By Shelba Waldron - Director of Club Education and Outreach, USA Gymnastics
Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time.
When adults respond quickly and consistently to bullying behavior, they send the message that it is not acceptable.
Bullying in gymnastics can take a variety of forms. Common types of bullying include the following:
Ganging up on members of the team because they are more or less talented than someone else
Intimidating a gymnast so they will make a mistake. Often called "getting in their head."
Targeting someone in the bathrooms or locker rooms to isolate them and instill fear
Name calling, inappropriate sexual comments, racial comments, taunting
Spreading rumors
Cyberbullying or cyberstalking
What can you do?
Don't allow those who bully to make excuses such as "they need to lighten up."
Ensure that everyone understands the severity and consequences of bullying.
Review bullying prevention on a regular basis with staff, parents, and athletes.
Be aware of individuals that may be vulnerable to bullying such as children with disabilities, athletes who are new to the team, LGBTQIA+ or those perceived as LGBTQIA+, and those whose culture or ethnicity differs from the majority of other athletes.
Respond immediately upon being made aware that bullying in the gym and/or online has occurred.
