Background Checks: Background Checks are mandatory for any coach or volunteer working directly with the youth. We need to screen coaches appropriately and have them pass an appropriate background check. It is our duty that the community trust the YMCA. Most of you received an email from Sterling today or will tomorrow or early next week. Volunteers are expected to be a Positive Role Model Do not be left alone one-on-one with a child. Stay in public locations, not private property, which shouldn’t be an issue with game or practice locations. Avoid going into a place where there aren’t other eyes on you. Don’t leave an area unsupervised. If they must go to the bathroom, send a partner. We don’t want someone waiting for them in the bathroom alone. Never transport a child in your vehicle. There is some liability in doing so. We do not discriminate based on religion, culture, background, etc. There is no use of Tobacco, vaping, drinking, drugs, etc. Be careful what you say to kids. They may interpret your words differently (e.g., laughing at inappropriate jokes). Child Abuse (YMCA Coach Orientation Manual): As a coach, you are expected to protect kids, and we report any potential abuse you may see. If you see anything, you can report it to me or one of the Executive Directors on this call. Physical Abuse, Mental Injury, Denial of Critical Care (food, shelter, clothing), Adequate Healthcare, Sexual Abuse, etc. Characteristics: bruises, welts, burns, bite marks, difficulty walking, etc. (physical) aggression, self-esteem, mood, etc. (behavior) If you see something, say something. Concussions: most occur without loss of consciousness How to recognize a concussion: dazed, stunned, confused, clumsy, can’t recall events/score/team May experience sensitivity, dizziness, nausea Remove the athlete from play. Inform the parents. Make sure the doctor approves the return to play.