PVYA Policies

BACKGROUND CHECKS
In order to better protect children that participate in our programs, PVYA implemented a mandatory background check policy for all staff and (adult) volunteers.  The information collected by the online system, along with the actual background check itself, will be handled confidentially by an outside vendor that specializes in background checks.  Results are reported to the Board’s Risk Management Committee for confidential review.  When required, Risk Management will contact a volunteer that has "failed" the screening and suspend him/her from coaching.  Volunteers that "fail" the screening are notified of the appeal process.  All volunteers need to click on the "KidSafe" tab and provide basic information that does not include social security number.

Parents will understand that PVYA and its activities are for the benefit of children and parents are required to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with creating a positive experience for children and their families.   As a Parent or Guardian of a child registered with PVYA, you are responsible for the conduct of your guests and other family members.  PVYA will not tolerate a parent yelling at or belittling a child, officials, coaches or other parents in any way.  Any and all violations of the Code of Conduct will result in sanctions and may lead to the immediate expulsion of that parent from an event and other PVYA activities.

As an adult and role model, children are influenced by my words and actions.  I agree to the following:

1.      I will remember that all children participate to have fun and that games are for youths, not adults.

2.      I will be a positive role model for children and will encourage them to reach the highest levels of sportsmanship and to play by the rules.

3.      I will be respectful and courteous of others, and will encourage players, officials and coaches through my positive actions and attitude.

4.      I will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike behavior with an official, coach, player or parent such as arguing, booing, taunting or using profane language or gestures.

5.      I will teach my child to treat other players, coaches and officials with respect regardless of age, race, creed, color, gender or ability.

6.      I will not be aggressive or hostile towards another individual and will teach my child to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence or argument.

7.      I will not ridicule or yell at my child or any other participant for making a mistake and will not hold a specific child responsible for losing a competition.

8.      I will respect and support the officials and coaches authority during games and will never argue with, question, discuss or confront officials or coaches.

9.      I will do my best to make youth sports fun for all children.

NOTE:  Any and all reported violations will be submitted to the Board of Directors for action which can include sanctions and or expulsion from PVYA sponsored events.  To file reports of misconduct please email [email protected].

LIGHTNING POLICY
Lightning is a dangerous phenomenon.  Athletic teams that practice and compete outdoors are at risk when the weather is inclement.  PVYA has developed the following lightning safety policy, which must be followed, to minimize the risk of injury from a lightning strike to its athletes, coaches, and fans.  This policy will be strictly enforced as the safety of the players is paramount.

Responsibility for Removing Athletes
The responsibility for removing athletes from practice or playing area in a timely manner lies with the head coach of the respective PVYA team(s). If the head coach is not present, an assistant coach will assume responsibility.  In the event that no coaches are present, the parents of the players will be responsible for the evacuation of the area.

Suspension of Play
If at any time lightning is seen or thunder is heard at the field, all play must be stopped immediately and all players, coaches, and fans need evacuate the area and seek shelter.  Play cannot continue until there has been a 30-minute waiting period after the last lightning flash is seen.  Even if weather conditions appear to have improved within the 30-minute window you must wait the required time.  Lightning can strike from as far as 10 miles away.

Evacuation Areas
At PVYA practice/game fields, the proper evacuation area is in your personal vehicle. There are no other safe areas!  At other facilities, please evacuate to your vehicles for the required 30-minute waiting period. If unable to reach safe shelter or a parked vehicle, persons should stay away from tall poles or trees, metal objects (i.e. fences, bleachers, etc.), standing pools of water, and open fields.

The onus of removing a team or individual from an athletic site in the event of lightning activity is on the coach supervising the activity. The safety of all team members rests with that coach. Coaches who do not comply with the above are subject to immediate disciplinary action by the PVYA Board of Directors.