SportsEngine, a division of NBC Sports Group, announced its acquisition of background screening service providers, National Center for Safety Initiatives, LLC. (NCSI) and Southeastern Security Consultants, Inc. (SSCI).
In combination with the current SportsEngine Verify background screening solution, the acquisitions will strengthen SportsEngine’s position as a provider of secure background screening for youth sports organizations, parks and recreation agencies and national sports governing bodies.
The acquisitions will also make SportsEngine the only company that performs background screening program that is endorsed by the National Council of Youth Sports.
“Providing a safe environment for athletes is a critical part of youth sports,” Justin Kaufenber, co-founder and CEO at SportsEngine, said in a statement. “SportsEngine has actively worked to promote youth sports safety, and with over seven million athletes using our platform, this is the right time for us to reinforce our commitment to these athletes and help ensure the safety of every young player.”
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NCSI provides risk management services to premier amateur sports organizations and has the mission to eradicate harm to youth and vulnerable populations in organization and communities.
“NCSI is thrilled to join the SportsEngine family,” Trish McGonnell-Sylvia, co-founder & CEO of NCSI, said in a statement. “We have always had one major goal — to protect children and vulnerable populations. SportsEngine’s leadership and reach in youth sports will significantly expand that mission and allow us, together, to make a significant and positive impact.”
SSCI services national governing bodies as well as more than 1,500 parks and recreation organizations across the United States. It’s client base has grown off the belief that youth sports background checks should be held to the same standards and expectations as a full employment checks.
“Our values are very closely aligned with SportsEngine, and together, we’ll be able to accelerate achievement of our goals,” SSCI president Randy Rodebaugh said in a statement. “Our shared passion for keeping kids safe in sport allows us to reach more communities and maintain a superior standard in background screening.”