Athletics Canada says it has uncovered new historical information regarding former University of Guelph coach Dave Scott-Thomas.
Scott-Thomas, one of Canada's most successful track and cross-country coaches over the past 20 years, was fired by the U of G in December for "unprofessional conduct." That followed an investigation by the university into information it received from current and former athletes.
At the time Athletics Canada said its independent Commissioner's Office, which handles complaints and concerns at arms length from the governing body, had not received any complaints about Scott-Thomas since the Commissioner's Office was formed in 2015.
Athletics Canada then began an investigation to see if there were any complaints received prior to 2015 and found there were.
"As a result of the University of Guelph investigation, Athletics Canada immediately, on the same day, referred this situation to its independent Commissioner’s Office for further investigation. That same day, via registered mail, the Commissioner’s Office issued a notice of investigation to Mr. Scott-Thomas," said Athletics Canada on its web site.
"Since that time, additional information of a historical nature has come to light via a thorough search of Athletics Canada archival documentation. This documentation has also been forwarded to the independent Commissioner’s Office. This information spanned years from 2006 to 2013."
Scott-Thomas is also on leave as head coach of the Speed River Track and Field Club. It said in December it has not received any complaints about Scott-Thomas from any of its current or former athletes.
After Scott-Thomas was fired by the U of G, Athletics Canada terminated its Centre of Excellence agreement with the University of Guelph and the Speed River Track and Field Club.
"Athletics Canada encourages all affected parties, and anyone who has relevant information to this investigation, from no matter how long ago, to contact the Commissioner’s Office via email at [email protected]."
