Volunteer Coaches (Beginner Level )

Volunteer Requirements & Safety Certifications

All volunteers at the Weequahic Park Sports Authority, Essex County Parks play a vital role in delivering a safe, positive, and development-focused experience for every child in our programs. To maintain the highest standards of youth protection, coaching quality, and organizational integrity, all volunteers must complete the following training, certifications, and screenings:

🔹 Mandatory Safety Certifications

Rutgers Youth Sports Safety Training

All volunteers must complete this state-recognized training, which covers injury prevention, managing safe practice environments, and understanding the physical and emotional needs of young athletes. This certification ensures volunteers are equipped to promote athlete well-being at all times.

SafeSport Certification

Volunteers are required to complete SafeSport training, which focuses on abuse prevention, misconduct reporting, and maintaining a safe, respectful environment for youth participants. This certification reinforces our zero‑tolerance policy for harassment, bullying, or unsafe behavior.

USA Football Certification

Volunteers working with football programs must complete USA Football’s coaching certification, which includes instruction on proper techniques, equipment safety, concussion awareness, and player development. This ensures our coaches teach the game safely and responsibly.

NFL FLAG Certification

As an official NFL FLAG partner, volunteers must complete league‑approved training that covers league rules, youth‑appropriate coaching strategies, and player-safety best practices. This certification helps us maintain the quality and consistency expected of NFL FLAG programs.

🔍 Background Checks

To protect every child enrolled in our programs, all volunteers must undergo a comprehensive background check prior to participating in any activities. This process includes:

Criminal history screening (state and federal databases)
Sex offender registry search
Identity verification
Annual renewal requirements to ensure continued safety compliance

This screening is a necessary safeguard and aligns with national standards for youth sports organizations.

Our Commitment to Youth Safety

By completing these certifications and screenings, volunteers help ensure that all programs operated by the Weequahic Park Sports Authority meet the highest standards of athlete safety, professionalism, and ethical conduct. Our goal is to provide every participant—regardless of age, background, or ability—with a safe, inclusive, and enriching sports experience.

Flag Football Coaches (Children Age Range 4- 13)

Registration closes on 12/31/2026 at 12:00 AM
Season Dates: 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026

$0.00

+ Register Now

Flag Football Coaches (Teens Age Range - 14- 18)

Registration closes on 12/31/2026 at 12:00 AM
Season Dates: 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026

$0.00

+ Register Now

7 on 7 Football Coaches (Teens Age 14-18)

Registration closes on 12/31/2026 at 12:00 AM
Season Dates: 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026

$0.00

+ Register Now

Website Manager

Sign Up Today!

Registration Listing

Volunteer Requirements & Safety Certifications

🔹 Mandatory Safety Certifications

Rutgers Youth Sports Safety Training

SafeSport Certification

USA Football Certification

NFL FLAG Certification

🔍 Background Checks

Our Commitment to Youth Safety

Flag Football Coaches (Children Age Range 4- 13)

Flag Football Coaches (Teens Age Range - 14- 18)

7 on 7 Football Coaches (Teens Age 14-18)

Weequahic Park Sports Authority

Site Resources