Every August 8th, the International Skating Union -ISU- joins the Safe Sport Day initiative, which promotes safe, inclusive sporting environments free from violence, harassment, or abuse. The organization emphasizes that skaters deserve to train and compete under conditions that safeguard their physical, emotional, and psychological safety, as well as their dignity. It also highlights the importance of athletes being able to express their concerns, receive mental health support, and trust that coaches, officials, family members, and leaders will always prioritise their well-being.

“Protecting athletes isn’t optional; it’s the foundation of sport. Safe Sport ensures that any athlete, at any level, can train and compete in an environment free from abuse, harm, or fear,” says Madison Chock (USA), ice dance specialist.

“It’s about pushing limits without crossing boundaries”

For Kim Boutin (Canada), a short track speed skater, Safe Sport means “an environment where everyone—athletes, coaches, and staffv feels respected, supported, and protected, both physically and emotionally. It’s about pushing limits without crossing boundaries and it’s not a one-size-fits-all.”

The vision of the ISU is supported by figures such as Petra Jaszapati (Hungary), short track speed skater, who defines it as “a sporting environment or group free from abuse and discrimination, where you can be yourself and feel respected, protected, and supported emotionally and mentally.” Similarly, Filip Taschler (Czech Republic), ice dance specialist, considers it a space where “athletes are supported and encouraged to be themselves, boundaries are respected, and open dialogue about problems or struggles is fostered.”

Creation of a dedicated contact point

Athlete protection is one of the five key pillars of the ISU Vision 2030, the strategic plan to modernize governance and elevate the level of skating. This commitment is integrated into all its policies and activities, promoting a fair and clean competitive environment while ensuring the safety and well-being of skaters.

Measures implemented include safeguarding education for the entire skating community, early reporting systems and trusted channels, and the role of a full-time ISU Safeguarding Officer as a neutral point of contact for reporting cases of abuse or harassment.

“Knowing my child can grow in a positive environment”

The ISU also provides mental health resources such as the e-learning platform “eRink” and spaces for supportive conversations, fostering a culture where well-being is a priority.

In 2024, the ISU Congress approved a 20% increase in annual contributions to its members, aiming to help national federations develop and implement safeguarding programs. For Lucy Trochet (Switzerland), mother of a skater, Safe Sport means “knowing my child can grow in a positive, supportive environment where athletes and parents feel safe to voice concerns without fear of negative consequences.”

For Kevin Aymoz (France), figure skater, Safe Sport represents “a place where I am seen, respected, and given tools to become the best version of myself. It’s a place where dreams are built on trust, not on fear.”