Courts / Ireland / Report

Rape accused coach asked father of alleged victim to encourage daughter to return to sport

Summary

During the trial of a sports coach accused of raping a teenage girl 35 years ago, the jury heard from the complainant's father. He said the accused, a 78‑year‑old defendant who cannot be named, called him a month after the alleged rape and asked him to encourage his daughter to return to the sport, claiming she had "great potential." The father testified that his daughter, aged 13‑14 at the time, suddenly stopped participating in the sport and that the accused had encouraged her to return because he did not know what had happened. The jury also heard evidence that the accused regularly walked through the girls' changing and shower areas while they were showering and changing after PE classes. The trial, before Justice Melanie Greally, continues with the jury hearing further evidence and cross‑examination. The unnamed 78-year-old pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Rape accused coach asked father of alleged victim to encourage daughter to return to sport. Charges or matters: one count of rape and 15 counts of indecent assault at a school on dates between October 1989 and October 1990. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• October 1989 Incident
• October 1990 Incident
• 2024-07-12 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial

Read the original CNI report