The University of Victoria has appointed an interim head coach of its womenB次元官网网址檚 rowing program, after a verbal abuse lawsuit against its previous coach resulted in his suspension and resignation.

In a 2020 lawsuit, Barney Williams was accused of demeaning treatment and verbal abuse against one of the team members during the 2018-2019 season. The claims have not been proven in court.

In April, Williams resigned by mutual agreement and received a one-year suspension from Rowing Canada.

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Jane Gumley is now set to take over for the 2021-2022 season.

B次元官网网址淎s a current international level coxswain and former varsity athlete, Jane brings an exciting skill set and unique understanding to the team,B次元官网网址� Nick Clarke, director of Varsity Performance Sport, said in a release.

Gumley graduated from UVic in 2013 and has worked with the coxswains of the menB次元官网网址檚 and womenB次元官网网址檚 programs since. She has also represented Canada in rowing multiple times, including competing as the first female coxswain in the menB次元官网网址檚 eight rowing at a world championship in 2018.

Gumley spent the last four years coaching at the Victoria City Rowing Club and the last winter assistant coaching for the Vikes menB次元官网网址檚 rowing team.

B次元官网网址淚 am really excited to step into the Vikes womenB次元官网网址檚 rowing culture. I have witnessed amazing drive and compassion from the athletes, and I canB次元官网网址檛 wait to see some of that on the racecourse this fall,B次元官网网址� she said.

Gumley added sheB次元官网网址檚 seen all different kinds of coaching styles over the years and believes she has an understanding of how to positively drive athletes to meet their goals.

B次元官网网址淭his will help me guide the team and meet the standards of varsity athletics while continuing to provide a culture of growth and inclusion,B次元官网网址� she said.

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-With files from The Canadian Press

Do you have a story tip? Email: vnc.editorial@blackpress.ca.

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