great relationship with their coach.
One is Crystelle Lake, a three-time Scottish champion who has represented her country on several occasions. She took to her Instagram account to express her feelings on the subject.
Her first thought was for those who had suffered at the hands of unscrupulous people. She spoke about her feelings of sadness that some had left the sport before they had reached their own potential and concern for the impact on the many who now may decide against taking up the sport because of the bad press it has received at home and abroad.
Lake also felt sadness for those who were at the pinnacle of their career, Olympians who were her heroes, who had to muster up great courage to take these complaints forward.
Lake spoke clearly about the great support she has received from her coaches and how they nurtured her return after a short illness impacted on her fitness. To hear this has a great impact on people and can put things into perspective.
No child should be bullied, beaten or fat-shamed and we need to empower young people to speak out when these types of instances occur. We also need to recognise the army of great volunteers who work in sport, many of whom might be deterred from continuing to deliver their knowledge.
A good coach doesn’t need to bully or shame an athlete to get the best out of them, and ensuring regular personal development training, including wellbeing awareness training, takes place will help prevent more abuse from happening.
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