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"I Don't Know Where to Report What Happened": An Analytical Autoethnography on Developing a Protocol to Prevent Harassment and Abuse in Cheerleading.

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Title: "I Don't Know Where to Report What Happened": An Analytical Autoethnography on Developing a Protocol to Prevent Harassment and Abuse in Cheerleading.
Authors: Santana, William F.1 (AUTHOR) wf.santana@ufl.edu
Source: Sociology of Sport Journal. Jun2026, Vol. 43 Issue 2, p1-7. 7p.
Subject Terms: *Grievance procedures, Harassment, Autoethnography, Cheerleading, Crime prevention, Sports administration
Abstract: Athlete safety in sport remains a pressing concern amid rising cases of coach misconduct. In cheerleading—a discipline marked by close physical contact and limited regulatory oversight—weak governance structures and cultural barriers to reporting create conditions for long-term harm. This analytic autoethnographic study examines the development and implementation of a reporting protocol following multiple harassment allegations against a single coach in Brazilian university cheerleading. Drawing from the author's role as a federation director, the study explores how driving reform in a context lacking formal safeguarding mechanisms requires navigating institutional resistance, ethical dilemmas, and significant emotional labor. By situating personal experience within broader systemic challenges, it highlights the complexity of policy enforcement, power asymmetries, and the practical application of Safe Sport principles. The study ultimately advocates for sustainable, athlete-centered governance reforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Education Research Complete
Description
Abstract:Athlete safety in sport remains a pressing concern amid rising cases of coach misconduct. In cheerleading—a discipline marked by close physical contact and limited regulatory oversight—weak governance structures and cultural barriers to reporting create conditions for long-term harm. This analytic autoethnographic study examines the development and implementation of a reporting protocol following multiple harassment allegations against a single coach in Brazilian university cheerleading. Drawing from the author's role as a federation director, the study explores how driving reform in a context lacking formal safeguarding mechanisms requires navigating institutional resistance, ethical dilemmas, and significant emotional labor. By situating personal experience within broader systemic challenges, it highlights the complexity of policy enforcement, power asymmetries, and the practical application of Safe Sport principles. The study ultimately advocates for sustainable, athlete-centered governance reforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:07411235
DOI:10.1123/ssj.2024-0286