Oceania Rugby’s Participation and Pathway Manager, Tirani Uluinakauvadra, has emphasized the critical importance of prioritizing safeguarding in sports to combat abuse and create safer environments. His comments followed the TEAM UP Regional Safeguarding Workshop held at the Tanoa International Hotel. Uluinakauvadra pointed out that while many focus primarily on the game itself, it is essential to shift attention toward proactive safeguarding measures.
“Safeguarding is often overlooked because the main focus tends to be on the sport. However, considering the various ongoing issues, our priority should be to adopt a proactive stance rather than a reactive one,” he stated.
He underscored the alarming prevalence of abuse within sports, emphasizing the need for education and awareness among participants to better understand and access available support systems. “Abuse does happen in sports. The challenge lies in the often limited awareness and education regarding support systems that exist in different countries. We have significant work to do in this area,” Uluinakauvadra noted.
Addressing the responsibilities of sports administrators, he asserted that effective change must originate from leadership at the governance level. “Transformative actions are facilitated when they are endorsed by high-level leadership. It is essential for those in governance and administrative roles to advocate for and implement safe environments in sports,” he remarked.
The workshop served as a collaborative platform for athletes and sports administrators throughout the region to discuss and establish mechanisms for safeguarding in sports. Uluinakauvadra’s statements reflect Oceania Rugby’s determination to confront safeguarding challenges directly, aiming to ensure that sports remain a safe and nurturing space for all participants.
By prioritizing safeguarding, the sports community can foster an environment where participants feel secure and supported, ultimately enhancing the overall experience and integrity of the sport.
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