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Summarised by Centrist
Boxing New Zealand head coach Billy Meehan has been blocked from attending the Glasgow Commonwealth Games while an investigation into allegations of bullying, favouritism and inappropriate behaviour remains unresolved.
The New Zealand Olympic Committee made the decision just five weeks before the Games, saying it was “not appropriate” to appoint Meehan while parts of the Sport Integrity Commission investigation relate to him.
“The wellbeing of athletes is our top priority and creating a safe environment is a core responsibility,” the NZOC said.
Meehan had remained in charge during the investigation, taking athletes to overseas tournaments and running training camps.
The first complaint was made more than two years ago, while the commission formally opened its investigation more than a year ago.
Complainants were initially told the investigation would be completed by the end of 2025. Documents seen by 1News show they have since been repeatedly told it is in its “final stages”.
The commission has still provided no completion date, saying only that the investigation “continues to progress”.
“To protect the integrity of that investigation, we have no further comment,” it said.
The NZOC said Meehan was not permanently excluded from future roles.
“Any consideration of future appointment to NZ teams can be made once the investigation has been concluded and its findings are known,” it said.
Boxing New Zealand said it had followed the normal process for selecting support staff and that final appointments were a matter for the NZOC.
