GASTON COUNTY, NC — Former students and colleagues are defending an ex-wrestling coach accused of sex abuse.
Defense attorneys are expected to continue calling witnesses all week in the Gary “Scott” Goins trial. Goins faces nearly two-dozen sex charges involving former students at East Gaston High School. A former wrestler testified Monday that Goins helped him through personal problems. 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. A defense attorney asked, “Have you ever told Coach Goins that you love him?” “Yes sir, I have,” responded Coss. “Has he returned those comments to you?” asked the attorney. “Yes sir, he has,” answered Coss.
Coss also said the coach’s “mental training sessions” helped him relax and prepare for matches. Other wrestlers testified last week that Goins used those sessions to force them to perform sex acts. The trail is in recess until Wednesday.
