University of Guelph Track and Field coach Dave Scott-Thomas was fired on Dec. 16 2019, following an investigation of professional misconduct after the university received information from past and current athletes about their experiences on the team.
While any allegations are unknown, the investigation yielded information that cemented the university’s decision to fire Scott-Thomas.
Scott-Thomas was previously investigated in 2006 after the university received a complaint from a family member of at student athlete. According to a statement from the university, “The University determined that an investigation was warranted and retained an independent external investigator. While that investigation did not substantiate all of the allegations, it determined that some misconduct had taken place.” Scott-Thomas was suspended for four weeks.
“While the 2019 investigation [into Scott-Thomas] was on-going, the university received new information related to the earlier investigation that made it clear that Scott-Thomas lied repeatedly in 2006 about several significant matters,” the university states.
“The receipt of that new information resulted in the termination of Scott-Thomas from his U of G position.”
Scott-Thomas had a notable career with the university, leading the Guelph Gryphons to 37 national titles in cross-country and track and field.
On top of being the coach for 16 national teams, including the 2016 Rio Olympics, he was also the head coach of the Speed River Track and Field Club.
Scott-Thomas was placed on “extended personal health leave” from all coaching and administrative duties with the Speed River organization in December.
Since the firing of Scott-Thomas, the Speed River Track and Field club has announced on their website that they will be ceasing operations. As of Jan. 7, the club will not be receiving any new member registration and will be issuing refunds to athletes already registered for 2020.
“Moving forward, there are initiatives underway to create a new training platform in which our top priority is to ensure continued programming for track and field athletes in our community in a fun, safe and caring environment,” the club stated on their website.
While the investigation appears to continue, the university’s priority is the welfare of its students.
“We are saddened to learn that some student-athletes coached by Scott-Thomas had unacceptable experiences and we offer an apology to those who endured suffering and hardship,” the university stated.
Photo courtesy of The Globe and Mail
University of Guelph track coach on leave, University reviewing information from athletes