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1 11-A , . q �e <br /> FF"To ensure the safety and well being of children in youth sports, individuals with regular, repetitive access <br /> or contact with children must complete the screening process. <br /> Background: <br /> Volunteers are crucial to the delivery of youth sports programs. Leagues have a responsibility to protect <br /> participants against unsafe individuals by implementing a comprehensive screening system. Screening <br /> is a process with many elements that an organization uses to protect participants. <br /> Rationale: <br /> Leagues must be selective when choosing volunteers since parents are entrusting their children to the <br /> adults running the youth sports league. Consistent and comprehensive screening strengthens the <br /> organization's protective shield. The time, energy and costs invested in screening are much less than <br /> what will be necessary if an incident, abuse or neglect occurs in the organization. <br /> Implementation: <br /> 1. Leagues must use appropriate and available screening techniques for selecting and assigning <br /> individuals to ensure that children are protected. <br /> 2. A written screening policy should be included in policies and procedures. <br /> 3. A written job description outlining the duties and responsibilities should be available for every <br /> position. <br /> 4. Job descriptions should be read, signed, dated and kept on file to ensure an understanding of the <br /> position and the league's expectations. <br /> 5. Volunteers should be required to complete and sign an application form. <br /> 6. Leagues should contact references provided by potential volunteers. <br /> 7. Leagues are encouraged to interview volunteers. <br /> 8. A criminal history background check should be conducted on all volunteers. <br /> 9. Leagues are encouraged to develop procedures and disqualifiers to determine what issues make a <br /> volunteer undesirable. <br /> National Standards for Youth Sports Copyright©2008 by NAYS <br />