FRISCO - There is no "guilt by association'' here, though Delfonte Diamond has become a sort of "trainer to the stars'' when it comes to NFL receivers.
His impressive list of clients, for instance, is highlighted by a professional relationship with Dallas Cowboys All-Pro wideout CeeDee Lamb.
Diamond, however has now been sentenced to 25 years in prison after having been found guilty on charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child, according to reports.
The Houston-based Diamond trained dozens of NFL players, including standouts like Lamb, Stefon Diggs, Tank Dell, Xavier Worthy, Keon Coleman and more.
And one person close to Lamb has expressed that he's "shocked'' by this ugly development. ...
And so is one of the trainers who worked closely with Diamond.
Diamond worked in Houston in conjuction with Rischad Whitfield, another receivers trainer who calls himself "The Footwork King.''
In a press release, Whitfield writes, "I want to take this moment to publicly and unequivocally denounce the horrific crimes committed by Delfonte Diamond. As someone who has dedicated my life to helping young athletes develop their talent, character, and confidence, it is both devastating and deeply disturbing to learn of the actions described in the court documents released this week.
Delfonte was a trainer at my facility and worked with athletes across all ages. While he did train and interact with numerous individuals—ranging from youth athletes to NFL professionals—I want to be clear: not one athlete, parent, or coach has ever come forward to me with concerns, complaints, or reports of inappropriate behavior related to his time working with us. His focus was primarily on football-specific training, and in all my observations and interactions, I never witnessed anything that gave me reason to believe he was capable of such unimaginable acts.
"If I had, I would have acted immediately and without hesitation.
"Still, the details that have emerged in his trial are beyond comprehension. My heart breaks for the victims and their families. I can only pray that justice and accountability bring them even a small measure of peace.''
