Gymnastics Coach Sentenced After Years of Sexual Abuse
The sentencing of former gymnastics coach Michael Haynes has cast a long shadow over British gymnastics, exposing once again the deep failings in safeguarding within youth sport. On 29 May 2025, Haynes, now 76, was sentenced to 18 years in prison at Manchester Crown Court after being found guilty of nine counts of rape and 11 counts of sexual assault against two girls.
The abuse, described by Greater Manchester Police as ‘prolonged’ and ‘harrowing’, occurred between the late 1980s and early 1990s, beginning when one of the victims was just 11 years old. Haynes first targeted the child under the guise of helping with stretching exercises at Trafford School of Gymnastics. Gradually, inappropriate touching escalated to serious sexual offences, some of which occurred in Haynes’ vehicle while he was transporting the girl to and from training sessions.
Detective Inspector Rick Lees of Trafford CID commended the bravery of the survivors, stating: “I cannot imagine the psychological effect that this abuse had on them over the years, and I hope today's sentencing brings some form of closure and a sense of justice”.
Lees also made a direct appeal to others who may have been victims of Haynes during that period to come forward.
Haynes' case stands out not only because of the horrific nature of the offences but also because it is emblematic of broader systemic issues within British Gymnastics. The Whyte Review, which examined over 400 complaints, described a toxic culture where abuse - both physical and emotional - was routinely tolerated or ignored. In addition to sexual abuse, the review cited examples of young athletes being starved, screamed at, denied water and publicly shamed for their weight, with safeguarding procedures being deemed either inadequate or entirely absent.
This culture allowed predators like Haynes to operate unchecked for years. According to the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), of those people who reported sexual abuse in sport, 91% said the perpetrator was a coach or volunteer, often someone in a position of trust.
It is believed there may be many more individuals who experienced abuse in gymnastics, by either Haynes or another coach, who may previously have felt unable to come forward.
At Jordans Solicitors, we represent survivors of sexual abuse to help them achieve accountability and compensation for their experience. Whether the abuse occurred recently or many years ago, legal action may be possible. If you or someone you know is a survivor of abuse, please do get in touch today. We offer confidential consultations and advice. Get in touch at 08009555094 or 03303001103.