York gymnast apologizes for alleged historical abuse

A York woman who first complained she was sexually abused by her sports coach 16 years ago has won damages from gymnastics' national governing body.

Nikki O'Donnell's former instructor Stan Wild was kicked out as a member by British Gymnastics four years ago.

Mr Wild denies the allegations and has never been charged with a criminal offence.

In a statement, British Gymnastics said junior training today was “very different for those involved”.

Sarah Powell, chief executive of the governing body, apologized to Ms O'Donnell in a letter saying she was “deeply sorry”.

The settlement follows the Whyte Review, published two years ago, which revealed evidence of systemic physical and emotional abuse in the sport of gymnastics.

Ms O'Donnell waived her right to anonymity to raise awareness of abuse in sport and fight for justice.

She said the situation could have been resolved “a long, long time ago”, adding: “Sixteen years for an apology is just ridiculous.”

Ms. Powell's letter says: “I recognize and accept the impact that the behavior of your former coach, Stan Wild, had on your health and well-being.

“This should not have happened in a place where the safe practice of gymnastics as a child should have been fully guaranteed.”

Stan Wild represented Great Britain at the Olympics and ran a gymnastics club in York.

Mr Wild said he had refuted the allegations in the strongest possible terms.

He added: “I have never been charged with any offense by the police in relation to the allegations made against me.”

Mr Wild is one of several coaches whose names appear on the banned list on the British Gymnastics website for security reasons.

Ms O'Donnell called for more information about each banned coach to be made available to help protect children and ensure transparency.

She said: “The word ‘safeguarding’ can mean anything.

“If you have a child who is interested in starting gymnastics, you should be able to go to the British Gymnastics website and see everything in detail so you know what you are potentially getting your child into.”

British Gymnastics said: “We are listening and seeking wider consultation on what additional information can be published in a proportionate and lawful way.”