A Historical Perspective of Violence and Safeguarding in Sport

Safeguarding in sport did not emerge overnight — it is the result of long social, cultural, and political struggles.In this episode, we examine safeguarding in sport through a historical lens, exploring how modern sport became institutionalised, why violence was once accepted and even celebrated, and why safeguarding continues to face resistance today.The conversation traces the development of organised sport alongside industrialisation and globalisation, when shared rules became necessary as athletes began competing across regions and nations. From its early stages, sport followed two parallel paths: as commercial entertainment and as a tool for education, health, and social development — the foundation of the Olympic ideal.Historically, physical dominance, endurance of pain, and emotional toughness were valued as sporting virtues. Over time, changing social norms, legal accountability, and advances in medical knowledge led to efforts to reduce harm, including age and weight categories, limits on extreme aggression, and modern concussion protocols. Safeguarding gradually emerged from these shifts.The episode also examines why violence remains more tolerated in commercial sport, where aggression can be profitable and spectacular, and how this contributes to resistance against safeguarding initiatives. A key theme is the enduring link between masculinity and violence, and why safeguarding — with its emphasis on care, cooperation, and emotional safety — is often portrayed as incompatible with sport traditions.This episode features Dr Bruce Kidd, former Olympian, academic, and human rights advocate, who offers a realistic yet hopeful perspective on progress, fragility, and the need for continued accountability.This episode was recorded in August 2025.Further readings recommended by the guest in this episode: • “The long struggle for safe sport in Canada”, in Julie Stevens (Ed.), Safe Sport: Critical Issues and Practices (St. Catharine’s, Ontario: Centre for Sport Capacity, Brock University, Open Education Series, 2022). • “A Runner’s Journey”. Bruce Kidd. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2021. ____Trigger warning - This podcast includes references to interpersonal violence, including personal accounts of abuse, harassment, and harm experienced by children and adults. Some listeners may find this distressing. Please take care while listening, pause or step away if needed, and consider accessing appropriate support if these topics affect you.CreditsIdeation and hosting: SCORE Sport Think TankSound, music, and post-production: Ryan LobigsVisual identity: Natalia Plaza SánchezAny questions or comments? Get in touch and follow us on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.