A Gold Coast tennis coach has resigned from his position at a tennis academy after being accused of several child sex offenses, including rape.
Ryan Kebblewhite was arrested by detectives on Sunday following investigations into a series of alleged historical child sex offenses allegedly committed on the Gold Coast.
“Police will allege the man repeatedly offended a child, who he knew through his involvement with a sports academy, between 2021 and 2023,” a Queensland Police spokesperson said.
Ryan Kebblewhite has been charged with several offenses. (Provided: Instagram)
The 38-year-old was charged with two counts each of rape and indecent assault of a child under 16, and one count of grooming a child under 16.
Mr Kebblewhite was arrested while running a junior tennis tournament at the KDV sports center in Carrara.
The Tennis Academy responds to his concerns
In a statement to parents whose children attended the sports facility, obtained by ABC, KDV Sport Tennis Academy director Ross Taylor acknowledged “recent accusations against a member of staff.”
“We fully understand the concerns this may raise and want to assure you that the well-being and safety of all our tennis athletes remains our top priority,” the statement said.
“The staff member in question is no longer part of our organization.
“As this is a sensitive topic, we are unable to provide further details at this time.”
Mr Taylor said all tennis programs would continue to go ahead as planned.
“Thank you for your understanding and continued confidence in our organization,” he said.
Tennis Australia said it was aware of Mr Kebblewhite’s arrest and would continue to work with police to assist with their investigation.
They said they would “take all necessary steps to mitigate risks.”
Mr Kebblewhite appeared at Southport Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
He was released on bail with conditions including that he report to police, surrender his passport and cannot leave Australia without permission.
Mr Kebblewhite was also banned from having contact with witnesses in the case.
The court also ordered him not to attend the KDV Tennis Academy and to seek medical attention while out on bail.
He will return to court on March 4.
