Open, observable, and justifiable interactions and communications are strongly recommended to foster safety, enhance protection, and help reduce vulnerability of both the athlete and adult(s) in a position of trust.

Commonly referred to as the Rule of Two, it means that there will always be two screened and safety-trained adults with a participant, especially a minor athlete, when in a potentially vulnerable situation.

Vulnerable situations include but are not limited to:

• Closed doors meetings

• Medical treatments

• Travel to and from trainings, competitions, events, or activities

• Electronic communications

• Any training or competitive environments without a second coach or responsible adult present (in the gym, in the weight room, etc.)

“Open and Observable Environments” is Ontario Cycling’s version of Rule of Two. As in rule of two, this practice still involves making meaningful and concerted efforts to avoid situations where a person in authority (coach, official, staff member, IST member etc.) might be alone with an athlete and/or vulnerable individual.

The name refers to the fact that interactions between an individual and an individual who is in a position of trust/authority should be in an environment or space that is both “open” and “observable” to others.

For more information, please visit the Coaches of Ontario website.