Safe Sport

TeamNL has taken the RCM PLEDGe

TeamNL, our coaching staff, support staff and all mission staff members believe in the Responsible Coaching Movement.

All members of the TeamNL contingent are educated in Safe Sport practices including how to recognize maltreatment as well as best practices such as the Rule of Two and completing Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Checks.

What is Rule of two?

The intention of the Rule of Two is to protect primarily the athlete, but also the coach, in all interactions. Minor athlete may not always recognize an environment where maltreatment is present. Rule of Two encourages that all interactions be between no fewer than two screened coaching staff and an athlete. One on one communication that is not open and observable is strongly discouraged to protect everyone involved.

What is Maltreatment?

Athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers have the right to participate in safe and inclusive sporting environments free from abuse, harassment or discrimination. By recognizing and reporting maltreatment, we make sport safe for everyone.

Maltreatment can be complex, and is fully defined in the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport. Simply put, maltreatment is "volitional acts that result in harm or the potential for physical or psychological harm". Any of the following behaviours are considered maltreatment and should be reported immediately:

  • Grooming

  • Neglect

  • Physical Maltreatment

  • Psychological Maltreatment

  • Sexual Maltreatment

It is also important to recognize what behaviours are legitimate, and not maltreatment. Such behaviours include:

  • Performance measurements

  • Strategies to correct performance deficiencies

  • Discipline for legitimate infractions pursuant to codes of conduct

  • Requesting medical documentation to support training absences/to understand athlete treatment plans

Everyone involved in sport should take the time to read the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport and understand their rights and obligations in supporting a safe sporting environment.

How do i report suspected maltreatment?

Any suspected maltreatment related to Canada Games athletes, teams, coaches, etc, can be reported to the Canadian Sport HELPline. During the Games, the HELPline will extend their reporting hours until 11pm (ET). Call, text and e-mail support is available.

CGC commitment to safe sport

For further information on the Canada Games Council's commitment to Safe Sport, resources, policies and how to report an incident, you can visit their website here.