What is Sexual Abuse in Sport?

Sexual abuse is when an athlete is pressurised, forced or tricked into taking part in any kind of sexual activity with an adult or young person. This can include kissing, touching the young person's genitals or breasts, intercourse or oral sex.

The signs of sexual abuse (adapted from the NSPCC)

How will I know if an athlete is being sexually abused?
Athletes who are being abused may show a number of physical and emotional changes. But remember that these signs do not always mean that an athlete is being abused - there may be other explanations.

Physical signs of abuse

• pain, itching, bruising or bleeding in the genital or anal areas

• genital discharge or urinary tract infections

• stomach pains or discomfort walking or sitting

• sexually transmitted infections.

If an athlete is suffering from any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Behavioural signs of abuse

These might include a marked change in the athletes general behaviour. For example, they may become unusually quiet and withdrawn, or unusually aggressive. Or they may start suffering from what may seem to be physical ailments, but which can't be explained medically.

Why do athletes not report abuse?

According to the Irish Committee on Sport and Recreation, a study found that victims generally do not complain in sexual or physical abuse situations because:

• Complaints are not encouraged

• Complaints are not acted upon

• Coaches have control over athletes

• Athletes are not aware of the proper complaint procedure

PLEASE check the resources section and links to YOUR sports policy on Sexual Harassment and Abuse in sport & YOUR governing bodies reporting process.