In the world of sports, maltreatment has no place. We are a collective of athletes,
advocates and allies who challenge the culture of sports to protect safety.
Challenging the Culture
Why we exist
The Movement
Before now, athlete safety has mostly focused on physical well-being, looking at injury prevention, safer gear and reducing performance enhancing substance use.
The priority has been keeping players on a level field and keeping them playing, but mental health and abuse safety for athletes remained largely on the back bench, despite disturbing reports of abuse, mental struggle, and suicide across sports disciplines.
As the conversation grew, the bravery of those openly speaking about abuse in sports sparked a movement to ensure sports would be a safe haven for all athletes.
Today, Courage First Athlete Helpline is the only national helpline for athlete abuse and mental well-being, and those who just want to make a difference for safer sports. We are committed to being there for athletes when they need us, and we want you to spread awareness about the movement!
We exist to dismantle abuse in sports.
Through the Courage First Athlete Helpline, we strive to break the cycle of abuse in sports and support athletes’ mental well-being.
Through this helpline, we offer immediate assistance to those impacted by abuse, providing access to licensed crisis counselors who are specially trained in handling the unique challenges athletes face. Whether it’s through a call, text, or chat, Courage First ensures that help is just a message away.
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE
YOU ARE NEVER ALONE
The way we see it
Our Vision and Mission
We champion mental and physical safety in sports, empowering participants and equipping communities to jump in and make change with us.
We envision a world where every athlete can reach their full potential and be free to play sports without the fear of abuse, where athletes are confident, happy, and healthy, where coaches foster an environment of encouragement, parents are actively involved, and communities advocate for their players.
We’ll accomplish this through the Courage First Athlete Helpline, a soft landing for athletes to share their story confidentially, without judgement. Through advocacy and outreach, we partner with national governing boards of sport, universities, K-12 schools, youth-facing organizations, community clubs, and professional teams. No one is alone in this fight. We’re here for you!
“I'm absolutely thrilled that it is there for athletes all across North America”
Carrie K.Founder of We Ride Together and Parent of Abuse Survivor
Athletes standing against abuse
Stand Strong
As an athlete, you’re trained to push through adversity, to rise above challenges, and to always give it your all. But when the challenge isn’t on the field, when it’s abuse, it can feel impossible to know where to turn. Speaking up, especially in the locker room, takes immense courage, and it’s okay to need support. Your mental well-being matters as much as your physical strength.
The Courage First Athlete Helpline is here to stand with you. We provide a safe, confidential space where athletes, coaches, and parents can find support in the face of abuse. Our helpline connects you directly with crisis counselors who understand the unique pressures athletes endure, offering guidance not just for the immediate issue, but also for restoring your mental resilience. Because strength comes from knowing when to reach out.
Behind Courage First is a team committed to helping you reclaim your power, your voice, and your well-being. You’re not alone in this fight, and we’re here to make sure you have the support you need, every step of the way. Take the courageous step to protect your mind, your future, and your freedom to thrive.