October is National Bullying Prevention Month and is held annually to bring awareness and education on preventing childhood bullying and promoting kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. Up2Us Sports believes in creating safe and equitable spaces for everyone, and part of the sports-based youth development training we give our coaches, they are equipped with tools and knowledge on how to do just that.
We asked two coaches their advice on bullying prevention and how the training they’ve received as an Up2Us Sports Coach has helped to create inclusive team environments.
Coach Takai, Y of Central Maryland, Baltimore, MD
● What are some ways you create a safe and inclusive team environment for your athletes?
Ways that I create a safe environment for my athletes by showing up and setting clear expectations that provide a safe space to interact with one another while participating in group activities. I also consider what the young athletes are looking forward to when it comes to sports and school to provide them with all the tools that they need to be successful.
● What techniques did you learn through Up2Us Training that has helped you diffuse challenges with bullying and turn it into a positive solution?
Some techniques that I have learned from training is conflict resolution and bystander intervention. These two techniques allow me as a coach to address the situation as well as other athletes to stand up for their teammates when negative behavior arises.
● As a coach-mentor, what advice would you give one of your athletes that experiences bullying?
As a coach, I will advise my athlete to document and report the situation so the appropriate administration can investigate the situation. However, as a coach, I will empower and educate the scholars on how to protect themselves positively and how they are not the cause of bullying.
Coach Wolf, Gainesville Area Community Tennis Association, Gainesville, FL
● What are some ways you create a safe and inclusive team environment for your athletes?
I would advise my athlete to:
1. Stay Calm: Encourage them to remain composed and not react impulsively.
2. Seek Help: Encourage them to report the bullying to a trusted adult, teacher, or school counselor.
3. Document Incidents: Suggest they keep a record of each bullying incident, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses.
4. Build a Support System: Help them connect with friends or teammates who can offer support.
5. Confidence Building: Work on building their self-confidence and self-esteem through positive affirmations and self-care.
6. Avoid Isolation: Encourage them to stay engaged in activities they enjoy to avoid isolation.
7. Practice Self-Defense: If needed, enroll in self-defense classes to boost physical and emotional confidence.
8. Advocate for Change: If the bullying is occurring in a school or team setting, support them in advocating for anti-bullying measures.
9. Emphasize Reporting: Remind them that reporting bullying is not tattling but a way to ensure their safety.
10. Stay Focused: Help them stay focused on their goals and personal growth, regardless of the bullying. Always emphasize that they don't have to go through this alone and that seeking help is a sign of strength.
