Prevent. Recognize. Respond.
Tools to help address emotional and physical abuse and misconduct in sport
This toolkit references types of conduct prohibited by the SafeSport Code, which applies to all Participants in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. The Terminology section includes definitions of Movement-specific capitalized terms referenced in this toolkit.
This guide contains detailed information about trauma and abuse, including Emotional Misconduct, Physical Misconduct, Bullying, Harassment, and Hazing. Some of the words and examples used may be triggering and cause anxiety.
A positive sport experience at a young age can lead to a successful life. But too often, youth athletes are subject to physical and psychological harm. This toolkit will help you prevent, recognize, and respond to emotional and physical abuse and misconduct with tactics you can put into play today.
A positive sport experience at a young age can lead to a successful life. But too often, youth athletes are subject to physical and psychological harm. This toolkit will help you prevent, recognize, and respond to emotional and physical abuse and misconduct with tactics you can put into play today.
Explore These Themes
This Toolkit is divided into three main sections with introductions to key concepts, strategies for setting a successful tone, and real-life scenarios that help coaches, volunteers, and parents build young athletes up rather than tear them down.
PREVENT
Proactive ways to safeguard athletes from potential abuse, showing how power differences and prior trauma can affect behavior and risk
RECOGNIZe
Five main categories of abuse and misconduct, how they appear in sport settings, and how to know when behaviors cross the line
RESPOND
Ways to react to abuse disclosures, and guidance on topics such as Retaliation and requirements for mandatory reporting
Digital Citizenship
What athletes do and say online can have a great impact on their teams. Watch and share these animated videos to encourage youth athletes to be responsible digital citizens.
Why it Matters
Children who participate in sport gain countless physical, social, and emotional benefits. Yet data indicates their sport experience is not universally positive.
“Whether you’re a coach, parent, administrator, or volunteer, your positive actions and examples are game-changers for keeping young athletes safe, supported, and strengthened. Thank you for all you do to put this guide’s principles into action.”
