The politics of everything aside, and as bmakj referenced, much (most? all?) of the abuses within the Catholic Church and other organizations could be avoided following the BSA-rule of "no one-on-one" contact. (2-deep leadership is more an safety requirement, the no one-on-one is specific to avoiding child abuse).As far as being a coach, my DD and I coached a 12u LL baseball team this past season. I made it known to the parents that I would not pick up or take any kids home if my DD was not with me. I would never be alone with their kids. That should be a staple!
It's obviously been covered, but a background check wouldn't have done a thing for this. I
I made it known to the parents that I would not pick up or take any kids home if my DD was not with me. I would never be alone with their kids. That should be a staple!
This just hit the news in central Fl. . Wow, my DD played against this team numerous times. Gotta have background checks.
Atl Vipers org coach. Travelball coach raped a player for years: article
Prayers for the player and family.
Do you know that's true? I agree that a background check isn't a guarantee, but someone who would violently rape and threaten like this has probably some markers in their background and/or their personality. I routinely see coaches who I wouldn't let my DD near simply because they give off a clear "I'm sketchy" vibe.
Not only do I avoid being alone with any kid, I work to avoid conversations where my DD, a parent, or another coach aren't in position to also hear what I'm saying. DD inadvertently left me alone with one of her friends a couple of weeks ago. I called her back to where we were, and later explained what her role is in shielding me from an accusation.
Be suspect of any coach that would allow themselves to be put in a situation where they are alone with a player.
I hate to say I am not overly surprised by this one in the least.
@riseball has it right. Proper parenting is a big deal. Make sure the org does do what they can check (we do a deep background which costs more, we interview potential coaches, get references and then monitor all our teams - I am not sure there is more we could legitimately do). If you get a bad feeling, listen to it. Make sure the AC are held to the same standard. Having the discussion with your kid on this and other incidents to make sure they know this is not normal or OK. Don't let your kid play with shady people because they 'know softball'.
The stories about some major org presidents/head coaches are WELL known locally - but parents let their kids play on their teams. It is #*@!#!(ed up. I wish it was just here, but when I travel to other areas of the country, the only thing that changes are the names of those involved.
Had one parent ask about one of these guys this season for their 14U DD - I walked them through the news articles, the story, had people verify it... and they still let their kid join the team. I mean WTF? The self delusion and justifications on why were unbelievable.
This is the right answer!! As a coach you are simply never alone with one of your players unless it is at the field in full view of everyone or anyone that can drive by a see, usually DD is in tow but if not and their ride is not there I'm calling parent, second number then if still no answer emergency contact.Background checks are no substitute for proper parenting. It is up to you to look out for your own. Never let your kid near any adult when it is only the two of them. No rides home, or to the game. Be suspect of any coach that would allow themselves to be put in a situation where they are alone with a player.