SafeSport

Ensuring the safety of athletes in water polo involves adhering to comprehensive guidelines established by the U.S. Center for SafeSport and USA Water Polo. These guidelines are designed to prevent abuse and misconduct, promote safe environments, and ensure accountability among all participants.(SafeSport)

🛡️ Core Safety Guidelines for Water Polo

1. Mandatory SafeSport Training

All coaches, referees, administrators, and adult participants with regular contact with minor athletes are required to complete the U.S. Center for SafeSport’s Core Training, along with annual refresher courses. This training covers the prevention, recognition, and response to various forms of abuse and misconduct. (USA Water Polo, SafeSport)

2. Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (MAAPP)

USA Water Polo has implemented MAAPP to establish clear boundaries and expectations in interactions between adults and minor athletes. Key components include:(Safesport MAAPP)

• One-on-One Interactions: Prohibited unless observable and interruptible, with prior parental consent.
• Locker Rooms and Changing Areas: Policies to prevent inappropriate behavior, including prohibiting adults from being alone with minors.
• Electronic Communications: Guidelines to ensure transparency and appropriate content in communications between adults and minors.
• Transportation and Lodging: Requirements for parental consent and the presence of multiple adults during travel and overnight stays. (Safesport MAAPP)

3. Mandatory Reporting Obligations

All USA Water Polo members are obligated to report any suspected violations of abuse policies within 24 hours. Reports involving sexual misconduct must be directed to the U.S. Center for SafeSport, while other violations should be reported to USA Water Polo. (Safesport MAAPP, USA Water Polo)

4. Background Checks and First Aid Certification

Coaches and referees must undergo periodic background checks and maintain current certifications in CPR and First Aid, including training on concussion recognition. (USA Water Polo)

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🧠 Education and Resources

Parent and Guardian Education: The U.S. Center for SafeSport provides resources to help parents recognize signs of abuse and understand reporting procedures.

SafeSport Training Access: USA Water Polo offers guidance on accessing SafeSport training courses, ensuring that all members can fulfill their training requirements. (USA Water Polo)

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📞 Reporting and Support

U.S. Center for SafeSport: To report concerns or learn more about abuse prevention, visit uscenterforsafesport.org.

USA Water Polo Reporting: For reporting non-sexual misconduct or policy violations, contact USA Water Polo at report@usawaterpolo.org.(Safesport MAAPP)

By following these guidelines and utilizing available resources, athletes, coaches, and parents can contribute to a safer environment in the sport of water polo.

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