The purpose of this organization shall be to provide structure and oversight to the sponsored athletic programs and activities for the children of the parishes assigned to Region 17 of the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.  This includes:

o   providing a forum for communications between the representatives of the member parishes

o   making decisions on guidelines and policies for the Region 17 athletic programs within the scope of the policies set forth by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

o   enforcing established policies and procedures

o   approving financial expenditures and ensuring fiscal responsibility

o   empowering regional commissioners to organize and oversee regional athletic leagues

o    reviewing coach, player and spectator conduct and investigating complaints arising out of Region 17 CYO sponsored games and events

o   making decision on disputes which may arise

The charge to this board is to always keep the physical and emotional safety of the children in the program at the forefront of all decisions while providing a model of Christian behavior. Just as each parish’s CYO athletic program is part of their parish’s youth ministry outreach, accordingly, the Regional Athletic Board is charged with making decisions consistent with a youth ministry model.

The Board shall be guided by the mission statement of the Archdiocesan CYO Parish Youth Ministry Program.

Mission Statement

CYO Sports is one component of a parish’s comprehensive youth ministry program which enables the partnership of parents, coaches, priests, religious, teachers, and adult leaders to manage and support a sports program that allows youth to grow in their relationship with God and come to better understand themselves and the Catholic Faith. Such a program:

•employs healthy and enjoyable competition to promote the sharing of gospel values among athletes, parents, and coaches.  

•assists parish leadership in nourishing the emotional, spiritual, social and physical needs of young people.

•encourages young people to appreciate the gifts that they possess, and challenges them to share these gifts with their community

. •allows youth to witness the life of Christian discipleship in their coaches and adult leaders. •encourages youth to become responsible members of their faith community.