WHAT IS SAFE SPORT?
The U.S. Center for SafeSport is a dedicated nonprofit organization focused on eradicating abuse in sports. This independent center develops best practices, policies, and programs aimed at creating a safe environment within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movements. As the first and only organization of its kind, it addresses all forms of abuse, including bullying, harassment, hazing, physical and emotional abuse, as well as sexual misconduct.
The Center collaborates with various sports organizations, such as USA Swimming and Minnesota Swimming, to integrate abuse prevention as a fundamental part of our sports culture.
The vision is simple: every athlete should feel safe, supported, and empowered through their participation in sports.
- Safe: Protection from emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
- Supported: Fostering welcoming, respectful environments that embrace diversity.
- Strengthened: Equipping athletes with skills that benefit their communities, ensuring they thrive both on and off the field.
WHY IS SAFE SPORT IMPORTANT AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Creating safe and respectful sporting environments free from abuse hinges on education and awareness. The Center's experts craft best practices, policies, and programs based on insights from leading organizations, building a comprehensive repository of knowledge. They work closely with clubs like Aquajets to promote respect and combat abuse in sports.
Entrusted by the U.S. Olympic Committee, the Center is authorized to handle reports of sexual misconduct within the Olympic and Paralympic Movements. Their approach emphasizes professionalism, responsiveness, fairness, and confidentiality. Individuals can report concerns through a secure online system or by contacting the staff directly.
BEST PRACTICES
USA Swimming has established nine Safe Sport guidelines that outline best practices for all its members. You can view these guidelines here.
HOW DOES THIS AFFECT PARENTS AND ATHLETES?
All parents, athletes, coaches, and volunteers must now engage with and commit to the Safe Sport movement and its policies.
Parents and all athletes aged 18 and older are required to review the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policy (MAAPP 2.0) along with related educational materials. Certain documents include forms that must be signed for acknowledgment and permission.
- Permission for an Unrelated Adult to Locally Transport Minor Athlete
- Permission for an Unrelated Adult to Travel with a Minor Athlete
- Permission for an Unrelated Adult to Share Lodging with Minor Athlete
- Written Acknowledgment of MAAPP Policy
TRAINING AND RESOURCES LINKS
The U.S. Center for Safe Sport requires our club to distribute the following materials to our members, please review the below and bookmark any locations on the USA Swimming website for future reference:
- USA Swimming Corporate Bylaws
- USA Swimming 2023 Rulebook
- USA Swimming Operating Policy Manual
- Safe Sport Meet 360 Resource Guide
You can also check here for a comprehensive list of Safe Sport training resources and educational links.
QUICK CONTACT INFO
General Questions
- Red Wing Swim Club: Contact our Executive Board President, Todd Holzer
- Minnesota Swimming: Safe Sport Committee Chair Anne Knapp
- USA Swimming: Safe Sport Senior Manager Liz Hahn
Report a Safe Sport Concern
- USA Swimming: Call (719) 866-4578 or visit here
- U.S. Center for SafeSport: To report a concern or find more information, visit www.uscenterforsafesport.org or call 833-5US-SAFE (587-7233).
