When should I involve law enforcement?

If conduct involves a weapon, a credible threat, a physical assault, or sexual misconduct, contact law enforcement, and call 911 for immediate danger. For sexual exploitation of a minor, report to NCMEC.

Reporting bullying in youth sports

Bullying and hazing in youth sports has its own reporting paths. Here's how to document and escalate with a league, club, or coach.

In youth sports, concerns usually go to a coach, then a club or league director, then the organization's safety contact or national governing body. Document it the same way you would for a school.

1
Document each incident
Date, place, who was involved, what was said or done, witnesses, and any evidence.
2
Report in writing
To the coach and the program or club director — email creates a timestamp.
3
Ask for the policy and the plan
Request the organization's anti-bullying / conduct policy and the steps it will take.
4
Escalate if it isn't resolved
To the league or the national governing body's safety contact.

SafeSport

Many youth-sports organizations follow U.S. Center for SafeSport standards, which address bullying, hazing, and abuse. Your league can tell you who its SafeSport or safety contact is.

Important

If conduct involves a weapon, a credible threat, a physical assault, or sexual misconduct, contact law enforcement (911 for immediate danger). For sexual exploitation of a minor, report to NCMEC.

Not legal advice

General information — not legal advice.

Authoritative sources

U.S. Center for SafeSport

Frequently asked questions

Who do I report bullying or hazing in youth sports to?: Concerns usually go to the coach, then a club or league director, then the organization's safety contact or national governing body. Document each incident the same way you would for a school.
What is SafeSport?: Many youth-sports organizations follow U.S. Center for SafeSport standards, which address bullying, hazing, and abuse. Your league can tell you who its SafeSport or safety contact is.
When should I involve law enforcement?: If conduct involves a weapon, a credible threat, a physical assault, or sexual misconduct, contact law enforcement, and call 911 for immediate danger. For sexual exploitation of a minor, report to NCMEC.

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General information — not legal advice

This guide is general information to help you get organized, not legal or mental-health advice, and it doesn't guarantee any outcome. Laws and school policies vary and change. For your specific situation, consult a licensed professional or your state's education agency. In an emergency call 911; for a mental-health crisis call or text 988.

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