A recent study conducted by the GIKAFIT research group at the University of the Basque Country (EHU) has drawn attention to the possibility that certain behaviors in youth sports, which may not be seen as abuse at first glance, could actually be part of sexual violence. The research, published in the European Journal for Sport and Society, surveyed participants who had experienced various types of behavior from their coaches. Around 20% of the participants reported having experienced behaviors of a sexual nature, such as being kissed on the lips, receiving expressions of sexual interest, or being directly propositioned for sexual relations. The study found that while over 80% of participants clearly recognized explicitly sexualized behaviors—like proposing sexual relations in exchange for privileges or staring at an athlete’s body—as forms of sexual violence, other behaviors were often overlooked. These included actions such as hugging, asking about leisure time, offering individual attention, or creating opportunities for one-on-one interaction. Many participants did not classify these as sexual violence, even though survivors’ testimonies indicated that such behaviors were often part of a broader process of abuse. The research explains that these less explicit behaviors can be part of a "grooming" process, a term used to describe how abusers gradually build trust and manipulate victims. This process often involves repeated, personalized interactions, creating a sense of secrecy, and exploiting existing power imbalances—such as the authority a coach holds over an athlete. The study highlights the importance of educating athletes to recognize potentially inappropriate behaviors and training sports professionals to understand personal boundaries and avoid situations that could lead to abuse. The study emphasizes that it does not aim to discourage the natural closeness that can exist in sports environments or to unfairly suspect coaches. Instead, it calls for creating safe spaces where relationships are transparent and where athletes feel comfortable reporting concerns. The researchers stress the need for strong reporting mechanisms and a culture that prioritizes the well-being and safety of all participants in sports.