How does the UCCMS treat sexual maltreatment, grooming and relationships with athletes?

Sexual Maltreatment (5.5) includes non-consensual touching of a sexual nature, forcing or coercing sexual acts, Criminal Code offences such as indecent exposure, voyeurism and non-consensual distribution of intimate images, and sexual harassment (unwelcome sexual jokes, remarks, gestures or images, or acts targeting a person's sexuality or gender identity). It can happen in person, online, by social media or through a third party. A Participant is presumed to know that a person is a Minor (under 19).

Power Imbalance: where there is a Power Imbalance, sexual acts or communications (electronic or otherwise) between Participants are prohibited (5.5.6). Once a coach-athlete relationship is established, a Power Imbalance is presumed throughout it, regardless of the athlete's age. If the relationship began while the athlete was a Minor, the presumption continues after it ends, until the athlete reaches 25. A presumption can be rebutted. A Power Imbalance may exist, but is not presumed, where an adult sexual or romantic relationship existed before the sport relationship began.

Grooming (5.6) is deliberate conduct that makes sexual maltreatment easier or less likely to be reported. It is often gradual, starting with subtle behaviour and boundary testing such as seemingly accidental touching.