415 – Vetting and Training Youth Coaches: The Bar Has Been Raised

The rate of youth sports “incidents” (including negative behaviors, injuries, and various forms of abuse) has continued to rise, garnering national attention. Recent federal and state initiatives to improve coach vetting and training have resulted in mandates for specific action in an increasing number of youth sports organizations. Several segments of the youth sports market have made dramatic improvements in vetting and preparing youth coaches. In general, however, programs offered by recreational departments have made less progress. Participants in this session will have an opportunity to learn how the landscape has changed, how legislation (including the Safe Sport Act) affects them, and what actions they can take to address the growing risk faced in offering youth sports programs. A survey of participants will help drive this discussion, enabling participants to view how they “stack up” in these areas vs. other agencies.
Learning Outcomes:
- Identify the risks associated with ineffectively vetting and preparing youth coaches and understand how recent and planned legislation regarding youth coaches affects you.
- Identify three to five actions to take to improve your program and reduce your risk level.