Enrolled Copy H.J.R. 7
1 JOINT RESOLUTION CONDEMNING ABUSIVE COACHING PRACTICES
2024 GENERAL SESSION
STATE OF UTAH
Chief Sponsor: Sahara Hayes Senate Sponsor: Michael K. McKell
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3 LONG TITLE
4 General Description:
5 This resolution condemns abusive coaching practices in Utah schools.
6 Highlighted Provisions:
7 This resolution:
8 ▸ recognizes a power imbalance between a coach and student athletes;
9 ▸ condemns abusive coaching practices from coaches; and
10 ▸ calls on Utah schools to provide safe and supportive environments for student athletes.
11 Other Special Clauses:
12 None
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14 Be it resolved by the Legislature of the state of Utah:
15 WHEREAS, coaches are responsible for supporting and protecting their student athletes and
16 treating them with dignity;
17 WHEREAS, there is a power imbalance between coaches and student athletes in which
18 athletes do not have a significant voice;
19 WHEREAS, research shows that people and children perform better in positive, safe,
20 encouraging, and supportive environments;
21 WHEREAS, throwing objects, using obscene language, name-calling, threatening to revoke
22 athletic scholarships, supporting and encouraging eating disorders, and other actions can
23 constitute abuse;
24 WHEREAS, physical, verbal, or emotional abuse degrades student athletes, diminishes
25 student athletes' interest in sports, damages self-esteem, harms mental health, and impacts
26 academic performance; and
27 WHEREAS, student athletes fear retaliation and repercussions from speaking out against
28 abusive practices from coaches:
 H.J.R. 7 Enrolled Copy
29 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah
30 recognizes the importance of protecting student athletes and condemns abusive coaching
31 practices in Utah schools.
32 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature encourages Utah schools to create
33 positive environments for student athletes by penalizing abusive coaching practices in school
34 sports.
35 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature encourages school sports teams to
36 incorporate practices to support healthy relationships and mindsets.
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