What should be the primary focus of a Safe Sport program?

The primary focus of a Safe Sport program is enhancing athlete safety and well-being. This encompasses creating an environment where athletes can participate in sports without fear of abuse, harassment, or any form of misconduct. The safety and well-being of athletes is paramount because it ensures that they can thrive both physically and mentally in their sporting activities.

A Safe Sport program aims to establish practices, policies, and educational components that promote respect, dignity, and the protection of all involved, especially vulnerable populations such as minors. By prioritizing safety and well-being, the program fosters a culture that values healthy relationships and positive experiences in sports, ultimately contributing to the overall integrity of the sport.

Other focuses such as maximizing athlete performance or encouraging competition may indirectly support a positive environment, but they do not address the critical need for safety and protection against abuse and harassment, which are the fundamental concerns of any Safe Sport initiative. Additionally, minimizing communication between parents and athletes could lead to isolation and a lack of support, which undermines the accountability and transparency that are key to ensuring athlete safety.