Volunteers are the lifeblood of most youth sports organizations. Having an organized and well thought out volunteer recruitment plan, training and appreciation strategy is critical for a positive experience and return rates.

First and foremost, YSOs should develop an application for the volunteer positions in order to vet candidates. Then you must determine who will verify the information listed on the application and when this will take place. You should also know ahead of time the answers to questions like, “Will I verify all of the information and references on the application?” and “If one part of the application is false, will that person be immediately eliminated?” It is also recommended that you find a company or service that provides background checks so you can be certain of the safety of the athletes.

Next, you should determine how and when volunteers would be trained. In addition to Positive Coaching Alliance workshops, will coaches and other volunteers receive other training, including sport specific or First Aid?

Finally, brainstorm a list detailing how you will publicize the positions. Parents, college students, and former coaches with older children are often the most likely candidates to volunteer. Many leagues include a portion on the participant registration form asking family members if they would be willing to coach, or be a scorekeeper or official. College students who played sports in high school, but do not play in college, may also want to get back involved in sports by coaching.

Use the PDF below as a volunteer application template and adjust as needed for volunteer recruitment success!