This work investigates the systemic nature of sexual exploitation and abuse within the sporting environment, establishing a foundational theoretical framework for understanding these occurrences. Celia Brackenridge, a recognized expert in the sociology of sport, synthesizes extensive research and policy analysis to examine how institutional structures often facilitate or ignore abusive behaviors. The book argues that sport is not an isolated sphere of play but a social construct susceptible to the same power imbalances and predatory dynamics found in broader society.

Experts in sports sociology and child protection frequently cite this text as a foundational resource for understanding the intersection of institutional power and athlete vulnerability. Readers often note the academic rigor and the clear, systematic approach the author takes in addressing a sensitive and complex subject.