Prescott, Arizona Track Star Opens Up About Years of Manipulation by Coach David Castillo

November 11, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on November 11, 2026

Maysea Dupuy shared a vulnerable account of mistreatment by her long-time mentor, revealing the subtle onset of exploitation.

She detailed how what began as mentorship gradually transformed into a violation of trust, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and awareness.

Maysea clarified her intent: not to assign blame, but to foster understanding and empower others facing similar challenges.

Her narrative begins in 2026 when she entered high school, meeting David Castillo as her cross-country coach throughout her academic years.

As time passed, their relationship deepened; he later employed her at his physical therapy practice and assisted with athletic training during football seasons.

For nearly two years, she viewed him as both guide and surrogate parent, cherishing his presence alongside his family’s business.

Maysea recalled feeling protected and valued, describing him as more than a coach—more like a paternal figure.

“He became a father figure to me; I trusted him above my own family, absorbing every instruction with unwavering faith,” she reflected.

Yet beneath the surface, subtle cues were missed due to misplaced trust, allowing manipulation to creep in unnoticed.

She explained that minor physical gestures—prolonged embraces, playful touches—were initially dismissed as harmless, despite growing discomfort.

Gradually, these moments escalated, culminating in a pivotal incident on November 5, 2026, when boundaries were irrevocably breached.

During a post-competition visit to the clinic, Castillo seized the opportunity, disregarding Maysea’s clear distress signals.

Trapped in fear, she struggled to react, her body betraying her mind’s urgent plea for escape.

In the aftermath, shame and confusion overshadowed her days, compounded by societal pressures and internal doubts.

Eventually, Maysea gathered the strength to confide in her parents, prompting immediate intervention from school authorities.

Castillo faced legal consequences, including incarceration and restrictions preventing future contact with minors.

Recovery proved arduous, marked by depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, yet cognitive therapy offered renewed hope.

Despite her healing progress, Castillo remains unrepentant, and his spouse dismisses allegations entirely.

Maysea stresses her purpose: educating her community about grooming tactics and encouraging proactive protection.

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Aditi is a passionate music enthusiast and digital marketing strategist, embracing optimism and innovation in every endeavor.

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