The keen eye of a coach leads to better results in the water, but with child abuse reports being at an all-time low, there might be more coaches can do to help their athletes. 

As clubs return to the water, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of child abuse. Be prepared to respond if you suspect one of your athletes may be the victim of abuse.  

According to Prevent Child Abuse America, there are four types of child abuse:  

1. Physical abuse;  

2. Neglect;  

3. Sexual abuse; and  

4. Emotional abuse.  

Typically, these types of child abuse are found in combination with one another, rather than alone. To further understand the signs and symptoms of child abuse, please visit this article from Prevent Child Abuse America. 

Remember these guidelines when you know of or suspect child abuse: 

Mandatory Reporting Requirement 

Pursuant to federal law, it is every USA Swimming member’s responsibility to immediately (e.g. within 24 hours) report any incident of child abuse, including physical or sexual abuse, to law enforcement and the U.S. Center for SafeSport. Reporting must occur when an individual has firsthand knowledge of misconduct, or where specific and credible information has been received from a victim or knowledgeable third party. Various state laws may also require reporting to law enforcement or a designated child protection agency.  

Where to report: 

• Local law enforcement
• State authorities
• U.S. Center for SafeSport (www.uscenterforsafesport.org) 
• USA Swimming (www.usaswimming.org/report)

Examples on what to say: 

• “I’m calling to report sexual misconduct/abuse between an adult and a minor.”
• “I’m calling to report child abuse by a parent (or a coach).”
• “I am a mandatory reporter of child abuse and I am calling to fulfill my requirements.”

What information to report 

• Your contact information;
• Address of where the incident happened;
• The specific act (or failure to act);
• How is this hurting the child;

• All known details;
• Name & age of the child;
• Address where the child can be located;
• Reason for initiating the report;
• Negative impacts on the child;

• Name of alleged perpetrator, if known;
• Whether the child is in imminent danger; and
• Contact information for all involved.