Bikers support abuse victims

COLLAN REX: EX-COACH’S SENTENCING POSTPONED

Former Parktown Boys’ High employee pleaded guilty to 144 sexual assault charges.

The sentencing of Collan Rex, former Parktown Boys’ assistant water polo coach, was yesterday postponed to November 27. In total, 23 boys, aged between 14 and 16, have made allegations against the 22-year-old former coach.

Parktown Boys’ High School became the centre of a storm of controversy in August this year when Rex pleaded guilty to 144 sexual assault charges at the high court, sitting at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court.

Yesterday’s court proceedings was attended by Bikers Against Bullies SA (Babsa), which organised a ride through Johannesburg in support of the victims of bullying, racism and abuse at Parktown Boys’ High School.

Babsa also organised a guard of honour for the victims outside the court.

“We have spoken to some of the parents and one of the victims was given a show of support with an attendance from Babsa,” said Babsa media and public relations officer Jason Firmani.

“The victim and his brother were taken for rides and lunch to get to know them better.

“We also vowed our support as Babsa to the victim and family involved.

“The goal of the foundation is to make the voices heard of those that are too scared to make themselves heard because of bullying,” Firmani said.

“At the same time, we are about respect and tolerance and extend a helping hand to the bully and any institution that may need assistance with getting the correct procedures in place.”

Babsa organised an antibullying project last month at Laerskool Roodekrans, after receiving word that a child was being bullied at the school.

“We are currently working on various projects, one being the Potchefstroom Childrens’ Home, where young individuals will be educated not only on why bullying is wrong, but also on how to deal with bullying and the effects that bullying could have on the victim,” said Firmani.

“We have found that in 90% of cases that we have addressed, the victim and parents of the victim are not aware of the due process to be followed to approach an institution in the correct manner.

“We are here to guide them through that process,” he said. –