Why Break the Bully Cycle Matters: Understanding Bullying in Youth Sport

BREAK THE BULLY CYCLE (BTBC) is a project co-funded by the European Union.

Bullying is a serious and often underestimated problem in youth sport. While sport is widely recognised as a powerful tool for inclusion, teamwork and personal growth, it can also become a place where negative dynamics, exclusion and intimidation take root.The project Break the Bully Cycle (BTBC) was created to respond to this challenge and to help sports clubs build safer, more respectful and more educational environments for young people.

Bullying in sport: a hidden problem

Many young athletes experience forms of bullying that go unnoticed or unaddressed.This may include:

• verbal insults or mocking

• social exclusion within the team

• pressure and humiliation disguised as “team jokes”

• manipulation or sabotage during training

• online harassment linked to team dynamics

According to international research—starting from the foundational work of Dan Olweus—bullying is defined as intentional, repeated and aggressive behaviour that involves an imbalance of power between the victim and the aggressor.This phenomenon does not spare sports clubs: competitive environments, rigid hierarchies and strong group identity can increase the risk of harmful behaviours.

A European perspective on the issue

Across Europe, data confirm that bullying affects a significant number of young people.Although the prevalence differs between countries, the trend is similar:young athletes often feel uncomfortable reporting bullying, and many coaches lack specific training to identify early warning signs.

In Italy, Spain and Bulgaria—the three countries involved in BTBC—sports clubs are essential community spaces. However, they frequently lack structured tools, shared guidelines and accessible training to prevent bullying effectively.

Why sport can be both risk and opportunity

Sport has enormous educational potential, but without adequate support it may reinforce harmful behaviours:

• pressure to perform can fuel conflicts

• strong team identities can lead to “insiders vs outsiders” dynamics

• competition can transform into aggression

• stereotypes and gender norms may amplify exclusion

At the same time, these very contexts—when guided properly—can teach empathy, cooperation, leadership, self-control and mutual respect.

BTBC aims to transform sport into a protective and empowering environment, where young people feel physically and emotionally safe.

Why a project like BTBC is needed

The project addresses several critical needs:

1. Young athletes often don’t recognise bullying

Many consider certain behaviours “normal team culture”. BTBC helps them identify harmful actions and speak up.

2. Coaches need practical tools

Most coaches are experts in sport, not in group psychology. BTBC provides them with simple, actionable strategies.

3. Sports clubs need shared guidelines

Many local associations work instinctively. The project offers a structured, replicable European framework.

4. Communities need awareness and support

Parents, volunteers and local stakeholders also play a key role. BTBC engages them with events, resources and communication campaigns.

How BTBC will make a difference

The project will:

• raise awareness through workshops and local activities

• provide training for coaches and youth workers

• develop a Safety & Inclusion Training Package

• deliver international and local meetings for sharing best practices

• support clubs with accessible tools, infographics and communication materials

• monitor progress through a structured evaluation plan

• spread results to inspire other clubs across Europe

A shared mission

Breaking the cycle of bullying in sport is possible only through collaboration.BTBC brings together organisations, professionals, communities and young people united by one goal: creating sports environments where every young person feels respected, included and supported.