MEMBER LOGIN >

Become part of our online community.

Register Now

Forgot Password?        

GET WOMEN'S SPORTS NEWS >

   Please leave this field empty
Privacy Policy

WHAT CAN I DO? >

Write your legislators encouraging them to support gender equity in sports. It'll only take two minutes! More >

Home > Action Questions for Coaches

Action Questions for Coaches




Action Questions for Coaches

1. What kinds of actions can a coach take in the beginning of the season to make sure everyone feels safe and respected?
  • Lead a discussion about how race, gender, sexual orientation, religious differences are strength for the team and encourage respect across differences.
  • Set a personal example by modeling respectful treatment of all and comfort with LGBT issues.
  • Address all incidents of name-calling or use of slurs of any kind.

    2. What is the role of a coach in addressing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues on a team?
  • The coach plays a pivotal role in how these issues are addressed.
  • The coach has both a responsibility and an opportunity to influence the team in positive ways on issues of fairness and social justice.

    3. What can coaches do to help make a team more respectful of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender team members and other team members?
  • Speak up to address anti-LGBT slurs, comments.
  • Talk with athletes, parents, and coaches who have concerns about LGBT people on the team.
  • Organize educational programs to help athletes, parents, or coaches understand team expectations for fairness, respect, and safety for all.

    4. What is the role of the coach in setting the tone for how lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender athletes and coaches are treated?
  • The coach is a role model for athletes has a powerful opportunity to encourage
    respectful treatment of LGBT athletes and coaches.

    5. How should a coach respond to a parent or prospective athlete.s questions about whether or not there are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender athletes on the team?
  • Affirm her/his support of non-discrimination policies the athletic department is responsible to uphold.
  • Affirm his/her expectations that all team members will be treated with respect and will treat others with respect regardless of individual differences.
  • Affirm that LGBT athletes and coaches are part of all athletic programs.
  • Ask what specific concerns the parent or prospective athlete has and address them in ways that support fair treatment for all.