Bensheim Event Spotlights Child Protection in Sports Clubs
Bensheim hosted an important event on Tuesday, October 21, 2023, focused on child and youth protection in sports clubs. The #ANWURF information event, part of the 'Break Your Silence' campaign, drew around 250 attendees, including local dignitaries and sports club representatives. The event aimed to raise awareness and provide practical guidance on recognizing and preventing abuse in sports.
Dr. Markus Freff kicked off the event with an expert presentation on identifying abuse, neglect, and medical indicators. The audience included Bensheim’s mayor, Christine Klein, and Angelika Beckenbach, first deputy head of the Bergstraße district. The event was held at Bensheim’s Weststadt Hall and targeted sports clubs across Southern Hesse.
The day concluded with police experts sharing insights on findings, offender strategies, legal consequences, and preventive measures. Club executives, coaches, and volunteers were eager to learn and implement these recommendations. Romina Heßler, managing director of the Bensheim Flames women’s handball Bundesliga team, and Manfred Burkart, head of operations at the Southern Hesse Police Headquarters, jointly welcomed the participants.
Christine Klein emphasized the importance of protecting women, children, and young people, praising the prevention work done by sports clubs. Sports club leaders, due to their daily interaction with children and young people, hold a particular responsibility in preventing violence and sexual abuse in sports. Prevention was highlighted as a crucial factor in combating these issues, requiring close cooperation among all stakeholders. Amelie Berger, a Bensheim Flames player, shared a deeply moving account of psychological abuse by a former coach, underscoring the need for vigilance and support.
The #ANWURF information event in Bensheim successfully brought together local authorities, police, and sports club representatives to discuss and learn about child and youth protection in sports. The event emphasized the importance of prevention and close cooperation among stakeholders. With the 'Break Your Silence' campaign, Bensheim and Southern Hesse aim to create a safer environment for children and young people in sports clubs.
