© Tom Blewitt & Zack Griffiths – Predator Awareness

A sports coach has been jailed for four years after admitting to sexually abusing a teenage girl.

Samantha Zala, 57, of Lydbrook in Gloucestershire, was sentenced at Gloucester Crown Court after pleading guilty to two counts of sexual activity with a child. The offences took place between 2016 and 2018 while she was working as a private hockey coach.

Prosecutors said Zala targeted and groomed the vulnerable teenager, forming what was described in court as an abusive sexual relationship. The court heard that her actions represented a serious breach of trust, given her position of responsibility as a coach.

Beth Wycherley, representing the Crown Prosecution Service, said Zala had deliberately exploited the victim. She said the abuse left the young woman with lasting distress and praised her for coming forward and supporting the prosecution.

Wycherley added that cases like this depend heavily on the courage of victims willing to give evidence. She said authorities are committed to ensuring that victims of sexual abuse receive support and that offenders are brought to justice.

The case was investigated by Gloucestershire Police. Officials have reiterated calls for anyone who has experienced sexual abuse to report it, assuring victims that they will be treated with sensitivity and care.

Zala was sentenced to four years in prison.