Alberta is putting $3 million into a new Safe Sport Strategy to fight abuse and harassment in sport.
The goal is to ensure every Albertan can take part in sport safely and with dignity.
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“Sport should inspire confidence, not fear,” said Joseph Schow, minister of tourism and sport. “I won’t rest until Albertans know they are safe, seen and valued in every gym, rink and field in the province.”
He said this announcement is more than a commitment from the government to athletes.
“Our Safe Sport Strategy is more than a policy – it’s a system rooted in respect and a promise to every athlete,” said Schow.
The government is working with the Alberta Sport Leadership Association to bring the strategy to life.
“Safe sport is not optional – it’s essential,” said Mary Moran, chair of the Alberta Sport Leadership Association. “Every athlete deserves to train, compete and grow in an environment free from harm.”
Meanwhile, they are happy with the support of the provincial government.
“The Alberta Sport Leadership Association is proud to partner with the Government of Alberta to help put respect, safety and accountability at the forefront of sport in our province,” said Moran.
However, right now, the province’s sport organizations handle complaints in different ways. That will change under the new plan.
The strategy will bring in one system for all complaints. It will offer fair and equal support to all athletes. By fall 2025, a new 24-7 confidential reporting system will be in place. Sport organizations will start getting more details in the coming weeks.
Furthermore, an independent third-party system will review complaints. Trained case managers will assess each one and police will receive criminal matters right away. The plan also includes training and tools to help sport organizations build safe environments.
“Harassment and abuse have no place in Alberta, or in the province’s sport system,” said a government release.
“Sport is for everyone, no Albertan should remain on the sidelines for fear of maltreatment when playing the sports they love,” said the government.
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