Athletes rely on their coaches for influence, authority, and to advance their skills. Most coaches are hardworking and honest people who do a great job at helping students improve themselves. Our Sacramento, CA coach sexual assault lawyer is aware that some of these people are simply predators who use their position to take advantage of others. At Kellogg & Van Aken LLP, we know that victims of sexual abuse by coaches often suffer from deep emotional wounds and mental trauma that leaves them unable to maintain fulfilling and trusting relationships with others. Those who have become victims of abuse, or are parents of the victim, are advised to contact our Attorney Kelly D. Van Aken and Mikayla G. Kellogg for support.
Signs Of Coach Sexual Abuse
Predatory coaches can be skilled at how they manipulate student athletes and parents into giving them their trust before violating that trust. It can be difficult to determine if sexual abuse has happened, particularly if the coach has coerced the athletes into being silent. Parents are encouraged to keep an eye out on how their child behaves when it comes to the sport or sudden changes to their personality or health. But as our knowledgeable coach sexual assault attorney explains, there are common warning signs that can be missed:
- The coach often separates the athlete from their parents, fellow athletes, or other coaches and teachers
- The coach gives one athlete special attention compared to other teammates
- The coach gives gifts to one athlete but not the others
- The coach schedules meetings in secret with one athlete
- The athlete suddenly quits when they were formerly enthusiastic
- The athlete shows hesitation to participate in the sport, which is uncharacteristic for them
- The athlete shows abrupt changes to their appetite, academic performance, sleep habits, personality, or behavior
- The athlete shows signs of anxiety or depression, especially in regards to the sports activity or coach
The Role Of Schools In Abuse
Schools have the duty to keep everyone safe and they must perform thorough background checks with all teachers and coaches who may come into contact with students and athletes. They must investigate any claims of sexual abuse immediately and report it to relevant authorities. However, some schools not only under-report incidents of abuse, but they may actually attempt to evade responsibility and try to cover it up so they are not held liable. Please contact our team right away if you feel that the school in question has not responded to a claim as they should.
Kellogg & Van Aken LLP
Attorneys Kelly D. Van Aken and Mikayla G. Kellogg at Kellogg & Van Aken LLP understand the sensitive nature of sexual abuse claims. The victim may be suffering emotionally and in need of extra support. Athletes, students, and all people should never have to experience the trauma of sexual assault. Please let our Sacramento coach sexual assault attorney intervene today so we can hold the offending person responsible to the fullest extent of the law for their abusive actions. We are here for you.
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