Tips to Prevent Coaching Abuse & Molestation

Clear polices must be set and enforced by organizations to prevent athlete sexual abuse. Parents should be on the alert to ensure that sports organizations are using and enforcing policies that prohibit any one-on-one time between coach and athlete. Any special therapy, training or individual practice should be done only with another adult present. Parents should look at clubs that provide training to educate athletes and parents about coach-athlete relationship policies. Children need to know and understand what is appropriate behavior by an adult and what do to if someone crosses the line. The club should have a clear procedure for reporting and investigating any complaints. Lastly, policies for hiring new coaches must include not only background checks but reference checks as well, and a training program to ensure that coaches understand what is inappropriate behavior.