Swimming assoc launches child protection scheme

The Hungarian Swimming Association (MUSZ) has launched a child protection programme that establishes a code of conduct for coaches, athletes and parents. MUSZ President Sandor Wladar told a press event on Monday that by introducing the scheme, the association would "make up for its past shortcomings" in the area of child protection. The alert system being implemented will be accessible by anyone, he said. Wladar said that though "a lot has changed" in coach-athlete-parent relationships since his days of competing, the body in charge of investigating reports of abuse will be "exhaustive" in every case. Those found guilty of child abuse "will face extremely severe penalties", he said.