Safe Sport

Abuse-Free Sport

"Anyone involved in sport should be able to thrive and perform at their best without fear of abuse, neglect or other maltreatment. Creating safe sport environments that provide those conditions is a collective effort; one that requires proper training so people can recognize maltreatment and prevent or address it." ~SafeSport.coach.ca

BC Athletics Safe Sport Statement BC Athletics, through Individual Members, Member Clubs, Parents/Guardians, Supporters, Board of Directors and Staff believes that all participants involved in Athletics (Track & Field, Road & Cross Country Running, Road Running, Race Walking, Trail/Mountain Running) at whatever level and in whatever role have the right to take part in a safe and secure environment.

BC Athletics, Athletics Canada, viaSport British Columbia and the Governments of British Columbia and Canada have Laws, Rules, Policies, Processes and Resources in place to help guide clubs and individuals to insuring a positive and safe environment for all involved.

Abuse-Free Sport Resources

Are you a victim of abuse, harassment or discrimination in a sport environment? Have you witnessed such an incident? The Abuse-Free Sport Helpline is a free, anonymous, confidential and independent service in both official languages. You can reach out by phone, text or email. 1-888-837-7678 info@abuse-free-sport.ca

	PROMOTION: We believe in promoting a safe environment for our athletes, coaches, officials, support teams and spectators. We believe in treating every person with respect and dignity in an inclusive space.   PREVENTION: We protect our athletes, coaches, officials and support teams through policies and protocols, risk identification and management, education, training, resources and communication. RESPONSE: We are committed to operating within the national Safe Sport reporting and resolution framework in a timely manner that is compassionate, fair and transparent.
	Abuse-Free Sport is an independent program that is part of a growing national movement to rid Canadian sport of all forms of harassment, discrimination and abuse. We aim to prevent maltreatment at all levels of sport across Canada through education, training and research. We are also responsible for investigating reported violations of the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS) and for imposing sanctions against individuals who violate the Code.
	Creating a culture where everyone can thrive is a shared responsibility. The Safe Sport Training module developed by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) will help anyone involved in sport identify and prevent situations of maltreatment. Together, we can make sport safe for everyone.
	The CCES is an independent, national, not-for-profit, multi-sport organization with a vision of fair, safe, accessible, and inclusive sport for everyone. We believe the fundamental purpose of sport can and should be to make a positive contribution to Canadian society and that ethical sport is the best way to achieve that. We believe that by intentionally activating True Sport, advocating for ethical sport, and protecting the integrity of sport, we will fulfill our mission and achieve our vision. Our Mission: To work collaboratively to address unethical behaviours and promote a values-based approach to sport to ensure positive sport experiences for all. Our Vision: Sport is fair, safe, accessible, and inclusive.
	NCCP Code of Ethics The National Coaching Certification Program™ (NCCP) Code of Ethics provides ethical standards that reflect the core values of the coaching profession in Canada, and guides sport coaches to make balanced decisions to achieve personal, participant and team goals.

• Responsible Coaching – which has links for:

1. Parents
2. Sport Organizations
3. Coaches
   • Where there is information on:
     • Rule of Two 
       • Coaching Association of Canada's "Rule of Two" Infographic
       • Rule of Two in a Virtual Setting
     • Background Screening
     • Ethics Training
       • NCCP Code of Ethics

• Sport Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada – tools and information to help prevent and resolve disputes at the highest levels of the Canadian sport system. Note the guidelines on the following from the Sport Dispute Resolution Centre (SDRCC)
  • Guide to Administrative Fair Play
  • Team Selection
  • Selection Criteria for Major Events in Sports (Guidelines and Tips)
  • Carding

Safe Sport Training

Online Webinars

• Safe Sport Training (from Coaching Association of Canada - Free)
  • ​The Safe Sport Training module developed by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) will help anyone involved in sport identify and prevent situations of maltreatment.
  • Required course for all BC Athletics members who hold an Associate, Coach or Officials membership.
• Safe Sport Education for Youth 
  • This new Safe Sport Education Program for Youth aged 13-19 provides a comprehensive approach to fostering a safe and respectful sporting environment. This program covers essential topics such as recognizing and reporting abuse, setting boundaries, and promoting healthy relationships within sports communities. Through interactive modules and engaging discussions, participants will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate potential risks and protect themselves and others. It’s important to note that some of the information covered may evoke discomfort, and participants are encouraged to seek out support if needed. For those under the age of 13 we strongly suggest you take this training with the support of a parent or guardian. Together, we strive to create a culture of safety and empowerment in sports for all young athletes.
• NCCP Make Ethical Decisions Online  (from viaSport $70.00)
  • Also required for coaches of any context to be an NCCP trained coach
• Respect in Sport for Activity Leaders: Strategies to respond to bullying, abuse, harassment and discrimination (BAHD) (from Respect Group Inc.)
• Commit to Kids – Understanding boundaries, sexual misconduct, and reporting inappropriate behaviour ​ (from Commit to Kids - $12.00)
• NCCP Emergency Action Plan  (from Coaching Association of Canada - Free)
• Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S): How it Can Impact All Athletes and All Sports (from CSI Pacific - Free)
• NCCP Making Head Way – Concussion Training (from Coach Assoication of Canada, Free)
• Concussion in Sports (from School Sport - Free)

Concussion Management

Concussion Protocols, Information and Resources

• COPSI Network - Concussion Guidelines
• Athletics Canada and Provincial/Terrotorial Branches - Concusson Protocol
• Athletics Canada and Provincial/Territorial Branches - Concussion Education 
• Concussion Education Infographic
• Medical Assessment Letter - example
• Medical Clearance Letter - example
• Prevention