The Coach Perspective: A Safe Sport Review

Original report written by: ITP Sport & Recreation Inc. (2021).

Summary

In the spring of 2021, the Coaching Association of Canada engaged the services of ITP Sport & Recreation Inc. (ITP Sport) to conduct interviews and survey coaches across a wide range of sports. This research would provide the basis for a safe sport review.

ITP Sport conducted one-on-one interviews with 76 participants and 513 coaches completed an online survey in both official languages. The majority of participants were between the ages of 46-55 and had coached for over 25 years.

Overall, it was a positive experience for those who took part in the interview or the survey. They were appreciative of the fact that they were included in the conversation and provided positive views on safe sport in Canada.

Most coaches indicated that they are familiar with their respective organization’s Code of Conduct and have reviewed it within the last year. Although most coaches felt their sport does have a safe sport program, there were quite a few who were unsure. Based on further questions it was clear that the majority of coaches do believe safe sport is a priority in their sport. They saw many positive aspects of safe sport, including educating various groups (athletes, coaches, parents). Coaches believe it creates an environment to protect both coaches and athletes and assists with consistent guidelines for coaches to manage their athletes.

There was an element of fear and concern expressed by coaches in regards to the potential for defamation that could result from the complaint process as it is currently perceived to be more in favour of athletes, not coaches. Almost all coaches believe safe sport and high-performance coaching can coexist. They understand there is a fine line between ‘pushing an athlete to their maximum potential’ and overstepping appropriate boundaries.

A series of recommendations have been outlined for both sport organizations and the Coaching Association of Canada. Coaches are confused by the different messages they have received on this subject, so it is important to ensure that messaging coming from one or several sources is consistent and in line with best practices in safe sport. This alignment throughout the sport system would create a better understanding of safe sport, prevent maltreatment, and protect all participants from the grassroots level to high performance environments. 

To request the full report, please send an email to research@coach.ca.