Jarron Kretschmann: Tennis West says child safety paramount in wake of allegations against Geraldton coach

The governing body of tennis in WA has confirmed it is aware that a Geraldton coach is facing allegations of sexual assault and supplying alcohol to juveniles, while stressing that child safety in the sport is paramount. Prominent tennis coach Jarron Blayne Kretschmann, 41, appeared in Geraldton Magistrates Court on Thursday, charged with one count each of sexual penetration without consent and supplying juveniles with alcohol on unlicensed premises. Both alleged offences are said to have occurred in Onslow in WA’s Pilbara region in November last year. Police allege Mr Kretschmann met the alleged victim — a teenage girl — through his role as a tennis coach. He runs the Geraldton-based SunCity Tennis Academy. In a statement, Tennis West said it was aware of the allegations, but “as this is a police matter, it would be inappropriate to comment further”. “Tennis West is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people,” the statement read. “Providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone who participates in our programs and activities is our highest priority. “Tennis West remains dedicated to continuous education and robust reporting mechanisms in relation to child safeguarding and encourages all members, staff, players, coaches, officials, parents and volunteers to play an active role in ensuring tennis is a safe space for all.” Mr Kretschmann, a married father of two who coaches tennis across the Mid West, Pilbara, Kimberley, Gascoyne as well as other regions, did not appear in court in person last week, rather via audio link from Queensland. The court was told he was living with his parents. For jurisdictional reasons, the matter was moved to the Karratha Magistrates Court and Mr Kretschmann was allowed to appear remotely from Cairns. His bail was extended ahead of his next appearance in December. For support, call 1800 11 SAFE, visit www.tennis.com.au/childsafe or email integrity@tennis.com.au. A WA Police spokesperson said the investigation was ongoing and detectives urge anyone with information relating to this matter, or any similar incidents, to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestopperswa.com.au. If you have been a victim of sexual abuse, or if you have information about someone being abused, please contact police on 131 444, or report the information via the anonymous Safe2Say online reporting platform at wa-police-force-sex-crime.safe2say.com.au/report