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8 LONG TITLE
9 General Description:
10 This resolution condemns abusive coaching practices in Utah schools.
11 Highlighted Provisions:
12 This resolution:
13 ▸ recognizes a power imbalance between a coach and student athletes;
14 ▸ condemns abusive coaching practices from coaches; and
15 ▸ calls on Utah schools to provide safe and supportive environments for student
16 athletes.
17 Special Clauses:
18 None
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20 Be it resolved by the Legislature of the state of Utah:
21 WHEREAS, coaches are responsible for supporting and protecting their student athletes
22 and treating them with dignity;
23 WHEREAS, there is a power imbalance between coaches and student athletes in which
24 athletes do not have a significant voice;
25 WHEREAS, research shows that people and children perform better in positive, safe,
26 encouraging, and supportive environments;
27 WHEREAS, throwing objects, using obscene language, name-calling, threatening to
28 revoke athletic scholarships, supporting and encouraging eating disorders, and other actions
29 can constitute abuse;
30 WHEREAS, physical, verbal, or emotional abuse degrades student athletes, diminishes
31 student athletes' interest in sports, damages self-esteem, harms mental health, and impacts
32 academic performance; and
33 WHEREAS, student athletes fear retaliation and repercussions from speaking out
34 against abusive practices from coaches:
35 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah
36 recognizes the importance of protecting student athletes and condemns abusive coaching
37 practices in Utah schools.
38 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature encourages Utah schools to create
39 positive environments for student athletes by penalizing abusive coaching practices in school
40 sports.
41 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature encourages school sports teams to
42 incorporate social-emotional learning practices to support healthy relationships and mindsets.