The Ontario and Canadian Government have put in place regulations that require background checks for individuals working with the Vulnerable Sector in Sports Organizations. To that end, the OFA is working diligently with several club head coaches to generate a balanced policy that meets government requirements and also allows for clubs to continue running their classes, camps, and competitions as before. Should the OFA be found non-compliant, however our funding can be cut – action must be taken and records compiled.
For the 2018-2019 season, the OFA is mandating that all Club Head Coaches undergo background checks. An Enhanced Police Information Check (E-PIC) can be done through the CFF partner Sterling Talent Solution, or through another satisfactory service provider. For more information on this partnership, please refer to the previous posting found here. For all other providers, please note that the E-PIC equivalent, which includes both a Criminal Record Check (CRC) and Local Police Information (LPI) is required at a minimum. Proof of active membership in the following associations is also sufficient:
Coaches Association of Canada (CAC)
Ontario College of Teachers (OCT)
Charted Professional Coaches (CHPC)
NEXUS
Documentation is to be provided electronically to the OFA for record-keeping, and updated every 3 years, by September 30th of the current season. For the 2018-2019 season, clubs are required to provide documentation by November 30th, 2018. Documents should be sent to web@fencingontario.ca as well as secretary@fencingontario.ca.
Starting in the 2019-2020 season, a check-box will also be added to the Club Renewal Form that indicates the club is aware of this requirement. The OFA will also send a reminder to all member clubs 15 days prior to the season deadline.
