Why Abuse Prevention Training Matters in Sport
Coaches, sport leaders, and athletic administrators all understand the importance of focus during a game, match, or event. It’s needed for the synergy of players. And it often defines a winning point.
But focus can only be achieved when athletes feel safe and supported. More than that, when everyone feels respected on the playing field—from athletes and volunteers to coaches and officials—everyone can focus on the game at hand.
Coaches and sport leaders who are trained in abuse prevention are given the tools needed to create positive atmospheres where athletes can focus and succeed. They gain a deeper understanding and awareness of the factors that may make these environments unsafe, and they learn actions they can take to prioritize athlete safety and well-being.
Stronger Awareness
Coaches understand strategy and are ready to pivot at a moment’s notice. In short, they have a game plan ready for every play. But when it comes to abuse and misconduct in sport, do you know your next move?
SafeSport® Training helps coaches gain a stronger awareness of abuse in sport and learn preventative measures they can take to protect participants in their athletic program or on their team. Training also provides sport leaders with a clearer understanding on protocols around intervention and reporting—so you know what to do if abuse happens.
SafeSport abuse prevention courses cover key topics like:
- Mandatory reporting. Learn your role as a mandatory reporter, including when and how to report abuse or misconduct.
- How to recognize physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. Learn the signs and forms of abuse and explore the ways they can manifest in sport.
- Ways to safely intervene. Learn what to do and say if a child discloses abuse to you and understand how to intervene if you witness abuse occurring.
Trained Leaders, Safer Athletes
Coaches and leaders who are trained in abuse prevention understand what abuse in sport looks like, which means they’re more likely to notice—and more comfortable knowing how to stop—negative behaviors like bullying, harassment, or hazing.
SafeSport® Training informs sport leaders, so they know what defines a supportive sport setting. When coaches and administrators are knowledgeable about safer athletic environments, they’re more equipped to create this type of atmosphere on their team or in their program through positive encouragement and respect.
This translates to happier, healthier athletes and better team cohesion on and off the playing field. And athletes who feel supported and encouraged by their coach are more likely to bring a stronger sense of focus, dedication, and passion to practice and competition.
Change the Game in Your Program
It’s no secret that coaches and sport leaders play many roles. But perhaps their most important role is prioritizing athlete safety and well-being.
By getting SafeSport® Trained, leaders in sport can gain the knowledge and access the tools needed to build programs that are free of abuse. Learn more about abuse prevention by exploring our courses and resources for coaches and other leaders in sport.