An external evaluation of the safeguarding system of the U.S. Tennis Association has yielded 19 specific recommendations aimed at enhancing the organization’s ability to prevent abuse, especially instances of sexual misconduct, against players. The report called for increased accountability on the part of the USTA, with CEO and Executive Director Lew Sherr underscoring the urgency of implementing these recommendations.
Of particular concern is the prevention of misconduct, with seven recommendations focused on this issue. The report also suggested measures to prevent individuals known to have engaged in misconduct from accessing USTA facilities and events, including the dissemination of information about these individuals to parents and players. This measure seeks to alleviate concerns of known offenders continuing to engage in the sport, either as spectators or in other capacities. Furthermore, the report proposed broadening the number of individuals who are Safe Play Approved and receive SafeSport training, with a specific emphasis on parents who may be unaware of the ways coaches manipulate minor athletes and their parents.
Moreover, the review emphasized the necessity for increased staffing and resources for the USTA’s Safe Play Program to effectively implement the recommendations. Presently, the USTA has only three employees dedicated to the development and implementation of the Safe Play Program, with no specifically designated personnel at its three player development campuses solely focused on athlete safety.
The USTA’s response to the report has been affirmative, with the CEO and executive director expressing their firm commitment to promptly and thoroughly implementing the recommendations. This commitment follows a recent case in which a tennis player was awarded $9 million in damages due to the USTA’s failure to protect her from sexual abuse by a coach at one of its training centers.
In conclusion, the review has provided invaluable insights into the USTA’s safeguarding system and has made critical recommendations for enhancements. Adhering to these recommendations will significantly heighten player safety and establish a secure environment for all individuals involved in the sport of tennis.