The risk of silence: What we’re hearing (and not hearing) from athletes

Over the past year, we’ve heard stories from athletes that are hard to ignore. Not just at the elite level - but from athletes in small towns, playing in regional competitions, turning up each week because they love their sport. Stories that often share a common theme: they didn’t feel safe to speak up.

We heard from a 17-year-old who left her athletics club after repeated comments from a coach made her feel uncomfortable. She never made a formal complaint because she didn’t know who to go to - and she didn’t want to “make drama.”

A rugby player told us he felt sidelined after reporting a teammate’s behaviour - and eventually stopped attending practices altogether.

A parent shared that they raised a concern with a junior club, only to be told it was probably a misunderstanding and not worth escalating.

These aren’t isolated incidents. They reflect a broader culture where speaking up can feel risky, and where systems aren’t always set up to respond well.

At SafeSport, we don’t think the answer is more rules. We think it’s better systems, clearer pathways, and people who are trained to respond - especially at all levels.

A good complaint process isn’t just about paperwork. It’s about trust. It’s about athletes - and their whānau - knowing that if something goes wrong, someone will listen, take it seriously, and follow up.

We help clubs and organisations:

• Set up clear and accessible complaints pathways

• Train coaches and staff to recognise concerns early

• Build athlete voice into everyday delivery

• Create a culture where concerns can be raised safely and constructively

Because when people don’t speak, issues get buried. And when they do speak and nothing happens, trust is lost.

Silence protects no one. Let’s build systems - and cultures - where people can speak up and know they’ll be heard.