The Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila (UAdeC) has temporarily removed an archery coach from his position following public allegations of harassment made by athlete Abril Contreras. The university is currently conducting an internal investigation through its specialized gender violence tribunal to determine if the coach, identified as Miguel “N,” violated institutional policies regarding student safety and professional conduct.
Allegations of Harassment and Social Media Disclosure
The case surfaced last week when Abril Contreras utilized social media to publicly denounce what she described as inappropriate behavior by her coach. These interactions, she stated, created a climate of discomfort during her training sessions at the university.
Upon verifying the nature of the publication, the university moved to establish direct contact with the student to provide institutional support and guide her through the formal reporting process.
Institutional Investigation and Protective Measures
The university has activated its formal protocol for addressing gender-based violence. Rector Pimentel Martínez confirmed that the case is currently under review by the Tribunal Universitario para la Atención de los Casos de Violencia de Género. Denise Mata Moreno, head of the tribunal, and Nadia Libertad Salas Carrillo, from the University’s Human Rights Ombudsperson office, are managing the intake of testimony and evidence.
As a precautionary measure, the university separated the coach from his athletic duties. Pimentel Martínez emphasized that this action is not a final disciplinary verdict but a standard procedural step to ensure the integrity of the investigation.
Consequences for the Coach and Potential Legal Action
The potential consequences for the coach remain dependent on the tribunal’s final resolution. According to the university’s administrative guidelines, sanctions can range from formal reprimands to permanent dismissal from the institution. The rector stated that the university is committed to applying the full extent of its regulations should the investigation find evidence of misconduct.
Regarding potential criminal involvement, the university has maintained a neutral position on external legal actions. While university staff accompanied the athlete to the Instituto Estatal del Deporte de Coahuila (INEDEC), Pimentel Martínez clarified that he holds no information regarding whether a criminal complaint has been filed with the Fiscalía General del Estado. The institution remains focused on its internal administrative process, which is currently in the stage of gathering information from both parties involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the archery coach?
Miguel “N” has been separated from his coaching duties temporarily. This measure is a standard preventive action taken by the UAdeC while the Tribunal Universitario investigates the allegations, and it does not constitute a final disciplinary ruling.
What specific behaviors were reported by the athlete?
Abril Contreras alleged that the coach made inappropriate remarks about her physical appearance and sent messages of a romantic nature, which she stated caused her significant discomfort during her training sessions.
Who is overseeing the investigation?
The investigation is being handled by the Tribunal Universitario para la Atención de los Casos de Violencia de Género, led by Denise Mata Moreno, with support from the Defensoría de Derechos Humanos Universitarios.
Are there criminal charges involved?
As of the latest official update from the university rector, there is no verified information regarding a formal complaint filed with the Fiscalía General del Estado. The university is currently focused on its own internal protocol.
The investigation by the Tribunal Universitario continues, and the university has not provided a specific date for the conclusion of the proceedings.
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