Beyond the major categories of sexual and physical misconduct, the 2026 SafeSport Code prohibits a range of additional conduct that can result in serious sanctions. These provisions catch behavior that might not fit neatly into other categories but still poses risks to athletes and the integrity of sport.
Other Inappropriate Conduct
This category covers several distinct violations. An adult participant violates the Code by engaging or attempting to engage in an intimate relationship where a power imbalance exists. The Code defines an intimate relationship broadly, looking at factors like regular contact outside sport, emotional connectedness, exchange of gifts, physical or intimate contact, and sharing of sensitive personal information. Grooming behaviors are specifically considered in evaluating whether an intimate relationship exists.
Intentional exposure of private areas to a minor or to an adult when a power imbalance exists is also prohibited. Inappropriate physical contact—such as touching buttocks or genitals, excessive hugging, or kissing—violates the Code when a power imbalance is present. Willful tolerance of prohibited misconduct by an adult participant with power over the individuals being subjected to the misconduct is itself a violation. Cyber abuse—repeated or severe online conduct intended to intimidate, threaten, or harass—including doxing and spreading false rumors, is also prohibited.
Aiding and Abetting
The Code makes it a violation for an adult participant to knowingly aid, assist, or facilitate prohibited conduct. This includes allowing a suspended or ineligible individual to be associated with or employed by an organization affiliated with the Movement, to coach participants, or to maintain ownership interest in an affiliated facility. Providing coaching services to a suspended athlete or allowing someone to violate a temporary measure or sanction is also prohibited. A participant can be held responsible if someone acts on their behalf to engage in aiding or abetting.
Retaliation and Abuse of Process
Retaliation is any adverse action related to allegations of prohibited conduct or involvement in the reporting or investigative process. It includes threatening, intimidating, harassing, or coercing anyone, and can occur before, during, or after reporting. Retaliation may be found even when no underlying violation occurred.
Abuse of process covers a wide range of conduct that interferes with the Center’s work: falsifying information, destroying evidence, intimidating witnesses, publicly identifying a claimant, failing to comply with sanctions, or surreptitiously recording proceedings. Even failing to complete required SafeSport training is a per se violation.
These provisions have real teeth. If you are under investigation for any of these offenses or believe you may be at risk, a SafeSport defense attorney can help you understand your exposure and protect your rights. Contact The Chetson Firm today.
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