Protecting Our Young Athletes: Recognizing the Signs of Abuse and Maltreatment

Mar. 06, 2025

Youth sports offer a wealth of benefits, including the development of teamwork, discipline, and resilience. However, these programs must provide a safe environment for young athletes, free from the threat of abuse or maltreatment. Unfortunately, incidents of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse can occur in some athletic settings, making it crucial for parents, coaches, and sports organizations to remain vigilant.

Understanding Abuse and Maltreatment in Youth Sports

Abuse in youth sports can take many forms:

Physical Abuse: Intentional harm, such as hitting, kicking, or rough handling.
Emotional or Psychological Abuse: Verbal insults, belittling, or intimidation that damages a child's self-esteem.
Sexual Abuse: Any inappropriate or unwanted sexual behavior.
Neglect: Failing to meet a child's physical and emotional needs.

Maltreatment can sometimes be subtle and difficult to recognize. Coaches, parents, and athletes may not always be aware of what constitutes abuse, or may fear speaking out due to the power dynamics in sports.

Warning Signs of Abuse and Maltreatment

Young athletes may hesitate to report abuse, fearing retaliation or not understanding what constitutes acceptable behavior. Parents should be aware of several warning signs that may indicate a problem.

Behavioral Signs:

Withdrawal or Isolation: A child may start avoiding their team or socializing with teammates.
Mood Swings: Sudden anxiety or fear of attending practice or games.
Loss of Interest: A formerly enthusiastic athlete may show a lack of interest in sports.

Physical Signs:

Frequent Injuries: Unexplained or recurring injuries without adequate recovery.
Bruises or Marks: Excessive or unexplained injuries, especially in unusual places (e.g., inner thighs or genital areas).
Declining Performance: A drop in performance, often linked to emotional or physical distress.

Social Indicators:

Fear of Specific Coaches or Teammates: A child may express fear of a particular coach or player.
Increased Anxiety: Excessive worry about practices or games, coupled with physical symptoms like stomachaches.
Secretive Behavior: Refusal to share details or act secretively about their sports experiences.

How Parents Can Help

Parents are the first line of defense when it comes to protecting their children. Here are some key steps you can take:

Open Communication: Encourage your child to talk openly about their experiences. Reassure them that it's okay to speak up if something feels wrong.
Know the Coaches and Staff: Build relationships with your child’s coaches, team staff, and other parents to help ensure a safe environment.
Set Boundaries and Expectations: Teach your child about appropriate behavior in sports and encourage them to trust their instincts.
Be Aware of Team Dynamics: Watch for bullying, cliques, or toxic behavior within the team.
Monitor Behavior: Pay attention to any sudden changes in behavior or emotional distress, and address concerns promptly.

What to Do When a Child Confides in You

If a child or youth discloses abuse or maltreatment, it’s crucial to:

Stay Calm: Avoid reacting with shock, disbelief, or anger.
Listen Without Interrupting: Allow them to speak in their own words.
Reassure Them: Let them know it's not their fault and offer comforting words such as, “I believe you,” and “You’re brave for telling me.”
Document What You Heard: Afterward, write down exactly what the child said, including their words, appearance, and behavior. Keep your notes secure and private.

Taking Action

If you suspect abuse or maltreatment of a child under the age of eighteen, it is crucial to act swiftly and in Alberta, it is a legal obligation. The Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act mandates that anyone who believes a child is at risk of abuse or neglect must report their suspicions immediately.

In Alberta, you must report your concerns in at least one of three ways:
1. Your local emergency number (911)
2. The 24-hour Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-387-KIDS (5437)
3. Local Child and Family Services Authorities
Contact Field Hockey Alberta: Policies for reporting abuse at any Field Hockey Alberta program or event can be found here: FHA Policies
Report it to an unbiased third party: Until April 1, cases of maltreatment in sports can be reported to Abuse Free Sport. After this date, the Canadian Safe Sport Program (CSSP) will take over, and it will be mandatory for all National Sports Organizations, including Field Hockey Canada, to subscribe to this program.

Remember, it’s essential to remove the child from any harmful situation to ensure their safety and well-being. Reassure your child that they did nothing wrong, and you will be there to support them through the entire process.

Conclusion

Youth sports should be a place for young athletes to feel safe, supported, and motivated to grow. By staying informed, recognizing warning signs, and acting swiftly when needed, parents and community members can help protect their children and ensure a safe sporting environment. Together, we can help keep our young athletes safe and thriving in sports.