Background Check Initiative

Youth sports organizations like BBSA must comply with House Bill 435/Act 153 Certification of Clearances for Volunteers. It is mandatory that you complete and submit these clearances prior to the start of the season. 

Compliance with HB 435 consists of each Manager and Coach obtaining the following:
Criminal History Record and Child Abuse Clearance

Any parent that participates in practices or games must obtain these clearances. If you currently have the above certifications for your employment, please send scanned copies or photos of the certifications to Tee Rectenwald at [email protected]. All documents will be kept confidential. 

Option 1: FREE Volunteer Clearance
To get your PA criminal history for free, follow the instructions at the PATCH website: http://epatch.state.pa.us/. Be sure to click the yellow button for New Record Check (Volunteer Only.)

To get your PA Child Abuse Clearance for free, follow the instructions at PA's Child Welfare Portal: http://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/home. Again, be sure to follow the instructions for the free volunteer clearance.

Option 2: BBSA/Averity Clearance - $20 Cost
To use the BBSA/Averity background check process, use the link below.  You must have a Social Security number, valid driver's license, and valid credit card to cover teh $20 application fee. All information will be kept confidential and in no way will BBSA release any background information to parents, players, other coaches, etc. Any Manager/Coach that receives a "pass" grade will be cleared for five (5) years. Any Manager/Coach that receives a "fail" grade may request to see his/her background check information. 

Protect Youth Sports - BBSA Background Screen Portal