Key Facts
• July 12, 2025: Japan Athletics Federation released survey findings on covert filming.
• 555 coaches surveyed; 13.5% (75 coaches) reported incidents at competitions.
• 3.2% (18 coaches) noted incidents during practice sessions.
• Images were reportedly shared on social media and adult websites.
• 2024 survey targeted 6,300 certified coaches; 555 responses received.
• Majority of respondents were coaches for elementary, middle, and high school athletes.
• Examples include zoomed filming post-race and covert filming of athletes’ backsides.
• Post-incident actions: 34 reported to event organizers, 13 sought police help, 10 intervened directly.
Summary
A survey by the Japan Athletics Federation revealed that 13.5% of coaches reported covert sexual filming incidents involving young athletes during competitions, with 3.2% noting similar issues during practice. The survey, conducted in 2024, targeted 6,300 certified coaches, receiving 555 responses, primarily from those coaching elementary to high school students. Examples of incidents included zoomed filming of athletes post-race and covert filming of their backsides. Some images were reportedly shared on social media and adult websites, highlighting the severity of the issue. Post-incident responses varied, with some reporting to event organizers, others seeking police assistance, and a few addressing the situation directly.
