Safeguarding Partnership with U.S. Rowing to Create Safer Athletic Environments: Collaboration Aims to Educate Members About Sexual Abuse and Misconduct

#WeRideTogether Partners with USRowing to Promote Safe Athletic Environments

In a groundbreaking collaboration, #WeRideTogether has joined forces with USRowing as its official Safeguarding Partner. This partnership aims to educate USRowing members about the issue of sexual abuse and misconduct, ultimately creating safer athletic environments for all participants. The initiative comes just in time for the 2024 Olympic Games, showcasing a commitment to prioritizing athlete safety and well-being.

As the Safeguarding Partner, #WeRideTogether will leverage current research and insights from the rowing community to develop educational materials and resources. These resources will include tools for athletes, parents, and coaches to prevent sexual abuse, identify signs of potential misconduct, and respond effectively to any issues that may arise. The collaboration will also feature short PSA’s with prominent rowing athletes, such as former Olympian Grace Latz, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding and healthy sport practices.

Amanda Kraus, CEO at USRowing, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Protecting individuals in rowing and ensuring a safe and respectful athletic environment are top priorities for us. We are thrilled to partner with #WeRideTogether to provide more information and resources across the community.” Michaela Shepherd, Executive Director of #WeRideTogether, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of collaboration in promoting safe and thriving sports environments.

The initiative will be further supported by a presence at various regattas throughout the year, including Youth Nationals, Rowfest, and Head of the Charles. By engaging the rowing community and raising awareness about safeguarding practices, #WeRideTogether and USRowing are taking proactive steps to address sexual misconduct in sports.

To learn more about #WeRideTogether and USRowing’s efforts to promote safe athletic environments, visit WeRideTogether.today and usrowing.org. Together, we can create a culture of safety and respect in sports for everyone involved.