Prevent Bullying
In Sport

Bullying has no place in a healthy, positive sport environment. As a leader and mentor, you can raise awareness and engage players, parents, and staff to prevent bullying.

Bullying is taking an enormous adverse toll on America’s youth. In 2021–22, about 19 percent of students ages 12–18 reported being bullied during school.[1] And those youth are at increased risk for depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and other negative outcomes.[2]

Together, we can put a stop to bullying in sport.

Soccer coach holding a play clipboard, three team members are watching nearby

Bullying Prevention Handbook

For Coaches of Minor Athletes

Additional Resources

Bullying 101

Quick-reference guide that defines bullying and outlines effective ways to respond.

Coaches' Discussion Guide

An activity to help your team understand and respond to bullying incidents.

Steps for Reporting Abuse and Misconduct

A guide for mandatory reporting for individuals in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement.

Understanding Team Climate

Questions to help you assess team interactions and identify potential warning signs.

References

  1. [1] National Center for Education Statistics. (2024). Student Bullying. Condition of Education. U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences. nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/a10.
  2. [2] PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center. (2018). How does bullying impact a student’s health? pacer.org/bullying/info/questions-answered/sticks-and-stones.asp.