Alright, USA Swimming.
Yes, you should apologize. Step up the protection of
our youth and ban these idiots who think they can
get their jollies out on the youth of America.
Do not become like the catholic church and try to sweep
this BS under the rug. Take charge and accept the problems
and DEAL WITH IT!
When I was a USA Coach, I was also an employee of the YMCA. Our Y had us attend a one hour seminar held at the Y every year that specifically adressed the issue of child abuse. There were certain guidelines in place that we were to follow to avoid a false allegation of sexual abuse. The ones I could remember were as follows:
1. A coach is not to give an athlete a ride home.
2. If a parent is late to pick up a child, two coaches are to remain until the parent or other responsible guardian listed on an appoved pick-up list arrives.
3. A coach is not to travel alone to a meet with an athlete.
4. When talking to an athlete, have another coach present.
5. Communicate through the parent as much as possible.
Anyway, I hope now that this issue has really gotten a ton of attention, clubs will be sure that they have very specific guidelines in place to protect coaches. The bottom line was to avoid being alone with an athlete.
When I was a USA Coach, I was also an employee of the YMCA. Our Y had us attend a one hour seminar held at the Y every year that specifically adressed the issue of child abuse. There were certain guidelines in place that we were to follow to avoid a false allegation of sexual abuse. The ones I could remember were as follows:
1. A coach is not to give an athlete a ride home.
2. If a parent is late to pick up a child, two coaches are to remain until the parent or other responsible guardian listed on an appoved pick-up list arrives.
3. A coach is not to travel alone to a meet with an athlete.
4. When talking to an athlete, have another coach present.
5. Communicate through the parent as much as possible.
Anyway, I hope now that this issue has really gotten a ton of attention, clubs will be sure that they have very specific guidelines in place to protect coaches. The bottom line was to avoid being alone with an athlete.
