The state of Pennsylvania has instituted laws for its schools, churches, and other organizations in an effort to ensure that our children are safe while participating in youth activities.
Clearances - SMSA MUST have a complete set of clearances on file to work with youth similar to the schools and other youth sports organizations. All of the below clearances may be applied for at no cost for volunteers.
If the Coach, Assistant Coach, Team Parent, Team Manager, Board Member, etc. is a volunteer, Background Checks ARE REQUIRED, even if a parent is present. The Required Checks are:
PA Child Abuse Check - https://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/home
PA State Check - https://epatch.pa.gov/home
Affidavit of Compliance OR FBI Background Check* - If you have lived in PA for the last 10 consecutive years, a signed affidavit can be submitted. If you have lived outside of PA in the last 10 years, then an FBI background check is required in place of an affidavit.
If you already have your clearances and they are current within the last 5 years, you may submit those and do not need to make new requests. If you need to request or renew your clearances, please do that as soon as possible, as it generally takes a few weeks to receive the results.