GuelphToday received the following letter to the editor from reader Eric Stewart, local coach, regarding the alleged sexual assault at Guelph University:
Hi
My name is Eric Stewart and I have coached for over 37 years in Guelph and surrounding area. I coached at St. James and knew Megan Brown. I also coached at the University of Guelph and knew Coach Dave Scott-Thomas.
I’m absolutely appalled that the University of Guelph has not “apologized” to anyone affected by this gross abuse of power and trust. The administration in 2006 should have taken action to stop and protect Megan the very minute any complaint came in - by Megan’s friend and especially by Megan’s father that no one seemed to “get back to.”
Megan has suffered greatly for over 18 years and her running career ruined by the actions of all at the University of Guelph coaches/Administration. Also, everyone not getting back to Megan’s father is so unacceptable and a lack of judgement not getting back to him is so unprofessional/appalling.
As a coach of 37 years in Guelph, including the University of Guelph and a father of two female student-athletes this lack of safety - unprofessionalism - communication and well being of Megan Brown is absolutely unacceptable.
Steps should be taken to set precedent and make sure this never happens again at any facility that takes the trust of the student-athlete and their families!
My whole athletic life I have always been proud to be a “Gryphon.” As of today I’m no longer a Gryphon and all the athletic clubs in Guelph should find another sponsor as being a “Guelph Gryphon” is no longer something to be proud of!!
To Megan and her father, I have tears in my eyes learning of this misuse of Power and Trust and pray that your life turns for the best.
- Eric Stewart
37 year Coach
