The Veil of Trust: Unmasking Sexual Violence in Youth Sports

The Veil of Trust: Unmasking Sexual Violence in Youth Sports

By Wilma N Yamzon – Thenationweek.com  

June 30, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – In recent years, movements such as #SportToo and #CoachDontTouchMe have illuminated the troubling reality of sexual violence within the realm of sports.

Yet, while the implementation of “no-touch” policies may seem like a proactive measure, a more profound comprehension of the intricate coach-athlete dynamic is essential for safeguarding youth and nurturing a secure, encouraging environment.

For many young athletes, coaches serve as mentors, confidants, and important figures in their lives.

This inherent power dynamic, combined with the physical intimacy often necessary in training, creates an environment ripe for exploitation.

A recent scoping review, which examined 25 publications from the years 2000 to 2019, revealed critical elements that heighten this vulnerability: proximity, power imbalances, blurred lines, and ambiguous roles.

“The close bonds formed between coaches and athletes are frequently regarded as vital for achieving success,” the review stated.

“However, these intimate relationships also carry significant risks, including the potential for trust to be misappropriated and for abuse to transpire.”

Sexual violence encompasses a range of behaviors, from subtle harassment to overt physical assault, all rooted in the misuse of power.

Unlike consensual relationships, which thrive on equality and mutual consent, sexual violence is predicated on intimidation and trauma, particularly when minors are involved.

Elite Sports: A Hotbed for Abuse?

The unique characteristics of elite sports can heighten the risk of abuse.

Gender disparities, hierarchical structures, and the intense, often isolating nature of coach-athlete relationships create an environment where abusive behavior can thrive.

Research has shown that the likelihood of sexual violence is higher within coach-athlete interactions compared to peer relationships, with acts committed by coaches often being more severe.

“As competitive levels escalate, so does the prevalence of coaches as perpetrators,” the review points out as it calls for a concentrated examination of the elite coach-athlete dynamic.

Moving Beyond “No-Touch” Policies

While raising public awareness and advocating for stricter regulations are crucial, the instinctive response of enforcing blanket “no-touch” policies can be counterproductive.

Such measures may foster an atmosphere of fear and mistrust, potentially discouraging coaches from offering the essential support and guidance their athletes need.

The challenge lies in finding the right equilibrium: upholding appropriate boundaries to avert abuse while simultaneously nurturing the trust-based relationships vital for athlete development.

Charting a Path Forward

The review highlighted the pressing need for comprehensive strategies to combat sexual violence in sports.

Key areas for future focus include:

1. In-Depth Research – A thorough investigation into the sociological and psychological factors that contribute to abusive dynamics within the coach-athlete relationship.

• Policy Formulation – Establishing clear guidelines and regulations that delineate appropriate boundaries and create robust reporting mechanisms for suspected abuse.

• Education and Training – Equipping coaches, athletes, and parents with the knowledge and tools necessary to recognize, prevent, and respond to incidents of sexual violence.

Coaches play a crucial role in the development, support, and protection of athletes.

By unraveling the complexities of the coach-athlete relationship, we can shield against the perils of sexual violence and cultivate an environment that fosters athletes’ growth and success.