The Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM) is a call to action for sport organizations, parents, and coaches to enact responsible coaching
across Canada – on and off the field of play.
Established by the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) and the CCES, the RCM invites all coaches and sport organizations to learn and apply consistent safety principles.
It includes three distinct pillars, each serving to create a sport environment that is Safe, Smart, and Secure. Each pillar provides crucial elements, resources, and processes to follow.
The RCM Pillars
Rule of Two
A safe sport environment ensures all coaches, staff, and administrators apply the Rule of Two. When following the Rule of Two, all interactions and communications with participants are in open, observable, and justifiable settings, and two responsible adults are present. There may be exceptions in emergency situations. Check with your sport organization as to how the Rule of Two is enforced.
Background Screening
A secure sport environment is one where all coaches and sport organization leaders are screened to meet requirements to be involved in sport. Screening includes comprehensive background and reference checks, interviews, plus police checks, to be completed at regular intervals.
Ethics Training
A smart sport environment ensures coaches are trained and have the confidence and skills needed to effectively manage challenging situations. Lifelong learning through numerous training modules help aids coaches in expanding their knowledge and awareness of important topics throughout their career.
Take the RCM Pledge
The RCM encourages sport organizations across Canada to pledge their commitment to implement these fundamental safety principles at every level of sport. The first step is to take the pledge! Use the search tool to see if your organization is a RCM Champion.
RCM Resources
RCM materials are available to help you promote the movement and raise awareness with other organizations within your network. Access the RCM toolkit, resources, templates, and branding materials from the Coaching Association of Canada's website at coach.ca/rcm-toolkit.
Policy Templates
Support your organization’s safe sport efforts by implementing key policies and ensure that they are kept are current and enforced. Use any of the following CAC-provided templates for this.
- Travel Policy
- Code of Conduct
- Screening Policy
- Electronic Communications and Social Media Use
- Rule of Two
To learn more about how to protect participants and coaches while fostering a positive sport culture, visit the Responsible Coaching Movement website.