January 16, 2023 – Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton’s initial intentions to be fully compliant with the requirements of the Abuse-Free Sport program by January 17 have not been realized due to a transition in leadership and onboarding new members on the Board of Directors which has resulted in a delay to fully implementing policy changes necessary to meet the program’s requirements. As a result, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton has extended its transition period to the Abuse- Free Sport program to January 31, 2023
“A safe training and competitive environment for everyone involved in our sport is Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton’s number one priority. We all have an important role to play in ensuring our community is inclusive, welcoming and safe for all to enjoy,” said Tara McNeil, President, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton. “The transition of leadership within our organization happened mid-season which required the majority of our focus on ensuring Canada’s bobsleigh and skeleton athletes had the resources and support they required to be able to train, compete and travel safely on their respective international circuits. While this has caused a delay in fully transitioning to the new safe sport program, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton remains fully committed to independent Abuse-Free Sport and accessing the services of the Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner (OSIC).”
During this extended transition period, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton will fully adopt the Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS), which it must do before it can become part of the Abuse-Free Sport program, and make the required policy changes.
Prior to January 31, 2023 Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton’s participants who have experienced or witnessed abuse will continue to have access to independent third-party services through the organization’s independent third party, Ashley Lattal of Lattal Law.
There is more information about the Abuse-Free Sport program HERE, on the OSIC HERE
Bobsleigh CANADA Skeleton is a non-profit organization and the national governing body for the sports of bobsleigh and skeleton in Canada. With the support of its valued corporate partners – Karbon and Joe Rocket Canada – along with the Government of Canada, Own the Podium and the Canadian Olympic Committee, Bobsleigh CANADA Skeleton develops Olympic and world champions. Please visit us at www.bobsleighcanadaskeleton.ca.