Creating a Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Youth in Sports

For LGBTQ+ youth, sports can be a powerful source of growth, connection, and empowerment—but only if teams and organizations commit to inclusion.

That commitment matters now more than ever. Across the U.S., lawmakers have introduced or passed record numbers of bills restricting transgender youth from participating in sports, while political rhetoric has fueled hostility toward LGBTQ+ kids. These realities make it urgent for coaches, teammates, parents, and organizations to actively create spaces that are safe, affirming, and rooted in respect.

Creating a Safe Space for LGBTQ+ Youth in Sport

One of the most effective ways to protect LGBTQ+ youth is through clear, inclusive policies. When anti-discrimination protections are written into codes of conduct, they give young athletes security even in places where state laws try to deny it. These policies should ban harassment or bullying based on sexual orientation or gender identity, spell out consequences for violations, and set expectations around inclusive language—like normalizing pronoun use.

Even something as simple as updating a handbook sends a signal: every athlete belongs here.

Education is equally important. Coaches and athletes often absorb the same misinformation fueling today’s anti-trans legislation. Training can help break that cycle, giving staff the tools to support LGBTQ+ athletes and building empathy among teammates. A workshop on pronouns, gender diversity, or respectful language might sound small, but it sets a culture that pushes back against the negativity many LGBTQ+ kids face elsewhere.

Language itself is powerful. Asking for pronouns in introductions, avoiding gendered phrases like “ladies and gentlemen,” and simply using “team” or “athletes” goes a long way in showing respect. For young athletes under fire from political debates that reduce them to arguments, hearing their identities recognized on their own team is a lifeline.

Just as important is building a culture of allyship among teammates. LGBTQ+ youth often decide whether to stay in a sport based on how peers treat them. Encouraging athletes to speak up when they hear homophobic or transphobic comments—“Hey, that’s not cool”—helps set the tone. Team-building activities that emphasize respect and communication also build trust, making it easier for LGBTQ+ athletes to feel like they belong.

Teams should also connect athletes to resources beyond the locker room. In states where inclusion is under attack, having access to organizations like The Trevor Project, GLSEN, or local LGBTQ+ centers can be crucial. Pride nights, awareness games, and visibility campaigns further normalize LGBTQ+ participation and show kids they aren’t alone.

Facilities matter too. Locker rooms and bathrooms are often where exclusion feels most dangerous. Whenever possible, offering gender-neutral options or private spaces allows athletes to choose where they feel safest. Even where new facilities aren’t possible, setting clear expectations for respect and privacy can make a huge difference.

Representation can’t be overlooked either. Highlighting out athletes—whether well-known professionals like Megan Rapinoe or local role models—gives LGBTQ+ youth something to aspire to. Celebrating events like Pride Month or Trans Day of Visibility reinforces that their identities are not just tolerated but valued.

Finally, the tone set by coaches and parents is critical. Their allyship can outweigh political hostility. Coaches should model inclusive language and zero tolerance for discrimination, while parents can show support by engaging with resources, attending events, and affirming the values of respect and acceptance. A preseason meeting where a coach affirms that the team supports LGBTQ+ youth can set the standard for the entire season.

Creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth in sports isn’t just about kindness—it’s about safety, opportunity, and the right to participate fully. With anti-trans bans targeting kids directly, it’s up to sports to serve as havens of support and visibility.

Checklist for Parents / Coaches / Captains: 

• Clear, inclusive policies: 

  • Put anti-discrimination protections in team codes of conduct 

  • Normalize pronoun use / chosen name or nickname usage 

  • Set expectations for respect at the start of the season (e.g., parent meetings, team pledges).

• Education & training: 

  • Equip coaches, staff, and athletes with tools to understand and support LGBTQ+ youth.

  • Mental health first aid, allyship trainings, implicit bias trainings, and leadership discussions are all helpful for staff and authorities 

• Welcoming verbiage: 

  • Above all, show respect in all communication.

  • Never be afraid to say “can you remind me your name/pronouns/title?” 

  • Celebrate awareness events like Pride Month or Trans Day of Visibility.

• Open communication policies:

  •  Being able to have honest conversations with your athletes, and for them to trust you to do so, is a critical foundation to being able to foster a welcoming environment for any young person in sports. 

  • Have discussion days, open up topics for team meals or after practices, and check out our discussion guides for more! 

  • Consistently affirm LGBTQ+ youth—your allyship can outweigh outside hostility.

• Resources, support, and mental health first aid:

  • Above all, as a parent or coach, take regular mental health first aid trainings so you can be the frontline of defense against discrimination, harassment, or adverse mental health effects.  

  • Share hotlines, local organizations, and LGBTQ+ events to connect athletes beyond the team.. 

• Facilities: 

  • Provide or advocate for gender-neutral facilities or private changing options.

  • Set clear codes of conduct for privacy, locker rooms spaces, etc.