I am ALL FOR screening - it should be required by evey school that has their name on a team, and every corporation that sponsors them. As an adult leader and volunteer I am also not a bit 'offended' by the requirement and would be concerned about those who oppose it.
I have worked with youth athelic leagues and had checks completed before I could coach.
My wife and I lead a CHURCH YOUTH CAMP and all of our volunteers (includeing us) are required to have a background check every two years. These are people who we have known for years and are church members.
We follow a very specific policy regarding being with groups of kids.
Programs such a this one (Robotics) require students and adults to work closely together, sometimes late hours and with few others around. A background check doesn't guarantee nothing will happen, but it can be an effective first level screen.
Don't fall for the "we've know them for years..." line. Read the papers
