Former UK Athletics coach George Skafidas given life ban

Bernice Wilson
Wilson set new personal best times in the 60m and 100m in 2011

Ex-UK Athletics coach George Skafidas has been banned from sport for life by UK Anti-Doping, which accused him of destroying Bernice Wilson's career.

Greek coach Skafidas admitted nine rule violations, committed in 2011 and 2015.

"He was put into a position of trust, he abused that trust and as a result categorically destroyed a career," said Ukad chief executive Nicole Sapstead.

Sprinter Wilson was banned for four years in 2011 after she tested positive for testosterone and clenbuterol.

The 31-year-old tested positive for clomiphene in an out-of-competition test in February last year but her sanction was reduced to 10 months due to "the substantial assistance" she gave Ukad.

A UK Athletics-licensed coach, Skafidas ran a training group for young athletes in Lincolnshire, but Ukad confirmed the nine violations all related to his conduct with Wilson.