Esplugues Volleyball Club condemns sexist abuse toward youth players

The Esplugues Volleyball Club, based in Baix Llobregat, reacted strongly after a category C youth match on November 20. During the encounter, disturbing sexist comments were directed at the female players from CV Esplugues and from AE Vallirana as well. The match took place at the Sant Idelfons Municipal Sports Hall in Cornellà de Llobregat. While the game unfolded, players from AE Vallirana awaited their own futsal fixture on the same court, but the focus remained on the hostile behavior directed at the young women on the court. At one point, members of the crew entered the track area and shouted remarks that included scolding, harassment, and sexualized taunts aimed at youth players. The Esplugues team, featuring athletes aged 14 to 17, reported that they endured repeated sexist remarks during the game, accompanied by gestures with explicit sexual connotations. Expressions such as statements about bending over or implying sexual intent were among the comments heard during the match. The incident also drew attention to a Down Syndrome player who was subjected to taunts telling her to look at her ears, followed by unsolicited boasts about what others could do. It was a troubling moment that highlighted the vulnerability of young athletes in competitive settings. According to the club, the uncomfortable atmosphere persisted throughout the game, and the comments intensified rather than subsiding. Coaches and players alike expressed visible discomfort and fatigue in response to the taunts, with the coach describing the fear and anxiety that arose among the team and the supporters in the stands. The players reported feeling distressed and emotionally unsettled as the verbal abuse continued, underscoring a broader impact on their well-being and performance. In response to the episode, CV Esplugues announced that they would seek accountability for the insults and pledged to support the affected athletes. The club also confirmed its commitment to providing guidance, emotional support, and access to psychological care for players who experience such attacks. The incident prompted official action from the town hall of Esplugues, which issued a public statement condemning macho behavior and reiterating its stance in favor of a just and equitable society for all athletes, regardless of gender or physical or mental condition. The council also affirmed its readiness to cooperate with CV Esplugues to ensure that the necessary resources and measures are in place to protect players in the future. This episode has spurred conversations about the lived experiences of young female athletes and has underscored the importance of robust anti harassment policies, clear reporting channels, and timely interventions to safeguard the emotional and physical safety of players on all sides. The community now looks to continued leadership from sports organizations, local authorities, coaches, and families to foster an environment where competitive sport can be pursued without fear or prejudice. The commitment to action remains clear: there is zero tolerance for sexist abuse, and there is a shared responsibility to create spaces where young talents can excel with confidence and dignity [Source: CV Esplugues press release].