MINOR ATHLETE ABUSE PREVENTION POLICIES (“MAAPP”)
Publication Date: December 20, 2024
Effective Date: January 1, 2025
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Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 5
AUTHORITY ............................................................................................................................. 5
SCOPE ............................................................................................................................................ 7
The MAAPP Applies to “In-Program Contact” Within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement
..................................................................................................................................................... 7
PART I ORGANIZATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATION & TRAINING ................ 9
A. Organizational Requirements for Education & Training ....................................................... 9
B. Required Prevention Policies and Implementation ................................................................ 9
C. Policy Approval and Submission Process ..................................................................... 10
PART II EDUCATION & TRAINING POLICY .......................................................................... 12
A. Mandatory Child Abuse Prevention Training for Adult Participants ................................... 12
1. Adult Participants Required to Complete Training ........................................................... 12
2. Timing of Training ............................................................................................................ 12
3. Refresher Training ............................................................................................................. 12
B. Minor Athlete Training Must Be Offered ............................................................................. 12
C. Parent Training Must Be Offered ................................................................................. 13
D. Optional Training ........................................................................................................... 13
E. Exemptions and Accommodations ....................................................................................... 13
PART III REQUIRED POLICIES FOR ONE-ON-ONE INTERACTIONS ................................ 15
EXCEPTIONS .......................................................................................................................... 15
A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 15
1. A Close-in-Age Exception ................................................................................................ 15
3. Exceptions for Dual Relationships .................................................................................... 16
4. Emergency Exception ....................................................................................................... 16
MEETINGS POLICY ............................................................................................................... 17
A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 17
1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 17
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2. Meetings with licensed mental health care professionals and health care providers (other
than athletic trainers) ............................................................................................................. 17
B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 17
1. Parent Training .................................................................................................................. 17
A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 18
1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 18
2. Consent .............................................................................................................................. 18
B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 18
1. Monitoring ........................................................................................................................ 18
2. Parent Training .................................................................................................................. 18
MANUAL THERAPY AND THERAPEUTIC AND RECOVERY MODALITIES POLICY 19
A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 19
1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 19
2. Manual Therapy and Therapeutic and Recovery Modalities Requirements ..................... 19
3. Consent .............................................................................................................................. 19
B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 20
1. Parent Training .................................................................................................................. 20
LOCKER ROOMS AND CHANGING AREAS POLICY .......................................................... 21
A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 21
1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 21
2. Conduct in Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces .................................... 21
3. Media and Championship Celebrations in Locker Rooms ............................................... 21
4. Personal Care Assistants ................................................................................................... 22
5. Availability and Monitoring of Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces ..... 22
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS POLICY ......................................................................... 23
A. Mandatory Components .................................................................................................... 23
1. Open and Transparent ....................................................................................................... 23
2. Team Communication ....................................................................................................... 23
3. Content .............................................................................................................................. 23
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4. Requests to Discontinue .................................................................................................... 23
B. Recommended Components ............................................................................................. 24
1. Hours ................................................................................................................................. 24
2. Social Media Connections ................................................................................................ 24
TRANSPORTATION POLICY .................................................................................................... 25
A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 25
1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 25
2. Additional Requirements for Transportation Authorized or Funded by USA Volleyball and
its LAOs ................................................................................................................................ 25
B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 25
1. Shared or Carpool Travel Arrangement ............................................................................ 25
2. Parent Training .................................................................................................................. 25
LODGING AND RESIDENTAL ENVIRONMENTS POLICY .................................................. 26
A. Mandatory Components ....................................................................................................... 26
1. Observable and Interruptible ............................................................................................. 26
2. Hotel Rooms and Other Sleeping Arrangements .............................................................. 26
3. Monitoring or Room Checks During In-Program Travel .................................................. 26
B. Recommended Components ................................................................................................. 27
Parent Training ...................................................................................................................... 27
PART IV RECOMMENDED POLICIES FOR KEEPING YOUNG ATHLETES SAFE ............ 28
A. Out-of-Program Contact ....................................................................................................... 28
B. Gifting .................................................................................................................................. 28
C. Photography/Video ......................................................................................................... 28
TERMINOLOGY ......................................................................................................................... 29
APPENDIX I ............................................................................................................................. 32
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INTRODUCTION
The U.S. Center for SafeSport (the Center) is committed to building a sport community
where Participants can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of emotional, physical, and
sexual misconduct. The most commonly used terms throughout this document are defined in the
Terminology section in the back of this document.
AUTHORITY
The Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and Safe Sport Authorization Act of
2017 authorizes the Center to develop training and policies to prevent abuse—including physical,
emotional, and sexual abuse—within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. 36 U.S.C. §
220542(a)(1). Federal law requires that, at a minimum, national governing bodies and paralympic
sports organizations must offer and give consistent training related to the prevention of child
abuse: (1) to all adult members who are in regular contact with amateur athletes who are minors
and (2) subject to parental consent, to members who are minors. 36 U.S.C. § 220542(a)(3). Federal
law requires that these policies contain reasonable procedures to limit unobservable and
uninterruptible one-on-one interactions between an amateur athlete, who is a minor, and an adult,
who is not the minor’s legal guardian, at facilities under the jurisdiction of organizations within
the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. 36 U.S.C. § 220542(a)(2). To that end, the Center
has developed the Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (“MAAPP”).
What is MAAPP?
The MAAPP is a collection of proactive prevention and training policies for the U.S.
Olympic and Paralympic Movement. It has four primary components:
1. Organizational Requirements for Education & Training and Prevention Policies;
2. An Education & Training Policy that requires training for certain Adult Participants
within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement;
3. Required Prevention Policies, focused on limiting one-on-one interactions between
Adult Participants and Minor Athletes that Organizations within the Olympic and
Paralympic Movement must implement to prevent abuse;
4. Recommended Prevention Policies.
The Center developed the MAAPP to assist National Governing Bodies (NGBs), Local
Affiliated Organizations (LAOs), the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and
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other individuals to whom these policies apply in meeting their obligations under federal law
(Note: implementing these policies does not guarantee that an organization or individual fully
complies with federal law or all applicable legal obligations). These Organizations should share
these policies with all Participants and with parents/guardians of minor athletes. Those
implementing these policies should consider the physical and cognitive needs of all athletes.
The MAAPP focuses on just two important aspects of a much larger comprehensive abuse
prevention strategy. These policies address training requirements and limiting one-on-one
interactions between adults and minor athletes. These policies are intended to be enforceable and
reasonable, acknowledging, for example, that when a 17-year-old athlete turns 18, they become an
adult athlete, and a complete prohibition of one-on-one interactions may not be necessary or
practical. Additionally, there may be other instances when one-on-one interactions could occur,
and in those cases, these policies provide strategies so parents/guardians can provide informed
consent if they choose to allow a permitted interaction. The Center recommends that parents
first complete training on abuse prevention to be informed about potential boundary
violations and concerns before consenting to the interaction.
While the MAAPP will help organizations implement these policies to greatly improve
minor athlete safety, in no way can they guarantee athlete safety in all circumstances, especially
when the policies are not fully implemented, followed, or monitored. These policies are not
comprehensive of all prevention strategies, nor are they intended to be. These policies should be
implemented alongside the SafeSport Code. Additionally, other resources are available that may
assist organizations in improving athlete safety.0F
1
How Does the Center Ensure Compliance with the MAAPP?
Federal law requires the Center to conduct regular and random audits of the NGBs to ensure
compliance with these policies. 36 U.S.C. § 220542(a)(2)(E). More specific organizational
compliance requirements can be found in Part I. Additionally, it is the responsibility of the USOPC
and each NGB, LAO, and Adult Participant to comply with the MAAPP. The aforementioned
1 Saul, J., & Audage, N. C. (2007). Preventing Child Sexual Abuse Within Youth-serving Organizations: Getting
Started on Policies and Procedures. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Canadian Centre for Child Protection. (2014). Child Sexual Abuse: It Is Your Business. Winnipeg, Manitoba: Canadian
Centre for Child Protection.
The Australian Royal Commission Into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. (2017). Final Report.
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Organizations can address violations of the MAAPP by Adult Participants in their respective
programs. Adult Participants also have an independent responsibility to comply with these
MAAPP provisions. Violations of these provisions can result in sanctions under the SafeSport
Code.
Is the MAAPP Different from the SafeSport Code?
Yes. The SafeSport Code works alongside the MAAPP to prevent abuse. The MAAPP
includes proactive prevention policies for organizations and individuals, while the SafeSport Code
contains misconduct policies for individuals. However, violations of the MAAPP can violate the
SafeSport Code, and violators who are also Participants can be sanctioned.
SCOPE
The MAAPP Applies to “In-Program Contact” Within the Olympic and Paralympic
Movement
The MAAPP, or a policy containing the minimum required components of the MAAPP, is
required for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC), National Governing Bodies
(NGB), and Local Affiliated Organizations (LAO) within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement
(each an “Organization”).
Some policies impose requirements on Organizations at sanctioned events and facilities
partially or fully under the Organization’s jurisdiction. For example, Organizations must monitor
locker rooms at their facilities and sanctioned events. Other policies impose certain requirements
on Adult Participants under the Organization’s jurisdiction when the Adult Participant is having
“In-Program Contact.” For example, Adult Participants cannot have one-on-one meetings with a
Minor Athlete unless it is observable and interruptible.
Who is a Minor Athlete?
A Minor Athlete is an amateur athlete under 18 years of age who participates in, or participated
within the previous 12 months in, an event, program, activity, or competition that is part of, or
partially or fully under the jurisdiction of USA Volleyball and its LAOs.1F
2
2 This term shall also include any minor who participates in, or participated within the previous 12 months in, a nonathlete
role partially or fully under the jurisdiction of an NGB, USOPC, or LAO. Examples include, but are not
limited to: officials, coaches, or volunteers.
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Partial or Full Jurisdiction: Includes any sanctioned event (including all travel and
lodging in connection with the event) by USA Volleyball and its LAOs, or any facility that
USA Volleyball or its LAOs owns, leases, or rents for practice, training, or competition.
Who is an Adult Participant?
An Adult Participant is any adult (18 years of age or older) who is:
1. A member or license holder of USA Volleyball;
2. An employee or board member of USA Volleyball or its LAOs;
3. Within the governance or disciplinary jurisdiction of USA Volleyball or its LAOs;
4. Authorized, approved, or appointed by USA Volleyball or its LAOs to have regular
contact with or authority over minor athletes.2F
3
What is In-Program Contact?
In-Program Contact includes sanctioned events and facilities, but it also applies more
broadly to sport-related interactions. The MAAPP defines “In-Program Contact” as:
Any contact (including communications, interactions, or activities) between an Adult
Participant and any Minor Athlete(s) related to participation in sport.
Examples of activities related to participation in sport that could be identified as In Program
Contact include, but are not limited to: competition, practices, camps/clinics, training/instructional
sessions, pre/post-game meals or outings, team travel, review of game film, team- or sport-related
relationship building activities, celebrations, award ceremonies, banquets, team- or sport-related
fundraising or community service, sport education, or competition site visits.
Am I required to take SafeSport Training?
Certain Adult Participants within the Olympic and Paralympic Movement who have (i) regular
contact with amateur athletes who are minors, (ii) authority over amateur athletes who are minors,
or (iii) are employees or board members of USA Volleyball and its LAOs are required to take
training. The specific training requirements can be found in Part II.
3 This may include volunteers, medical staff, trainers, chaperones, monitors, contract personnel, bus/van drivers,
officials, adult athletes, staff, board members, and any other individual who meets the Adult Participant definition.
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PART I ORGANIZATIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR EDUCATION & TRAINING
AND PREVENTION POLICIES
All NGBs, LAOs, and the USOPC, in this case “USA Volleyball”, must implement proactive
policies designed to prevent abuse. These organizational requirements are described below.
A. Organizational Requirements for Education & Training
1. USA Volleyball must track whether Adult Participants under its jurisdiction complete the
required training listed in Part II.
2. USA Volleyball must, every 12 months, offer and, subject to parental consent, give training
to minor athletes on the prevention and reporting of child abuse.
a. For training to minor athletes, USA Volleyball must track a description of the
training and how the training was offered and provided to minor athletes.
b. USA Volleyball is not required to track individual course completions of minor
athletes.
3. USA Volleyball must, every 12 months, offer training to parents on the prevention and
reporting of child abuse.
a. For training to parents, USA Volleyball must track a description of the training and
how the training was offered and provided to parents.
b. USA Volleyball is not required to track individual course completions of parents.
B. Required Prevention Policies and Implementation
1. USA Volleyball must develop minor athlete abuse prevention policies to limit one-on-one
interactions between a Minor Athlete and an Adult Participant. These policies must contain
the mandatory components of the Center’s model policies in Part III. These model policies
cover:
a. Meetings
b. Individual training sessions
c. Therapeutic and Recovery Modalities and Manual Therapy
d. Locker rooms and changing areas
e. Electronic communications
f. Transportation
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g. Lodging and Residential Environments
2. The policies must be approved by the Center as described in subsection (C) below. The
policies may include the recommended components in Part III and the recommended
policies in Part IV. Given the uniqueness of each sport, however, some recommended
components or policies may not be feasible or appropriate. Such concerns should be
addressed with the Center during the Policy Approval and Submission Process discussed
below. USA Volleyball may choose to implement stricter standards than the model policies.
3. USA Volleyball must also require that its LAOs implement these policies within each LAO.
4. USA Volleyball and its LAOs must implement these policies for all In-Program Contact.
a. At sanctioned events and facilities partially or fully under its jurisdiction, the
Organization must take steps to ensure the policies are implemented and followed.
b. For In-Program Contact that occurs outside USA Volleyball’s and LAOs’
sanctioned event or facilities, implementing these policies means:
i. Communicating the policies to individuals under its jurisdiction;
ii. Establishing a reporting mechanism for violations of the policies;
iii. Investigating and enforcing violations of the policies.
5. USA Volleyball and its LAOs must have a reporting mechanism to accept reports that an
Adult Participant is violating USA Volleyball’s Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies.
The Organization must appropriately investigate and resolve any reports received, unless
the violation is reported to the Center and it exercises jurisdiction over the report. This
requirement is in addition to requirements to report abuse under the SafeSport Code.
C. Policy Approval and Submission Process
1. USA Volleyball may adopt the mandatory minimum requirements of the MAAPP as-is or
adapt it to fit their needs. Regardless, USA Volleyball must submit their policies to the
Center at [email protected] for review and approval by April 1, 2024. The Center
will approve, approve with modifications, or deny the policies. If the Center denies the
proposed policy, the mandatory components of Part III of the Center’s Model MAAPP
become the default policy until the Center approves the policy.
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2. USA Volleyball must require their LAOs to incorporate the mandatory components of Part
III. USA Volleyball may require that their LAOs implement USA Volleyball policies, which
may be more stringent than the policies in Part III.
3. The mandatory components of Part III will serve as the default policy for any Organization
that fails to develop its own policy as required by this section.
Any changes made to USA Volleyball’s MAAPP after the policy is approved must be submitted
to the Center for approval. The previously approved MAAPP will remain in effect until written
approval is provided to USA Volleyball from the Center.
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PART II EDUCATION & TRAINING POLICY
A. Mandatory Child Abuse Prevention Training for Adult Participants
1. Adult Participants Required to Complete Training
a. The following Adult Participants must complete the SafeSport® Trained Core Course
through the Center’s online training:
i. Adult Participants who have regular contact with any amateur athlete(s) who
is a minor;
ii. Adult Participants who have authority over any amateur athlete(s) who is a
minor;
iii. Adult Participants who are an employee or board member of USA Volleyball
or its affiliate LAOs.
2. Timing of Training
Adult Participants must complete this training before regular contact with an amateur
athlete who is a minor begins or within the first 45 days of either initial membership or
upon beginning a new role subjecting the adult to this policy, whichever comes first.
3. Refresher Training
The above-listed Adult Participants must complete a refresher course every 12 months,
beginning the calendar year after completing the SafeSport® Trained Core Course. Every
four years, Adult Participants will complete the SafeSport® Trained Core Course training.
Medical providers can take the Health Professionals Course in lieu of the SafeSport®
Trained Core Course and are required to take the refresher courses on an annual basis if
they meet the criteria for A(1).
B. Minor Athlete Training Must Be Offered
1. USA Volleyball, every 12 months, must offer and, subject to parental consent, give training
to minor athletes on the prevention and reporting of child abuse. USA Volleyball offers this
training in its welcome letter to members.
2. The Center offers youth courses, located at safesporttrained.org, that meet this requirement.
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C. Parent Training Must Be Offered
1. USA Volleyball, every 12 months, must offer training to parents on the prevention and
reporting of child abuse. USA Volleyball offers this training in its welcome letter to
members.
2. The Center offers a parent course, located at safesporttrained.org, that meets this
requirement.
D. Optional Training
1. Adult Participants serving in a volunteer capacity, who will not have regular contact with
or authority over any amateur athlete(s) who is a minor, should take the Center’s brief
Volunteer Course (or SafeSport® Trained Core Course) before engaging or interacting with
any minor athlete(s).
2. USA Volleyball may provide training in addition to the SafeSport® Trained Core Course,
although they cannot refer to this training as “SafeSport” training. Training other than
the SafeSport Trained Core Course or Refresher does not satisfy this policy.
3. Parents of minor athletes are provided free online access to the Center’s parent course and
are encouraged to take the training.
E. Exemptions and Accommodations
The Center’s online training courses contain information about various forms of abuse. The
courses do not include graphic descriptions of abuse or show violent images or video. The
content may be uncomfortable or trigger trauma for some participants.
1. Exemptions to the online training requirement may be requested by survivors of abuse and
misconduct. Survivors of abuse can request an exemption by contacting USA Volleyball or
can choose to contact the Center directly to request an exemption at
[email protected]. All exemptions granted by the Center or by USA Volleyball in
this category are considered indefinite. The Center will track all requests for exemptions
upon notification from USA Volleyball.
2. Exemptions to the online training requirement for reasons other than survivor of abuse and
misconduct are limited to cognitive or physical disability or language barrier. Requests for
these exemptions must be made by the individual to USA Volleyball. USA Volleyball will
determine whether to grant the exemption. If USA Volleyball grants the exemption, it must
track the exemption to ensure it is appropriately applied to the individual’s membership
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status. USA Volleyball must preserve documentation that the exemption was granted and
for what duration.
3. The Center has several options available to assist individuals in completing the online
training courses, including screen reader-compatible versions and course availability in
several languages, including English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Russian, German, and
Japanese. If none of the available options will fit the individual’s needs, USA Volleyball
may determine whether to grant an exemption.
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PART III REQUIRED POLICIES FOR ONE-ON-ONE INTERACTIONS
The U.S. Center for SafeSport recognizes that youth-adult relationships can be healthy and
valuable for development. Policies on one-on-one interactions protect children while allowing for
these beneficial relationships. As child sexual abuse is often perpetrated in isolated, one-on-one
situations, it is critical that organizations limit such interactions between youth and adults and
implement programs that reduce the risk of sexual abuse.
All one-on-one In-Program Contact between an Adult Participant and a Minor Athlete must
be observable and interruptible, except in emergency circumstances or with a documented
exception.
EXCEPTIONS
There are certain relationships and situations in which one-on-one interactions may be allowed or
necessary. This section identifies policy exceptions for close-in-age relationships, Personal Care
Assistants, dual relationships, and emergencies.
The following exceptions are applicable within all Required Prevention Policies unless
otherwise noted.
A. Mandatory Components
1. A Close-in-Age Exception
The purpose of this exception is to allow for continued relationships among athletes on the
same team.
This exception allows for one-on-one In-Program Contact between an Adult Participant
and a Minor Athlete if:
a. The Adult Participant has no authority over the Minor Athlete; and
b. The Adult Participant is not more than 4 years older (determined by birth date) than
the Minor Athlete.
Note: This exception is different than the close-in-age exception in the SafeSport Code
pertaining to misconduct.
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2. Exceptions for Adult Participant Personal Care Assistants Working with a Minor
Athlete
This exception exists for Adult Participants who also assist an athlete with activities of
daily living and preparation for athletic participation.
This exception allows for one-on-one In-Program Contact between an Adult Participant
and a Minor Athlete if the following requirements are met:
a. the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent to USA
Volleyball and/or its Region for the Adult Participant Personal Care
Assistant to work with the Minor Athlete; and
b. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with the
Education & Training Policy; and,
c. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with USA
Volleyball background screening policy.
3. Exceptions for Dual Relationships
This exception allows for one-on-one In-Program Contact when the Adult Participant has
a relationship with a Minor Athlete that is outside of the sport program. The exception
requires written consent of the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian at least annually. The
consent must identify for which Required Prevention Policies the parent/guardian is
allowing the one-on-one In-Program Contact.
4. Emergency Exception
This exception applies to all Required Prevention Policies for situations where an Adult
Participant must violate requirement(s) of the MAAPP due to an emergency. Adult
Participants must carefully consider whether specific circumstances meet the threshold of
“emergency.” Adult Participants should document emergency situations in accordance with
USA Volleyball’s protocols.
The Center recommends parents take training on child abuse prevention before providing consent
to the above exceptions. The Center offers a free Parent Course at safesporttrained.org.
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MEETINGS POLICY
Sexual abuse often happens when children are alone with their abusers. This section provides
policies for meetings to limit one-on-one interactions between children and adults, including
mental health care professionals and licensed health care providers.
A. Mandatory Components
1. Observable and Interruptible
a. Adult Participants must ensure that all In-Program meetings with Minor Athletes be
observable and interruptible, unless an exception exists.
2. Meetings with licensed mental health care professionals and health care providers (other
than athletic trainers3F
4)
If a licensed mental health care professional, licensed health care provider, or a student
under the supervision of a licensed mental health care professional or licensed health care
provider, meets one-on-one with a Minor Athlete at a sanctioned event or a facility, which
is partially or fully under USA Volleyball or its Region’s jurisdiction, the meeting must be
observable and interruptible except:
a. If the door remains unlocked; and
b. Another adult is present at the facility and notified that a meeting is occurring,
although the Minor Athlete’s identity needs not be disclosed; and
c. USA Volleyball or its Regions is notified that the professional or provider will be
meeting with a Minor Athlete; and,
d. The professional or provider obtains consent consistent with applicable laws and
ethical standards, which can be withdrawn at any time.
B. Recommended Components
1. Parent Training
Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s education and training on child
abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to have a meeting or
training session with an Adult Participant subject to these policies.
4 Athletic trainers who are covered under these policies must follow the “Manual Therapy and Therapeutic and
Recovery Modalities” policy.
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TRAINING SESSIONS POLICY
Some abusers will single out athletes for special one-on-one instruction. This kind of isolation
provides opportunities for abuse to occur. This section establishes rules for individual and group
training sessions to protect youth athletes from uncomfortable or unsafe situations.
A. Mandatory Components
1. Observable and Interruptible
Adult Participants must ensure all In-Program individual and group training sessions with
a Minor Athlete be observable and interruptible unless an exception exists.
2. Consent
The Adult Participant providing individual training sessions must receive advance, written
consent from the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian at least annually, which can be
withdrawn at any time; and
3. Parent Observation
Parents/guardians must be allowed to observe individual and group training sessions.
B. Recommended Components
1. Monitoring
If a permitted meeting or training session takes place between an Adult Participant(s) and
a Minor Athlete(s) at a facility partially or fully under USA Volleyball and its Region’s
jurisdiction, another Adult Participant will monitor each meeting or training session.
Monitoring includes reviewing the parent/guardian consent form, knowing that the meeting
or training session is occurring, knowing the approximate planned duration of the meeting
or training session, and dropping in on the meeting or training session.
2. Parent Training
Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s education and training on child
abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to have a meeting or
training session with an Adult Participant subject to these policies.
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MANUAL THERAPY AND THERAPEUTIC AND RECOVERY MODALITIES POLICY4F
5
Many athletes require therapies to prevent or treat injuries. However, these treatment sessions can
place children in vulnerable positions, especially if they involve physical contact with adults. This
section establishes standards for therapeutic and recovery modalities and manual therapy to reduce
the risk of inappropriate contact between youth and adults.
A. Mandatory Components
Note: Only the emergency exception applies within this policy.
1. Observable and Interruptible
Adult Participants must ensure that all In-Program Contact during manual therapy and
therapeutic modalities and recovery modalities with Minor Athletes must be observable
and interruptible.
2. Manual Therapy and Therapeutic and Recovery Modalities Requirements
Adult Participants must ensure all In-Program manual therapy and therapeutic and recovery
modalities meet the following requirements:
a. Have another Adult Participant physically present for the modality or manual
therapy; and
b. Have documented consent as explained in subsection (4) below; and
c. Be performed with the Minor Athlete fully or partially clothed, ensuring that the
breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals are always covered; and
d. Allow parents/guardians in the room as an observer, except for competition or
training venues that limit credentialing; and
e. The provider must narrate the steps in the modality before taking them, seeking
assent of the Minor Athlete throughout the process.
3. Consent
a. Providers of manual therapy, therapeutic modalities, or recovery modalities or USA
Volleyball and its Regions, when applicable, must obtain consent at least annually
from Minor Athletes’ parents/guardians before providing any manual therapy,
therapeutic modalities, or recovery modalities.
5 Manual therapy and therapeutic and recovery modalities can be different for each sport. They can include, but are
not limited to: first aid, massage, taping, cupping, stretching, cryotherapy, neuromuscular stimulations, electrical
stimulation, or other modalities within the scope of a Healthcare Provider’s credentials.
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b. Minor Athletes or their parents/guardians can withdraw consent at any time.
B. Recommended Components
1. Parent Training
Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport education and training on child
abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to receive a manual
therapy, therapeutic modality, or recovery modality.
2. When possible, techniques should be used to reduce physical touch of Minor Athletes.
3. Only licensed providers should administer manual therapy, therapeutic modalities, or
recovery modalities.
4. Coaches, regardless of whether they are licensed massage therapists, should not massage
Minor Athletes.
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LOCKER ROOMS AND CHANGING AREAS POLICY
Young athletes may be especially vulnerable to abuse in changing areas where they are undressing
and possibly showering. Appropriate monitoring is necessary in these areas to prevent abuse and
other inappropriate conduct. This section outlines policies for locker rooms and changing areas to
ensure privacy and safety.
A. Mandatory Components
1. Observable and Interruptible
Adult Participants must ensure that all In-Program Contact with Minor Athlete(s) in a
locker room, changing area, or similar space where Minor Athlete(s) are present is
observable and interruptible, unless an exception exists.
2. Conduct in Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces
a. No Adult Participant or Minor Athlete can use the photographic or recording
capabilities of any device in locker rooms, changing areas, or any other area
designated as a place for changing clothes or undressing.
b. Adult Participants must not remove their clothes or behave in a manner that
intentionally or recklessly exposes their breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals to a
Minor Athlete in a locker room or changing area.
c. Adult Participants must not shower with Minor Athletes unless:
i. The Adult Participant meets the Close-in-Age Exception; or
ii. The shower is part of a pre- or post-activity rinse while wearing swimwear.
d. Parents/guardians may request in writing that their Minor Athlete(s) not change or
shower with Adult Participant(s) during In-Program Contact. USA Volleyball and
its LAOs and the Adult Participant(s) must abide by this request.
3. Media and Championship Celebrations in Locker Rooms
USA Volleyball and its Regions may permit recording or photography in locker rooms for
the purpose of highlighting a sport or athletic accomplishment if:
a. Parent/legal guardian consent has been obtained; and
b. USA Volleyball and its Regions approves the specific instance of recording or
photography; and
USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies
22
c. Two or more Adult Participants are present; and
d. Everyone is fully clothed.
4. Personal Care Assistants
Adult Participant Personal Care Assistants are permitted to be with and assist Minor
Athlete(s) in locker rooms, changing areas, and similar spaces where other Minor Athletes
are present, if they meet the requirements detailed on page 14.
5. Availability and Monitoring of Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces
a. USA Volleyball and its LAOs must provide a private or semi-private place for
Minor Athletes that need to change clothes or undress at sanctioned events or
facilities partially or fully under USA Volleyball’s jurisdiction. USA Volleyball
does not utilize changing rooms at its events. If USA Volleyball did utilize changing
rooms, it would follow the above procedures.
b. IF locker rooms, changing areas, or similar spaces are used at USA Volleyball
events, USA Volleyball and its LAOs must monitor their use to ensure compliance
with these policies at sanctioned events or facilities partially or fully under USA
Volleyball and its Region’s jurisdiction.
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23
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS POLICY5F
6
Technology has made it easier for teams to communicate and share information. Unfortunately, it
also makes it easier for abusers to contact children without supervision or share inappropriate
images and video. This section sets standards for appropriate electronic communications between
youth and adults.
A. Mandatory Components
1. Open and Transparent
a. All one-on-one electronic communications between an Adult Participant and a
Minor Athlete must be Open and Transparent, unless an exception exists.
b. “Open and Transparent” means that the Adult Participant copies or includes the
Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian, another adult family member of the Minor
Athlete, or another Adult Participant on every communication.
• If a Minor Athlete communicates with the Adult Participant first, the Adult
Participant must follow this policy if the Adult Participant responds.
c. Only platforms that allow for Open and Transparent communication may be used
to communicate with Minor Athletes.
2. Team Communication
When an Adult Participant communicates electronically to the entire team or any number
of Minor Athletes on the team, the Adult Participant must copy or include the Minor
Athletes’ parents/guardians, another adult family member of the Minor Athletes, or another
Adult Participant.
3. Content
All electronic communication originating from an Adult Participant(s) to a Minor
Athlete(s) must be professional in nature unless an exception exists.
4. Requests to Discontinue
Parents/guardians may request in writing that USA Volleyball and its LAOs or an Adult
Participant not contact their Minor Athlete through any form of electronic communication.
USA Volleyball, its LAOs and the Adult Participant must abide by any request to
discontinue, absent emergency circumstances.
6 Electronic communications include, but are not limited to: email, phone calls, videoconferencing, video coaching,
texting, social media, or through any other electronic medium.
USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies
24
B. Recommended Components
1. Hours
Electronic communications should generally be sent only between the hours of 8:00 a.m.
and 8:00 p.m. local time for the location of the Minor Athlete.
2. Social Media Connections
Adult Participants, except those with a Dual Relationship or who meet the Close-in-Age
Exception, are not permitted to have private social media connections with Minor Athletes
and should discontinue existing social media connections with Minor Athletes.
USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies
25
TRANSPORTATION POLICY
Athletes are often carpooling or traveling without the supervision of their parent/guardian to
practices and competitions. This can place them in vulnerable positions where they are susceptible
to abuse. This section establishes policies for adults transporting children to or from sport
activities.
A. Mandatory Components
1. Observable and Interruptible
Adult participants must ensure that all In-Program Contact during Transportation is
Observable and Interruptible unless an exception exists or:
a. The Adult Participant has advanced, written consent to transport the Minor Athlete oneon-
one, obtained at least annually from the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian. Minor
Athlete(s) or their parent/guardian can withdraw consent at any time.
b. The Adult Participant is accompanied by another Adult Participant or at least two
minors who are at least 8 years of age.
2. Additional Requirements for Transportation Authorized or Funded by USA Volleyball and its
Regions
a. Written consent from a Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian is required for all
transportation authorized or funded by USA Volleyball and its Regions at least annually.
b. Minor Athlete(s) or their parent/guardian can withdraw consent at any time.
B. Recommended Components
1. Shared or Carpool Travel Arrangement
The Organization encourages parents/guardians to pick up their Minor Athlete first and
drop off their Minor Athlete last in any shared or carpool travel arrangement.
2. Parent Training
Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport education and training on child
abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to travel one-on-one
with an Adult Participant.
USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies
26
LODGING AND RESIDENTAL ENVIRONMENTS POLICY
Youth athletes traveling overnight face greater risk of sexual abuse if they are traveling without
their parent/guardian. Abusers can take advantage of the situation by trying to have unsupervised
time alone with children. This section sets rules for sleeping arrangements and room monitoring
to protect athletes during overnight travel.
A. Mandatory Components
1. Observable and Interruptible
All In-Program Contact during lodging must be observable and interruptible unless an
exception exists.
a. Lodging arrangements covered under this policy include, but are not limited to, hotel
stays, rentals (i.e., Airbnb, VRBO, HomeToGo, etc.), and long-term residential
environments, including lodging at training sites and billeting.
2. Hotel Rooms and Other Sleeping Arrangements
a. An Adult Participant cannot share a hotel room or otherwise sleep in the same room
with a Minor Athlete(s), unless an exception exists and the Minor Athlete’s
parent/guardian has provided USA Volleyball and its Regions or Adult Participant with
advance, written consent for each specific lodging arrangement.
b. Written consent from a Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian must be obtained for all In-
Program lodging at least annually.
c. Minor Athlete(s) or their parent/guardian can withdraw consent at any time.
d. Adult Participants without an exception and written parent/guardian consent as stated
above are not permitted to stay overnight with Minor Athlete(s) in a communal lodging
space such as an Airbnb, VRBO, HomeToGo, etc.
3. Monitoring or Room Checks During In-Program Travel
If USA Volleyball and its Regions or a team performs room checks during In-Program
lodging, the one-on-one interaction policy must be followed and at least two adults must
be present for the room checks.
4. Additional Requirements for Lodging Authorized or Funded by the Organization Adult
Participants that travel overnight with Minor Athlete(s) are assumed to have Authority over
USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies
27
Minor Athlete(s) and thus must comply with the Education and Training policy outlined in
Part II, unless the Adult Participant meets the Close-in-Age exception.
B. Recommended Components
Parent Training
Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s education and training on child
abuse prevention before providing consent for lodging arrangements under this policy.
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28
PART IV RECOMMENDED POLICIES FOR KEEPING YOUNG ATHLETES SAFE
A. Out-of-Program Contact
Adult Participants, who do not meet the Close-in-Age Exception nor have a Dual
Relationship with a Minor Athlete, should not have out-of-program contact with Minor
Athlete(s) without legal/parent guardian consent, even if the out-of-program contact is not
one-on-one.
B. Gifting
1. Adult Participants, who do not meet the Close-in-Age Exception nor have a Dual
Relationship with a Minor Athlete, should not give personal gifts to Minor Athlete(s).
2. Gifts that are equally distributed to all athletes and serve a motivational or educational
purpose are permitted.
C. Photography/Video
1. Photographs or videos of athletes may only be taken in public view and must observe
generally accepted standards of decency.
2. Adult Participants should not publicly share or post photos or videos of Minor Athlete(s)
if the Adult Participant has not obtained the parent/guardian and Minor Athlete’s consent.
USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies
29
TERMINOLOGY
Adult Participant: Any adult (18 years of age or older) who is:
a. A member or license holder of USA Volleyball;
b. An employee or board member of USA Volleyball or its LAOs;
c. Within the governance or disciplinary jurisdiction of USA Volleyball or its LAOs;
d. Authorized, approved, or appointed by USA Volleyball or its LAOs to have regular contact
with or authority over minor athletes.6F
7
Amateur Athlete: An athlete who meets the eligibility standards established by the National
Governing Body for the sport in which the athlete competes.
Authority: When one person’s position over another person is such that, based on the totality of
the circumstances, they have the power or right to direct, control, give orders to, or make decisions
for that person. Also see the Power Imbalance definition in the SafeSport Code. Note: NGBs and
the USOPC must submit/include categories of members/individuals that fall under the definition,
including specific volunteer designations.
Close-in-Age Exception: An exception applicable to certain policies when an Adult Participant
does not have authority over a Minor Athlete and is not more than 4 years older than the Minor
Athlete (e.g., a 19-year-old and a 16-year-old). Note: This exception only applies within the
prevention policies and not regarding conduct defined in the SafeSport Code.
Dual Relationships: An exception applicable to certain policies when an Adult Participant has a
relationship with a Minor Athlete outside of the sport program and the Minor Athlete’s
parent/guardian has provided written consent at least annually authorizing the exception.
In-Program Contact: Any contact (including communications, interactions, or activities)
between an Adult Participant and any Minor Athlete(s) related to participation in sport.
Examples of In-Program Contact include, but are not limited to: competition, practices,
camps/clinics, training/instructional sessions, pre/post game meals or outings, team travel,
review of game film, team- or sport-related relationship building activities, celebrations,
7 This may include volunteers, medical staff, trainers, chaperones, monitors, contract personnel, bus/van drivers,
officials, adult athletes, staff, board members, and any other individual who meets the Adult Participant definition.
USA Volleyball: Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies
30
award ceremonies, banquets, team- or sport-related fundraising or community service,
sport education, or competition site visits.
Local Affiliated Organization (LAO): A regional, state, or local club or organization that is
directly affiliated with an NGB or that is affiliated with an NGB by its direct affiliation with a
regional or state affiliate of said NGB. LAO does not include a regional, state, or local club or
organization that is only a member of a National Member Organization of an NGB. USA Volleyball
considers its LAOs to include Regions and clubs affiliated with Regions.
Minor Athlete: An Amateur Athlete under 18 years of age who participates in, or participated
within the previous 12 months in, an event, program, activity, or competition that is part of, or
partially or fully under the jurisdiction of USA Volleyball and its LAOs.7F
8
Partial or Full Jurisdiction: Includes any sanctioned event (including all travel and
lodging in connection with the event) by USA Volleyball and its LAOs, or any facility that
USA Volleyball and/or its LAOs owns, leases, or rents for practice, training, or competition.
National Governing Body (NGB): A U.S. Olympic National Governing Body or Pan American
Sport Organization recognized by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee pursuant to the Ted
Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act, 36 U.S.C. §§ 220501, et seq. This definition shall also
apply to the USOPC, or other sports entity approved by the USOPC, when they have assumed
responsibility for the management or governance of a sport included on the program of the
Olympic, Paralympic, or Pan-American Games.
Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant: An Adult Participant who assists a parasport athlete
who requires help with activities of daily living (ADL) and preparation for athletic participation.
This support can be provided by a Guide for Blind or visually impaired athletes or can include
assistance with transfer, dressing, showering, medication administration, and toileting. Personal
Care Assistants are different for every athlete and should be individualized to fit their specific
needs. When assisting a Minor Athlete, Adult Participant PCAs must be authorized by the athlete’s
parent/guardian.
8 This term shall also include any minor who participates in, or participated within the previous 12 months in, a
nonathlete role partially or fully under the jurisdiction of an NGB, USOPC, or LAO. Examples include, but are not
limited to: officials, coaches, or volunteers.
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31
Regular Contact: Ongoing interactions during a 12-month period wherein an Adult Participant is
in a role of direct and active engagement with any amateur athlete(s) who is a minor. Note: NGBs
and the USOPC must submit/include categories of members/individuals that fall under the
definition, including specific volunteer designations.
Residential Environment: A place in which participants live or stay temporarily. Residential
environments include, but are not limited to, onsite housing at training facilities, billeting, hotel
stays, or rentals (i.e., Airbnb, VRBO, HomeToGo, etc.).
Billeting: A residential environment facilitated by an Adult Participant, USA Volleyball and its
LAOs, or sanctioned event staff in which a Minor Athlete is temporarily housed in a private home
with an adult or family who is not related to or known by the Minor Athlete. This lodging
arrangement is in conjunction with an activity related to sport.
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC): A federally chartered nonprofit corporation
that serves as the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United
States.
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32
APPENDIX I
CHART OF POSSIBLE ADULT PARTICIPANTS IN USAV:
Adult Participant Regular Contact Authority Over
USAV Staff/Interns X X
USAV Board Members X
Region/Club Staff X X
Region/Club Board Members X
Coaches X X
Officials X X
USAV Members 18 years or
over on teams with Minors
X
Chaperones X X
Club Administrators X X
Arbitrators X X
Medical Professionals X X
Athletic Trainers X X
Independent Contractors* X
USAV Members 18 and over who are only participating in Opens (i.e., not also a club
coach, chaperone, or board member) with no minor players are not required to take
training.
*Independent Contractor positions not meeting the Regular Contact definition are not
required to take training.
Event vendors are not required to take training but are subject to the Required Prevention
Policies.

Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (MAAP)

Covered Organizations/LAOs are required to implement the following athlete abuse prevention policies to satisfy these requirements, USA Volleyball provides these policies to USAV member clubs. Clubs may choose to implement stricter standards.

Required Policies:

1. One-on-one interactions
2. Meetings and training sessions
3. Athletic training modalities, massages, and rubdowns
4. Locker rooms and changing areas
5. Electronic communications
6. Transportation
7. Lodging

REQUIRED POLICIES FOR ONE-ON-ONE INTERACTIONS

The U.S. Center for SafeSport recognizes that youth-adult relationships can be healthy and valuable for development. Policies on one-on-one interactions protect children while allowing for these beneficial relationships. As child sexual abuse is often perpetrated in isolated, one-on-one situations, it is critical that organizations limit such interactions between youth and adults and implement programs that reduce the risk of sexual abuse.

ONE-ON-ONE INTERACTIONS

USA Volleyball, RVAs and USAV member clubs, as well as all Adult Participants, shall comply with the following one-on-one policy

A.Mandatory Components

1. Observable and Interruptible
   1. All one-on-one In-Program Contact between an Adult Participant and a Minor Athlete must be observable and interruptible, except in emergency circumstances.
   2. The exceptions below may apply to specific policies, and if the exceptions apply, they are listed in the policy. These exceptions also apply to all one-on-one In- Program Contact not specifically addressed in other policies:
      1. When a Dual Relationship exists; or
      2. When the Close-in-Age Exception applies; or
      3. If a Minor Athlete needs an Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant,and:
         1. the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent to USA Volleyball, the Region or Club for the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant to work with the Minor Athlete; and

1. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with the Education & Training Policy; and
2. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with USA Volleyball’s screening policy; or
3. In other circumstances specifically addressed in this policy that allow for certain one-on-one interactions if USA Volleyball, the Region or Club receives parent/ guardian consent.

MEETINGS AND TRAINING SESSIONS

USA Volleyball, RVAs and USAV member clubs, as well as all Adult Participants, shall comply with the following Meetings and Training Sessions Policy

A. Mandatory Components

1. Observable and Interruptible

Adult Participants must follow the one-on-one interaction policy in all meetings and training sessions where Minor Athlete(s) are present.

1. Individual Training Sessions
   1. One-on-one, In-Program, individual training sessions must be observable and interruptible except if:
      1. A Dual Relationship exists; or
      2. The Close-in-Age Exception applies; or
      3. A Minor Athlete needs an Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant, and:
         1. the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent to USA Volleyball, the Region or the Club for the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant to work with the Minor Athlete; and
         2. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with the Education & Training Policy; and
         3. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with USA Volleyball’s screening policy.
   2. The Adult Participant providing the individual training session must receive advance, written consent from the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian at least annually, which can be withdrawn at any time; and
   3. Parents/guardians must be allowed to observe the individual training session.

1. Meetings with licensed mental health care professionals and health care providers (other than athletic trainers³)

If a licensed mental health care professional or licensed health care provider meets one- on-one with a Minor Athlete at a sanctioned event or a facility, which is partially or fully under USA Volleyball’s jurisdiction, the meeting must be observable and interruptible except:

1. If the door remains unlocked; and
2. Another adult is present at the facility and notified that a meeting is occurring, although the Minor Athlete’s identity needs not be disclosed; and

³ Athletic trainers who are covered under these policies must follow the “Athletic Training Modalities, Massage

and Rubdowns” policy.

1. USA Volleyball, the Region or Club is notified that the provider will be meeting with a Minor Athlete; and
2. The provider obtains consent consistent with applicable laws and ethical standards, which can be withdrawn at any time.

B.USA Volleyball Recommended Requirements

1. Monitoring

If a permitted meeting or training session takes place between an Adult Participant(s) and a Minor Athlete(s) at a facility partially or fully under USA Volleyball’s jurisdiction, another Adult Participant will monitor each meeting or training session. Monitoring includes reviewing the parent/guardian consent form, knowing that the meeting or training session is occurring, knowing the approximate planned duration of the meeting or training session, and dropping in on the meeting or training session.

1. Parent Training

Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s education and training on child abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to have a meeting or training session with an Adult Participant subject to these policies.

ATHLETIC TRAINING MODALITIES, MASSAGES, AND RUBDOWNS

USA Volleyball, RVAs and USAV member clubs, as well as all Adult Participants, shall comply with the following Athletic Training Modalities, Massages, and Rubdown policy

A.Mandatory Components

1. Athletic training modality, massage, or rubdown

All In-Program athletic training modalities, massages, or rubdowns of a Minor Athlete must:

1. Be observable and interruptible; and
2. Have another Adult Participant physically present for the athletic training modality, massage, or rubdown; and
3. Have documented consent as explained in subsection (2) below; and
4. Be performed with the Minor Athlete fully or partially clothed, ensuring that the breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals are always covered; and
5. Allow parents/guardians in the room as an observer, except for competition or training venues that limit credentialing.
6. The provider must narrate the steps in the massage, rubdown, or athletic training modality before taking them, seeking assent of the Minor Athlete throughout the process.

1. Consent
   1. Providers of athletic training modalities, massages, and rubdowns or USAV, RVAs or Clubs, when applicable, must obtain consent at least annually from Minor Athletes’ parents/guardians before providing any athletic training modalities, massages, or rubdowns.
   2. When possible, techniques should be used to reduce physical touch of the Minor Athlete.
   3. Only licensed providers can administer a massage, rubdown or athletic training modality.
   4. Coaches, regardless of whether they are licensed massage therapists, cannot massage Minor Athletes
   5. Minor Athletes or their parents/guardians can withdraw consent at any time.

B.Recommended components

1. Parent Training

Parents/guardians receive the U.S. Center for SafeSport education and training on child

abuse prevention before providing consent for their Minor Athlete to receive an athletic training modality, massage, or rubdown.

LOCKER ROOMS AND CHANGING AREAS

USA Volleyball, RVAs and USAV member clubs, as well as all Adult Participants, shall comply with the following Locker Rooms and Changing Areas policy

A. Mandatory Components

1. Observable and Interruptible

Adult Participants must ensure that all one-on-one In-Program Contact with Minor Athlete(s) in a locker room, changing area, or similar space where Minor Athlete(s) are present is observable and interruptible, except if:

1. A Dual Relationship exists; or
2. The Close-in-Age Exception applies; or
3. A Minor Athlete needs a Personal Care Assistant and:
   1. the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent to USA Volleyball, the Region or the Club for the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant to work with the Minor Athlete; and
   2. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with the Education & Training Policy; and
   3. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with USA Volleyball’s screening policy.

1. Conduct in Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces
   1. No Adult Participant or Minor Athlete can use the photographic or recording capabilities of any device in locker rooms, changing areas, or any other area designated as a place for changing clothes or undressing.
   2. Adult Participants must not change clothes or behave in a manner that intentionally or recklessly exposes their breasts, buttocks, groins, or genitals to a MinorAthlete.
   3. Adult Participants must not shower with Minor Athletes unless:
      1. The Adult Participant meets the Close-in-Age Exception; or
      2. The shower is part of a pre- or post-activity rinse while wearing swimwear.
   4. Parents/guardians may request in writing that their Minor Athlete(s) not change or shower with Adult Participant(s) during In-Program Contact. USA Volleyball and the Adult Participant(s) must abide by this request.

1. Media and Championship Celebrations in Locker Rooms

USA Volleyball may permit recording or photography in locker rooms for the purpose of highlighting a sport or athletic accomplishment if:

1. Parent/legal guardian consent has been obtained; and
2. USA Volleyball, the Region or Club approves the specific instance of recording or photography; and
3. Two or more Adult Participants are present; and
4. Everyone is fully clothed.

1. Personal Care Assistants

Adult Participant Personal Care Assistants are permitted to be with and assist Minor Athlete(s) in locker rooms, changing areas, and similar spaces where other Minor Athletes are present, if they meet the requirements in subsection (1)(a)(iii) above.

1. Availability and Monitoring of Locker Rooms, Changing Areas, and Similar Spaces
   1. USA Volleyball, the Region or Club must provide a private or semi-private place for Minor Athletes that need to change clothes or undress at sanctioned events or facilities partially or fully under USA Volleyball’s jurisdiction.
   2. USA Volleyball the Region or Club must monitor the use of locker rooms, changing areas, and similar spaces to ensure compliance with these policies at sanctioned events or facilities partially or fully under USA Volleyball’s jurisdiction.

USA Volleyball, RVAs and USAV member clubs, as well as all Adult Participants, shall comply with the following Electronic Communications policy

A. Mandatory Components

1. Open and Transparent
   1. All one-on-one electronic communications between an Adult Participant and a Minor Athlete must be Open and Transparent except:
      1. When a Dual Relationship exists; or
      2. When the Close-in-Age Exception applies; or
      3. If a Minor Athlete needs a Personal Care Assistant and:
         1. the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent to USA Volleyball, the Region or Club for the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant to work with the Minor Athlete; and
         2. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with the Education & Training Policy; and
         3. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with USA Volleyball’s screening policy.
   2. Open and Transparent means that the Adult Participant copies or includes the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian, another adult family member of the Minor Athlete, or another Adult Participant.

• If a Minor Athlete communicates with the Adult Participant first, the Adult Participant must follow this policy if the Adult Participant responds.
  1. Only platforms that allow for Open and Transparent communication may be used to communicate with Minor Athletes.

1. Team Communication

When an Adult Participant communicates electronically to the entire team or any number of Minor Athletes on the team, the Adult Participant must copy or include another Adult Participant or the Minor Athletes’ parents/guardians.

1. Content

All electronic communication originating from an Adult Participant(s) to a Minor Athlete(s) must be professional in nature unless an exception in (1)(a) exists.

⁴ Electronic communications include, but are not limited to: phone calls, videoconferencing, video coaching, texting, and social media.

1. Requests to discontinue

Parents/guardians may request in writing that USA Volleyball or an Adult Participant subject to this policy not contact their Minor Athlete through any form of electronic communication. USA Volleyball and the Adult Participant must abide by any request to discontinue, absent emergency circumstances.

1. Hours

Electronic communications must be sent only between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. local time for the location of the Minor Athlete.

1. Social Media Connections

Adult Participants, except those with a Dual Relationship or who meet the Close-in-Age Exception, are not permitted to maintain private social media connections with Minor Athletes and must discontinue existing social media connections with Minor Athletes.

TRANSPORTATION

USA Volleyball, RVAs and USAV member clubs, as well as all Adult Participants, shall comply with

 the following Transportation policy                                                                                                   

A. Mandatory Components

1. Transportation
   1. An Adult Participant cannot transport a Minor Athlete one-on-one during In-Program travel, except if:
      1. A Dual Relationship exists; or
      2. The Close-in-Age Exception applies; or
      3. A Minor Athlete needs a Personal Care Assistant and:
         1. the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent to USA Volleyball, the Region or Club for the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant to work with the Minor Athlete; and
         2. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with the Education & Training Policy; and
         3. the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with USA Volleyball’s screening policy; or
      4. The Adult Participant has advance, written consent to transport the Minor Athlete one-on-one obtained at least annually from the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian.
   2. Minor Athlete(s) or their parent/guardian can withdraw consent at any time.
   3. An Adult Participant meets the In-Program transportation requirements if the Adult Participant is accompanied by another Adult Participant or at least two minors.
   4. Written consent from a Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian is required for all transportation sanctioned by USA Volleyball, the Region, or Club at least annually.

1. Shared or Carpool Travel Arrangement

USA Volleyball mandates parents/guardians to pick up their Minor Athlete first and drop off their Minor Athlete last in any shared or carpool travel arrangement.

LODGING

USA Volleyball, RVAs and USAV member clubs, as well as all Adult Participants, shall comply with the following Lodging policy

A. Mandatory Components

1. Hotel Rooms and Other Sleeping Arrangements
   1. All In-Program Contact at a hotel or lodging site between an Adult Participant and a Minor Athlete must be observable and interruptible, and an Adult Participant cannot share a hotel room or otherwise sleep in the same room with a Minor Athlete(s), except if:
      1. A Dual Relationship Exists, and the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided USA Volleyball, the Region or Club with advance, written consent for the lodging arrangement;
      2. The Close-in-Age Exception applies, and the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided USA Volleyball, the Region or Club with advance, written consent for the lodging arrangement; or
      3. The Minor Athlete needs a Personal Care Assistant, and:
         1. The Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided advance, written consent to USA Volleyball, the Region or Club for the Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant to work with the Minor Athlete and for the lodging arrangement;
         2. The Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with the Education & Training Policy; and
         3. The Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant has complied with USA Volleyball’s screening policy.
   2. Written consent from a Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian must be obtained for all In- Program lodging at least annually.

1. Monitoring or Room Checks During In-Program Travel

If USA Volleyball, the Region or Club performs room checks during In-Program lodging, the one-on- one interaction policy must be followed and at least two adults must be present for the room checks.

1. Additional Requirements for Lodging Authorized or Funded by USA Volleyball, RVAs or Clubs.
   1. Adult Participants traveling with USA Volleyball, the Region or Club must agree to and sign USA Volleyball, the Region or Club ’s lodging policy at least annually.
   2. Adult Participants that travel overnight with Minor Athlete(s) are assumed to have Authority over Minor Athlete(s) and thus must comply with the Center’s Education & Training Policy.

PART IV

RECOMMENDED POLICIES FOR KEEPING YOUNG ATHLETES SAFE

A.Out-of-Program Contact

Adult Participants, who do not meet the Close-in-Age Exception nor have a Dual Relationship with a Minor Athlete, should not have out-of-program contact with Minor Athlete(s) without legal/parent guardian consent, even if the out-of-program contact is not one-on-one.

B.Gifting

1. Adult Participants, who do not meet the Close-in-Age Exception nor have a Dual Relationship with a Minor Athlete, should not give personal gifts to Minor Athlete(s).

1. Gifts that are equally distributed to all athletes and serve a motivational or education purpose are permitted.

C.Photography/Video

1. Photographs or videos of athletes may only be taken in public view and must observe generally accepted standards of decency.

1. Adult Participants should not publicly share or post photos or videos of Minor Athlete(s) if the Adult Participant has not obtained the Parent/Guardian and Minor Athlete’s consent.

TERMINOLOGY

Adult Participant: Any adult (18 years of age or older) who is:

1. A member or license holder of USA Volleyball, RVAs or Clubs ;
2. An employee or board member of USA Volleyball, RVAs or Clubs ;
3. Within the governance or disciplinary jurisdiction of USA Volleyball, RVAs or Clubs ;
4. Authorized, approved, or appointed by USA Volleyball, RVAs, or Clubs to have regular contact with or authority over Minor Athletes.⁵

Amateur Athlete: An athlete who meets the eligibility standards established by the National Governing Body or paralympic sports organization for the sport in which the athlete competes.

Authority: When one person’s position over another person is such that, based on the totality of the circumstances, they have the power or right to direct, control, give orders to, or make decisions for that person. Also see the Power Imbalance definition in the SafeSport Code. NOTE: NGBs, PSOs, and the USOPC must submit/include categories of members/individuals that fall under the definition including specific volunteer designations.

Close-in-Age Exception: An exception applicable to certain policies when an Adult Participant does not have authority over a Minor Athlete and is not more than four years older than the Minor Athlete (e.g., a 19-year-old and a 16-year-old). Note: this exception only applies within the prevention policies and not regarding conduct defined in the SafeSport Code.

Dual Relationships: An exception applicable to certain policies when an Adult Participant has a dual role or relationship with a Minor Athlete and the Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian has provided written consent at least annually authorizing the exception.

In-Program Contact: Any contact (including communications, interactions, or activities) between an Adult Participant and any Minor Athlete(s) related to participation in sport.

Examples of In-Program Contact include, but are not limited to: competition, practices, camps/clinics, training/instructional sessions, pre/post game meals or outings, team travel, review of game film, team- or sport-related relationship building activities, celebrations, award ceremonies, banquets, team- or sport-related fundraising or community service, sport education, or competition site visits.

⁵ This may include volunteers, medical staff, trainers, chaperones, monitors, contract personnel, bus/van drivers, officials, adult athletes, staff, board members, and any other individual who meets the Adult Participant definition

Local Affiliated Organization (LAO): A regional, state, or local club or organization that is directly affiliated with an NGB or that is affiliated with an NGB by its direct affiliation with a regional or state affiliate of said NGB. LAO does not include a regional, state, or local club or organization that is only a member of a National Member Organization of an NGB. LAOs of USA Volleyball include all 41 Regional Volleyball Association regions and all volleyball clubs that are a member of those regions.

Minor Athlete: An Amateur Athlete under 18 years of age who participates in, or participated within the previous 12 months in, an event, program, activity, or competition that is part of, or partially or fully under the jurisdiction of, an NGB, PSO, USOPC, or LAO.

Partial or Full Jurisdiction: Includes any sanctioned event (including all travel and lodging in connection with the event) by the NGB, PSO, USOPC, or LAO, or any facility that the NGB, PSO, USOPC, or LAO owns, leases, or rents for practice, training or competition.

National Governing Body (NGB): A U.S. Olympic National Governing Body, Pan American Sport Organization, or Paralympic Sport Organization recognized by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee pursuant to the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act, 36 U.S.C.

§§ 220501, et seq. This definition shall also apply to the USOPC, or other sports entity approved by the USOPC, when they have assumed responsibility for the management or governance of a sport included on the program of the Olympic, Paralympic, or Pan-American Games.

Adult Participant Personal Care Assistant: An Adult Participant who assists an athlete requiring help with activities of daily living (ADL) and preparation for athletic participation. This support can be provided by a Guide for Blind or visually impaired athletes or can include assistance with transfer, dressing, showering, medication administration, and toileting. Personal Care Assistants are different for every athlete and should be individualized to fit their specific needs. When assisting a Minor Athlete, Adult Participant PCAs must be authorized by the athlete’s parent/guardian.

Paralympic Sport Organization (PSO): an amateur sports organization recognized and certified as an NGB by the USOPC.

Regular Contact: Ongoing interactions during a 12-month period wherein an Adult Participant is in a role of direct and active engagement with any Minor Athlete(s). NOTE: NGBs, PSOs, and the USOPC must submit/include categories of members/individuals that fall under the definition including specific volunteer designations.

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC): A federallychartered nonprofit corporation that serves as the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United States.