Β GASTON COUNTY, NC —Β Former students and colleagues are defending an ex-wrestling coach accused of sex abuse. Β
Defense attorneys are expected to continue calling witnesses all week in the Gary “Scott” Goins trial. Β Goins faces nearly two-dozen sex charges involving former students at East Gaston High School. Β A former wrestler testified Monday that Goins helped him through personal problems. Β Joseph Coss says he never saw the coach do anything inappropriate.
“East Gaston Wrestling is like a family, and Coach Goins is like a father to me,” said Coss. Β A defense attorney asked, “Have you ever told Coach Goins that you love him?” Β Β “Yes sir, I have,” responded Coss. Β “Has he returned those comments to you?” asked the attorney. Β “Yes sir, he has,” answered Coss.
Coss also said the coach’s “mental training sessions” helped him relax and prepare for matches. Β Other wrestlers testified last week that Goins used those sessions to force them to perform sex acts. Β The trail is in recess until Wednesday.
