Rowing Canada Aviron has spearheaded a huge initiative to ensure all participants in the sport of rowing are able to thrive in a safe and welcoming environment free of abuse, maltreatment, harassment and discrimination. 

Since 2018, RCA has been investing in awareness and education related to Safe Sport. This started with the Every Coach Certified (ECC) initiative. In addition to safety, ethics and athlete development training, anyone working with athletes is required to submit to a background screening process and adhere to the Rule of Two. The final implementation of RCA’s Safe Sport initiative will be the adoption by all rowing clubs this spring (including ILRC) of this all inclusive policy. 

By implementing a Pan-Canadian Safe Sport Policy Manual RCA can ensure the standards of behaviour and conduct, as well as procedures, breaches and sanctions are consistent across the country and at all levels.

To aid any individual experiencing any form of maltreatment RCA directs members to the Canadian Sport Helpline. It is a confidential listening and referral service monitored by live operators from 8 am to 8 pm Eastern time, 7 days a week. In addition to the Canadian Sport Helpline, RCA has enlisted the services of an Independent Third Party, Ilan Yampolsky of ITPsport. Ilan is a highly trained and skilled professional equipped to deal with Safe Sport issues with sensitivity and in confidence. He is able to review, advise and refer issues for further action independently of RCA. Anyone wishing to connect with Ilan, can contact him through the Canadian Sport Helpline or directly by phone, text or email.

Details of the Safe Sport Policy are available through links on our website.