Sport Manitoba aiming to make all sports safer

There is no place for abuse, harassment, bullying or hazing in sports – that’s the message from Sport Manitoba as they launch new resources to try and make sports safer at all levels.

“The pathway to safer sport is just that, a pathway. A way forward is made up of tools and practices we are using to foster a holistic sports community where our kids and all sports participants are safe. The pathway does not end, but rather will continuously evolve to build upon the existing framework,” said Janet McMahon, President & CEO, Sport Manitoba.

Sport Manitoba is introducing services Provincial Sport Organizations can use to prevent and act upon maltreatment in sport. Among those is an online framework of tools, templates, and resources in combination with a new partnership with Sport Law – an organization that offers consulting and legal guidance to athletic operations.

“People want more voice and choice – the sports system designed in the past is not the sports system we need. Our current landscape is undergoing a seismic transformation, where we are redefining what is and isn’t acceptable,” said Megan Foster, speaking on behalf of Sport Law.

McMahon added, “It is our goal that more athletes, officials, coaches, volunteers, parents and the public know what safe sport looks like, and are empowered and quick to act when things don’t seem right.”

There’s also a 24-hour confidential phoneline for anyone who believes they have witnessed abuse in Manitoba sports, or are seeking guidance on what resources are available to them.

Manitoba has dealt with some high-profile incidents in the sports community recently, with former football coach Kelsey McKay being charged with allegations of sexual assault, sexual exploitation, sexual interference and luring. John Blacher, executive director of Volleyball Manitoba says he still sees too many incidents of abuse in sport, and these new online tools will assist in managing them.

“Crucial in helping ensure we deal with such incidents properly and appropriately, with the safety and protection of athletes and future athletes in mind.”

Sport Manitoba is asking all Manitobans to add safe sports’ phoneline to their phones to keep sports safer in the province.