Background Checks
For referees & Umpires
When it comes to youth sports, the integrity of the game and the safety of our kids are everything. That’s exactly why Coach Background doesn’t just stop with coaches. We’re here to make sure the referees and umpires—the ones calling the shots in your children’s baseball, basketball, football, soccer games, and more—are as reliable and trustworthy as they come.
Rigorous Screening for Complete Peace of Mind
With Coach Background, we put referees and umpires through the same rigorous screening process as coaches.
We dig deep into both national and local records to catch any potential red flags, from criminal records to any issues in their officiating history. It’s all about ensuring those in charge of the game can be trusted to keep it safe and fair.
Fast, Easy & Reliable
We know the sports calendar waits for no one, and you need your officiating crew ready to go. That’s why Coach Background is all about speed and simplicity, without cutting corners on security.
Our system is designed to deliver detailed, easy-to-understand reports quickly, so you can make informed decisions without unnecessary delays.
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Empowerment Through Information
At Coach Background, we believe informed choices are the best choices. That’s why our reports are not only comprehensive but also clear and straightforward. This gives you the power to handpick referees and umpires who understand the game and share your commitment to safety and fairness.
Your Ally for a Safer Game
Think of Coach Background as more than a service; we’re your partner in keeping youth sports safe and honorable. We’re constantly refining our methods to stay ahead of the game, ensuring that referees and umpires contribute positively to a secure and equitable sporting environment. With us, you’re not just choosing a background check service; you’re choosing a commitment to the highest standards of sportsmanship.
Step Up to Fairer, Safer Youth Sports
Are you ready to ensure that every call in the game is as fair and safe as can be? By teaming up with Coach Background, you’re joining a community dedicated to excellence in youth sports. Together, we can ensure that the spirit of competition remains healthy, joyous, and above all, fair. Welcome to Coach Background, where trust is the foundation of every game.


Why Use Our App for Referee Background Checks
Coach Background is the go-to app for organizations that need to run background checks on their employees, including referees of youth sports.
Easy-to-use background search tools
Streamline paperwork and the screening process
Create custom applications
Low cost and instant results
There is no better way to get background checks for youth sport and city league referees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of referees or officiating programs require background checks?
Any organization that places officials in charge of youth sporting events should make background checks a standard part of its screening process. This includes referees, umpires, and other officials working across sports such as baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, volleyball, wrestling, hockey, lacrosse, swimming, and track and field. Youth sports leagues, officiating associations, parks and recreation departments, and school athletic programs across the country rely on Coach Background to help screen officials before they are assigned to games or events.
How does the referee background check process work?
Referees and umpires submit their information through a simple online application. Coach Background then runs the search across national and local databases, and your organization receives a clear, easy-to-read report showing any red flags, such as criminal history or other concerning records.
How long does it take to get results?
Most reports are returned quickly, often within minutes to a couple of business days depending on the depth of search required. Our system is built for speed so leagues and officiating associations aren’t stuck waiting during busy scheduling periods.
What shows up on a referee background check?
Reports can include criminal history, sex offender registry checks, and other relevant records pulled from national and local databases. Each report is designed to give your organization a clear picture of any potential safety or integrity concerns.
Who pays for the background check?
This depends on how your organization sets things up. Many leagues have referees or umpires pay for their own report at checkout during registration, while others cover the cost as part of onboarding officiating staff. Coach Background supports both models.
Is Coach Background only for youth sports leagues?
No. While youth sports leagues are our core focus, cities, counties, parks and recreation departments, officiating associations, and even companies with multi-state staffing needs use Coach Background for employee and official screening.
How often should referees be re-screened?
Many organizations run a new background check every season or once a year, since criminal history can change over time. Coach Background makes it easy to set up recurring or periodic re-checks so your records stay current.
Is my organization's information kept secure?
Yes. Coach Background is built with secure data handling in mind, so both referees submitting information and organizations reviewing reports can trust the process.
How much does a background check cost?
Pricing depends on your organization type and expected volume of reports per year. Request a quote and we’ll walk you through options that fit your league or officiating association.
How do we get started?
Simply request a quote or have your referees and umpires apply directly through our secure online portal. We’ll get your organization set up quickly so you can start screening officials right away.