TYFA
Head Coach
Handbook
Head Coach Handbook
Table of Contents
Preface ............................................................................................................................................................ 3
Terminology & Symbols ............................................................................................................................. 4
Section 1. Pre-Game..................................................................................................................................... 5
Section 2. Game Day ..................................................................................................................................23
Section 3. Heath & Safety .........................................................................................................................45
Section 4. Protests & Challenges ...........................................................................................................57
Preface
The Head Coach Handbook explains the unique rules to TYFA for things that are administrative in nature.
Not being familiar with the contents of this rulebook will not be accepted as an excuse or a defense for
violations. TYFA expects its participants to comply with the letter, spirit and intent of each of its policies,
procedures and rules regardless of technicalities, loopholes and ambiguous language. TYFA’s
interpretation of any non-NCAA policy, procedure or rule is the official and final interpretation.
Terminology & Symbols
Used when the topic is important.
Used when we highly recommend something shouldn’t be done.
Real Important
Badged Athlete or Volunteer is defined as a person who is certified by TYFA.
Ejected (Level ?) is an ejection from the game and lists the level of disciplinary action that will be attached.
Eligible Coach is a volunteer who has been certified by TYFA and is not currently on any holds. Is both eligible and
legal.
Forfeits
Class A = Pre-Game and carries the most disciplinary action
Class B = Game Time and carries disciplinary action
Class C = Game Time with no disciplinary action
“ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players is the minimum number of players who’ve been certified by TYFA and
are not currently on any holds that must be on the field to avoid a forfeit.
[7 for Flag, 9 for Midgets, Rookies and Juniors, 11 for Seniors].
TYFA Participants are Badged Volunteers, Badged Athletes, Referees and Black Shirts.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Table of Contents
Policy 1. Volunteer Dress Code ............................................................................................................... 6
Policy 2. Tackle – Athlete Dress Code.................................................................................................... 9
Policy 3. Flag – Athlete Dress Code.......................................................................................................12
Policy 4. Tackle – Accessories ............................................................................................................... 14
Topic 1. Casts ......................................................................................................................................................................................................14
Topic 2. Cleats.................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Topic 3. Eye Wear ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 14
Topic 4. Gloves .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 14
Topic 5. Hand Warmers ................................................................................................................................................................................ 14
Topic 6. Helmet Stickers ................................................................................................................................................................................14
Topic 7. Jewelry ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 14
Topic 8. Mouth guards ................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Topic 9. Towels ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 15
Topic 10. Facemasks ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Topic 11. Footballs ...........................................................................................................................................................................................15
Topic 12. Jerseys............................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Policy 5. Flag – Accessories .....................................................................................................................17
Topic 1. Casts ......................................................................................................................................................................................................17
Topic 2. Cleats.................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Topic 3. Eye Wear ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Topic 4. Flag Football Helmets ................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Topic 5. Gloves .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 17
Topic 6. Hand Warmers ................................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Topic 7. Jewelry ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Topic 8. Mouth guards ................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Topic 9. Towels ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 18
Topic 10. Footballs ...........................................................................................................................................................................................18
Topic 11. Flag Football Flag Sets ............................................................................................................................................................... 18
Topic 12. Jerseys............................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Policy 6. Tackle – Seasonal & Game Day Check Lists .....................................................................20
Policy 7. Flag – Seasonal & Game Day Check Lists ..........................................................................22
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 1 – Volunteer Dress Code
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 6
TERMINOLOGY
 TYFA Event – an official TYFA scheduled event.
 Approved Neutral Colors – Black, White, Grey and shades of Brown
A volunteer’s appearance greatly affects how others perceive them. A volunteer who looks professional is more
readily accepted than one who conveys a sloppy or unprofessional appearance. With this in mind, TYFA requires
ALL certified volunteers that will be at any TYFA Event to look PROFESSIONAL as they not only represent
themselves, but their organization, their team and TYFA as well. While it is inevitable that there will be differences
of opinion as to compliance, the final determination will be TYFA’s.
Non-certified volunteers that are utilized to hold the chains and down marker must be appropriately dressed. The
same uniformity as certified volunteers is not required, but they must be dressed youth appropriate as they persons
are visible to the public and the athletes and could be an embarrassment and/or distraction.
For practices TYFA would request that organizations police themselves keeping in mind the need for appropriate
attire.
THE VOLUNTEER DRESS CODE
A volunteer’s attire must first and foremost, be in the Organization’s Color Scheme or Approved Neutral Color
with the following specifications.
TOP WEAR
A. TYPE




Tops do not have to be POLO; they can be T-Shirts. But regardless, must have sleeves.
Tops do not have to be tucked in.
The {Styles} of Tops does not have to be the same.
Compression shirts may be worn under a Top within Color Scheme or Neutral, but not as a Top.
 PROHIBITED:
Bare midriff top, spaghetti strap top, tank top, muscle shirt, “Wife-Beater”, low neckline, suggestive
clothing, tight fitting, overly loose and see-through garments.
B. COLOR
 The Football sideline has 4 categories of certified volunteers as
displayed in the image. Each category MAY wear a different color
Top from the other categories, but everyone within a category
must be wearing the same. Multiple colors is not required.
 Multi-colored Tops is not considered uniform with solid Tops.
 Exact shades is not required but the shades should be pretty close.
HEADWEAR
 If a hat or visor is worn it must be forward facing.
 Do-rags, bandanas, hard plastic, metal or similar head covering is PROHIBITED.
FOOTWEAR
 Currently there is no restriction on the color of footwear.
 Bare feet, thong flip-flops, Crocs, shower shoes, Sliders, slippers or anything similar in nature is
PROHIBITED.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 1 – Volunteer Dress Code
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 7
BOTTOM WEAR
A. TYPE
 Pants and Shorts and may have cargo pockets.
 Shorts may be no shorter than 4” above the knee. Skirts and Skorts must be at least knee high.
 Sidelines may wear a combination of Pants, Shorts, Shirts and Skorts and be uniformed.
 Leggings, tights, spandex and compression may be worn under a Bottom within Color Scheme or
Neutral, but not as a Bottom.
 PROHIBITED:
Basketball Shorts and sagging pants (pockets below the buttocks).
B. COLOR
 The head coach sets the color of the Bottoms and ALL sideline
volunteers must have that color as displayed in the image.
 Multi-colored Bottoms do not count as uniformed with those
wearing solid colors.
 Exact shades is not required but the shades should be pretty close.
GROOMING
 PROHIBITED:
o Unconventional hair styles (spiked, Mohawk, etc.) or tasteless colored hair (bright green etc.).
o Displaying tattoos that promote sex, violence, reflect gang activity, and/or are considered to be
offensive and inflammatory (unless covered up), face or body paint.
MISCELLANEOUS
 If there are logos on attire they need to be youth and sport appropriate.
 “Jean” material of any kind or color is PROHIBITED.
 ID Badges are part of the uniform and should be visibly displayed.
 Jewelry is fine as long as it isn’t tasteless piercing and is youth appropriate.
 Sponsor advertising on attire is allowed as long as it is tasteful and youth appropriate.
EXCEPTIONS TO THE VOLUNTEER DRESS CODE
ADMINISTRATIVE WAIVER
Requests for exceptions to the Dress Code Policy (Administrative Waivers) MUST be sent to [email protected] or
the request will not be reviewed. This request must be sent in by one of the organization’s approved (Board Level)
points of contact prior to the event. If this waiver is granted the participant in need must have the approved
Administrative Waiver with them at all TYFA Events where they would normally be in violation. It is not TYFA’s
responsibility to have copies.
WORK ATTIRE
TYFA understands that there are times that people may be working during games and they have slipped away to
coach and then they have to run back to work. With this in mind, TYFA will allow Military, Fire, Police and EMT
personnel to wear their work uniform on the sidelines instead of the organization’s approved uniform when
necessary. This exception does not cover UPS, FedEx, US Postal Service or any other jobs. No waiver is required.
COLD WEATHER ATTIRE
TYFA understands that during the cold weather months additional clothing must be worn to stay warm. Volunteers
are permitted to wear jackets, pullovers, and sweatshirts but they still must adhere to the Organization’s Color
Scheme or the Approved Neutral Colors. Cold weather undergarments must be hidden or must be in the
Organization’s Color Scheme or the Approved Neutral Colors. In addition, these garments, if logoed, must be sport
appropriate. No waiver is required.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 1 – Volunteer Dress Code
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 8
ADJUSTMENTS TO THE VOLUNTEER DRESS CODE
ATTIRE AT PLAYOFFS, ALL STAR GAMES & CHEER COMPETITIONS
At the State Semi-Final games, the State Championships, the All Star games and any possible representation of TYFA
in any national events, ALL Badged Volunteers will be REQUIRED to wear PANTS (I.e. cotton twill, Docker Style).
This applies to ALL Badged Volunteers participating in the State Cheer Competition and any regional or national
appearances on behalf of TYFA for Cheer.
MEMORIALIZING & SOLIDARITY SITUATIONS
TYFA, like the UIL, NCAA and NFL, supports Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) month by allowing participants to
wear pink items to show support. This is not to say that other cancers or illnesses are less important.
A. The Tops and Bottoms must remain in the team color scheme during the whole season.
C.
Breast Cancer Awareness
 All accessories can be pink for the entire month of October.
D. Memorializing/Solidarity Awareness
Organizations must submit a request to [email protected] asking to wear something special for the season
or a specific timeframe only if it would violate something within the Dress Code policy.
 All accessories may be a specific color for the entire requested time period.
D. Participants should not be forced to participate and it is NOT a violation of the uniformity policy if all
participants on a team do not participate.
TYFA MANDATORY MEETINGS
Organization representatives must dress appropriately per the TYFA Dress Code except that the jean rule is relaxed.
ENFORCEMENT OF THE DRESS CODE
REFEREES
Referees will not get involved in Dress Code violation complaints by anyone except a TYFA Black Shirt.
REPORTING DRESS CODE VIOLATION
Organizations wanting to bring violations to TYFA’s attention should submit pictures to [email protected] and
TYFA will address them with fines after the fact. Games cannot be protested for Dress Code violations.
BLACK SHIRT
TYFA Black Shirts randomly monitoring games or at TYFA hosted playoffs, will enforce the Dress Code without
regard to what had been previously allowed throughout the season. If a TYFA Black Shirt finds a volunteer violation
on the field or sideline they will bring it to the attention of the volunteer during a stoppage in the game.
1.
2.
3.
If the volunteer refuses or is unable to take care of the issue, they will be asked to leave. If they leave with
little to no issue, there will be no further action taken.
If they refuse to leave the issue will be brought to the head coaches’ attention. If the head coach handles
the issue, there will be no further action taken. If the head coach refuses to handle the issue the White Hat
will be asked to EJECT both the head coach and volunteer from the game. An ejection by the White Hat will
bring additional disciplinary action.
If either volunteer refuses to leave, the game will continue and the volunteer which refused to leave will be
charged with a (Level IV Violation).
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 1 – Volunteer Dress Code
4.
5.
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 9
If the volunteer agreed to leave but by leaving there would not be the required minimum of volunteer
supervision, the volunteer can stay but will be charged with a (Level I Violation).
If at any point in the discussion a volunteer’s behavior becomes belligerent, they will be charged with a
(Level IV Violation).
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 2 – Tackle – Athlete Dress Code
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 9
TERMINOLOGY
 TYFA Event = Official TYFA scheduled events.
 Approved Neutral Colors – Black, White, Grey and shades of Brown
 “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players = is the minimum number of players who’ve been certified by TYFA
and are not currently on any holds that must be on the field to avoid a forfeit.
[9 for Midgets, Rookies and Juniors, 11 for Seniors].
TYFA requires ALL certified athletes that will be at any TYFA Event to be properly attired and therefore it is a head
coaches’ responsibility to make sure their team’s athletes are in compliance. While it is inevitable that there will be
differences of opinion as to compliance, the final determination will be TYFA’s.
THE ATHLETE DRESS CODE
An athlete’s attire must be in their Organization’s Color Scheme or a TYFA Approved Neutral Color. Each team
within an organization can be their own color (within the organization’s color scheme), but each player within a
team must be the same.
Example: An organization is Purple, Gold and White. The Rookies could have a Purple jersey, the
Juniors could have a Gold jersey. But, each player within the Juniors must be in Gold.
HEADWEAR
 Each player’s Helmet and facemask must be of the same color with their teammates but may be of different
styles.
 Helmets, facemasks, chinstraps and skull caps (if worn) must be in the Team Color Scheme or an Approved
Neutral Color.
 Do-Rags and bandanas are prohibited.
TOP WEAR
 Tackle players must be in an Official Football Jersey.
 Tops must be of the same color, but may be of different styles.
 Tops must be in the Team Color Scheme or an Approved Neutral Color.
 Tops must be numbered.
 Tops with and without names does not violate uniformity policy.
 Tackle players must wear an Official Shoulder Pad.
BOTTOM WEAR
 Tackle players must be in an Official Football Pant.
 Bottoms must be of the same color, but may be of different styles.
 Bottoms must be in the Team Color Scheme or an Approved Neutral Color.
 Pads at least ½ inch thick must be worn (Hip, Butt, Thigh and Knee) by tackle players.
 Compression undergarments with built in pads is allowable as long as pads are at least ½ inch thick.
FOOTWEAR
 Currently there is no restriction on the color of footwear.
 Socks are required and must be visible; must be of one color or a Sock Color Scheme.
 Socks can be up, down or a combination.
 Spats are allowed. Not all players have to wear them. Must be in Team Color Scheme or an Approved
Neutral Color.
GROOMING
 Unconventional hair styles (spiked, Mohawk, etc.) or tasteless colored hair (bright green etc.) is
PROHIBITED.
 Body or Face paint is prohibited.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 2 – Tackle – Athlete Dress Code
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 10
MISCELLANEOUS
 If there are logos on attire they need to be youth and sport appropriate.
 Jewelry is prohibited if it is loose and hanging and can be pulled.
 Sponsor advertising on attire is allowed as long as it is tasteful and youth appropriate.
 Hard metal or any other hard substance on clothing or person is prohibited.
 Adhesive material, paint, grease or any other slippery substance applied to equipment or on their person,
clothing or attachments that affect the ball or an opponent is prohibited.
 Body or helmet cameras are prohibited.
EXCEPTIONS TO THE ATHLETE DRESS CODE
ADMINISTRATIVE WAIVER
Requests for exceptions to the Dress Code Policy (Administrative Waivers) MUST be sent to [email protected]
prior to the event. The head coach must have the Administrative Waiver(s) with them at all TYFA Events where
they would normally be in violation. It is not TYFA’s responsibility to have copies.
COLD WEATHER ATTIRE
Players may use hand warmers, wear sweatshirts, gloves and compression attire. Players are prohibited from
wearing hooded sweatshirts though.
MEMORIALIZING & SOLIDARITY SITUATIONS
TYFA, like the UIL, NCAA and NFL, supports Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) month by allowing participants to
wear pink items to show support. This is not to say that other cancers or illnesses are less important.
A. The helmet (including facemask), jersey, pants (including belts) and socks must remain in the Team Color
Scheme during the whole season.
B. Breast Cancer Awareness
 All accessories can be pink for the entire month of October.
C.
Memorializing/Solidarity Awareness
Organizations must submit a request to [email protected] asking to wear something special for the season
or a specific timeframe only if it would violate something within the Dress Code policy.
 All accessories may be a specific color for the entire requested time period.
D. Participants should not be forced to participate and it is NOT a violation of the uniformity policy if all
participants on a team do not participate.
ENFORCEMENT OF THE DRESS CODE
REFEREES
Referees will not get involved in Dress Code violation complaints by anyone except a TYFA Black Shirt.
REPORTING DRESS CODE VIOLATION
Organizations wanting to bring violations to TYFA’s attention should submit pictures to [email protected] and
TYFA will address them with fines after the fact. Games cannot be protested for Dress Code violations.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 2 – Tackle – Athlete Dress Code
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 11
BLACK SHIRTS
TYFA Black Shirts randomly monitoring games or at TYFA hosted playoffs, will enforce the Dress Code without
regard to what had been previously allowed throughout the season. If a TYFA Black Shirt finds a player violation on
the field or sideline, they will bring it to the attention of the head coach during a stoppage in the game.
 If the issue cannot be fixed, the player is ineligible to play but may stay on the sideline minus their
equipment. If the removal of the player brings a team under the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible
players, timeouts will automatically be used if available or the team will be penalized: Delay of Game
(LOS/5) and the player will be attended to for the length of a normal timeout. If the player is not available
to play after that time, the player may stay in the game but the head coach will be charged with a (Level I
Violation).
 If the head coach refuses to address the issue or refuses to “bench” the player if required, the game will
continue but the head coach will be charged with a (Level II Violation). If at any point in the discussion
their behavior turns inappropriate, they will be charged with a (Level IV Violation) instead.
 If at any point in the discussion a volunteer’s behavior becomes belligerent, they will be charged with a
(Level IV Violation).
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 3 – Flag – Athlete Dress Code
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 12
TERMINOLOGY
 TYFA Event = Official TYFA scheduled events.
 Approved Neutral Color = Black, White, Grey and shades of Brown
 “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players = is the minimum number of players who’ve been certified by TYFA
and are not currently on any holds that must be on the field to avoid a forfeit.
[7 for Flag].
TYFA requires ALL certified athletes that will be at any TYFA Event to be properly attired and therefore it is a head
coaches’ responsibility to make sure their team’s athletes are in compliance. While it is inevitable that there will be
differences of opinion as to compliance, the final determination will be TYFA’s.
THE ATHLETE DRESS CODE
An athlete’s attire must be in their Organization’s Color Scheme or a TYFA Approved Neutral Color. Each team
within an organization can be their own color (within the organization’s color scheme), but each player within a
team must be the same.
Example: An organization is Purple, Gold and White. The Rookies could have a Purple jersey, the
Juniors could have a Gold jersey. But, each player within the Juniors must be in Gold.
HEADWEAR
 Do-Rags and bandanas are prohibited.
TOP WEAR
 Flag players can wear T-Shirts.
 Tops must be of the same color, but may be of different styles.
 Tops must be in the Team Color Scheme or an Approved Neutral Color.
 Tops must be numbered.
 Tops with and without names does not violate uniformity policy.
BOTTOM WEAR
 Flag players may wear shorts.
 Bottoms must be of the same color, but may be of different styles.
 Bottoms must be in the Team Color Scheme or an Approved Neutral Color.
FOOTWEAR
 Currently there is no restriction on the color of footwear.
 Socks are required and must be visible; must be of one color or a Sock Color Scheme.
 Socks can be up, down or a combination.
 Spats are allowed. Not all players have to wear them. Must be in Team Color Scheme or an Approved
Neutral Color.
GROOMING
 Unconventional hair styles (spiked, Mohawk, etc.) or tasteless colored hair (bright green etc.) is
PROHIBITED.
 Body or Face paint is prohibited.
MISCELLANEOUS
 If there are logos on attire they need to be youth and sport appropriate.
 Jewelry is prohibited if it is loose and hanging and can be pulled.
 Sponsor advertising on attire is allowed as long as it is tasteful and youth appropriate.
 Hard metal or any other hard substance on clothing or person is prohibited.
 Adhesive material, paint, grease or any other slippery substance applied to equipment or on their person,
clothing or attachments that affect the ball or an opponent is prohibited.
 Body cameras are prohibited.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 3 – Flag – Athlete Dress Code
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 13
EXCEPTIONS TO THE ATHLETE DRESS CODE
ADMINISTRATIVE WAIVER
Requests for exceptions to the Dress Code Policy (Administrative Waivers) MUST be sent to [email protected]
prior to the event. The head coach must have the Administrative Waiver(s) with them at all TYFA Events where
they would normally be in violation. It is not TYFA’s responsibility to have copies.
COLD WEATHER ATTIRE
Players may use hand warmers, wear sweatshirts, gloves and compression attire. Players are prohibited from
wearing hooded sweatshirts though.
MEMORIALIZING & SOLIDARITY SITUATIONS
TYFA, like the UIL, NCAA and NFL, supports Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) month by allowing participants to
wear pink items to show support. This is not to say that other cancers or illnesses are less important.
A. The jersey, pants (including belts) and socks must remain in the Team Color Scheme during the whole season.
B. Breast Cancer Awareness
 All accessories can be pink for the entire month of October.
C.
Memorializing/Solidarity Awareness
Organizations must submit a request to [email protected] asking to wear something special for the season
or a specific timeframe only if it would violate something within the Dress Code policy.
 All accessories may be a specific color for the entire requested time period.
D. Participants should not be forced to participate and it is NOT a violation of the uniformity policy if all
participants on a team do not participate.
ENFORCEMENT OF THE DRESS CODE
REFEREES
Referees will not get involved in Dress Code violation complaints by anyone except a TYFA Black Shirt.
REPORTING DRESS CODE VIOLATION
Organizations wanting to bring violations to TYFA’s attention should submit pictures to [email protected] and
TYFA will address them with fines after the fact. Games cannot be protested for Dress Code violations.
BLACK SHIRTS
TYFA Black Shirts randomly monitoring games or at TYFA hosted playoffs, will enforce the Dress Code without
regard to what had been previously allowed throughout the season. If a TYFA Black Shirt finds a player violation on
the field or sideline, they will bring it to the attention of the head coach during a stoppage in the game.
 If the issue cannot be fixed, the player is ineligible to play but may stay on the sideline minus their
equipment. If the removal of the player brings a team under the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible
players, timeouts will automatically be used if available or the team will be penalized: Delay of Game
(LOS/5) and the player will be attended to for the length of a normal timeout. If the player is not available
to play after that time, the player may stay in the game but the head coach will be charged with a (Level I
Violation).
 If the head coach refuses to address the issue or refuses to “bench” the player if required, the game will
continue but the head coach will be charged with a (Level II Violation). If at any point in the discussion
their behavior turns inappropriate, they will be charged with a (Level IV Violation) instead.
 If at any point in the discussion a volunteer’s behavior becomes belligerent, they will be charged with a
(Level IV Violation).
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 4 – Tackle – Accessories & Equipment
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 14
TERMINOLOGY
 Approved Neutral Color = Black, White, Grey and shades of Brown
 “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players = is the minimum number of players who’ve been certified by TYFA
and are not currently on any holds that must be on the field to avoid a forfeit.
[9 for Midgets, Rookies and Juniors, 11 for Seniors].
TOPIC 1. CASTS
Tackle players may have casts only if:
 The cast is completely wrapped in foam or some type of padding; and
 The cast is on an arm or hand and only below the elbow
TOPIC 2. CLEATS
An “Approved Cleat” is defined as rubber soled cleats or replaceable (detachable) cleats with hard plastic soles
– the replaceable cleat stud being no longer than ½” and may be metal tipped.
TOPIC3. EYE WEAR
A. An “Approved Visor” or “Approved Strap on Goggle”) is defined as a clear or tinted (blue, amber or smoke)
Polycarbonate visor or goggle where the player’s eyes can be seen when standing directly in front of them.
A Mirrored or Blacked Out visor or goggle is prohibited.
B. The exception to this policy is if the team can show it is required for medical reasons. A letter from the player’s
doctor, on the doctor’s letterhead, stating the player’s name, the doctor’s name, phone number, the reason for
the dark eyewear and signed by the doctor must be shown to the White Hat or TYFA when asked.
TOPIC 4. GLOVES
An “Approved Glove” is defined as a fitted covering for a hand having separate sections for each finger and thumb,
without any additional material that connects any of the fingers and/or thumb, and that completely covers each
finger and thumb. There is no restriction on the color of gloves.
TOPIC 5. HAND WARMERS
An “Approved Hand Warmer” is defined as within the Team Color Scheme or Approved Neutral Color.
TOPIC 6. HELMET STICKERS
Helmet Stickers are acceptable as long as they are youth appropriate.
TOPIC 7. JEWELRY
Chains and necklaces around a player’s neck or attached by piercing is prohibited.
TOPIC 8. MOUTH GUARDS
A. An “Approved Mouth Guard” is defined as a mouth piece that is of any color (except white or clear) and that
is usable and safe (not chewed up to where it basically protects nothing).
B. Tackle players must always have an “Approved Mouth Guard” in their mouth while on the field otherwise they
are ineligible to play. Players DO NOT have to have it attached to their helmets.
C.
Mouth Guards should be checked during pre-game certification for usability and safety by a team’s own
coaching staff. If it is determined to be unusable it should be replaced. If a player’s teeth are hurt and the Mouth
Guard is reviewed and determined NOT to be complaint as an Approved Mouth Guard, the head coach will be
charged with a (Level IV Violation - Safety).
D. At the snap of the ball an Illegal Equipment penalty will be called if a player does not have their mouth piece in.
The first violation will be penalized: Illegal Equipment (warning). The second and subsequent violations will
be penalized: Illegal Equipment (time out). Once there are no time outs, violations will be penalized: Illegal
Equipment (LOS/5). It does not have to be the same player to qualify for subsequent violations.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 4 – Tackle – Accessories & Equipment
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 15
TOPIC 9. TOWELS
Towels may be worn by any player. Towels must be “true” football towels of an appropriate size (no larger than
6”x12”). Towels that are worn must be within the team color scheme or neutral (black, white, tan or grey);
otherwise it will have to be removed. Refusing to remove a towel will be penalized: Illegal Equipment (LOS/5).
TOPIC 10. FACEMASKS
TYFA has no rule against any specific type of facemask which supersedes the NCAA rules.
ENFORCEMENT
Unless specified differently above, if a player is found on the field with inappropriate equipment,
the White Hat will remove that player until the equipment issue is resolved. If that brings a team
under the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players, timeouts will automatically be used if
available or the team will be penalized: Delay of Game (LOS/5) and the player will be attended
to for the length of a normal timeout. If the player is not available to play after that time, the
White Hat will declare a Class B Forfeit.
TOPIC 11. FOOTBALLS
A. A TYFA “Approved Football” is defined as a Wilson Football of a size and type listed in the table below and
that is properly inflated.
Team
Midget and Rookie
Junior
Senior
1Composite
2An
Football Size
Wilson K2
Wilson TDJ
Wilson TDY
Leather1
Leather1
Leather1
Type
GST or Traditional with TYFA logo2
GST or Traditional with TYFA logo2
GST or Traditional with TYFA logo2
or Rubber balls are prohibited from being used as Game Balls.
exception to having a TYFA logo football is only allowed in the Spring Season.
B. Only TYFA approved footballs may be used at officially schedule TYFA games. Both the home team and the
visiting team should have their own game footballs and may use them while on offense.
C.
If a referee is given a football from the sidelines and recognizes that it is not an approved football, they will
throw it out of the game and request a TYFA approved football. If a football is determined to be unauthorized
after a play has been run, the offending team will be penalized: Equipment Violation (LOS/5) and the ball will
be removed from play.
D. If a team does not have a TYFA approved football then they are required to use an approved football from their
opponent who is required to allow it. If neither team has an approved football and cannot borrow one, a nonapproved football will be authorized to complete that game. There can be no protest or grievance from either
team in reference to footballs. Organizations without approved footballs will be charged with a (Level I
Violation) the first time is it reported and a (Level II Violation) for any subsequent violations.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 4 – Tackle – Accessories & Equipment
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 16
TOPIC 12. JERSEYS
A. Numbers MUST be clearly visible and readable. This means the type of numerals used must be clearly
discernable (i.e. Permanent Arabic numerals) and be of a color that is CLEARLY in distinct contrast with the
color of the jersey irrespective of any border.
B. The jersey must have a number on the FRONT and BACK.
The size must be appropriate to the age of the player. The
possible locations are shown below. All players of a team
MUST have the same color and general style of numbers
front and back.
C.
All jerseys must be numbered 00 through 99. Any
number preceded by zero (‘0’) (except double zero ‘00’)
is ineligible. A single zero (‘0’) is allowed.
D. Any player not in compliance with the numbering on their jersey will not be eligible to play until they become
compliant and if discovered on the field, the offending team will be penalized: Illegal Substitution (LOS/5). If
this brings a team under the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players, the player can stay in and the game
will continue but the organization will be charged with a (Level II Violation).
E.
F.
Multiple players with the same number (on the same team) are prohibited from being on the field at the same
time. If discovered, the offending team will be penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15).
When a player enters the game after changing his jersey number, he must report to the White Hat, who will
then inform the head coach of the opposing team. A player who enters the game after changing their jersey
number and does not report, commits a foul and if discovered, the offending team is penalized:
Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15).
G. Names on jerseys can be anything you wish as long as it is youth appropriate.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 5 – Flag – Accessories & Equipment
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 17
TERMINOLOGY
 Approved Neutral Color = Black, White, Grey and shades of Brown
 “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players = is the minimum number of players who’ve been certified by TYFA
and are not currently on any holds that must be on the field to avoid a forfeit.
[7 for Flag].
TOPIC 1. CASTS
Flag players are prohibited from playing with casts of any type and if found on the field, the team will be penalized:
Illegal Substitution (LOS/5).
TOPIC 2. CLEATS
An “Approved Cleat” is defined as rubber soled cleats or replaceable (detachable) cleats with hard plastic soles
– the replaceable cleat stud being no longer than ½” and may be metal tipped.
TOPIC3. EYE WEAR
A. An “Approved Strap on Goggle”) is defined as a clear or tinted (blue, amber or smoke) Polycarbonate goggle
where the player’s eyes can be seen when standing directly in front of them. A Mirrored or Blacked
Out goggle is prohibited.
B. The exception to this policy is if the team can show it is required for medical reasons. A letter from the player’s
doctor, on the doctor’s letterhead, stating the player’s name, the doctor’s name, phone number, the reason for
the dark eyewear and signed by the doctor must be shown to the White Hat or TYFA when asked.
TOPIC 4. FLAG FOOTBALL HELMETS
Official Flag Football Helmets are allowed. If not all players wear them it will not be a uniformity violation. If they
are worn, they must be in the Organization’s Color Scheme or an Approved Neutral Color.
TOPIC 5. GLOVES
An “Approved Glove” is defined as a fitted covering for a hand having separate sections for each finger and thumb,
without any additional material that connects any of the fingers and/or thumb, and that completely covers each
finger and thumb. There is no restriction on the color of gloves.
TOPIC 6. HAND WARMERS
An “Approved Hand Warmer” is defined as within the Team Color Scheme or Approved Neutral Color. Flag
players may wear hand warmers as long as they do not hinder the wearing of the flag belt or the ability for an
opponent to pull the flags.
TOPIC 7. JEWELRY
Chains and necklaces around a player’s neck or attached by piercing is prohibited.
TOPIC 8. MOUTH GUARDS
A. An “Approved Mouth Guard” is defined as a mouth piece that is of any color (except white or clear) and that
is usable and safe (not chewed up to where it basically protects nothing).
B. Flag players must always have an “Approved Mouth Guard” in their mouth while on the field otherwise they
are ineligible to play.
C.
Mouth Guards should be checked during pre-game certification for usability and safety by a team’s own
coaching staff. If it is determined to be unusable it should be replaced. If a player’s teeth are hurt and the Mouth
Guard is reviewed and determined NOT to be complaint as an Approved Mouth Guard, the head coach will be
charged with a (Level IV Violation - Safety).
D. At the snap of the ball an Illegal Equipment penalty will be called if a player does not have their mouth piece in.
The first violation will be penalized: Illegal Equipment (warning). The second and subsequent violations will
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 5 – Flag – Accessories & Equipment
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 18
be penalized: Illegal Equipment (time out). Once there are no time outs, violations will be penalized: Illegal
Equipment (LOS/5). It does not have to be the same player to qualify for subsequent violations.
TOPIC 9. TOWELS
Towels are prohibited on Flag players; the coaches may hold any towels that are required on the field. Refusing to
remove a towel will be penalized: Illegal Equipment (LOS/5).
ENFORCEMENT
Unless specified differently above, if a player is found on the field with inappropriate equipment,
the White Hat will remove that player until the equipment issue is resolved. If that brings a team
under the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players, timeouts will automatically be used if
available or the team will be penalized: Delay of Game (LOS/5) and the player will be attended
to for the length of a normal timeout. If the player is not available to play after that time, the
White Hat will declare a Class B Forfeit.
TOPIC 10. FOOTBALLS
A. A TYFA “Approved Football” is defined as a Wilson Football of a size and type listed in the table below and
that is properly inflated.
Flag
Team
1Composite
2An
Football Size
Wilson K2
Leather1
Type
GST or Traditional with TYFA logo2
or Rubber balls are prohibited from being used as Game Balls.
exception to having a TYFA logo football is only allowed in the Spring Season.
B. Only TYFA approved footballs may be used at officially schedule TYFA games. Both the home team and the
visiting team should have their own game footballs and may use them while on offense.
C.
If a referee is given a football from the sidelines and recognizes that it is not an approved football, they will
throw it out of the game and request a TYFA approved football. If a football is determined to be unauthorized
after a play has been run, the offending team will be penalized: Equipment Violation (LOS/5) and the ball will
be removed from play.
D. If a team does not have a TYFA approved football then they are required to use an approved football from their
opponent who is required to allow it. If neither team has an approved football and cannot borrow one, a nonapproved football will be authorized to complete that game. There can be no protest or grievance from either
team in reference to footballs. Organizations without approved footballs will be charged with a (Level I
Violation) the first time is it reported and a (Level II Violation) for any subsequent violations.
TOPIC 11. FLAG FOOTBALL FLAG SETS
A. An “Approved Flag Set” is defined as a 3-Flag Belt called “Triple Threat”. The flags are sewn onto the belt
(not Velcro, Socket or Suction) and when pulled the complete belt comes off.
•
•
•
Flags are Vinyl coated polyester (no other material allowed)
Polyethylene clip
Flags are to be no shorter than 12” and not narrower than 2 ¼”
B. A flag set cannot be modified except to size it. Modifications of any type to the clasp mechanism will make the
flag set illegal.
C.
Flag sets must be of contrasting color to the pants or shorts the flag player is wearing (clearly discernible from
the color of the pants or shorts). If the pants or shorts are one color with a different color stripe down the
sides, the flags must be of a contrasting color to the stripes and the pants or shorts. If either of these
requirements is violated the flags will be considered illegal.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Policy 5 – Flag – Accessories & Equipment
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 19
D. The flag color requirement may be overridden if both head coaches agree. The White Hat should be told and
the game cannot have a protest or grievance filed for flag-color reasons.
E.
Flag belts must be worn so that there is a flag on the right hip, left hip and behind the back. Wearing of the flag
set in any other fashion will be penalized: Illegal Equipment (LOS/5).
TOPIC 12. JERSEYS
A. Numbers MUST be clearly visible and readable. This means the type of numerals used must be clearly
discernable (i.e. Permanent Arabic numerals) and be of a color that is CLEARLY in distinct contrast with the
color of the jersey irrespective of any border.
B. The jersey must have a number on the FRONT and BACK.
The size must be appropriate to the age of the player. The
possible locations are shown below. All players of a team
MUST have the same color and general style of numbers
front and back.
C.
All jerseys must be numbered 00 through 99. Any
number preceded by zero (‘0’) (except double zero ‘00’)
is ineligible. A single zero (‘0’) is allowed.
D. Any player not in compliance with the numbering on their jersey will not be eligible to play until they become
compliant and if discovered on the field, the offending team will be penalized: Illegal Substitution (LOS/5). If
this brings a team under the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players, the player can stay in and the game
will continue but the organization will be charged with a (Level II Violation).
E.
F.
Multiple players with the same number (on the same team) are prohibited from being on the field at the same
time. If discovered, the offending team will be penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15).
When a player enters the game after changing his jersey number, he must report to the White Hat, who will
then inform the head coach of the opposing team. A player who enters the game after changing their jersey
number and does not report, commits a foul and if discovered, the offending team is penalized:
Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15).
G. Names on jerseys can be anything you wish as long as it is youth appropriate.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Tackle – Seasonal & Game Day Check Lists
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 20
PLAYER CHECK-LIST
This checklist needs to be reviewed during the pre-season leading up to the first game. This way there is
ample time to make sure everything is handled digitally, dress code, equipment and behavioral wise.
Then as a quick check it needs to be checked from week to week an hour prior to the game to make sure
everything is in compliance and if not so the head coach can try to fix any issues or at least has a heads up to how
his lineup may be affected for the game.
 Verify players are in the TYFA Web App – have a Team Manager or someone log into the Web App, bring up
the Photo Roster and verify that each and every player is accounted for and check their status for any holds.
If a player is not in the system or has a hold, especially a birth certificate hold, they
will not be allowed to play.
 Check players for Dress Code – have a Team Manager or someone take a look around at all the players to
verify that they are within the Dress Code.
Make sure that the helmet and facemask are of the right color, the jersey is the proper
color and numbered, pants are the right color as well as the athlete has socks and they
are of the proper color.
 Check players for Equipment – have an Equipment Manager or Team Manager check each player to verify
that they have all their required equipment.
 Properly fitted helmet with jaw pads and chin strap.
 Properly strapped and fitted Shoulder Pads.
 7-Piece Pads all present (Hip, Butt, Thigh and Knee).
 Usable Mouth Guard.
Making sure that all the pads are present and fit properly is all about the safety of
the players.
 Check Players for Miscellaneous items – have an Equipment Manager or Team Manager check each player
to make sure they are compliant.
 Check that Casts are compliant.
 Check that Cleats are compliant.
 Check that all Eye Wear is compliant.
 Check that Gloves are compliant.
 Check that Hand Warmers are compliant.
 Check that Towels are compliant.
 Remove any non-compliant jewelry.
 Remove any inappropriate helmet stickers.
 Check for any Illegal Substance
If any type of adhesive, paint, grease or any other slippery material is discovered on a player’s uniform,
equipment or attachments, the team will be penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15) and the
player will be removed until the substance is cleaned up.
Many of these are game day checks to avoid a player being ejected for noncompliance. Many of these can be handled by having a conversation with the parents
letting them know what they can and should not buy.
 Have a Pre-Game conversation with players about behavior
Inappropriate behavior on the field or sideline could get a player ejected and depending on the incident,
sometimes for more than just the current game which will not only affect the player but the team.
Behavior should be drilled into the players all pre-season long. It should be reenforced during pre-game preparation to avoid penalties and ejections.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Tackle – Seasonal & Game Day Check Lists
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 21
TEAM CHECK-LIST
These items should be checked pre-game.












NCAA and TYFA Football Handbook
Doctor’s excuses for dark visors or googles
Any approved Administrative Waivers
Have a ruler or tape measure
Tablet/Smart Phone to do Pre-Game Player Verification
Tool Kit
First Aid Kit
Water Bottles, Water Jugs and Water
Kicking Tee
Footballs
Have extra Mouth Guards, Socks
Have extra Helmets, Shoulder Pads and Jerseys if possible
- required for challenging referees
- required
- required to legally violate a rule
- required to challenge a set of flags
- mandatory to do Pre-Game Verification
- required to fix equipment
- required to attend to wounds
- verify compliant
VOLUNTEER CHECK-LIST
 Verify volunteers have IDs and what status they are in the TYFA Web App – The head coach is responsible
for all the volunteers on their team, therefore it is their job to:
• Make sure that all volunteers associated with the team have a current year ID Badge.
• Check the TYFA Web App for the status of each volunteer even if they have an ID Badge.
If a volunteer is not in the system or has holds, they are ineligible to be on the field and
could cost the team a fine and or a forfeit.
 Check volunteers for Dress Code – The head coach is responsible for all volunteers on their team, they should
take a look around at all the volunteers to verify that they are within the Dress Code.
There is a very specific Volunteer Dress Code policy that needs to be adhered to or
volunteers may find themselves ejected from a game and a team fined.
 Pre-Game conversation with team volunteers about behavior
Inappropriate behavior on the field or sideline could get a volunteer ejected and depending on the incident,
sometimes for more than just the current game which will not only affect the volunteer but the team.
Behavior should be drilled into the volunteers all pre-season long. It should be reenforced during pre-game preparation to avoid penalties and ejections.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Seasonal & Game Day Check Lists
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 22
PLAYER CHECK-LIST
This checklist needs to be reviewed during the pre-season leading up to the first game. This way there is
ample time to make sure everything is handled digitally, dress code, equipment and behavioral wise.
Then as a quick check it needs to be checked from week to week an hour prior to the game to make sure
everything is in compliance and if not so the head coach can try to fix any issues or at least has a heads up to how
his lineup may be affected for the game.
 Verify players are in the TYFA Web App – have a Team Manager or someone log into the Web App, bring up
the Photo Roster and verify that each and every player is accounted for and check their status for any holds.
If a player is not in the system or has a hold, especially a “birth certificate hold”, they
will not be allowed to play.
 Check players for Dress Code – have a Team Manager or someone take a look around at all the players to
verify that they are within the Dress Code.
Make sure that the jersey is the proper color and numbered, pants/shorts are the
right color as well as the athlete has socks and they are of the proper color.
 Check players for Equipment – have an Equipment Manager or Team Manager check each player to verify
that they have all their required equipment.
 Properly fitted Flag Set
 Usable Mouth Guard.
 Check Players for Miscellaneous items – have an Equipment Manager or Team Manager check each player
to make sure they are compliant.
 Check that there is no player expecting to play with a Cast.
 Check that Cleats are compliant.
 Check that all Eye Wear is compliant.
 Check that Gloves are compliant.
 Check that Hand Warmers are compliant.
 Check that Towels are compliant.
 Remove any non-compliant jewelry.
 Check for any Illegal Substance
If any type of adhesive, paint, grease or any other slippery material is discovered on a player’s uniform,
equipment or attachments, the team will be penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15) and the
player will be removed until the substance is cleaned up.
Many of these are game day checks to avoid a player being ejected for noncompliance. Many of these can be handled by having a conversation with the parents
letting them know what they can and should not buy.
 Have a Pre-Game conversation with players about behavior
Inappropriate behavior on the field or sideline could get a player ejected and depending on the incident,
sometimes for more than just the current game which will not only affect the player but the team.
Behavior should be drilled into the players all pre-season long. It should be reenforced during pre-game preparation to avoid penalties and ejections.
Section 1 – Pre-Game
Seasonal & Game Day Check Lists
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 23
TEAM CHECK-LIST
These items should be checked pre-game.












TYFA Football Handbook
Doctor’s excuses for dark googles
Any approved Administrative Waivers
Have a ruler or tape measure
Tablet/Smart Phone to do Pre-Game Player Verification
Tool Kit
First Aid Kit
Water Bottles, Water Jugs and Water
Footballs
Flag Football Flag Sets
Have extra Mouth Guards, Socks
Have extra Jerseys if possible
- required for challenging referees
- required
- required to legally violate a rule
- required to challenge a set of flags
- mandatory to do Pre-Game Verification
- required to fix equipment
- required to attend to wounds
- verify compliant
- verify compliant
VOLUNTEER CHECK-LIST
 Verify volunteers have IDs and what status they are in the TYFA Web App – The head coach is responsible
for all the volunteers on their team, therefore it is their job to:
• Make sure that all volunteers associated with the team have a current year ID Badge.
• Check the TYFA Web App for the status of each volunteer even if they have an ID Badge.
If a volunteer is not in the system or has holds, they are ineligible to be on the field and
could cost the team a fine and or a forfeit.
 Check volunteers for Dress Code – The head coach is responsible for all volunteers on their team, they should
take a look around at all the volunteers to verify that they are within the Dress Code.
There is a very specific Volunteer Dress Code policy that needs to be adhered to or
volunteers may find themselves ejected from a game and a team fined.
 Pre-Game conversation with team volunteers about behavior
Inappropriate behavior on the field or sideline could get a volunteer ejected and depending on the incident,
sometimes for more than just the current game which will not only affect the volunteer but the team.
Behavior should be drilled into the volunteers all pre-season long. It should be reenforced during pre-game preparation to avoid penalties and ejections.
Section 2 – Game Day
Table of Contents
Policy 1. Coin Toss .....................................................................................................................................24
Policy 2. Communication & Noise Devices ........................................................................................25
Policy 3. Conduct ........................................................................................................................................26
Policy 4. Down Box & Chains ................................................................................................................. 28
Policy 5. Ejections.......................................................................................................................................30
Policy 6. Field Level Personnel ..............................................................................................................32
Policy 7. Game Start Time .......................................................................................................................34
Policy 8. Game Time Rosters .................................................................................................................35
Policy 9. Game Time Verification..........................................................................................................36
Policy 10. Hand Shake ..............................................................................................................................39
Policy 11. Where can I be at a Game when Suspended? .............................................................. 40
Policy 12. Postponed Games...................................................................................................................41
Policy 13. Light & Weather......................................................................................................................42
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 1 – Coin Toss
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 24
CAPTAINS
A. When the referees call for “Captains”, each team may have up to 4 (1 of which will speak) and 1 COACH
(HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for the younger age brackets).
B. All players and volunteers not involved in the coin toss must be on their sideline for all regular season and
playoff games prior to the State Quarter Finals.
C.
All players and coaches not involved in the coin toss may line up in a long line on the field at the numbers during
the State Quarter Finals, Semi-Finals and State Championship games.
D. Any team not in compliance with this rule will be warned first and then penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct
(LOS/15) on the kickoff if they refuse to comply.
COIN FLIP
The visiting team makes the call: HEADS or TAILS.
The team that wins the toss can; take the ball and be on offense first or defer to the
second half.
If a coach is not present at the coin toss and the captain on the field makes a mistake,
the head coach has no grounds to complain as it is not the referee’s job to coax the
captain into making a decision. That is why a coach is allowed at the Coin Toss.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 2 – Communication & Noise Devices
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 25
TERMINOLOGY
Badged Volunteer = A volunteer who has been TYFA certified.
BULL HORN TYPE DEVICES
Voice enhancement devices (such as bull horns) are allowed in the “spectator area” as long as they are permitted
by the facility (being utilized) and not used by persons in the “spectator area” to shout out instructions or
inappropriate comments to participants on the field or spectators. Persons engaged in this type of action will be
asked to stop. If they do not, they will be ejected from the “spectator area”.
CELL PHONES/BLUETOOTH DEVICES
A Badged Volunteer may have a cell phone on the field or sideline as long as it is set on “vibrate”. If a volunteer
must use their phone, they can’t be on the field and they MUST walk at least 10 yards away from the sideline.
A volunteer whose phone makes any kind of noise and causes a play to stop prematurely will have their team
penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15). If the premature stoppage of play potentially caused a player not
to score in the White Hat’s opinion, the Palpably Unfair Act policy will be reviewed. If a volunteer on the field or the
sideline is observed using a cell phone when and where they shouldn’t, they will be EJECTED (Level III/IV).
Bluetooth or wired ear pieces are prohibited while on the field or the sideline. If a volunteer on the field or the
sideline is observed wearing an ear piece they be asked to remove it. If the situation continues the volunteer will
be EJECTED (Level III/IV).
TABLET TYPE DEVICES
Mobile devices such as a Tablet (or like device) is allowed on the field or sideline when used for displaying plays to
players and/or coaches and reviewing digital copies of the rules. If a Badged Volunteer on the field or the sideline
is observed using a Tablet (or like device) for communication purposes, they will be EJECTED (Level III/IV).
IN GENERAL
 No somebody-to-player devices allowed.
 No somebody-to-coach devices allowed.
 No whistles allowed.
 No fire and police-like sirens allowed.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 3 – Conduct
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 26
TERMINOLOGY
TYFA Participants = Are Badged Volunteers, Badged Athletes, Referees and Black Shirt.
TYFA Event = An officially scheduled event.
Badged Athlete/Volunteer = A person who is TYFA Certified.
TOBACCO, ALCOHOL AND ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES
TYFA Participants and spectators are not allowed to use tobacco, alcohol or illegal substance products of any type
at a TYFA Event. If spectator is found doing so, they will be ejected from the facility. If a TYFA Participant is found
doing so, regardless of where in the facility, they will be charged with a (Level IV Violation).
URINATING OR DEFECATING IN PUBLIC
It is inappropriate, offensive and therefore prohibited for any TYFA Participant to relieve themselves IN CLEAR
SIGHT of the public. If one or more Badged Athletes are caught violating this rule the organization will be charged
with a (Level II Violation) per athlete. If a Badged Volunteer is caught violating this rule, they will be charged
with a (Level IV Violation).
UNSPORTSMANLIKE ACTS
These actions will be penalized: Unsportsmanlike (15/LOS).
 Any delayed, excessive, prolonged or choreographed act by which players attempt to focus attention upon
themselves.
 Obviously altering stride as an unopposed runner approaches the opponent’s goal line, or diving into the end
zone when unopposed.
 Punching one’s own chest, crossing one’s arms in front of the chest and/or standing over a prone player.
 Going into the stands to interact with spectators, or bowing at the waist after a good play.
 Kicking, throwing, spinning or carrying (including off of the field) the ball any distance that requires a referee
to retrieve it.
 Spiking the ball to the ground (Exception: A pass thrown to the ground at the QB’s feet to conserve time).
 Throwing the ball high into the air. Any other unsportsmanlike act or actions that delay the game.
UNFAIR ACTS
If a team refuses to take the field after repeated requests by the referees, the White Hat may declare a Class A Forfeit
if the game has not started or a Class B Forfeit if it has.
PALPABLY UNFAIR ACT
Readily or plainly seen, heard, perceived, etc.; obvious; evident.
A. Called as necessary in the case of any illegal action that the referees deem has clearly and indisputably deprived
a team of a score.
For example, if a player or other person not legally in the game at the start of a given play comes onto the field
to tackle a player apparently in route to a score, the team that would have scores is awarded the appropriate
score.
B. This can also conceivably be invoked in cases where the defense commits repeated intentional infractions very
close to its own goal line (the half-the –distance rule making the consequence of such infractions otherwise
insignificant).
C.
In Flag only, this can also apply to the last defender between the Ball Carrier and the end zone where he
commits an illegal action, such as tackling, to prevent the Ball Carrier from scoring. This is known as “Last
Man.”
D. If the player with the ball scores regardless of the interference, or the White Hat awards a score because the
player with the ball was prevented from scoring, the offending person will be EJECTED and the offending team
will be penalized: Personal Foul (LOS/15) on the kick off.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 3 – Conduct
E.
F.
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 27
If the player with the ball was prevented from scoring but the White Hat does not award a score, the offending
person will be EJECTED and the offending team will be penalized: Personal Foul (EOP/15) or (LOS/15)
whichever is in the offended team’s favor.
If the ejected person is a TYFA Participant, they will be charged with a (Level III Violation). If the ejected
person was a spectator, the organization will be charged with a (Level III Violation).
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 4 – Down Box and Chains
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 28
TERMINOLOGY
Badged Volunteer = A volunteer who is TYFA certified.
The Markers are placed on the HOME TEAM’s
sideline regardless of what side that is.
CREWS
A tackle games require a 3-person crew; 1 person to operate the “Down
Marker” and 2 persons to operate the 10-yard “Chain”.
A flag game requires only a 1-person crew to operate the “Down Marker”.
Crew members should be at least 18 years old, as young as 14 IF NECESSARY.
The crew must be dressed appropriately.
Crew members CANNOT be a mix of home and visitors. The crew must be made up from the home team and they
must be located on the home team’s sideline. THERE IS NO EXCEPTION to this for the well-being of all involved.
If the Markers are manned by the wrong personnel and an injury or a fight breaks out, the Home Team will be
charged with a (Level IV Violation).
During the State Championship games TYFA has referees man the Markers.
MANNING ISSUES
A. The game cannot be delayed because there is no chain crew. The Home Team has this responsibility! There
should be crews ready to work prior to the game.
B. If the teams are on the field lined up ready to go and there are not enough crew members:
1.
2.
C.
The Home Team will be penalized: Delay of Game (loss of a timeout). If they have no timeouts
(LOS/5). The White Hat will delay the game for 1-minute and 30-seconds like a normal timeout so the
Home Team can get the crew they need.
If after 3 Delay of Game penalties the Home Team cannot man the Markers, the White Hat will declare
a Class A Forfeit (at the start of the game) Class B Forfeit (after the game has started).
If during the game a crew member is ejected or needs to leave the sideline to use the phone, a sideline volunteer
(to include the head coach) MUST take over their duty until they return or a replacement can be found. Players
cannot man the Makers. If a coach for the team playing is forced to man the Markers, they are allowed to
coach as long as they perform their chain crew duties attentively and correctly.
D. Badged Volunteers manning the Markers DO NOT count against the maximum number of Badged Volunteers
on the sideline. This is an incentive.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 4 – Down Box and Chains
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 29
CHAIN PROCEDURES
A. The chain crew should remain alert and aware at all times, should NEVER EVER move the Markers until the
referees tells them, only advance the Down when told, move quickly to the next spot on the sideline when told
to do so, and if the play is coming to the sidelines near the chains, they need to be prepared to drop the Markers
and move away.
B. The chain crew is on the sideline to man the Markers, not yell instructions, give hand signals, heckle or make
comments to referees, volunteers, players or spectators. Cheering is allowed as long as it is kept under control.
C.
If a crew member must use a mobile device, they must hand off their Marker duty to another eligible person
(to include coaches), and then move at least 10 yards away from the sideline.
CHAIN PROCEDURE VIOLATIONS
A. If a crew member is violating anything in “A” above, they first will be warned and then ejected from the sidelines
on the next violation.
B. If the referees believe the chain crew is cheating by moving the chains or the down marker inappropriately, the
team will be warned. On the next infraction they team will be penalized with an Unsportsmanlike Conduct
(LOS/15). A third infraction the White Hat will declare a Class B Forfeit.
C.
If a Badged Volunteer who is not a crew member moves the Marker for any reason, the team will be penalized
with an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15) and the Badged Volunteer will be EJECTED (Level III Violation
- Cheating).
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 5 – Ejections
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 30
TERMINOLOGY
TYFA Participant = A person who is TYFA Certified.
Badged Athlete = A player who is TYFA Certified.
Badged Volunteer = A volunteer who is TYFA Certified.
AUTHORITY
A. Organization board members have no authority to eject a TYFA Participant from the playing field or the
sideline (unless that person(s) is from their organization). Hosting board members do however have the
authority to remove unruly spectators from their facility.
B. The White Hat has the authority (granted to them by this policy) to:
• Eject a TYFA Participant from a game for unsportsmanlike or personal fouls.
• Penalize a team for a cheerleader or unruly spectator’s actions if they are exhibiting any form of
excessive unsportsmanlike conduct.
C.
Black Shirts (when properly attired and never at their own games) have the authority (granted to them by this
policy) to:
• Eject a TYFA Participant on the sideline from a game if they are exhibiting any form of
unsportsmanlike conduct. Only the White Hat can remove a TYFA Participant from the field.
•
•
•
•
Eject a TYFA Participant on the sideline for not being properly attired.
Eject a supposed Badged Volunteer who does not have their badge and is not in the system or have
holds.
Eject a Badged Volunteer on the sideline for being in violation of the Tobacco, Alcohol and Illegal
Substance rule or Communication Device rule.
Eject any spectator exhibiting any form of excessive unsportsmanlike conduct.
PROCEDURE
A. If the White Hat decides to eject a TYFA Participant for unsportsmanlike conduct or a personal foul, he will
inform both head coaches that the individual is ejected. There will be NO DEBATE. The White only ejects, they
do not set the punishment; TYFA’s Regulatory & Compliance Committee does that.
B. If a Black Shirt decides to eject a TYFA Participant on the sideline for unsportsmanlike conduct or being
inappropriately attired or any of the other items listed above, they will work with the head coach to handle the
situation. If the head coach handles the situation the ejection is only for the current game with no additional
consequences. If the head coach will not handle the situation, the Black Shirt will stop the game and have the
White Hat eject the TYFA Participant. If the White Hat has to make the ejection it will be treated as an on-field
ejection which carries an Unsportsmanlike (LOS/15) penalty and the Regulatory & Compliance Committee
will review for further disciplinary action. In addition the head coach will be charged with a (Level II
Violation) for non-compliance.
CONSEQUENCES
A. If a TYFA Participant is ejected from a game for an unsportsmanlike or personal foul,
they are ineligible to participate in the current game or any other games they have
prior to the Regulatory & Compliance Committee reviewing and ruling on the ejection.
This includes those coaches who coach several age brackets. This type of ejection is in
Weeks, not games.
“Cool Downs” DO NOT
EXIST. Just Ejections.
B. If a TYFA Participant is ejected from a game for not being properly attired they must sit out the remainder of
the current game or until they correct the issue.
C.
When a Badged Athlete is ejected they may remain on the sideline, but must remove their equipment so that
it is obvious they will not go back in. A Badged Athlete ejected from a game even on the final play of the game
is considered ejected.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 5 – Ejections
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 31
D. When a Badged Volunteer is ejected they must leave the sideline and are prohibited from any further contact,
direct or indirect, with the team during the remainder of the game. They are not allowed in the stands either,
but may stay in the facility. A Badged Volunteer ejected from a game even on the final play of the game is
considered ejected. Exception: If a Badged Volunteer is removed from the sidelines for not being properly
attired or not having their badge, they will be allowed to sit in the stands.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 6 – Field Level Personnel
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 32
TERMINOLOGY
Field Level is defined as anywhere between the 2 spectator areas or in front of a single spectator area.
Field Level is for those who are performing a service associated with the action on the field. During the playoffs
TYFA reserves the right to increase or decrease the amount of field level personnel.
 Service Personnel
Black Shirts, Referees, Police and EMTs area allowed anywhere field level.
 Eligible Players
The players at field level must be of the age bracket of the
current game being played, must be on an active roster in
the TYFA Web App and be in the Team Box on the sideline.
 Eligible Cheerleaders
The cheerleaders at field level must on an active roster in
the TYFA Web App and be in the Cheer Area.
Exception:
If a volunteer’s child is very young and
would have no supervision while their
parent is field level, the child would be
allowed to be in the Team Box (as far
back as possible) or the Cheer Area.
 Eligible Volunteers
There are a limited amount of volunteers that are allowed field level during a game.
 Eligible Football Volunteers
A team is limited to 10 eligible football volunteers who must be in the Coaches Box on the sideline.
These volunteers are the Football Head Coach, Football Coach, Football Coach Trainee, Football Team
Manager, Equipment Manager and Photo/Videographer).
 Eligible Photo/Videographers
Spectators are not allowed field level to be Photo/Videographers. All field level
personnel must be TYFA certified. These volunteers have access end zone to end zone on
THEIR OWN SIDELINE of the field and behind the end zones ONLY.
 Eligible Board Members
In addition to the 10 eligible football volunteers, a team may have up to 2 eligible board member
volunteers present in the Coaches Box. These volunteers are the President, Vice President,
Commissioner, Athletic Director, General Manager or Football Director. One of these titles must be on
the volunteers ID Badge or it doesn’t count.
 Eligible Cheer Volunteers
The number of eligible cheer volunteers is determined by the Cheer Handbook. The volunteers must
be in the Cheer Area only. These volunteers are the Cheer Head Coach, Cheer Coach, Cheer Coach
Trainee and Cheer Team Manager).
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 6 – Field Level Personnel
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 33
 Professional Photo/Videographers
There are 2 types of professional photo/videographers. Those that the organization hires and those that TYFA
hires. Organization photo/videographers have access end zone to end zone on their client’s side of the field
and behind the end zone. TYFA photo/videographers have complete access field level.
 Personnel Not Allowed
 There is no such thing as water boys or water girls (a child at field level must be on the active roster of
the team playing the game).
 There is no such thing as Alumni spectators allowed at field level.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 7 – Game Start Time
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 34
TERMINOLOGY
 “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players =
 Minimum of eligible volunteers =
 Grace Period = [30-minutes in the Fall and 15-minutes in the Spring]
A. At the scheduled start time of a game the referees will call the teams to the field.
B. If a team is present at or above the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players AND the required minimum of
eligible volunteers, THE GAME MUST START on time. The game WILL NOT be delayed because a team is
waiting for SPECIFIC players or volunteers.
C.
If a team is present, but does not have either the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players or the required
minimum of eligible volunteers, they will automatically be allotted a Grace Period. At any time prior to the
expiration of the Grade Period the minimum of eligible players and/or volunteers is available, THE GAME
MUST START.
D. If a team does not show up (nobody from the team is present), a team refuses to take the field with the minimum
of eligible players and volunteers or the Grace Period expires, the White Hat will declare a Class A Forfeit.
Fraudulently using the Grace Period to delay a game is a (Level III Violation - Cheating).
E.
If a team is traveling between chapters and there is a transportation malfunction, this section of the rules does
not apply as written. TYFA will need to be brought in on the conversation and it will be handled on a case by
case basis. The Commissioner’s Office should be contacted at (888) 920-8932 #7.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 8 – Game Time Rosters
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 35
ELIGIBLE PLAYERS
A. A TYFA game is played with the number of eligible players listed in the table. If a team has less than the “On
Field” Maximum, their opponent does NOT have to reduce their number to match.
ELIGIBLE PLAYERS
ON-FIELD Maximum
ON-FIELD Minimum
ON-FIELD Minimum (Seniors)
Tackle
11
9
11
Flag
9
7
B. If at any time during a game a team drops below the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players, the White Hat
will declare a Forfeit and TYFA will determine if it is a Class B Forfeit or a Class C Forfeit.
C.
If a game cannot start because a team does not have the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players, a Grace Period
[Chapter 2-Policy 7] will be invoked. If after the Grace Period expires the “ON-FIELD” minimum cannot be
fielded, the White Hat will declare a Class A Forfeit.
D. It is highly recommended that since the game has been declared a forfeit and the
referees have to be paid regardless, that both sides match their “ON-FIELD” numbers and
play some type of scrimmage for training purposes.
E.
NEVER for any reason should non-eligible or older bracket players be allowed to
play in a game or scrimmage. This would be a (Level III /IV Violation) for the team
that had the players and if their opponent knew, for them as well.
SAFETY
Concerns
ELIGIBLE VOLUNTEERS
A. Players can NEVER be left unattended on the sideline. Therefore the required minimum of adult volunteers is
listed in the table below. Coach Trainees do not count as they are minors.
Minimum Eligible Volunteers
Coaches
Other
Flag and Midget
2
1
Rookie, Junior and Seniors
2
 Other is a Team Manager, Board Member etc.
B. If there is no eligible volunteer on the sideline of a Flag/Midget team, the “ON-FIELD” coach must come off the
field and be with the players on the sideline.
C.
If at any time there are no eligible coaches left, the White Hat will declare a Class B Forfeit.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 9 – Game Time Verification
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 36
PLAYER VERIFICATION
A. Pre-Game Player Verification is not optional; it is MANDATORY. It does not matter if head coaches trust each
other or that they think it takes too much effort. Making sure that certified athletes are the only kids playing is
what is important. If it can be proven that a team did not Pre-Game Verify their players, the organization will
be charged with a (Level III Violation – Cheating).
B. Pre-Game Player Verification is done prior to the start of every TYFA Authorized Game (regular and post
season). Verification should be done 15 minutes prior to the first game or at the start of the 4th quarter of a
game currently being played. A team does not have to wait until 100% of their players are present. Refer to
Late Player Verification below.
C.
Pre-Game Player Verification during the regular season and “non-TYFA hosted” playoff games are conducted
by 1 to 2 eligible volunteers hereafter referred to as verifiers. If they themselves don’t have a badge they
cannot verify.
D. It is not acceptable for a team to deny Pre-Game Player Verification because a certain volunteer is
missing and only they have access to the rosters. ALL eligible Badged Volunteers for an organization
have access to the Web App to do the Pre-Game Verification. Use somebody’s mobile device.
E.
A team cannot deny their opponent Pre-Game Player Verification. If they do, the team being denied can:
1.
2.
Inform a monitoring Black Shirt (prior to the game) that their opponent refused to Pre-Game Player
Verify at which point the Black Shirt will request the offending team to do so. If they still refuse, the
Black Shirt will inform the White Hat to declare a Class A Forfeit.
If there is not a Black Shirt monitoring, the offended team needs to inform the White Hat prior to the
game that after the kickoff or the first play from scrimmage in flag, they wish to declare a “Personnel
Challenge” because their opponent denied them Pre-Game Player Verification.
PLAYER VERIFICATION WITH THE TYFA WEB APP
Any eligible volunteer of an organization can use their smart phone or tablet to perform this requirement.
STEP 1
STEP 2
An eligible volunteer of the team getting verified must go to the website
https://www.tyfasportsnetwork.com and log into their profile and then click on the Photo
Roster button. They then must select a season and an age bracket.
While the volunteer is loading their roster, another volunteer should line up the players in a
straight line width wise not behind each other. If they are tackle players, they MUST take their
helmets off. The players will be quite and attentive.
The opposing verifier will take the mobile device and stand in front of the players. They will call
out the name of each and every player on that roster. When a player hears their name, they are
to come up to the verifier and look at them. Once the verifier compares their face to the picture
they will be told to go at which point they are to line up behind the verifier and they can put their helmet back on if
applicable. Players are not to be questioned or forced to listen to sarcastic or rude comments by verifiers.
If it can be proven that a verifier violated this policy, they will be charged with a (Level IV Violation). A
totally eligible player is one that is all GREEN and has no holds listed. If a verifier finds a player that is on a Birth
Certificate hold they should not allow them to play as their age has not been verified yet. Any other holds are “at
the verifier’s discretion” although they should deny them.
STEP 3
If there are any players that are standing in line that did not have an entry, they should not be allowed to play as
they are ineligible. If this happens the verifier should deny the players the ability to play but not get into an
altercation over it. They should report the situation to their AD who should report it to TYFA through
[email protected]. They should also note the player’s number. If the players play, the head coach can get the
attention of the White Hat and declare a “Personnel Challenge”.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 9 – Game Time Verification
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 37
If a verifier did not see the roster loaded, they can ask for the mobile device to be refreshed to guarantee the most
current data is displayed for that roster.
STEP 4
The fact that the verification process is done using mobile devices has many benefits but also
presents possible issues such as the lack of cell reception, the lack of Wi-Fi or a data plan.
The following are a few trouble shooting steps that can be taken if an issue arises:
•
•
•
•
If a volunteer cannot log in, or they can log in but do not see any data, they should have another volunteer
try on a different device. If they still have an issue they should find someone on their board to have them
try.
If there is still an issue, have the opposing volunteer try to log in to see if they can see their own Photo
Roster. If they can log in and/or see their data, ask to use their device.
If both of the organizations have a problem, one of them should call the Help Desk at 210-901-8932.
The Help Desk will try to rectify the problem. If they can’t, they will ask that one or both of the teams use
their paper version of the Photo Roster (which is only allowed in worst case scenarios and only if approved
by a TYFA Black Shirt).
LATE PLAYER VERIFICATION
A. A player must be properly verified by either a Black Shirt monitoring the game or by the opposing team BEFORE
the first play of the 3rd quarter or they are ineligible to play.
1.
2.
Exception 1 – The opposing head coach has no issue letting player play; or
Exception 2 – The offending team has less than the “ON-FIELD” maximum of eligible players.
I.e. Tackle Team has 9 or 10 on the field without the late player.
B. As long as the player is not later than the start of the 3rd quarter or if either of the exceptions apply, the
player cannot be denied verification. At any time during a stoppage of play (timeouts, change of possession,
penalties and halftime) an eligible volunteer should have the player and proof of the player’s legitimacy (using
TYFA’s Web App) ready for quick review by an opposing eligible volunteer or monitoring Black Shirt.
C.
If a player is late, does not attempt to verify or is denied verification because the 3rd quarter has already started,
plays and is caught by a monitoring Black Shirt (not affiliated with either team), the offending team will receive
a Class B Forfeit and the team will be charged with a (Level III Violation-Cheating).
D. If a player is late, does not attempt to verify or is denied verification because the 3rd quarter has already started,
plays and is caught by the opposing team, they need to get the attention of the White Hat and declare a Protest
[ ]. The White Hat will inform the opposing head coach and the game will continue.
PLAYER EQUIPMENT VERIFICATION
To avoid delaying the start of games, especially if they are running behind, referees will monitor athletes for
inappropriate equipment during the course of the game. If found, the White Hat will remove a player.
PLAYER/VOLUNTEER UNIFORMITY
Referees will not get into the uniformity issue with teams so don’t ask them to. If an athlete or volunteer is not
properly attired then those wishing to report it must take photos and send them in to [email protected] and TYFA
will handle it.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 9 – Game Time Verification
VERIFICATION BY BLACK SHIRTS
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 38
A. At TYFA-hosted playoffs and randomly during the regular season, Game Time Verification will be done by 1 to
2 Black Shirts; but never a game that contains one of their own teams.
TYFA Black Shirts:
1. Will Pre-Game Verify Athletes and Volunteers
2. Will check for Dress Code violations
3. Will check Equipment for violations
B. The Black Shirts will use the TYFA Web App to do Pre-Game Verification.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 10 – Hand Shake
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 39
The post-game handshake is symbolic of good sportsmanship and the
understanding that it was only a game. Throughout youth sports, we teach
our players that at the end of the game, we shake hands (or slap high fives) to
our opponents and congratulate them on “good game.” Because it is just that;
a game. It is a fundamental of sportsmanship. This gesture shows respect for
opponents and is one of the life lessons that can be taught through sports.
Public displays of protest will not be fully understood by all participants and
only will serve to further disrespect the game.
The fact that a situation creates a potential conflict is not reason enough to not do it, but rather creates another
teachable moment we can use to allow another life lesson to be learned. It takes a certain amount of character to
do your best, fall a little short and congratulate the victor with dignity and grace - even when you are disappointed
and may not feel like it. This doesn't happen only in athletics, this happens in life. Whether it's who got an "A" in a
class, won the talent show, made the big sale, got the job promotion, or even when a decision doesn't go your way
after a good debate.
A. Right after the final whistle in a game, win or lose, each team MUST line up their football players and coaches
on the 50 yard line to shake the hands of the opposing team. The head coach, (to include the team’s complete
coaching staff) will always be in the line to shake hands. Team Managers are exempt but may be in the line.
B. Coaches that do not participate in the post-game handshake will be charged with a (Level II Violation Unsportsmanlike). If a team does not line up to shake hands the head coach will be charged with a (Level IV
Violation - Unsportsmanlike).
C.
Positive comments only. If you don’t have anything nice to say, say nothing.
E.
If a monitoring Black Shirt tells the head coaches to skip the handshake, it will be because they feel the potential
for a major incident exists. The two head coaches are to shake hands and take their teams away from the field.
If they choose to do the handshake with the whole team regardless of the orders given by the Black Shirt and
something happens, the head coaches will both be charged with a (Level IV Violation) in addition to any other
disciplinary action handed out.
D. Because it has been proven that physical altercations can take place during the handshake, NO players from
younger or older teams or cheerleaders may be in the line. This is a safety issue and if this is violated and
something happens, the head coach will be charged with a (Level IV Violation - Safety).
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 11 – Where can I be at a Game when Suspended?
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 40
TERMINOLOGY
TYFA Participant = A person who has been TYFA Certified.
This rule pertains to an athlete or volunteer that has been ejected and suspended by the Regulatory & Compliance
Committee (RCC). It does not pertain to an athlete or volunteer right after ejection. Unless stated otherwise by the
discipline set forth by the RCC, the following states where a TYFA Participant may be if suspended.
•
•
An athlete may be on the sideline with their team or cheer squad as long as they do not have any
equipment on and are not dressed out to participate.
A volunteer may only be in the spectator area.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 12 – Postponed Games
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 41
TERMINONLOGY
Cancel = To cancel a games is to nullify it either before it begins and to make no provisions for rescheduling.
Forfeit = A forfeit in this case occurs only when a game is not played because of the failure or refusal of one team to
participate. In that event, the other team, if ready and willing to play, is the winner by a score of 1-0.
Postpone = To postpone a game is to defer its starting time to a later date, or to suspend a game if it has begun and
to make provisions to resume at a later date if necessary.
Terminate = To terminate a game is to end it short of a full game, to record it officially as a completed game, and to
make no provision to resume it at a later date. The Commissioner’s Office may terminate a game in a situation if, in
their opinion, it is reasonable to project that resumption (a) would not change its ultimate result or (b) would not
adversely affect any other competitive issue.
Postponed games will be rescheduled by TYFA sometime throughout the season if necessary. Make up days may
include Sundays and week nights. There will not be two games scheduled within the same day, but there could be
two games within a weekend. Priority will go to games that have competitive consequences.
The Commissioner’s Office will review each game that was postponed and determine if a game is to be rescheduled,
canceled or terminated.
The Commissioner’s Office will use the following guidelines:
1. If a game is Postponed before it starts or at any time prior to the start of the 3rd quarter, consideration will
be given to:
-
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Is there any competitive need to play the game?
Was the Mercy Rule in effect?
What was the point spread differential?
Is this game a playoff game?
If TYFA determines that a game must be played for a competitive need, both teams are required to play the
game. If either chooses not to, the game will be considered a Forfeit win for the other. A Forfeit in this
situation will be considered a Class A Forfeit. For postseason postponements, the Commissioner will make
every effort to set the game as soon as possible after its originally scheduled date and at the same site. If
unable to schedule at the same site, he will select an appropriate alternative.
If a game has no competitive need to be played, the Commissioner’s Office (after speaking with both
organizations) may Cancel or Terminate the game. If Cancelled the game will be recorded as a 0-0 tie. If
a game is Terminated, one team will win or it will be declared a tie.
If the game is Postponed and the mercy rule was in effect the game will stand as an officially played game
with the score as is regardless of the quarter.
If the game is in overtime and Postponed with one team having had an opportunity to score (and did), but
the other team has not had their full opportunity to score, the game will end as a tie.
Games Postponed at any time after the second half kickoff or first play from scrimmage (in Flag), will stand
as an officially played game and whomever was winning at that time, wins the game. If the game is tie
when Postponed, the game will remain tied.
Playoff games obviously have to be handled differently and immediately if possible. These will be handled
on a case by case basis.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 13 – Light and Weather
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 42
TERMINONLOGY
Cancel = To cancel a games is to nullify it either before it begins and to make no provisions for rescheduling.
Forfeit = A forfeit in this case occurs only when a game is not played because of the failure or refusal of one team to
participate. In that event, the other team, if ready and willing to play, is the winner by a score of 1-0.
Suspend = To suspend a game is to stop play temporarily.
Postpone = To postpone a game is to defer its starting time to a later date, or to suspend a game if it has begun and
to make provisions to resume at a later date if necessary.
Terminate = To terminate a game is to end it short of a full game, to record it officially as a completed game, and to
make no provision to resume it at a later date. The Commissioner’s Office may terminate a game in a situation if, in
their opinion, it is reasonable to project that resumption (a) would not change its ultimate result or (b) would not
adversely affect any other competitive issue.
An official schedule TYFA Game may not be Postponed for any reason other than safety conditions unless there is
prior approval from TYFA. It goes without saying that if the facility is owned by a private party such as Parks & Rec,
an ISD etc. there is nothing anyone can do if they choose to close a facility.
LIGHT ISSUES
During the course of the season TYFA will encounter federally mandated Daylight Savings Time. If there are no
lights at a field and there are extended injuries, overtimes or other delays, all scheduled games may not get played.
If in the White Hat’s opinion there is not enough light to continue play for the safety of the participants on the field,
he will bring the head coaches to the middle of the field.
 Any game not yet played will or not yet into the 3rd quarter be declared Postponed.
 Any game that is into the 3rd or 4th quarter will be declared Terminated as a completed game.
WEATHER
Games will be played in the Heat, in the Cold and in the Rain. Pooling water on the fields, lightning and hail are
the main reasons a game may be stopped. A decision to stop a game due to weather may not be made prior to the
day in which the game is to be played except by TYFA, Parks and Rec, a School District, Private Property owner etc.
GAME SUSPENSION INFORMATION
All games that are Suspended and resumed on the same day will be resumed at the point of suspension. On the
suspension of a game, the White Hat will call timeout and make a record of the following:
 Team possessing the ball
 Direction in which its offense was headed
 Position of the ball on the field
 Down
 Distance
 Period
 Time remaining in the period
 Any other pertinent information required for an orderly and equitable resumption of play
Teams should not leave assuming a game is Postponed. They should wait until the game postponement is official.
Any team that leaves during a Suspended game and is not present if play is resumed will receive a Class B Forfeit.
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 13 – Light and Weather
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 43
POOLING WATER
Pooling water is a safety issue. If a player is tackled and there is a pile up and their face goes into the water and the
pile is not cleared quickly enough, the player could drown. Therefore, if there is standing pools of water on the field,
the White Hat will Suspend the game.
In the spring the 85-minute clock will stop and the host and/or coaches will have up to a maximum of 15 minutes
to drain the areas of pooling water to an acceptable level in the White Hat’s opinion. In the fall the host will have up
to a maximum of 30 minutes. If not, the game will be Postponed.
If the pools of water are in an area of the field that would allow for the field to be reconfigured to the alternate field
size of 80-yards + two 10-yard end zones, then the field should be reconfigured and the game should continue.
If organizations are found to have played on fields with pools of water they will be charged with a (Level IV
Violation-Safety).
HAIL
Hail is a safety issue. If hail starts to fall, the White Hat will Suspend the game and all athletes, volunteers, referees,
support staff and spectators will need to leave the field and spectator areas and seek shelter.
In the spring the 85-minute clock will stop and the game will be Suspended for up to a maximum of 15 minutes to
wait for the hail to stop. In the fall the game will be Suspended for up to a maximum of 30 minutes. If the hail does
not stop within that time, the game will be Postponed.
If organizations are found to have played in hail, they will be charged with a (Level IV Violation-Safety).
TORNADOS
If a field is in an area with a Tornado Watch or Warning, the day’s events should be Postponed and everyone sent
home. The same is true if games are going on and an area comes under a Tornado Watch or Warning.
 Any game not yet played will or not yet into the 3rd quarter be declared Postponed.
 Any game that is into the 3rd or 4th quarter will be declared Terminated as a completed game.
LIGHTNING
When are Games Suspended?
The existence of blue sky and absence of rain are not protection from lightning. It does not have to be raining for
lightning to strike. Thunder always accompanies lightning.
When lightning is detected, the White Hat and head coaches need to determine the distance by using a lightning
detection device or the Flash-To-Bang method. Free Apps are too inconsistent. The Flash-To-Bang method is
counting the number of seconds between the flash and the first sound of the thunder and dividing by 5 to give you
distance in miles. I.e. there is a flash and a person counts to 40, which divided by 5 puts the lightning at
approximately 8 miles away. If the Flash-To-Bang count is 30 seconds or less, which is 6 or less miles, the game
should be Suspended. In spring the 85-minute clock will stop.
Announcement of Suspension of Activity
Once it is determined that there is danger of a lightning strike the White Hat will declare the game Suspended.
Evacuation of the Playing Field and Stands
Immediately following the White Hat suspending the game, all athletes, volunteers, referees, support staff and
spectators are to evacuate the field and seek shelter. If there is a PA system in place, the following message should
be given: “Please be advised there has been lightning detected in the area. Please immediately evacuate to your vehicles
or any enclosed building. The game will resume when and if it is deemed safe.”
Section 2 – Game Day
Policy 13 – Light and Weather
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 44
Resumption of a Suspended Game
In the spring a game can only be Suspended for a maximum of 15 minutes, 30 minutes in the fall before it will be
declared Postponed or Terminated.
A Suspension of a game must be for a minimum of 15 minutes. The clock starts at the moment the What Hat
declares the game suspended. The 85-minute clock in spring will stop.
If after the expiration of the 15 minutes the Flash-To-Bang count is greater than 30 seconds, greater than 6 miles,
the game may resume where it left off.
If the Flash-To-Bang count is still under or at 30 seconds and the game is a spring game, the game will:
 Be declared Postponed if the game was not yet into the 3rd quarter.
 Be declared Terminated (game complete) if the game was into the 3rd or 4th quarter.
If the Flash-To-Bang count is still under or at 30 seconds and the game is a fall game, the White Hat will Suspend
the game for a second 15 minutes.
If the Flash-To-Bang count is still under or at 30 seconds after the second 15 minutes, the game will:
 Be declared Postponed if the game was not yet into the 3rd quarter.
 Be declared Terminated (game complete) if the game was into the 3rd or 4th quarter.
Consequences
If organizations are found to have played in lightning whose Flash-To-Bang count was 30 seconds or less, will be
charged with a (Level IV Violation-Safety).
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Table of Contents
Policy 1. Blood ............................................................................................................................................46
Policy 2. Concussions ................................................................................................................................47
Policy 3. Heat & Hydration ......................................................................................................................51
Policy 4. Heat Stroke ................................................................................................................................ 56
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 1 – Bleeding
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 46
TERMINOLOGY
 “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players = is the minimum number of players who’ve been certified by TYFA and
are not currently on any holds that must be on the field to avoid a forfeit.
[7 for Flag, 9 for Midgets, Rookies and Juniors, 11 for Seniors].
If a referee discovers a player bleeding, has an open wound or has an excessive amount of blood on their uniform, the
player will be removed from the game until the wound is covered and the player is cleaned up.
If this brings a team under the “ON-FIELD” minimum of eligible players, timeouts will automatically be used if
available or the team will be penalized: Delay of Game (LOS/5) and the player will be attended to for a maximum of 5
minutes. If the player is not available to play after that time, the White Hat will declare a Class C Forfeit.
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 2 – Concussions
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 47
Information provided here is from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention. You can visit their website at www.cdc.gov/Concussion.
THE FACTS
• All concussions are serious.
• Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness.
• Recognition and proper response to concussions when
they first occur can help prevent further injury or even
death.
There’s no doubt about it: sports are a great way
for kids and teens to stay healthy while learning
important team-building skills. But there are
risks to pushing the limits of speed, strength, and
endurance. And athletes who push the limits
sometimes don’t recognize their own limitations
— especially when they’ve had a concussion.
That’s where you come in. It’s up to you, as a coach, to help recognize concussion and make the call to pull an athlete
off of the field if you think an athlete might have one. Playing with a concussion can lead to long-term problems. It
can even be fatal.
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
A bump, blow, or jolt to the head can cause a concussion, a type of traumatic brain injury. Concussions can also
occur from a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth — literally causing
the brain to bounce around or twist within the skull. This sudden movement of the brain causes stretching,
damaging the cells and creating chemical changes in the brain. Once these changes occur, the brain is more
vulnerable to further injury and sensitive to any increased stress until it fully recovers.
Unlike a broken ankle, or other injuries you can feel with your hands, or see on an x-ray, a concussion is a disruption
of how the brain works. It is not a “bruise to the brain.”
How can I recognize a possible Concussion?
On the football field, concussions can result from a fall or from players colliding with
each other, the ground, or an obstacle, such as a goalpost. Even a “ding,” “getting your
bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious.
As a coach you are on the front line in identifying an athlete with a suspected
concussion. You know your athletes well and can recognize when something is off —
even when the player doesn’t know it or doesn’t want to admit it.
Remember, you can’t see a concussion, like you can see a broken ankle, and there is
no one single indicator for concussion. Recognizing a concussion requires watching
for different types of signs or symptoms.
So to help recognize a concussion, you should watch for and ask others to report the
following two things among your athletes:
1.
2.
Sometimes people wrongly
believe that it shows
strength and courage to
play while injured.
Discourage others from
pressuring injured athletes
to play. Some athletes may
also try to hide their
symptoms. Don’t let your
athletes convince you that
they “are just fine” or that
they can “tough it out.”
Emphasize to athletes and
parents that playing with a
concussion is dangerous.
A forceful bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that results in rapid
movement of the head.
Any concussion signs or symptoms, such as a change in the athlete’s behavior, thinking, or physical
functioning.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Concussions?
Athletes who experience one or more of the signs and symptoms listed below, or who report that they just “don’t
feel right,” after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body may have a concussion.
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 2 – Concussions
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 48
Signs observed by Coaching Staff
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Symptoms reported by Athlete
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Appears dazed or stunned (such as glassy eyes)
Is confused about assignment or position
Forgets an instruction or play
Is unsure of score or opponent
Moves clumsily or poor balance
Answers questions slowly
Loses consciousness (even briefly)
Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall
Can’t recall events after hit or fall
Headache or “pressure” in head
Nausea or vomiting
Balance problems or dizziness
Double or blurry vision
Sensitivity to light or noise
Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
Concentration or memory problems
Confusion
Does not “feel right” or “feeling down”
Signs and symptoms of concussion generally show up soon after the injury. But the full effect of the injury may not
be noticeable at first. For example, in the first few minutes the athlete might be slightly confused or appear a little
bit dazed, but an hour later they can’t recall coming to the practice or game.
So assess the player, then assess the player again, then re-assess the player even later. Make sure that the athlete is
supervised for at least one or two hours after you suspect a concussion. Any worsening of concussion signs or
symptoms indicates a medical emergency.
Why should I be concerned about Concussions?
Most athletes with a concussion will recover quickly and fully. But for some athletes,
signs and symptoms of concussion can last for days, weeks, or longer.
So why is it so important for you to remove an athlete from play?
If an athlete has a concussion, his brain needs time to heal. A repeat concussion that
occurs before the brain recovers from the first—usually within a short time period
(hours, days, weeks)—can slow recovery or increase the chances for long-term
problems. In rare cases, repeat concussions can result in brain swelling or permanent
brain damage. They can even be fatal.
Did you know?
• Athletes who have ever
had a concussion are at
increased risk for
another concussion.
• Young children and
teens are more likely to
get a concussion and
take longer to recover
than adults.
What are Concussion Danger Signs?
In rare cases, a dangerous blood clot may form on the brain of an athlete with a concussion and crowd the brain
against the skull. Call 9-1-1 or take the athlete to the emergency department right away if after a bump, blow, or
jolt to the head or body he exhibits one or more of the following danger signs:
•
•
•
•
•
•
One pupil larger than the other
Is drowsy or cannot be awakened
A headache that gets worse
Weakness, numbness, or decreased concentration
Repeated vomiting or nausea
Slurred speech
•
•
•
•
•
Convulsions or seizures
Cannot recognize people or places
Becomes increasingly confused, restless, or agitated
Has unusual behavior
Loses consciousness (a brief loss of consciousness should
be taken serious)
What should I do if a Concussion is suspected?
You know that one of the keys to being a good coach is keeping your athletes safe and preparing them for the
future—whether it is learning good teamwork or honing their athletic skills. But you also know that there are
unacceptable risks in sports, especially when it comes to the brain.
So no matter whether the athlete is a key member of the team or the game is about to end, an athlete with a
suspected concussion should be immediately removed from play. To help you know how to respond, follow the
“Heads Up” four-step action plan if you suspect that an athlete has a concussion:
1. Remove the athlete from play. Look for signs and symptoms of a concussion if your athlete has
experienced a bump or blow to the head or body. When in doubt, sit them out.
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 2 – Concussions
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 49
2. Ensure that the athlete is evaluated by an appropriate health care professional. Do not try to judge
the severity of the injury yourself. Health care professionals have a number of methods that they can use
to assess the severity of concussions. As a coach, recording the following information can help health care
professionals in assessing the athlete after the injury:





Cause of the injury and force of the hit or blow to the head or body
Any loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out) and if so, for how long
Any memory loss immediately following the injury
Any seizures immediately following the injury
Number of previous concussions (if any)
3. Inform the athlete’s parents or guardians about the possible concussion and give them information
on concussion. This fact sheet can help parents monitor the athlete for sign or symptoms that appear or
get worse once the athlete is at home or returns to school.
4. Keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury and until an appropriate health care professional
says they are symptom-free and it’s OK to return to play. After you remove an athlete with a suspected
concussion from practice or play, the decision about when to return to practice or play is a medical
decision.
HELP ATHLETES RETURN TO PLAY GRADUALLY
Rest is very important after a concussion because it helps the brain to heal. After a concussion the torn or stretched
brain cells need the body's energy to heal. So the more energy an athlete uses doing activities, the less energy that
goes to help the brain heal.
That’s why ignoring concussion symptoms and trying to “tough it out” often makes symptoms worse. For example,
exercising or activities that involve a lot of concentration, such as studying, working on the computer, or playing
video games may cause concussion symptoms (such as headache or tiredness) to reappear or get worse. So only
when an athlete’s symptoms have reduced significantly, in consultation with their healthcare professional, should
he slowly and gradually return to daily activities, such as school. Physical and cognitive activities—such as
concentration and learning—should be carefully managed and monitored by a health care professional.
Progressive Return to Activity Program:
An athlete should return to sports practices under the supervision of an appropriate health care professional. When
available, be sure to work closely with your team’s certified athletic trainer. Below are five gradual steps that
you and the health care professional should follow to help safely return an athlete to play. Remember, this
is a gradual process. These steps should not be completed in one day, but instead over days, weeks, or
months.
Step 1: Begin with light aerobic exercise only to increase an athlete’s heart rate. This means about 5 to 10 minutes
on an exercise bike, walking, or light jogging. No weight lifting at this point.
Step 2: Continue with activities to increase an athlete’s heart rate with body or head movement. This includes
moderate jogging, brief running, moderate-intensity stationary biking, moderate-intensity weight lifting (reduced
time and/or reduced weight from the athlete’s typical routine).
Step 3: Add heavy non-contact physical activity, such as sprinting/running, high-intensity stationary biking, regular
weight lifting routine, non-contact sport-specific drills (in three planes of movement).
Step 4: Athlete may return to practice and full contact in controlled practice.
Step 5: Athlete may return to football competition. As a coach, you should pay careful attention to an athlete’s
symptoms, as well as the athlete’s thinking and concentration skills at each stage of activity. Any symptoms should
be reported to their health care provider. If an athlete’s symptoms come back or he gets new symptoms as he
becomes more active at any stage, this is a sign that the athlete is pushing himself too hard. An athlete should only
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 2 – Concussions
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 50
move to the next level of activity if he does not experience any symptoms at each level. If an athlete’s symptoms
return, he should stop these activities and the athlete’s health care provider should be contacted. After more rest
and an okay from his health care provider, the athlete should return to the first level and he should then restart the
program gradually.
HOW TO PREVENT & PREPARE FOR CONCUSSIONS
Insist that safety comes first. No one technique or piece of safety equipment is 100 percent effective in preventing
concussion, but there are things you can do to help minimize the risks for concussion and other injuries. For
example, to help prevent injuries, ensure that athletes:
 Practice “Heads Up” football—never lower your head during a hit.
 Use proper techniques in blocking and tackling. Learn and apply the fundamentals.
 Follow the rules of play and practice good sportsmanship and self-control at all times.
 Wear properly-fitted helmets and protective equipment. Helmets and other protective equipment should
be well-maintained and be worn consistently and correctly. This includes buckling the chin strap on
helmets at all times.
 Understand that helmets can help protect their head and brain, but they are not 100 percent effective in
preventing concussions.
Check with your league, school, or district about concussion policies. Concussion policy statements can be
developed to include the school or league’s commitment to safety, a brief description of concussion, and information
on when athletes can safely return to play. Parents and athletes should sign the concussion policy statement at the
beginning of the football season.
Involve and get support from other school or league officials—such as principals, certified athletic trainers, other
coaches, school nurses, and parent-teacher associations—to help ensure that school or league rules and concussion
policies are in place before the first football practice.
WHEN IN DOUBT, SIT THEM OUT
For more information and safety
resources, visit: www.cdc.gov/Concussion
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 3 – Heat & Hydration
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 51
When you take the field, you want to be sure you have done everything you can to protect your athletes from heat
illnesses.
HEAT
How does the body handle heat?
High body temperature decreases exercise performance and is a major risk factor for developing a heat illness.
During exercise, working muscles produce heat, which is stored in the body until it can be released into the
environment. The environment can add heat to the body through high air temperature and radiant heat from the
sun. So the body has to keep itself from storing too much heat while continuing to exercise. Sweating is the body’s
best way to get rid of heat, via evaporation. As sweat evaporates from the skin, heat is transferred away from the
body into the environment. However, as relative humidity increases, the body’s ability for sweat to evaporate from
the skin decreases, resulting in greater heat storage, load, and potential for exertional heat illnesses.
How do I protect my Athletes?
The best way to protect your athletes is to modify the risk factors that are responsible for causing heat illness. These
risk factors can be classified into two categories: extrinsic (factors outside the athlete’s control) and intrinsic
(factors unique to the specific athlete). Extrinsic risk factors can be modified by changing practice times, taking off
equipment, or providing more breaks. Not participating with an illness, maintaining proper hydration, and
becoming heat acclimatized are all options to decrease intrinsic risk.
What is Heat Acclimatization and how can my team do it?
Heat illness is most common during the first 5 days of practice. An easy way to protect athletes during this time is
heat acclimatization. Heat acclimatization takes an average of 10-14 days to get the full benefits, but still provides
important protective benefits while it’s occurring. Heat acclimatization is a series of adaptations that helps the body
prepare for exercise in the heat. These changes help the body maintain lower temperature and heart rate, enhance
sweating, and store more water. The lower heart rate and body temperature means that athletes can exercise longer
and at a higher intensity, which lowers the risk for heat illness.
Achieving Heat Acclimatization
Heat acclimatization can be achieved by using the model below. This is only a recommendation by USA Football
and the Korey Stringer Institute.
The following are important for understanding the table:
•
•
•
•
Practice is defined as time on the football field (including warm-up, stretching, break time, cool down, and
any conditioning time), and it should never exceed 3 hours.
During the first 5 days, practices should be limited to 2 hours.
A walkthrough is defined as time dedicated to reviewing plays and field positions, and should not exceed 1
hour.
Heat acclimatization days should be continuous if possible, meaning few days off. However, if your practice
schedule is only a few days a week, then remember that the days between your practices (the days off) do
not count towards acclimatization days. It will take longer to acclimatize in situations like this.
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 3 – Heat & Hydration
Table 1
Area of practice modification
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 52
Day 1-2
# of practices permitted per day
Equipment
Maximum duration of a single
practice session
Permitted Walk Through
Time (not included as
practice time)
Contact
Helmets only
2 hours
Practices 1-5
Day 3-5
Practices 6-14
1
2, only every other day
3 hours
3 hours (a total
maximum of 5 hours on
double session days)
Helmets & Shoulder Pads
Full Equipment
1 hour (but must be separated from practice for 3 continuous hours)
No Contact
Contact only with
blocking sleds/dummies
Full, 100% live contact
drills
How do I modify my practice for environmental conditions?
In deciding when it is too hot to play sports depends on the heat index. In modifying or cancelling sports practices,
keep in mind the following:
•
•
•
Hot, dry weather can be extremely dangerous. Because sweat evaporates very quickly in such conditions,
your child won't feel sweaty, and neither you nor your child may recognize how much water he or she has
lost.
As the relative humidity increases, the effectiveness of sweating in cooling the body decreases.
When the relative humidity is high, sweat drips off the skin so that the cooling benefit of evaporation is lost
even at cooler temperatures, resulting in a build-up of body heat.
Head Index break down taken from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) which is a
federal agency focused on the condition of the oceans and the atmosphere.
Using a mobile device with access to weather apps you can get the actual Heat Index (Feels Like) temperature and
apply it to the table above. If you don’t have access, but someone knows the Temperature (F°) and the Humidity %
use the table below to calculate the Heat Index (Feels Like) temperature.
While limiting or cancelling practices may be possible in some areas in the United States, in many others it is not
possible. For instance, a 1991 study of environmental conditions in Alabama over a 5-year period found that there
was no time during the month of August when it was considered safe for football practices or games. Similar results
were noted for the southern half of that state in the month of September.
Where cancelling or modifying practices or games because of high heat or humidity is impossible, others steps to
reduce the risk of heat illness, especially for football players, should be taken.
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 3 – Heat & Hydration
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 53
Table 2 – Heat Index Practice Adjustments
• Provide ample amounts of water. This means water should always be available
and athletes should take in as much water as they desire.
Heat Index under 90°
• Optional water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minutes duration.
• Ice-down towels for cooling
• Watch/monitor athletes carefully for necessary action
• Provide ample amounts of water. This means water should always be available
and athletes should take in as much water as they desire.
• Mandatory water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minutes duration.
• Ice-down towels for cooling
Heat Index 91° to 103°
• Watch/monitor athletes carefully for necessary action
• Helmets and other possible equipment removed if not involved in contact
• Reduce time of outside activity. Consider postponing practice to later in the day
• Re-check temperature and humidity every 30 minutes to monitor for increased
Heat Index
• Provide ample amounts of water. This means water should always be available
and athletes should take in as much water as they desire.
• Mandatory water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minutes duration.
• Ice-down towels for cooling
• Watch/monitor athletes carefully for necessary action
• Alter uniform by removing items if possible
Heat Index 104° to 124° • Reduce time of outside activity as well as indoor activity if air conditioning
unavailable
• Postpone practice to later in day if possible
• Helmets and other possible equipment removed if not involved in contact or
necessary for safety. If necessary for safety, suspend activity.
• Re-check temperature and humidity every 30 minutes to monitor for increased
Heat Index.
• Stop all outside activity in practice and/or play, and stop all inside activity if air
Heat Index above 125°
conditioning is unavailable.
Table 3 – Heat Index Calculation
Relative Humidity (%)
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
90
95
100
80
80
80
81
81
82
82
83
84
84
85
86
86
87
82
81
82
83
84
84
85
86
88
89
90
91
93
95
84
83
84
85
86
88
89
90
92
94
96
98
100
103
86
85
87
88
89
91
93
95
97
100
102
105
108
112
Caution
88
88
89
91
93
95
98
100
103
106
110
113
117
121
90
91
93
95
97
100
103
105
109
113
117
122
127
132
Temperature (F°)
92
94
96
98
94
97 101 105
96 100 104 109
99 103 108 113
101 106 112 117
105 110 116 123
108 114 121 128
112 119 126 134
116 124 132
121 129
126 135
131
Extreme Caution
Danger
100
109
114
118
124
129
136
102
114
119
124
130
137
104
119
124
131
137
Extreme Danger
106
124
130
137
108
130
137
110
136
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 3 – Heat & Hydration
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 54
HYDRATION
What types of fluid should I use for hydrating?
Water is the least expensive and most accessible fluid during exercise. Sports drinks contain electrolytes, sugar, and
water, which give athletes important nutrients during exercise. While water is appropriate during all types of
exercise, sports drinks are recommended for use during intense exercise that is greater than 60 minutes or during
intense exercise in the heat. Also, kids like the taste of sports drink, so it may lead them to hydrate more than if
water is the only available fluid.
When should Athletes hydrate?
Before Exercise
• Hydrate with 16-24 oz. of water or a sports drink
During Exercise
• Have unlimited access to water during exercise/activity
• Be able to drink as much as they want
• Be able to drink for the entire break period if they wish
• Access to sports drinks when exercise is greater than 60 minutes or in exercise is going to be intense and
in the heat
To achieve this, it’s recommended that all exercise sessions should have predetermined breaks approximately
every 15 minutes. The timing and length of breaks should be dependent on the environmental conditions. While
athletes may be encouraged, or even required to bring their own fluids, as a coach, always make sure extra fluids
are available for those that have forgotten or need to refill their water bottle.
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 3 – Heat & Hydration
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 55
HOW TO RECOGNIZE & TREAT
How do I recognize and treat?
How do I recognize the various exertional heat illnesses and what can I as a coach, do to treat my athletes?
Table 4 – Recognize and Treatment
Heat Syncope
Recognition
Refers to a fainting or
lightheadedness episode
Heat Cramps
Painful, localized muscle cramps
and may feel like they are
“wandering” throughout the
cramping muscle
Usually visible and the muscle
will feel hard
Lack of heat acclimatization and
poor fitness
Causes
Blood pools in the lower
extremities reducing the heart’s
ability to provide enough
circulation
Combination of fatigue,
dehydration and electrolyte
losses through sweat
Lack of heat acclimatization and
poor fitness
Heat Exhaustion
The inability to continue exercise
in the heat from either weakness
or exhaustion
May feel hot, tired, sweating a
lot, weak, dizzy and don’t feel
able to continue exercise
Caused by either excessive fluid
losses or electrolyte losses
Dehydration causes less blood
to be available for the working
muscles and the skin to give off
heat
Remove the athlete from activity
and put them in a shaded/cool
area
Treatment
Lay the athlete on the ground and
raise their legs about 12 inches
Rehydration with water and
sport drinks
This helps blood go back to
the heart to normalize blood
pressure
Some light stretching or
massage with ice on the
cramping muscle
Lay the athletes on the ground
and raise their legs about 12
inches
Replenish lost fluids
Moderate cooling methods such
as ice towels, misting fans, or
cold water immersion
Arrive to practice well hydrated
and having consumed some salt
with the last meal
Prevention
Heat acclimatization
Minimize fluid losses during
exercise and replace lost fluids
post exercise
Heat acclimatization
Return to Play
The athlete should feel better
within a few minutes, and full
recovery is usually quick (within
hours)
Return to activity once the
athlete feel better and is
adequately hydrated
Once cramps resolve
Without replacing lost fluids, risk
of additional cramps is high
Heat acclimatization
Arriving to practice/competition
well hydrated
Minimizing fluid losses during
activity and replace fluid losses
after exercise
Should not return to activity on
the same day
Complete recovery usually takes
24-48 hours and must focus on
rehydration and rest
Important: If an athlete needs to go to the hospital, have him cool off first and transport second. Rapid cooling on-site while waiting
for transport to the hospital is the key to survival of an exertional heat stroke without medical staff.
Section 3 – Health & Safety
Policy 4 – Heat Stroke
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 56
Information provided by the Korey Stringer Institute.
What is Exertional Heat Stroke?
Exertional heat stroke occurs when the body reaches temperatures above 104°F and there is obvious central
nervous system (CNS) dysfunction. CNS dysfunction can include any of the following; dizziness, collapse, confusion,
irrational behavior, hysteria, aggressiveness, combativeness, disorientation, seizures, and coma. It is a medical
emergency.
What is the cause of EHS?
When the body is unable to give off heat fast enough, heat is stored and core body temperature continues to rise.
How do I treat someone suspected of EHS?
If EHS is suspected in an athlete, immediate action is imperative in order to maximize the chance of survival.
EMS (9-1-1) should be called immediately. Aggressive cooling of the entire body should be done to lower the
athlete’s core body temperature as fast as possible. Whole-body cold-water immersion is the best treatment for
EHS because it cools the body the fastest. If this is unavailable then any attempts to cool the body through continual
dousing of water (shower, running a hose over the entire body while covering the body with iced towels) should
be done before EMS arrives to take the athlete to the hospital.
How do I prevent EHS?
There are multiple ways in which you can help prevent the occurrence of EHS:
• Having your athletes undergo a period of heat acclimatization
• Encouraging athletes to come to practice hydrated
• Allowing athletes’ unlimited access to hydration during activity
• Modifying practice when environmental conditions become extreme (allowing additional rest/hydration
breaks, reducing the intensity of practice, reducing the time of practice, and reducing the equipment worn
during practice)
• Practicing at an intensity that is appropriate for the fitness level
• Encourage your athletes to speak up when they do not feel well- create a culture where this is considered
smart.
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Table of Contents
Policy 1. Rule Challenge ..........................................................................................................................58
Policy 2. Personnel Challenge ................................................................................................................60
Policy 3. Field Challenge ..........................................................................................................................62
Policy 4. Flag Belt Challenge .................................................................................................................. 64
Policy 5. Protests ........................................................................................................................................65
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Policy 1 – Rule Challenge
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 58
At no time are either of the head coaches or sideline volunteers allowed to get belligerent with the referees or the
other volunteers. If a volunteer starts to get out of line they will be warned and if they continue, the team will be
penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15) followed by an EJECTION (Level IV) if necessary.
There are times when a team will not agree with the referee crew on
interpretations, enforcement, calls or lack of calls. This happens in all sports at
all levels.
In youth football, a team must keep in mind that there are only 2-3 referees
on the field instead of 5+ in higher levels of football. With only 2-3
referees, they are placed on the field and taught to look at key areas of a
play, to catch things happening around the ball. They will not see
everything that is happening on the field.
A team must also keep in mind that these referee crews may officiate college,
high school and other youth leagues. Anyone would find it hard to remember all
the unique rules of each league.
In the NCAA, a head coach is provided a conference or challenge. We have reproduced it here for your convenience.
NCAA Rulebook, Rule 3, Article 4 - Charged Team Timeouts
E. A player, incoming substitute or head coach may request a head coach’s conference with the referee, if the coach believes a rule
has been enforced improperly. If the rule enforcement is not changed, the coach’s team will be charged a timeout, or a delay
penalty if all timeouts have been used.
1.
2.
Only the referee may stop the clock for a head coach’s conference.
A request for a head coach’s conference or challenge must be made before the ball is snapped or free-kicked for the
next play and before the end of the second or fourth period.
After a head coach’s conference or challenge, the full team timeout is granted if charged by the referee.
This is very similar to the TYFA Rule Challenge except for the fact that a TYFA coach could only challenge if the rule
in question was a TYFA rule.
The Rule Challenge now allows
the head coach to discuss with
the referee NCAA and TYFA
rules.
Neither the NCAA nor TYFA will
allow for a head coach to bring
into question a judgement call
of a referee.
Regardless of what rule is in question, the head coach MUST have the
proper Handbook to Challenge, either in paper or electronic form.
Why the Rulebook?
How else do you prove your point
when two-sides disagree!
This way, a coach better know his
rules and where to find them.
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Policy 1 – Rule Challenge
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 59
RULE CHALLENGE PROCEDURE
If a head coach feels that the referees have misunderstood or misapplied a rule they need to get the
STEP 1 attention of the referee on their sideline and declare a “Rule Challenge” before the next snap of the ball
or it will be too late.
•
•
Once the White Hat is made aware there is a Challenge he will stop ALL Clocks.
Once the issue is resolved either with a correction or a penalty, the appropriate clocks will start based on
the result of the previous play.
STEP 2
The sideline referee will blow his whistle to stop the game and explain to the White Hat that a
challenge has been declared. While that is happening the team should be finding the rule in the book
to prove their point. The White Hat will walk over to the challenging sideline and will ask the head
coach if they have the appropriate Rulebook to prove their point.
RESPONSE 1:
RESPONSE 2:
STEP 3
If the head coach does not have the appropriate book the White Hat will penalize
the team a timeout. If the team has no timeouts, the White Hat will penalize the
team: Delay of Game (LOS/5).
At the 2-minute mark the White Hat will ask the head coach if he is ready to present his case.
RESPONSE 1:
RESPONSE 2:
STEP 4
If the head coach has the appropriate book the White Hat will give the coach a
maximum of 2- minutes to find the rule in question. Go to Step 3.
If the head coach could not find what he was looking for within the 2-minutes the
White Hat will penalize the team a timeout. If the team has no timeouts, the White
Hat will penalize the team: Delay of Game (LOS/5).
If the head coach found the rule go to Step 4.
The head coach will be given 2-3 minutes to explain his interpretation of the rule and show the
referees the rule in the appropriate book at which point the head coach will be sent to the sidelines
and the referee crew will discuss.
RESPONSE 1:
RESPONSE 2:
If the referees concur with the head coach, the White Hat will correct the mistake
and the game will continue after the White Hat explains to the opposing head coach
what transpired. The White Hat will not debate with the opposing head coach.
If the referees disagree with the challenging head coach, the White Hat will penalize
the team a timeout. If the team has no timeouts, the White Hat will penalize the
team: Delay of Game (LOS/5).
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Policy 2 – Personnel Challenge
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 60
At no time are either of the head coaches or sideline volunteers allowed to get belligerent with the referees or the
other volunteers. If a volunteer starts to get out of line they will be warned and if they continue, the team will be
penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15) followed by an EJECTION (Level IV) if necessary.
INELIGIBLE/ILLEGAL PLAYER
A. Part of the pre-game process is the Pre-Game Player Verification which is REQUIRED. It is in this process that
players with holds and any players preparing to play that are not in the TYFA Web App will be discovered.
B. It goes without saying that both teams need to understand that any player without a picture, has a birth
certificate hold or an executive hold is INELIGIBLE to participate in the game and if a team is caught playing
any player with one or more of these issues, the team will forfeit and be charged with a (Level III Violation Cheating). It would behoove head coaches to make sure that their players are good to go or they shouldn’t play.
C.
The validity of a player can only be challenged once a game has started (i.e. after initial kickoff or initial snap).
A team can only be challenged once each half. The players in question must be on the field or on the sideline
and suited to play.
D. A head coach must have a very good reason to declare a “Personnel Challenge” during a game.
PLAYER CHALLENGE PROCEDURE
If a head coach is convinced that their opponent has a player that should not be playing in the game,
STEP 1
they are required to get the attention of the sideline referee and declare a “Personnel Challenge”.
•
•
Once the White Hat is made aware there is a Challenge he will stop ALL Clocks.
Once the issue is resolved either with a correction or a penalty, the appropriate clocks will start based on
the result of the previous play.
STEP 2
STEP 3
The White Hat will call the opposing head coach to the center of the field along with any player that is
being questioned. If they are wearing helmets, they are to remove them. All other coaches and players
will be asked to move to the sideline. The head coach will then be asked to bring up his player roster
on an electronic device. The White Hat will re-verify those player(s).
The game will be declared a Class B Forfeit if:
• A head coach refuses to comply;
• A player is found with a Birth Certificate or Executive Hold;
• A player is found to have a missing picture even if certified; or
• A player is not found in the TYFA Web App or does not match the picture.
And the head coach will be charged with a (Level III Violation - Cheating).
If the accusing head coach is wrong and there is no problem with the opponent’s players, the White
Hat will penalize the accusing team: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15).
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Policy 2 – Personnel Challenge
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 61
INELIGIBLE/ILLEGAL VOLUNTEER
A. It is each head coaches’ job to check their volunteer rosters (Photo Roster is the most efficient method) days
prior to a game to make sure there are no issues that could cost them volunteers and/or a game. It is also their
job to make sure that their volunteers have current year IDs.
B. The validity of a volunteer can only be challenged once a game has started (i.e. after initial kickoff or initial
snap). A team can only be challenged once each half. The volunteers in question must be on the field or on the
sideline.
C.
A head coach must have a very good reason to declare a “Personnel Challenge” during a game.
VOLUNTEER CHALLENGE PROCEDURE
If a head coach is convinced that their opponent has a volunteer that should not be on the sideline,
STEP 1
they are required to get the attention of the sideline referee and declare a “Personnel Challenge”.
•
•
Once the White Hat is made aware there is a Challenge he will stop ALL Clocks.
Once the issue is resolved either with a correction or a penalty, the appropriate clocks will start based on
the result of the previous play.
STEP 2
STEP 3
The White Hat will call the opposing head coach to the center of the field along with any volunteer that
is being questioned. All other coaches and players will be asked to move to the sideline. The head
coach will then be asked to bring up his volunteer roster on an electronic device. Showing a badge
doesn’t count. The White Hat will re-verify those volunteer(s).
The game will be declared a Class B Forfeit if:
• The head coach refuses to comply.
• A volunteer is found with a Payment Hold.
• A volunteer is found with an Executive Hold.
• A volunteer is found to have a missing picture even if certified.
• A volunteer is not found in the TYFA Web App or does not match the picture.
And the head coach will be charged with a (Level III Violation - Cheating).
If the accusing head coach is wrong and there is no problem with the opponent’s volunteers, the White
Hat will penalize the team a timeout. If the team has no timeouts, the White Hat will penalize the team:
Delay of Game (LOS/5).
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Policy 3 – Field Challenge
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 62
At no time are either of the head coaches or sideline volunteers allowed to get belligerent with the referees or the
other volunteers. If a volunteer starts to get out of line they will be warned and if they continue, the team will be
penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15) followed by an EJECTION (Level IV) if necessary.
A. The Facility Policy covers everything from A to Z on what a proper TYFA facility should be. The field aspect of
the policy is the one issue that could affect the outcome of a game or player’s safety and is therefore the only
thing pertaining to a facility that can be protested or get a game Postponed. All other issues can be filed as
Grievances.
B. It is an organization’s responsibility when hosting to make sure that the facility policy is being followed,
especially as it pertains to the field size, markings and safety. There will be no excuse for field size or safety
issues and the only excuse on markings is if it is or has been raining severally and the lines keep washing away.
GAME POSTPONEMENT
If a head coach of a visiting team feels that the field is not safe, they need to get the attention of the
STEP 1 White Hat prior to the start of the game and declare a “Field Challenge”. If a game starts and even one
(1) play is run, a game cannot be postponed for safety concerns.
The White Hat must make a determination if in their opinion there are safety issues with the field such
as a lot of rocks, cracks, ants etc. If there is a monitoring Black Shirt they can be consulted, but the final
decision is the White Hat’s.
RESULT 1:
STEP 2
RESULT 2:
If in the White Hat’s opinion, the field is unsafe, the hosting organization will be given a
short opportunity to fix the issue. If they fix the issue to the White Hat’s approval, the
game will start without issue. If the field is not fixed to the White Hat’s approval, the
game will be Postponed.
If the White Hat’s opinion the field is safe; the game will start without issue.
** Games postponed for safety reasons will in most cases go down as a Class A Forfeit against the
hosting organization.
FIELD MARKINGS
If a head coach of a visiting team feels that the field is not marked properly, they need to get the
STEP 1 attention of the White Hat prior to the start of the game and declare a “Field Challenge”. If a game
starts and even one (1) play is run, no protest can be done for field markings.
The White Hat must make a determination if in their opinion there are enough lines to accurately
handle out of bounds etc. If there is a monitoring Black Shirt they can be consulted, but the final
decision is the White Hat’s.
RESULT 1:
STEP 2
RESULT 2:
RESULT 3:
If it is or has been severally raining and the lines keep washing away, the game will
continue with no issue. The referees will use their best judgement.
If there is no issue with rain and the White Hat thinks the lines are good enough, the
game will start without issue.
If the White Hat thinks the lines are insufficient for the game to continue, the hosting
organization will be given a short opportunity to fix the issue. If they fix the issue to the
White Hat’s approval, the game will start without issue. If the field is not fixed to the
White Hat’s approval, the game will go into automatic protest and the game will
continue. Result 3 should be reported to TYFA in the game summary.
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Policy 3 – Field Challenge
FIELD SIZE
STEP 1
STEP 2
If a head coach of a visiting team feels that a field is of an incorrect size, they need to get the attention
of the White Hat prior to the start of the game and declare a “Field Challenge”. If a game starts and
even one (1) play is run, no protest can be done on the field size.
Unless it is obvious the field size is incorrect, the field will have to be measured. There are only two
(2) methods to do this that will be accepted. If it is not obvious or the field is not measured, the field
size cannot be challenged.
1. Tape Measure
2. Using the 10-yard Chain
Correct sizes:
STEP 3
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 63
1.
2.
3.
Field Length: 240 (80-yards) 300 feet (100-yards)
End zone Depth: 30 feet (10-yards)
Field Width: 160 feet (53 1/3-yards)
The referee crew (or Monitoring Black Shirt) and both head coaches will measure the field. Once a
field is measured for the day, any additional Challenges are either void if the field was correct or put
in automatic protest if the field was previously determined to be incorrect.
RESULT 1:
If the field is actually incorrect in size, the game will automatically be protested. The
White Hat will record the issue, the protesting organization will add it to their Game
Summary Report and the game will continue.
** A hosting organization is not given the opportunity to fix the issue, because if a field is chalked,
painted or burned, it would not be able to be fixed in a reasonable amount of time.
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Policy 4 – Flag Belt Challenge
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 64
At no time are either of the head coaches or sideline volunteers allowed to get belligerent with the referees or the
other volunteers. If a volunteer starts to get out of line they will be warned and if they continue, the team will be
penalized: Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15) followed by an EJECTION (Level IV) if necessary.
STEP 1
•
•
If a head coach feels that their opponent’s flags are not within spec, they need to get the attention of
the referee on their sideline and declare a “Flag Belt Challenge”.
Once the White Hat is made aware there is a Challenge he will stop ALL Clocks.
Once the issue is resolved either with a correction or a penalty, the appropriate clocks will start based on
the result of the previous play.
The sideline referee will blow his whistle to stop the game and explain to the White Hat that a
challenge has been declared. The White Hat will walk over to the challenging sideline and will ask the
head coach what his issue is.
ISSUE 1:
STEP 2
ISSUE 2:
RESULT 1:
RESULT 2:
STEP 3
RESULT 1:
STEP 6
If the head coach has the issue handbook and a ruler, the White Hat will give the coach
a maximum of 2- minutes to find the flag specifications. Go to Step 3.
If the head coach does not have the handbook and/or ruler, the White Hat will penalize
the team a timeout. If the team has no timeouts, the White Hat will penalize the team:
Delay of Game (LOS/5).
If the head coach could not find what he was looking for within the 2-minutes the White
Hat will penalize the team a timeout. If the team has no timeouts, the White Hat will
penalize the team: Delay of Game (LOS/5).
If the head coach found the flag specifications go to Step 4.
The White Hat will call the opposing head coach to the center of the field along with any player that is
being questioned. All other coaches and players will be asked to move to the sideline. The White Hat
will measure the flags and/or check the material and/or check the clasp.
RESULT 1:
STEP 5
Accusation is that the flags are not of the right material, or the clasp is not right. The
White Hat will ask the head coach if he has the TYFA Football Handbook.
At the 2-minute mark the White Hat will ask the head coach if he is ready to present his case.
RESULT 2:
STEP 4
Accusation is that the flags are not the right size. The White Hat will ask the head coach
if he has both the TYFA Football Handbook and a ruler.
RESULT 2:
If at least one (1) flag belt does not meet specifications, go to Step 6.
If there was nothing wrong with the flag belts, the White Hat will penalize the
challenging team a timeout. If the team has no timeouts, the White Hat will penalize the
team: Delay of Game (LOS/5).
The game will be declared a Class B Forfeit if:
• The offending head coach refuses to comply.
• At least one belt does not meet specifications.
And the head coach with a (Level III Violation-Cheating).
Section 4 – Protests & Challenges
Policy 5 – Protest
Head Coach Handbook
Page | 65
There are no Protests.
All Challenges are handled at the game field and an outcome determined right there.
Bottom Line
It is the head coaches’ responsibility:
•
•
To check the status of their athletes and volunteers in the TYFA Web App before they get to a game
To make sure they have the proper flag belts and they meet all the required specs.
It is an organization’s responsibility to have their fields properly sized and marked.