Dear USAWP members, athletes, caregivers, community members, and guests,

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The health and safety of our athletes is, and must always be, our top priority. While USA Water Polo works to grow our sport and enhance the competitiveness of our national teams, it takes all of us to ensure that our athletes thrive in an environment and culture that promotes their greatest potential and optimal performance. That means that, if you see or suspect something that threatens our athletes’ well-being, you need to report it to us at report@usawaterpolo.org, or to the U.S. Center for SafeSport by visiting https://uscenterforsafesport.org/.

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As the sport’s governing body in the United States, USA Water Polo governs the rules of water polo, covering the play, procedures, equipment, and officiating of water polo. We cannot, however, be everywhere at all times. We need YOU to be our eyes and ears on the ground and part of our team to promote athlete safety.

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In the spirit of teamwork, we are providing detailed information regarding our relevant policies, rules, and procedures on this page. We want to hear from you if there are any questions, concerns or ideas. We thank you for sharing our passion for water polo.

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Sincerely,

Christopher Ramsey
CEO, USA Water Polo

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HOW TO REPORT A CONCERN TO BEND WATER POLO CLUB

If you would have a concern, such as bullying within the club,  or if you are unsure of what or how to report, please reach out to one of our listed contacts below or fill out the reporting google form. We can talk in person or on the phone if you prefer. Please err on the side of reporting any concern you may have.

Bend Water Polo Athlete Safety Officer - Heather Heraeus heather.heraeus@bendwaves.com 

Bend Waves Water Polo  Reporting Form

 

HOW TO REPORT TO SAFESPORT

Report here if you have experienced abuse or misconduct—or if you have reasonable suspicion of abuse or misconduct inflicted on, or by, someone in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement. This link directs you to a secure form at safesport-i.sight.com/portal.

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SAFESPORT HELPLINE: A 24/7 RESOURCE

If you need crisis intervention, referrals, or emotional support at any time, contact the 24-hour SafeSport Helpline at 866-200-0796.

If you are facing a life-threatening emergency, contact 911.

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Specialists for the Helpline (operated by RAINN) can provide confidential, one-on-one live support by phone, chat, or mobile app.

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WHAT CAN I REPORT TO SAFESPORT?

The Center accepts all reports affecting the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement of:

• Sexual Misconduct, including without limitation child sexual abuse and any misconduct that is reasonably related to an underlying allegation of Sexual Misconduct

• Criminal Charges or Dispositions involving Child Abuse or Sexual Misconduct

• Misconduct Related to Reporting, where the underlying allegation involves Child Abuse or Sexual Misconduct;

• Aiding and Abetting, when it relates to the Center’s process

• Misconduct Related to the Center’s Process

• Other Inappropriate Conduct, as defined herein

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The Center has exclusive jurisdiction to investigate and resolve reports affecting the Movement in the bulleted categories above.

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The Center also accepts reports of emotional and physical misconduct (including bullying, hazing, stalking, and harassment) within the Movement. Reports of emotional and physical misconduct can also be made directly to your sport’s national governing body (NGB). Also, reports of MAAPP violations can be made directly to your sport’s national governing body (NGB).

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IF YOU SUSPECT CHILD ABUSE OR NEGLECT:

Report it to your local authorities, in addition to (and before) reporting it to the Center. If you are a mandatory reporter, you are required by law to do so: know your state’s specific criteria.