2.11 What about girls and women in sport?

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Two characters stood next to each other. One is a female coach. The other is a young female tennis player.

We know that boys and men certainly experience abuse, and that some abusers are women.

However, research suggests that in general in society:

• The majority of victims of sexual abuse are girls and women.
• Most abusers are men.

This reflects the power differences between men and women in many cultures. It drives inequalities, and nurtures discrimination – not least violence against women and girls. Many of these inequalities and associated risks are found in sport.

Organisations need to address the particular risks to women and girls in their sport. An important way to do this is by actively involving them in decision-making and providing opportunities for them to progress into leadership and coaching roles.