The transformation of elite women’s gymnastics has changed not only who wins, but what is demanded of young athletes. Part 1 of a 4 part series based on Human Rights in Youth Sport by Paulo David From mature athleticism to miniaturisation Over the past half-century, elite women’s gymnastics has undergone a profound transformation. Before the…
What happens when children are taught that obedience, body size and medals matter more than their own well-being? Part 2 of a 4 part series based on Human Rights in Youth Sport by Paulo David When coaching becomes control Elite youth gymnastics can operate as a highly controlled environment in which coaches exercise extensive power…
Why the mistreatment of young gymnasts cannot be understood simply as a problem of individual coaches behaving badly. Part 3 of a 4 part series based on Human Rights in Youth Sport by Paulo David Who benefits from a child’s success? The exploitation of young gymnasts cannot be understood solely in terms of training practices…
If children’s rights are to mean anything in elite sport, they must shape the rules, governance and decisions that determine children’s lives. Part 4 of a 4 part series based on Human Rights in Youth Sport by Paulo David From safeguarding policies to enforceable rights The preceding articles have examined how the development of elite…