A Scottish Rugby Union team manager has been found guilty of sending indecent images and making sexual comments to international youth players. Steven Dyer, the accused, sent inappropriate videos and pictures to schoolboys during a youth squad training camp trip in 2023. These included videos of Dyer urinating and licking his finger provocatively, which he shared on Snapchat where the boys had access. One player disclosed that Dyer had sent him a sexual image and commented on his genital size. The 27-year-old rugby boss was reported to the authorities by a concerned parent, leading to his suspension by the SRU and subsequent dismissal from Lloyds Banking Group.
Dyer, from St Boswalls in the Scottish Borders, denied any wrongdoing, asserting that his actions were merely part of rugby banter and not sexually motivated. However, following a trial at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, he was found guilty of three counts of intentional indecent communication between February and October 2023. Sheriff Daniel Kelly deemed the victims’ testimonies credible and upheld their accusations against Dyer. Consequently, Dyer has been placed on the sex offenders register until his sentencing in March, with his fate to be determined after further reports are prepared.
The trial heard from three victims who were part of the youth squad, highlighting how Dyer’s inappropriate content on the squad’s Snapchat had a distressing impact on them. The court was also informed that Dyer, as the team manager, had responsibilities including organizing travel and accommodation for the training camp. Despite Dyer’s claims that the communication was friendly banter within the group, the prosecution argued that there was a clear breach of professional boundaries and safeguarding standards in his interactions with the underage players.
The Scottish Rugby Union clarified that Dyer was not a full-time employee but a paid contracted volunteer, and they have been approached for their response to the court case. The incident underscores the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment for young athletes, and the need for robust safeguarding measures within sports organizations to prevent such misconduct from occurring.
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The case involving Steven Dyer highlights the critical need for proper safeguarding measures within sports organizations, particularly when working with underage players. It underscores the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and ensuring a safe environment for young athletes to participate in sports without fear of exploitation or misconduct. Cases like these serve as a reminder of the responsibility that coaches and team managers hold in protecting the well-being of those under their supervision. By upholding robust safeguarding protocols and promoting a culture of respect and integrity, sporting bodies can safeguard the welfare of all participants and uphold the values of sportsmanship and fair play.