4.0 Safe Environment – Athletics – Catholic Youth Ministry

4.1 Safe Environment Mandatory Requirements

4.1-1 “For the Sake of God’s Children“, or FSGC, is a program focused on the continuous development of a safe environment in our communities; the program has three major components:
- Safe Environments
- Conducting background checks for Church Personnel
- Ethical and Behavioral Standards for Church Personnel
4.1-2 All volunteer coaches, volunteer administrators, and local athletic personnel are subject to all requirements of the “For the Sake of God’s Children” program, regardless of implementations at the local parish or school level.
- 4.1-2.1 All volunteer coaches must complete VIRTUS Training every three years.
4.1-3 All volunteer coaches, volunteer administrators, and local athletic personnel should review FSGC regularly.
- 4.1-3.1 It is the responsibility of the volunteer participant to fulfill FSGC obligations.

4.2-1 As of 2026, an adult to player ratios must be in place, prior to the start of practicing, and must remain intact for the duration of the season.
- Two (2) Cleared Adults : 1-14 Youth Participants
- Three (3) Cleared Adults : 15-25 Youth Participants
- Four (4) Cleared Adults : 26-35 Youth Participants
- Five (5) Cleared Adults : 36-45 Youth Participants
- etc.
4.2-2 The local affiliated athletic association representative and head coach are responsible for all events meeting the accepted Adult:Player ratio.
- 4.2-2.1 In the event that an affiliated program, knowingly or unknowingly, places placeholder names or the ratio is not met and athletic programming continues (ie. practices, games, tournaments, etc), the program will be subject to disciplinary actions by the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington and CYM Sports.

4.3-1 The safeguarding of youth participants is the top priority of CYM Sports, their representatives, and the Diocese of Wilmington.
- 4.3-1.1 Local affiliated programs are mandated to follow all requirements of the Safe Environments Office and state law when it involves the safety of a child.
4.3-2 Volunteer Coaches must use proper judgement in consideration with their Volunteer Covenant Agreement.
- 4.3-2.1 Acceptable practices in the realm of youth athletics (communications, stretching, disciplinary exercises) may be inappropriate or in-violation of Safe Environment standards.

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