Inspired by #WeRideTogether: Rethinking Coach–Athlete Relationships
Scrolling through #WeRideTogether’s feed recently, I came across a post that stopped me. It spoke about the relationship between coaches and athletes - not in terms of performance or medals, but through the lens of care, support, and respect. It really struck a chord. Because for so many of us, whether in equestrianism or any other sport, the bond with a coach can be life-shaping. It can build confidence, resilience, and trust. But if handled poorly, it can just as easily leave scars. That’s why what #WeRideTogether is doing matters so much. They are reframing how we look at coach–athlete dynamics, highlighting that at the heart of every strong relationship are values like respect, fairness, honesty, and trust. These aren’t “nice-to-haves” — they’re non-negotiables.
Why this matters for all of us
Too often, the sporting world has brushed over power imbalances. We celebrate achievements without always acknowledging the culture behind them. But the truth is, athletes thrive when they know they are safe, supported, and respected. When communication is open, boundaries are clear, and their best interests come first. It sounds simple, doesn’t it? Yet history tells us that silence, blurred lines, and misplaced priorities have left too many athletes vulnerable. That’s what #WeRideTogether is challenging — and it’s something every sporting community should be brave enough to look at too.
About #WeRideTogether
For those who don’t know them yet, #WeRideTogether was founded in 2021 to address sexual abuse and misconduct in sport. But their mission stretches further than prevention alone. They’re building resources, pledges, and education tools that help coaches, athletes, and parents understand what safe, healthy relationships look like — and how to call out what isn’t. They’ve already reached hundreds of thousands of athletes, coaches, and families, partnering with sports bodies to make safeguarding a lived reality, not just a written policy. Their ethos is simple but powerful: sport should be the safest place for growth, learning, and human connection.
Bringing it back to us
I think what resonates most with me is that this isn’t just about coaches “getting it right.” It’s about all of us — teammates, parents, organisers, supporters — recognising that we have a role to play. If we want sport to be a place where people grow, flourish, and feel safe to be themselves, then we can’t leave it to chance. We have to name the values we stand by, and live them out loud. Because at the end of the day, medals tarnish and records fall. But the way someone felt in your care? That stays with them forever. To learn more about the incredible work being done, visit weridetogether.today.
