Step By Step Process for LAFA Volunteers
By law, all coaches and assistants in all divisions must obtain the below clearances in order to work with the children. If you desire to be an assistant, it is recommended that you start the clearance process immediately in order to be ready for the season. This will be strictly enforced during the entire season. No exceptions will be made. If you do not have clearances, you will not be permitted on the field.
Keep in mind that obtaining a clearance does not guarantee a coaching spot. This is up to the head coach of your child who may or may not have enough returning assistants already, but most teams need some help each year. It does, however, give you a leg up.
- The required clearances are now free. Use the below links to access the applications. If you or your assistants have not started this process, you need to do so now. The time for the clearances to process has been up to three weeks but may be even longer now that they are free.Child Welfare
http://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwisCriminal Background
http://epatch.state.pa.us/Home.jsp.If you have not been a PA resident for 10 years, you also need to get FBI clearance. This clearance is not free:https://pacogentid.3m.com/
index_dpwNew.htm
- Click this link to download Disclosure Statement for Volunteers. This form needs to be signed in the presence of an LAFA board member.
- Once you receive responses to the 2 or 3 background checks, you must submit a copy of each to one of the LAFA League Officers. LAFA will provide you with a set of credentials indicating that you have been cleared to participate in league activities and the expiration dates of those clearances. Clearances that have been obtained after 7-1-15 are valid for 60 months.
***It is recommended that you apply for these clearances as soon as possible as it may take several weeks to get your clearances back from the various agencies. Remember, beginning July 1, 2015, by Pennsylvania law you may not participate as a volunteer with LAFA in any capacity unless you have obtained these clearances and background checks listed above.***
USA Football
LAFA is committed to evolving and growing the sport of football for our West Chester youth. For the second year, we are participating in the USA Football Heads Up program which is setting the standards and best practices to advance coach and player development as well as safety in our game. To complete your required certification to coach in LAFA please click on Get Certified.
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