As previously announced, the insurance company for NYSSRA-Nordic is requiring annual background screenings for individuals serving as coaches or volunteers in a position of authority over &/or with frequent contact with athletes. We have just been informed by NCSI that the background screenings completed for NYSSRA-Nordic include an automatic re-screening the following year with no action needed by the coach or volunteer.

Obviously, this is a favorable development as it means less work for coaches and volunteers and less expense for NYSSRA-Nordic. Please note that there is no change to the current procedure. Clubs should still submit the names of all such coaches & volunteers with their sanctioning paperwork or as needed during the season. NYSSRA-Nordic will then determine if that person needs to take any action regarding a background screening.

Also, as a reminder coaches need to be members of NYSSRA-Nordic and can take advantage of a reduced membership rate if they are not active racers or already part of a family membership. It would be helpful if the coaches would renew their membership each year prior to submitting their names to NYSSRA-Nordic.

Any questions regarding background screening requirements & procedures can be directed to Insurance Committee Chairperson Sean Halligan at sxhhoops@yahoo.com.