I’ve been following a sad court case in northern Australia. The death of adult recreational gymnast, Michelle Maitland, who fell from a tumbling trampoline, hitting her head on the concrete floor.
The final appeal for Townsville Gymnastics Association Inc AND Dean Allan Coggins was turned down. They were found guilty of not providing a safe facility:
(1) Concrete flooring and/or
(2) The failure to provide adequate protective covering to the landing area for gymnastic apparatus, namely a tumble tramp/tumble track.
Read the details of the appeal – Townsville Gymnastics (PDF)
What does that mean for us?
There should be no exposed concrete in any gym, especially anywhere near trampoline devices and pits.
If you offer adult recreation gymnastics, you need an excellent, experienced, authoritative coach who can ensure safety.
Rest in peace, Michelle.
related post – Queensland gymnastics safety assessment
Gymnastics Coaching.com 