Leading the Way: Working with LGBT Athletes and Coaches

Although there has been progress in making sport more welcoming to those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans (transgender), two-spirited, queer or questioning (LGBTQ2S), much more work needs to be done. Coaches play a critical role in creating a sport environment that is safe and respectful for all, regardless of a participant’s ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

Leading the Way: Working with LGBTQ Athletes and Coaches is based on the lived experiences of Canadian athletes and coaches. The resource highlights current issues in Canadian sport, from playground to podium, and aims to make sport a more welcoming place for those who identify as LGBTQI2S. Leading the Way provides information to help coaches understand LBGTQphobia and the negative impact it has on everyone in their sport. It suggests best practices for creating a sport environment that is safe and respectful for all.

Executive Summary

I Support Positive Space

Other Resources

Check out resources on sex and gender diversity designed for the Canadian sport community by the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport;
Download ViaSport BC’s comprehensive PDF guide LGBTQ Resources for Sport Organizations;
Re-watch our webinar ‘Experts Connect: Creating Safe Environment for All Girls’, where we chatted with Christine Hsu about how we can create braver sport spaces where LGBTQI2S youth can be their full selves;
Share the LGBT Youthline with young people in your life so they know where they can access confidential, nonjudgmental, and informed peer support;
Read resources from Egale Canada, including mental health tips for LGBTQI2S folks, inclusive and affirming language guidelines, and tips on how to practice allyship.