What is Safe Sport
Safe Sport is to ensure that all participants in sport – athletes, coaches, officials, families, and volunteers can take part in activities that are:
- Respectful – free from harassment, bullying, and discrimination.
- Safe – protecting participants from abuse or maltreatment.
- Ethical – promoting fair play, integrity, and accountability.
Why Safe Sport Matters
- It protects the physical and emotional well-being of participants.
- It ensures fair and positive experiences for everyone.
- It builds a trustworthy community where people feel confident and supported.
AEF’s Commitment
AEF is committed to upholding a respectful, safe, and ethical environment for its members, staff, volunteers, and board members. Our Board of Directors has approved a Safe Sport Policy Manual, and we continue to align with national and provincial standards as they evolve.
At this time, the Government of Alberta is preparing to roll out provincial Safe Sport policies and processes. Once released, AEF will update our policy manual and implement changes as required to ensure full alignment with these standards.
Safe Sport Training – FREE
Creating a culture where everyone can thrive is a shared responsibility. Safe Sport Training was developed by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) to help anyone involved in sport — whether you have direct contact with athletes or work in the background — to promote physical, psychological, and social health, in line with the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport. This Safe Sport Training is FREE and will help anyone involved identify and prevent situations of maltreatment. Together, we can make sport and recreation safe for everyone.
Reporting is critical in creating and maintaining a safe environment for all participants.
How to Report a Safe Sport Concern
As Safe Sport is evolving in Alberta, all complaints regarding Safe Sport violations must currently be directed to Equestrian Canada, the National Sport Organization. These matters are handled separately through their established processes. For information on submitting a complaint, visit Equestrian Canada.
For matters outside of Safe Sport, visit our Complaints & General Concerns section.