Holding Coaches Accountable for Sexual Misconduct

When the Person Meant to Guide You Crosses the Line

A coach is supposed to push you to be better, stronger, and more confident—on and off the field. But when that role is abused through sexual misconduct, it breaks more than trust. It leaves behind shame, fear, and a painful silence that too many survivors carry for years.

At Horn Wright, LLP, our sexual abuse attorneys have helped survivors across New York take legal action against coaches who abused their power. If you, or someone close to you, experienced harm by a coach, accountability is possible. You don’t need to handle this alone.

Understanding What Counts as Sexual Misconduct

Sexual misconduct can take many forms, and it doesn’t always look like what people expect. In the context of athletics, it often involves blurred lines and a misuse of authority.

Some examples include:

• Inappropriate touching or groping during practice or training
• Sexual comments, jokes, or messages
• Unwanted physical contact passed off as “instruction”
• Pressure to meet outside of scheduled practice times
• Exploiting a power imbalance to manipulate or isolate an athlete

If something felt wrong, uncomfortable, or violating, it matters. And it deserves attention.

Why Coaches Must Be Held to a Higher Standard

Coaches often spend more time with athletes than other adults. They see them when they’re vulnerable, competitive, tired, or seeking approval. That kind of access and influence comes with serious responsibility.

When a coach uses that dynamic to exploit someone, it’s not a personal mistake. It’s a violation of professional and ethical duty.

New York law recognizes this. And so do many athletic governing bodies. Schools, leagues, and training centers are required to investigate credible allegations and take immediate action to protect athletes.

Legal Accountability: What Survivors Can Do

Holding a coach accountable doesn’t look the same for every survivor. For some, it’s about filing a police report. For others, it’s pursuing a civil case to force the truth into the open, and protect others.

Legal options may include:

• Civil lawsuits for damages related to abuse and trauma
• Criminal charges if the abuse meets the legal threshold
• Protective orders or court interventions

You don’t have to know which option is right for you. That’s what we’re here for. Our team can explain what’s available and support whatever path feels best.

Going Beyond the Individual: Institutional Responsibility

In many cases, coaches don’t act in isolation. The signs were there. Someone overlooked them. Or worse, someone actively covered for them.

That’s why survivors often pursue legal claims not just against the coach, but against the school, league, gym, or sports organization that failed to act.

These institutions may be liable if they:

• Ignored complaints or red flags
• Hired someone with a known history of misconduct
• Failed to supervise or enforce safety policies
• Delayed investigations to protect their image

Accountability must extend to the systems that made the abuse possible.

The Role of Licensing and Certification Boards

In New York, certain athletic professionals, like physical education instructors, athletic trainers, or coaches in school settings, may be licensed through state bodies.

If a coach holds a license, survivors or their representatives can file a complaint with the New York State Education Department’s Office of Professions. This can lead to an investigation, suspension, or even revocation of the coach’s credentials.

This step adds an extra layer of accountability and can prevent the coach from simply moving to a new team or town.

Barriers Survivors Often Face, and How to Overcome Them

We’ve seen firsthand how hard it can be to come forward. Survivors often worry no one will believe them. They may fear retaliation, especially if the coach is popular or respected. Sometimes, they doubt their own memory or minimize what happened.

Here’s what we want you to know:

• Your story is valid, no matter how long ago it happened
• You deserve to feel safe again
• There are legal protections in place to support you

At Horn Wright, LLP, we handle each case with confidentiality and care. You don’t have to make decisions right away. Just starting the conversation is a step forward.

Impact on the Athlete’s Life

Sexual misconduct by a coach doesn’t just hurt in the moment. It can ripple into every part of a survivor’s life, self-esteem, school performance, physical health, relationships, and even future athletic opportunities.

Holding someone accountable is not just about punishment. It’s about recognizing the impact and helping survivors access the support they need to heal.

This may include:

• Therapy or trauma recovery services
• Relocation or transfer to a safer team or school
• Financial compensation for emotional and material losses

In New York, the Office of Victim Services offers aid that covers counseling, medical expenses, and other costs related to abuse. We can help you apply for these resources as part of your case.

What It Means to Be Believed and Supported

Survivors often say that the hardest part wasn’t the abuse, it was what happened after. Being ignored. Questioned. Blamed.

That’s why response matters. When a survivor comes forward, they deserve to be:

• Listened to with compassion
• Protected from further harm
• Given real options, not just empty words

Coaches who abuse should not be quietly transferred. They should be investigated. If found responsible, they should be removed and reported.

Accountability Leads to Change

Every time a survivor holds a coach accountable, it sends a message. It tells the next generation of athletes that safety matters more than success. That no one, no matter how experienced, talented, or respected, is above the rules.

It also pushes schools, sports programs, and training facilities to put better systems in place. To train staff. To listen early. To act fast.

At Horn Wright, LLP, we stand with survivors who are ready to take that step. Whether you’re seeking justice, closure, or simply answers, we’ll be here to walk with you.