Leaving No Stone Unturned: The Importance of Background Checks in Youth Sports and a Competitive Analysis of Service Providers

Abstract

Volunteering and civic engagement are the cornerstones of a strong nation, however what happens when volunteers weaken the nation by posing as a threat to youth athletes? When it comes to providing a safe environment for youth sports, there is no such thing as being too careful. Youth sports in today’s society contribute greatly to the socialization of children. Sports participation is a major factor in the development of most American children. Many coaches have a heavy influence on the lives of those they coach and are viewed as role models. Therefore, it is important to do all that can be done in order to make sure that those volunteering and coaching youth sports are best fit for the job and are not negatively impacting the lives of those who are looking up to them. In order to ensure that negative experiences are avoided, youth coaches and volunteers should undergo background checks. Background screening is a safety net that aids organizations in screening individuals that may threaten the safety of communities, children, and organizations. Providing children with an environment that is safe and fun is incredibly important for a positive experience, therefore background checks are a critical element in order to ensure this.