When applying risk management in youth sport, which balance is emphasized?

• A. Striving for zero risk at all times.
• B. Minimizing harms while balancing safety with participation and development goals.
• C. Focusing only on cost savings.
• D. Disallowing participation of high-risk individuals.

Answer: (B)

The idea is to minimize harm while keeping safety in balance with opportunities for participation and growth. In youth sport, risk management involves identifying hazards, using proper equipment, ensuring qualified supervision, teaching safe practices, and applying rules that reduce injuries, all while still enabling kids to play, learn, and develop skills and confidence. Because some risk is inherent in sport, the aim is proportionate safeguards that protect participants without over‑restricting participation or development. The other options miss this balance: trying to eliminate all risk is impractical and would hinder learning and participation; focusing only on cost savings neglects safety; and excluding high‑risk individuals without appropriate supports undermines inclusion and fair access.