Teen athlete gutted

Coach’s ‘unjust’ ban a bitter blow

PARA athlete Sam Walker and his mother Susan were “surprised and devastated” to learn of Scott Goldsmith’s coaching ban from Athletics Tasmania and Athletics Australia.

Under instruction of Mr Goldsmith, the 17-year-old, with cerebral palsy and a mild form of Aspergers, has broken “countless” Australian T38 Para records, competed at two world championships, and competed at the 2018 Commonwealth Games at just 15 years of age.

AT chair Alec Eiszele sent a letter to members last month saying Mr Goldsmith’s membership had been revoked and his coaching accreditation and insurance with Athletics Australia had been cancelled.

“This has occurred following an independent investigation in relation to breaches of AT policies, the details of which are confidential,” the letter said.

Mr Walker wrote an impact statement as a result of his coach being “suspended for life”, saying it had impacted him “beyond words”.

“I have been deeply saddened by this, and feel that I am now at a huge disadvantage, and this may even result in me not being able to compete anymore, due to complete lack of support,” his letter says.

“Scott has dedicated his time to me free of charge and worked tirelessly with me.

“I now no longer have a severe scissoring of my legs and am so grateful for his input into this.”

Mr Walker’s mother shared the letter with the Mercury, saying she was devastated to hear of Mr Goldsmith’s unexplained ban.

“Scott’s been there from day one with Sam,” she said.

“[Sam has] formed a connection with Scott, unlike most athletes who are probably a little more adaptable to change. Him and Scott have a fantastic relationship on the track and off.”

Ms Walker said she was aware of tension between Mr Goldsmith and others in Tasmanian Athletics.

“Scott likes to advocate, not just for Samuel, but for all athletes. I know that he’s had discussions with some people in authority in the athletics industry about some things that they’re doing that he didn’t agree with, and that’s ruffled feathers.”

She said she felt the decision to ban Mr Goldsmith from the sport was “unjust”, and neither she nor her son were informed by AT of Mr Goldsmith’s ban.

“I got a call from Athletics Australia saying that they heard Scott was still coaching Samuel,” she said.

“I wasn’t aware that he wasn’t allowed to. No one informed me officially.”

Mr Walker is now being coached by Emily Canham, a newly accredited coach and runner with the UTAS Athletics Club, who Mrs Walker said was being “mentored” by Mr Goldsmith.