Safe Sport - is everyone's responsibility

Offering a safe environment to all our athletes and to all the various individuals who contribute to the sport of water polo - whether they are coaches, officials, volunteers, staff, parents or fans/spectators – is an absolute priority for the MWPA. 

We are all responsible for maintaining and enhancing the dignity and self-esteem of participants and other individuals by:

• Demonstrating respect to individuals regardless of body type, physical characteristics, athletic ability, age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, socioeconomic status, gender identity, gender expression, sex, and sexual orientation.

• Focusing comments or criticism appropriately and avoiding public criticism of athletes, coaches, officials, organizers, volunteers, employees, or participants.

• Consistently demonstrating a spirit of sportsmanship, sport leadership, and ethical conduct.

• Acting, when appropriate, to correct or prevent unjustly discriminatory practices.

• Consistently treating individuals fairly and reasonably.

• Ensuring adherence to the rules of water polo and the spirit of those rules.

As of 2024: one parent/guardian/caregiver for each athlete must be certified in Respect in Sport (RIS) to ensure a positive and respectful environment for all!  

Sport Manitoba: Respect in Sport