Referee Risk Management
Each ENYYSA referee who is 18 years old or older must provide information that will be used to perform a
background check.
What is Risk Management?
Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association's risk management initiative is much more than background checks for
coaches, referees and volunteers. The principal aim is to provide a reasonable level of safety and security for
our 130,000 players while they are participating in soccer activities.
Background checks on
referees are a major focus for ENYYSA. Referees are now required to complete a Volunteer Disclosure Form
(generally on-line), and this information is used to conduct a background check. The results of the background
check are reviewed at the state level. This assures that the ENYYSA policy is administered fairly and
consistently across the state and that a referee's private information is kept confidential.
The specific
background check information is never shared with a league, club, or association even if a referee is denied
officiating privileges. In that case, the association is simply informed of the suspension/denial for risk
management concerns. Because of the sensitive communication between the state and the referee, all notifications
to the referee and all responses from the referee are to be in writing and sent to a private post office box.
Clearly the information requested on the Volunteer Disclosure Form is personal information. However, for
ENYYSA to be able to conduct a background check that reasonably assures accuracy and completeness, this
information is required.
It is important to note that while an individual referee may be asked to explain
an issue in their background, it does not mean they will be denied officiating privileges. It simply means
that the committee needs more information. ENYYSA is asking referees to cooperate and provide the information
or explanation requested in a timely manner. Generally, we want to make sure a referee does not have a criminal
record of violence or of endangering the welfare of a minor. However, there is other conduct that could be
relevant particularly when a referee is in contact with younger players. ENYYSA has limited resources and does
not have the capacity to do a high level of background investigation, but we are trying to eliminate persons
who should not be in positions of authority in children's games. Once a final decision is made, referees may
appeal the decision.
How to Provide the Information
Go to the ENY Soccer Referee website:
eny-soccer-referees.org
Under RISK MANAGEMENT BACKGROUND CHECK click, "this page".
At the bottom of the next page under REGISTRATION MECHANICS click, "here".
At the top of the next page click, "Login/Register"
then enter required login information. [OR]
If you're not in the system, you will need to click the link that says:
"Create An Account"
then enter required new account information and proceed.
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Referee Information
