Contents
EXECUTIVE BOARD
4
BASIC PURPOSE AND PHILOSOPHY
4
LINCOLN MIDGET FOOTBALL – POINTS OF IMPORTANCE
5
SPORTSMANSHIP IS OUR NO. 1 PRIORITY: .........................................................5
TOBACCO POLCY ...................................................................................................5
POLICY STATEMENT...............................................................................................5
SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY
5
LINCOLN MIDGET FOOTBALL DISCIPLINE POLICY
6
LEAGUE STRUCTURE
7
CORPORATE BOARD ..............................................................................................8
RECOMMENDED TEAM COACHING STAFF ..........................................................8
COACH AND PLAYER SPORTSMANSHIP
8
COACHES - LEADING AND COMMUNICATING
9
TEAM EFFORT .......................................................................................................10
LEADING.................................................................................................................10
FOLLOWING ...........................................................................................................10
COMMUNICATING .................................................................................................11
IMPROVING COMMUNICATION ............................................................................11
PLANNING SUGGESTIONS ...................................................................................11
HOW TO EXPLAIN .................................................................................................12
LISTENING .............................................................................................................12
COMMUNICATION SELF-CHECKLIST ..................................................................12
TEAM EQUIPMENT
12
FIRST AID
13
RECOMMENDATIONS RELATING TO INJURIES
13
FRACTURES AND HEAD INJURIES ......................................................................14
GAME DAY FIRST AID ...........................................................................................15
INSURANCE
16
INTRODUCTION .....................................................................................................16
BENEFITS ...............................................................................................................16
1. Who is insured?
16
2. When does insurance apply?
16
3. Accidental medical expense benefits - Limit $100,000
16
4. Accidental death and dismemberment
16
CLAIMS ...................................................................................................................17
1
LEAGUE RULES
18
GENERAL LEAGUE RULES
18
REGISTRATION .....................................................................................................18
DISTRICTS AND PLAYER PARITY ........................................................................18
PLAYERS IN DISTRICT ..........................................................................................18
BOUNDARY VIOLATIONS......................................................................................19
PLAYER MISCONDUCT .........................................................................................19
WAIVER OF RULES ...............................................................................................19
1. WEIGHT LIMITS
20
AStandard
20
BSpecial
20
2. AGE and GRADE LIMITS
20
PRACTICES ............................................................................................................20
GAME DAY .............................................................................................................21
NUMBERING OF PLAYERS ...................................................................................21
LEAGUE STANDINGS ............................................................................................21
RAIN OUTS .............................................................................................................21
FUND RAISER ........................................................................................................22
SIDELINE PERSONNEL AND VIDEO CAMERAS ..................................................22
VIOLATION OF RULES ..........................................................................................22
COACHES & STAFF ...............................................................................................22
RULES FOR LEAGUE PLAY
22
1. Unsportsmanlike conduct penalty – Coaches
2. Age, Grade and Weight Limits
3. Participation
4. Rosters
5. Game Day Weigh-ins
6. Dotted Lineman Rule
ADDITIONAL "A" LEAGUE RULES
23
23
23
23
23
24
25
ADDITIONAL "B" LEAGUE RULES
26
ADDITIONAL "C" LEAGUE RULES
26
ADDITIONAL "D" LEAGUE RULES
27
ADDITIONAL "ROOKIE" LEAGUE RULES
29
2011 NFHS FOOTBALL RULES CHANGES
32
POINT OF EMPHASIS
32
CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR 2011
33
PLAYER WAIVER REQUEST FORM EXAMPLE 1
34
LEAGUE ROSTER EXAMPLE 2
35
2
SPONSOR REPRESENTATIVES AND BACKUPS
Assurity
Mike Mullen, Sponsor Repr.
Glenda Henning, Backup
402-499-2435
402-437-3668
[email protected]
[email protected]
Elks
Clayton Tomjack, Sponsor Repr.
Matt Honke, Backup
402-443-4499 Home [email protected]
402-443-9598
402-423-0701
[email protected]
Executive Club
Steve Flodman
Scott Snyder, Backup
402-326-1453
[email protected]
[email protected]
402-309-4566
402-730-3617
[email protected]
[email protected]
402-570-0111
402-890-5968
[email protected]
[email protected]
Fire
Cory Hassebroek, Sponsor Repr.
Darrel Brown, Backup
Leons
Dan Weber, Sponsor Repr.
Kyle Bellamy, Backup
Police
Bob Farber, Sponsor Repr.
Steve Wiese, Backup
402-477-6011 Home [email protected]
402-499-4884
402-770-6719
[email protected]
Runza
Gordon Springer, Sponsor Repr.
Don Warnke, Backup
402-525-7020
402-499-9602
402-416-0187
[email protected]
402-304-0904
402-416-8480
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Union Bank
Mike Selvage Sponsor Repr.
Casey Lenners, Backup
3
Executive Board
Phone Numbers & Addresses
President
Vice Presidents
Secretary
Treasurer
"Swede" Glover
5330 S 51st St
Lincoln – 68516
Email [email protected]
402 450-9371
Steve Allely
2520 B St
Email [email protected]
402 580-9966
Lincoln - 68502
Josh Munford
7420 Wren Cir
Lincoln - 68506
Email [email protected]
402 304-3767
Ken Wolfe
2920 S 46th St
Lincoln - 68506
Email [email protected]
402 430-2063
Bob Grundman
7412 Karl Dr
Lincoln - 68516
Email [email protected]
402 489-9171
Wayne Kubert
6518 Teton Dr
Lincoln - 68510
Email [email protected]
402 476-1144 (Wk)
402 890-9626 (Cell)
BASIC PURPOSE AND PHILOSOPHY
The Lincoln Midget Football Leagues’ basic purpose is to guide the character development of
the participants within an atmosphere of strength, endurance, ability and motor skills through
instruction in the basic fundamentals of football.
All of these elements are generally considered basic to an individual's health and fitness. The
program strives to foster friendships and achieve clean living both on and off of the playing
field.
To attain these objectives, it is the responsibility of a Head Coach and his staff to be
competitive, stress enjoyment, strive to win and improve the proficiency of the team throughout
the season.
The primary emphasis will be placed in the thorough and competent instruction of all players in
football fundamentals as opposed to over-specialized techniques or styles of play.
The program is designed to be competitive. Players who diligently participate, are agreeable
and play to their fullest capacity, will participate in each game regardless of his or her natural
ability.
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In the Lincoln Midget Football League winning is important to provide a measure of
achievement and spirit of competition. However, this motive shall not override enjoyment,
good sportsmanship, equal opportunity and the mental and physical well-being of every player.
LINCOLN MIDGET FOOTBALL – POINTS OF IMPORTANCE
SPORTSMANSHIP IS OUR NO. 1 PRIORITY:
Lincoln Midget Football would like for your No. 1 priority during the football season to be good
sportsmanship. We all have the responsibilities to stand tall for sportsmanship. Those
involved are Coaches, Player Participants, Fans, Booster Groups, Media, Officials
and Administrators. It takes a lot of hard work, but sportsmanship is the most important
value gained from any sports activity program.
TOBACCO POLICY
The Board of Directors has directed that there shall be NO use of Tobacco, Alcohol,
Controlled Substances or Profane Language within Practice or game sites.
Let the following policy statement be your guide for the coming year:
POLICY STATEMENT
The ideals of good sportsmanship, ethical behavior and integrity permeate our culture. The
values of good citizenship and behavioral apply equally to all disciplines. In perception and
practice, good sportsmanship shall be defined as those qualities of behavior that are
characterized by generosity and genuine concern for others. Further, awareness is expected
of the impact of an individual's influence on the behavior of others. Good sportsmanship is
viewed by Lincoln Midget Football as a concrete measure of the understanding and
commitment to fair play, ethical behavior and personal integrity.
SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY
Lincoln Midget Football is committed to provide a safe environment for its participants. It will
make every effort to prevent sexual misconduct.
The League will take reasonable steps to exclude adults with a legally documented history of
sexual abuse. A person documented under Nebraska Statute 29-4002 (Sex Offender
Registration Act) will not be able to participate in the program. Every adult who participates in
the program (including but not limited to league and sponsor representatives, coaches,
trainers, volunteers, and referees) must complete the League’s “Staff Authorization” form and
will be subject to a law enforcement background check. No adult will be permitted to coach
and work with the youth without completing this form. The League's Executive Board will
document all adult program participants.
Conduct Guidelines:
1. Inappropriate touching is forbidden
2. Coaches and any other participant should not have unsupervised contact with the
youth
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3.
4.
Any individual affiliated with the League should not be in a vehicle unattended with
a youth without the written permission of the youth's parents or the youth's safety
requires otherwise.
Parents will be encouraged to attend all sponsored events
Lincoln Midget Football Discipline Policy
Purpose: The purpose of the discipline policy is to inform all persons associated with Lincoln
Midget Football (LMF) that there is an expected standard of behavior. The standard of
behavior involves following rules set forth by LMF in the League Manual, and it involves
maintaining a degree of conduct which conforms to the mission of LMF.
Policy:
1.
All persons associated with LMF include Executive Board Members, sponsor
representatives, coaches, players, referees, volunteers, parents, guardians, family
members and spectators.
2.
Any person may register a complaint.
3.
A complaint may result from real or perceived rules violations or from real or perceived
conduct, which does not conform to the mission of LMF.
4.
All complaints will result in an investigation.
5.
All complaints will be forwarded to the LMF Executive Board’s representative.
6.
Types of complaints:
A. Informal - The person registering the complaint does not wish to provide name,
address and phone number and requests no follow-up contact.
B. Formal - The person registering the complaint will provide name, address and
phone number and requests follow-up contact.
7.
Informal complaint investigative process.
A. The complaint shall be investigated or handled by the person deemed most able
to address the situation in a positive manner as directed by the LMF Executive
Board representative.
B. An informal complaint shall not result in any official documentation.
C. Repeated informal complaints may result in a formal process being initiated at
the request of the LMF Executive Board’s representative.
8.
Formal complaint investigative process.
A. The complaint should be documented with a LMF complaint report.
B. The report shall then be forwarded to the LMF Executive Board’s representative
who shall inform the LMF President.
C. The LMF Executive Board representative shall then conduct an investigation by
contacting all parties involved including witnesses or others involved who may
have information relating to the incident and document the information.
D. Upon completion of the investigation, the results shall then be forwarded to the
LMF League President.
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E. The results of the investigation shall also be shared with the person who initiated
the investigation as well as the parties who were the subject of the investigation.
Disciplinary actions and sanctions: The LMF Executive Board may impose disciplinary
action or sanctions based upon the seriousness of the rule or conduct violation. Disciplinary
action may result in a simple consultation with a sponsor representative or with a LMF
Executive Board Member. It can also result in a suspension (one game, multiple games, or
the entire season).
Disciplinary action can result in expulsion from the League. If the rule or conduct violation
involves a sponsor representative, the sponsor may be requested to replace the sponsor
representative. In the event of repeated violations occurring within a sponsor, the LMF
Executive Board may revoke the sponsorship and seek a replacement sponsor.
Appeal Process: An appeal may be directed to the LMF Executive Board, through the LMF
League President. The LMF Executive Board will rule on the action by majority vote. A further
appeal may be sought. This appeal shall also be directed through the LMF League President.
The appeal would then be brought to the LMF Board of Directors, (as defined by LMF by-laws).
The LMF Board of Directors will then rule on the action by majority vote. The decision of the
LMF Board of Directors will be deemed final.
Record keeping: All written records of complaints will be maintained at the League Football
Complex and shall be purged in a period of four years from the date of the complaint.
LEAGUE STRUCTURE
The Lincoln Midget Football Program is made up of a Corporate Board, consisting of eight
Sponsors and the Executive Board.
The Board is responsible for making the League's rules and regulations. The Board is the
governing body of Lincoln Midget Football.
All rules and regulations in this manual have been debated and passed by a majority vote of
the Corporate Board.
It is the duty of the League's volunteers to abide by and enforce these rules.
If there is any area where you feel a change is needed, or an issue you feel should be brought
forward, you should talk to your sponsor representative so it can be brought up at the next
board meeting. It is important that all coaches keep in contact with their sponsors and let him
or her know your feelings. This is the only way they have of knowing how you feel, and also
your way of voicing your opinion at Board meetings.
A Sponsor shall field a team for the A, B, C leagues. And field the D and Rookie teams as the
players assigned permit.
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CORPORATE BOARD
Sponsor Sponsor Sponsor Sponsor Sponsor Sponsor
Sponsor
Sponsor
Assurity
Elks
Exec
Fire
Leon's
Police
Runza
Union Bank
└──────┴─────┴─────┴──────┴──────┴──────────┴──────────┘
League President
│
League Vice-Presidents
│
League Secretary
League Treasurer
RECOMMENDED TEAM COACHING STAFF
Sponsor
┌──────────────────────┴───────────────────────┐
Athletic Director
Business Manager
┌┴───────────┬──────────┬──────────┬───────────┐
"A" Coaches
"B" Coaches
"C" Coaches
"D" Coaches
"Rookie" Coaches
COACH AND PLAYER SPORTSMANSHIP
One of the most gratifying experiences for a midget football coach is to see a young man that
he has coached continue playing the game of football at higher levels. Many midget football
players participate in high school and some participate at the college level. Every coach feels
that he made some small contribution toward the youth's development and ultimate success.
However, over 70% of the youth, who participate in the Lincoln Midget Football Program do not
play any other organized football. Even though a youth may not continue in sports beyond the
level of midget football, there is much gratification in the following years to have such
acquaintances, and more especially to know that the youth has matured into a good citizen.
The part that we play in these players' lives is perhaps their only contact with the principles of
discipline, team spirit, self-control, winning, losing, personal pride, and individual
accomplishment.
All of you know that young people learn by "example", but we must be reminded from time to
time that our conduct and sportsmanship on the practice field and during the course of a
contest, rather than what we tell them, will likely be emulated by the youth.
It is important a coach teach every player to be disciplined (an essential element for success),
have respect for themselves and others, and be willing to sacrifice. The players should not be
permitted to display any acts of disrespect for the decision of any official during any contest nor
should they be permitted to argue with any game official. The only player permitted to talk to
the game officials should be the field captain. He should address him respectfully, Mr., Sir, or
Mr. Referee. Coaches have an obligation to control their tempers and not openly disagree with
"bad calls" by the officials. This is part of the game, and the kids should be taught by our
EXAMPLE to live with these "mistakes".
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All coaches should conduct themselves responsibility at all times, and strive to serve as an
"example" of sportsmanship. Any differences of opinion should not be discussed in front of the
players. The discussion needs to take place after the game or practice. Bad language and
bad examples cannot be excused.
Remember - we are adults supervising, coaching, and setting an example for youth and we
must be thoughtful and careful as to what kind of "example" we set.
All coaches and players shall lead the way showing the "spirit" of the Midget Football Program.
This is accomplished by showing mutual respect for fellow coaches, and a TOTAL dedication
to the Lincoln Midget Football PROGRAM. One temper flare-up or sharp remark can cause
lasting damage to a lot of individuals, and is counter-productive to what the program is all
about.
The Board of Directors has directed: There shall be NO use of Tobacco, Alcohol, Controlled
Substances or Profane Language within practice and game sites.
All coaches are to conduct themselves in a positive manner at all times. Loss of temper,
profane language, or other unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Parents are asked
to contact League Officials if there is an infraction.
COACHES - LEADING AND COMMUNICATING
Is a good coach always a winning coach? In the minds of most spectators, professional,
college and high school coaches, a winning coach and a good coach are synonymous.
A well-known quote hangs in many gymnasiums and locker rooms; "It's not important who won
or lost, but how you played the game." Endless quotes and statements like this are used to
spur competitors.
A famous baseball manager made one of the most detrimental quotes to the young
competitor's growth. "Nice guys finish last." First, it isn't true. Second, that attitude corrupts
and misleads young people from grasping the concept of competitive sports.
Coaching objectives and responsibilities are substantially different for the League's levels of
competition. A "professional" coach or manager must be capable of working efficiently with
several assistant coaches. He must accurately recognize potential of new prospects. He has
to be a good organizer, administrator, and motivator. His prime objective is to put together a
sound program. His major role is to be an instructor of fundamentals. Unfortunately, too many
coaches lose sight of this role. They are often frustrated athletes trying to emulate Vince
Lombard, John Wooden, and Casey Stengel. These people spend far too much time trying to
instill a winning attitude instead of instructing.
Young children are frequently turned away from organized sports due to overzealous coaches.
In fact, verbal abuse can be extremely detrimental to the young player's future in organized
sports. There have been far too many needless tongue-lashings and non-constructive
criticisms dished out by poorly trained teachers and coaches at the grade-school level.
Just how much effort should be placed on winning is difficult to assess. Nevertheless, the
desire to win is important to any competitive activity. If it weren't, there would be no reason to
9
keep score. No way can we dismiss the fact that winning is a measure of success. However,
it must not be emphasized to the point where the youngster is berated.
TEAM EFFORT
Team sports are excellent for teaching individuals how to work together. When each member
performs to his maximum capability in a cooperative effort, the team attains optimum
performance. When one or more fails to put forth his best effort, group success is directly
affected.
Most individuals in our society must function as a member of a group whether they work for a
company, the government, or an educational institution. The level of performance achieved by
the group depends significantly on how well the individuals work together.
LEADING
When you are the head coach, employ a natural and deliberate style. Don't try to be
something you aren't. Copying the style of someone who has been successful does not mean
it is the best for you. A natural style is the most desirable, and it is very effective.
Nevertheless, it's possible you may possess some characteristics that are neither endearing
nor useful. Identify them and try to get rid of them.
All coaches run into personnel problems during the season. When they arise, don't
procrastinate. Face them squarely. Little problems overlooked often results into bigger ones.
Assess the situation calmly and carefully. Then devise a way of handling it. Above all, don't
flail recklessly while squashing a little problem. This flailing may create other difficulties that
would never have come up.
It's best not to place blame on one individual. Your objective is to improve team performance.
When this perspective is clear, one can deal with problems on a straightforward basis.
Should you be fortunate enough to have assistants, use them. Let them be an important part
of the organization. Often the assistant may detect the start of a problem long before the head
coach. If assistants feel they are an integral part of the program, they are more likely to
volunteer their help in a positive way. Delegate special responsibilities to them, sometimes
letting them run the show. When the assistant understands the system and feels comfortable
in the organization he will contribute substantially to the team's performance. Furthermore, if
an emergency arises, the assistant can take over without jeopardizing the team's
effectiveness.
FOLLOWING
An assistant coach must be a good follower, not just obedient or servile. It's not an easy thing
to do, however. The good assistant strives for the same results as the head coach. The
desire for the same results must exist. A good assistant takes the time to insure that he
thoroughly understands the intent of the head coach. However, the assistant must not become
the boss to player. Instead, he should stick to his assigned area of activity. This prescription
will not restrict effectiveness or curtail creativity; it merely eliminates confusion in player's
minds.
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Good assistants expand their knowledge, listen, and follow the leader's requests.
Contradiction or destructive criticism seldom accomplishes anything, except delaying
objectives. Following is not learned just to satisfy a temporary obligation on the way to
becoming the leader. One should never completely break from the role of follower. You may
reach the level where your leader is the president, the owner, or sponsor of the organization.
You may be promoted to the top of the heap. But even the president of the organization must
follow the peoples' wishes. Always work at following. Leading will then take care of itself.
COMMUNICATING
Communication is an exchange of information, which is expressed, received and assimilated,
so there is a complete understanding by the parties involved. Many experts compare
communications to a broadcasting system. When no receivers pick up the station's signals,
communication is incomplete. Both sending and receiving units must be operating properly
before communication takes place.
The coach in football is usually the sending station. He beams out ideas and instructions to
the assistants and players. Most coaches believe that once the message is sent out it is
automatically received. But remember the sender gives out information effectively only when
the receiver is properly tuned in. When the station spews out static or speaks in a foreign
language, the receiver fails to get the message.
Good communication requires that the receiver not only hears the message but also
understands it. Therefore, the sender must also be a good listener to determine if the receiver
understands the transmission. An efficient communicator not only learns what to say and how
to say it, but also clearly interprets what the other person is saying.
IMPROVING COMMUNICATION
Constant effort should be exerted to upgrade your communication skills. Although there are
many ways to develop an improvement program, one of the easiest is to make an outline and
follow it.
A.
B.
C.
D.
- Plan: Carefully analyze how you will present as well as share instruction.
- Explain: Speak clearly and accentuate important points, Repeat if necessary.
- Verify: Review and analyze what the other person means.
- Evaluate: Use follow-up methods to confirm that there is mutual understanding.
PLANNING SUGGESTIONS
Keep the following points in mind. If necessary, write them down.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
- Select the best time to discuss your subject.
- Determine exactly what you want to accomplish in a specific discussion.
- Decide how to introduce the topics.
- Establish what major topics should be stressed.
- Determine ahead of time if listeners' ideas should be sought during the discussion.
- Analyze the individual or group prior to the session.
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HOW TO EXPLAIN
A - Use words that are compatible with the level of understanding of the people
involved.
B. - Employ clear phrases that are free of idioms, which may be foreign to the
participants.
C. - Clearly identify subjects to be discussed.
D. - Arouse the interest of the listeners, particularly at the beginning of the session.
E. - Voice tones should be adjusted to specific situations.
F. - Eliminate unnecessary or trivial details.
LISTENING
One of the best ways to improve listening skills is by practice. While talking carefully watch
what you do during your listening portion of the conversation. Maybe you are thinking about
what you intend to say rather than concentrating on the speaker's message. Another common
error of the listener is to interrupt before the speaker has finished. The following tips should
help you understand what the speaker is trying to say rather than what you think he is trying to
say.
A.
B.
C.
D.
- Do not assume or anticipate.
- Work to understand the speaker's need and reason for speaking.
- Don't react immediately with comments or expressions. Allow the speaker to get the
message across.
- Use follow-up:
1. - Check back with players or assistants, seeing if they really meant what you
heard.
2. - Watch for effects of follow-up to see if performance improves.
3. - Look for attitude changes within the individual or group.
COMMUNICATION SELF-CHECKLIST
A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. J. -
Plan ahead what to say.
Find out if players understand.
Avoid conflict whenever possible.
Double-check and review what the speaker said.
Make use of written memos to supplement oral instructions.
Use group meetings regularly.
Talk over individual problems in private.
Listen carefully to questions.
Listen with compassion to problems and complaints.
Consider individual personalities during instructions or constructive criticism.
TEAM EQUIPMENT
The Lincoln Midget Football League pays for the following list of equipment:
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1.
2.
First aid supplies, ($300 maximum per year) (Refer to: First Aid).
Footballs 2 per team. "A" - 2, "B" - 2, "C" - 2, "D" - 2, "Rookie" - 2. If you have two
"D" or two "Rookie" teams, then you may have two balls per team, giving you a total
of 12 footballs.
3. Helmets & Facemasks (NOCSAE approved).
4. Chin straps, (extras).
5. Mouth/Tooth protectors, (10 maximum).
6. Shoulder pads.
7. Game jerseys.
8. Football game pants, knee pads.
9. Cleaning and repairing of equipment.
10. Blocking equipment.
11. Weight Scale (permissible).
12. Team may utilize up to $100 per year from their equipment accounts to send their
coaches to league approved coaching clinics.
*Note: All clinics must first have prior approval by a member of the Executive Board
to be eligible for funding from a team's equipment account. The League will
provide a list of approved clinics in January.
If a parent provides equipment for his player, the equipment must have the NOCSAE
label and appropriate proper use warning.
FIRST AID
Each team will have a first aid kit available at each practice field and game location.
The following suggestions regarding first aid are merely for your consideration. The Lincoln
Midget Football League assumes no responsibility for any first aid you may administer,
whether in accordance with our recommendations or not.
We believe every team should equip themselves with a first aid kit. Such a kit should contain
the following items:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
A booklet on administering first aid
Scissors
Tweezers
Cotton tipped applicators
Box of sterile cotton
Individually wrapped sterile gauze
pads (about 3" X 3")
7. Adhesive Tape
8. Roll of sterile gauze bandage (2"
width is most versatile)
9. Box of assorted size, ready-made
bandages (Band-Aids, etc)
10. Can of B.F.I. antiseptic powder
11. Bottle of antiseptic solution such
as ST-37
12. Rubber Gloves
13. Blood Solution Kit
Note: It is important that items 4 through 9 be kept properly wrapped so they are clean.
RECOMMENDATIONS RELATING TO INJURIES
1. No participant should be sent home alone with an injury.
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a) Stay calm at all times.
b) Do not move the injured player or body part until you are sure that this is
right.
c) On the unconscious - make sure his/her airway is open. Normal breathing is
ALWAYS your number one checkpoint.
d) On all sprains, strains, contusions, use ICE: "I" is for ice; "C" is for
compression; "E" is for elevation.
e) Notify parent of the injury. A few seconds of your time may save years of
sorrow to someone else.
f) Let the doctor be the doctor - you don't carry medical legal insurance.
2. A COACH should accompany seriously injured participants (i.e. suspected broken
bones, serious sprains, contusions) to the hospital.
3. When in doubt as to the seriousness of an injury, transport the participant to a
hospital.
4. The HEAD COACH should immediately notify a parent of a serious injury.
5. In the treatment of a serious cut or wound, the League does not recommend using
any of the various mercury type or iodine antiseptic tinctures on serious cuts or
abrasions. The red dyes used in these preparations can bother a physician in
examining a wound. It is best to treat a serious cut by applying a clean pressure
bandage and remove the player to an aid station. Abrasions (skin burns) are
treated by cleaning with sterile gauze saturated with antiseptic. Dust with B.F.I.
powder and leave exposed.
6. Never give any internal medicines, not even aspirin, to an injured player. Drugs
might disguise or hide vital symptoms from the physician. This is especially true in
head injuries.
FRACTURES AND HEAD INJURIES
In the event of a suspected brain concussion or a fractured bone, call a physician at once.
Make the patient as comfortable as possible. Keep him/her warm, and give plenty of air. It is
better to hold up or cancel a practice/ball game than risk permanent injury by moving the
patient. Often a player is stunned by a head injury but not rendered unconscious. He/she may
tell you he/she is OK and perhaps he/she is, but make sure he/she has complete control of his
senses before permitting him/her to continue to participate. Test the player by asking simple
questions such as "What is your name and address," "Count to ten," "What are your parents'
names."
Read a book on first aid. Familiarize yourself with "What to do until a doctor comes."
REMEMBER:
IT IS BETTER TO DO NOTHING THAN TO DO THE WRONG THING!!!
14
GAME DAY FIRST AID
Red Cross and/or League Officials have complete jurisdiction on game days. All coaches are
required to assist as directed, including the removal and supervision of all players to the
sidelines, and to locate the injured party's parents/guardians.
15
INSURANCE
MIDGET FOOTBALL INSURANCE PROGRAM
INTRODUCTION
According to League requirements and the group insurance requirements, all participating
members must be insured. This insurance coverage provides that if the injured party has other
insurance coverage that would apply to the claim, this accident policy would pay excess or after
the other insurance has paid. Each participant is required to pay a $60.00 fee.
BENEFITS
1.
Who is insured?
All persons who are registered as with Lincoln Midget Football and all persons added as
participants or adult supervisors during the term of this policy.
2.
When does insurance apply?
Injuries arising during 1) a regularly scheduled game or practice of a participating league,
or 2) an authorized bowl game, post season or exhibition game or practice, or 3) any
group travel as a team under supervision of team authorities directly to or from such
games or practices held away for the teams' home field.
3.
Accidental medical expense benefits - Limit $100,000
Medical Services or Hospital Confinement must first be received or occur within 365 days
of the covered accident. Payment is made for 1) reasonable and necessary services and
2) for the subsequent services of a nurse. Dental treatment must first be received within
180 days of the covered accident causing the injury. The benefit is for actual expense
incurred for the treatment of natural teeth only. No benefits are paid for dental x-rays.
Payment for both medical and dental expense benefits are payable for up to 1 year from
the date of the covered accident. The benefit will not exceed the usual and customary
charge within the area in which treatment is received. All payments under the medical
and dental expense benefits are subject to the maximum benefit ($100,000). Payments
for the medical and dental expense benefits under this insurance are excess above the
insured's primary coverage or if there is no primary coverage, above a $100 deductible.
4.
Accidental death and dismemberment
If injuries to the insured person result in loss of life, two limbs or loss of sight of both eyes
within 365 days after a covered accident, the Company will pay the principle sum benefit
of $35,000.
This summary of insurance coverage and policy provisions is a general outline only. The policy
itself (including its exclusions, definitions and other policy conditions) governs all claims and
matters pertaining to this coverage. Any statement made in this summary shall not be binding
on the insurance company, the insurance agency, or Lincoln Midget Football, Inc., its teams, or
their respective officers, directors, employees, or volunteers.
16
If you would like a copy of the policy so that you can read all of the provisions, please contact
the underwriting agency.
CLAIMS
Anyone wishing to file a claim must contact the underwriting agency:
Copple Insurance Agency, Inc.
1640 L St Suite A
Lincoln, NE 68508
Telephone 402-475-3213
17
League Rules
These rules are not guidelines but ARE SET RULES. All participants involved in Lincoln Midget
Football must follow them.
GENERAL LEAGUE RULES
The following League rules apply to all participants:
REGISTRATION
1.
All registrations and team assignments must be processed, approved, and assigned
through the league office prior to any equipment being issued.
In addition, no player may be issued their equipment until they have paid in full their
popcorn or the popcorn buyou. (03-18-97) (Refer to: "General League Play – Fund
Raiser").
ABSOLUTELY NO REGISTRATIONS ARE TO BE TAKEN ON THE FIELD
VIOLATION OF THIS RULE CAN RESULT THE IN PLAYER’S POSSIBLE
REASSIGNMENT BY THE LEAGUE.
2.
Players participating in another contact football program cannot play in Lincoln Midget
Football.
3.
The address used for registration MUST be that of parent or legal guardian.
DISTRICTS AND PLAYER PARITY
Each year the League shall be responsible for equalizing the districts of all sponsors in the
League. The districts will be configured so each Sponsor has approximately 1/8 of the players..
Only those players with the Lincoln city limits will be used in establishing each Sponsor’s district
boundaries. The Board of Directors will set this distribution at the time of team assignments. In
addition, after the districts are set a system of parity will be used. Once a team reaches parity,
the additional players shall be transferred to the surrounding teams with the fewest players.
Once all teams reach parity, the parity limit will then increase by 10 players. Additional players
will be assigned IF THE SPONSOR CAN HANDLE THEM.
PLAYERS IN DISTRICT
Each player shall play for the team in which district he legally resides unless assigned otherwise
by the league office. **CHILD OF A COACH - A player may play out of district if his/her parent
coaches for another team, and the parent coached for that sponsor the previous year. An out of
district first year player’s parent need not coach for the sponsor the previous year.
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BOUNDARY VIOLATIONS
In the event that a player intentionally violates the rules of registration, so as to play for another
team other than that which he is assigned, he will be barred from any involvement in LMF for the
remainder of the year. Furthermore, should a Coach be involved in any player- district violation,
he will be dropped immediately from LMF and barred from any further involvement.
PLAYER MISCONDUCT
Any player made eligible for a game by any means not within the rules (examples: changing
jersey or using light equipment), shall be ineligible to play that day. If the incident is discovered
after the game has been completed, the team with the ineligible player shall forfeit the game and
the player shall be suspended from League for one week. The suspension is immediate. The
player and all coaches involved may be expelled from the League.
WAIVER OF RULES
Rules may be waived for individual players. A revocable waiver will be granted by the League
at the request of the team, based upon the ability of the waived player. No waiver will be
granted that will permit the player to participate in a league below his/her level of competence.
All "Request for Waiver of Rules" forms must be turned in with the Game Rosters on the date
specified in the Calendar of Events for 2012. The Game Roster’s “Waiver” box will be marked
for those players for whom a waiver has been approved. If waivers are not turned in to the
League until the first game, the waived players will not be eligible to play that Sunday. Prior the
first game, a list of wavered players will be provided to the Head Coaches in the B, C and D
leagues.
Any player’s waver, approved by the League, shall be revoked if the player is in a league below
his level of competency. The League officials shall automatically ‘waive’ any player whose
weight exceeds the league’s playing limit during the season. A Head Coach through the
Sponsor Representative and Athletic Director may petition the League to revoke a player’s
waiver.
The Executive Board is granted special permission by the LMF Board in unique situations to
waive any rules on a case-by-case basis.
A WAIVER MAY BE REVOKED AT ANY TIME!
The Executive Board has the obligation to move a waved or impact
player to a league compatible with his/her skill level.
WAIVERS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE FOLLOWING (unless otherwise specified)
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1.
WEIGHT LIMITS
Lincoln Midget Football does not encourage any type of weight loss or gain program.
A- Standard
A standard weight waiver is for a "B", "C", and "D" league player whose weight does
not exceed that league's play any position weight by more than 15 pounds. These
players are signified by a single helmet dot.
Some "weight waiver" factors that will be considered in granting or revoking a waiver
are:
1)
The player’s skill level is not sufficient for him to play in a league higher than
the one for which the waiver is sought.
2)
A weight waiver player who plays both ways and has an impact on the game
is in a league below his skill level.
B- Special
A special weight waiver is available for a "B", "C", and "D" league player whose
weight exceeds the "playing league's" weight by over 15 pounds. A special weight
waiver player will be allowed to play only one way (offense or defense) in each
game. However, Lincoln Midget Football wants special weight Waiver participants to
play both offense and defense, Therefore, they should be switched from one side of
the ball to the other from week to week. These players are signified by a double
helmet dot.
2.
AGE and GRADE LIMITS
A Standard Waiver is for a "C" and "D" league player whose age and/or grade exceeds
the "playing league's" Grade/Age Limits. (Ref: Additional "C" and "D" League Rules).
NOTE: WAIVER FORMS MUST BE GIVEN TO THE LEAGUE FOR ALL WAVERED
PLAYERS NO LATER THAN THE CALENDAR’S ‘ROSTER DUE’ DATE. THESE
FORMS ARE NEEDED SO THE EXECUTIVE BOARD KNOWS IN ADVANCE THE
REASON FOR A PLAYER BEING WAiVERED AND TO PROVIDE THE OTHER
SPONSORS WITH A LIST OF WAIVED PLAYERS. PLAYER WAIVERS NOT
SUMMITTED TO LEAGUE OFFICIALS WHEN SPECIFIED WILL NOT PLAY THE
FIRST SUNDAY. (See Example 1)
3.
MOUTH/TEETH PROTECTORS
Mouth protectors must be attached to the helmet’s face guard. Players without an
attached mouth protector will not be able to practice nor play in a game.
PRACTICES
1.
NO BOY/GIRL MAY PARTICIPATE WITHOUT COMPLETING ALL OF THE
FOLLOWING REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS: REGISTRATION FEE, PARENTS
CONSENT and RELEASE, MEDICAL FORM.
20
2.
Teams will have up to 14 practices before the first game. A practice cannot to
exceed two hours. THERE WILL BE NO CONTACT THE FIRST PRACTICE!
3.
After the first game - a team may have two practices, and one chalk talk per week.
These practices cannot exceed two hours. The chalk talk will be conducted with no
pads and no physical contact.
4.
If a practice is postponed, it can be rescheduled in the same week. If practice begins
it counts as a full practice.
5.
All practices will cease one half-hour before sunset.
6.
A COACH must supervise all practices.
7.
There will be no Sunday practices.
GAME DAY
1. The Lincoln Midget Football Complex will open 1 hour before the first scheduled
game. The League has no ability to monitor children left at the Complex.
2. Teams are not to warm-up on an open field. Warm-ups are to be done in the
southeast corner of the complex and the grassy areas between the fields.
NUMBERING OF PLAYERS
Players in the "A" and "B" Leagues are required to be numbered according to high school rules.
It is recommended that "C", "D" and "Rookie" League players also be numbered according to
high school rules whenever possible.
LEAGUE STANDINGS
Total points shall decide the standings in each league’s divisions (except for "D" and "Rookie"
leagues). Points shall be as follows: WINS = 1 point TIE =.5 point LOSS = 0 points
In case of a tie in the point standings, there will be a coin toss for playoff positions.
LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
Players for the championship game must be players who were on the team’s roster for the final
game of the regular season. No player will be allowed to be moved up from another league or
team.
RAIN OUTS
Rainout notices will be posted on the Web site and broadcast on Lincoln radio stations
beginning at 10:30 A.M., on any Sunday when the fields are too wet for play. A Rainout will be
played as soon as it can be rescheduled.
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FUND RAISER
ALL PLAYERS are required to participate in the annual league fund drive and sell a minimum of
$108.00 worth of popcorn. Any player who wishes not to sell popcorn must pay a $60.00
popcorn sale waiver.
ALL COACHES must cooperate in the Popcorn Sales and should assist the Business Manager
in enlisting the support and cooperation of the players and their parents.
ALL PLAYERS are required to pay for their popcorn in full, by cash or check, prior to equipment
checkout, and a player may not receive equipment until either the popcorn or buyout option has
been paid.
SIDELINE PERSONNEL AND VIDEO CAMERAS
Only participating coaches and players will be allowed on the coaches' side of the field. A
coach, on the sideline, must have his or her Sideline Pass displayed at all times to remain on
the coaches’ side of the field. If other league coaches are on the sideline and they become a
distraction, the League will contact the Sponsor Representative or Athletic Director about the
disruptive coaches. The Sponsor Representative or Athletic Director will be responsible to
correct the situation. If no action is taken the League will remove the coaches.
Each team currently participating on the field of play is allowed a video camera on the
players/coaches side of the field. The camera person shall be allowed to video the game only
from the scorer's stand.
VIOLATION OF RULES
ANY VIOLATION OF THE LEAGUE RULES, or any act which endangers the reputation of the
league, WILL result in the dismissal of the person or persons involved. Failure of any sponsor
to cooperate with the league will result in the forfeiture of that sponsor's equipment money for
that season's popcorn sales.
COACHES & STAFF
Any coach(s)/staff member(s) removed by a sponsor may not be allowed to participate within
the Lincoln Midget Football program for I year, beginning on the last date of the regular season,
unless reviewed and approved by a majority vote of the LMF Board of Directors. In addition, if a
coach/staff member is dismissed during the season, the coach(s)/staff member(s) shall be
ineligible for the remainder of that season, in addition to the 1 year suspension.
Any sponsor who dismisses a coach(s)/staff member(s) because of fitness to coach shall notify
the league in writing of the name/names of the coach(s)/staff member(s) and the reason for their
dismissal.
If a coach(s)/staff member(s) has been dismissed for 1 year, upon their return to the league,
they shall be considered to be on probation for that first year back.
RULES FOR LEAGUE PLAY
(Rule exceptions affecting all five leagues.)
22
All games are governed by the Nebraska State High School Rules, with exceptions as listed on
the following pages.
1.
Unsportsmanlike conduct penalty – Coaches
High School unsportsmanlike rules will be applied to coaches. A coach penalized
twice for unsportsmanlike conduct, in the same game, will be removed from the field
and suspended from coaching for the following week. The League will notify the
penalize coach’s Sponsor Representative of the penalty. It will be the Sponsor’s
obligation to enforce the penalty including the week coaching suspension.
2.
Age, Grade and Weight Limits
League's maximum and minimum age, grade and weight limits cannot be wavered.
AGE Minimum age is 9 years old on or before October 15th, 2012. Players
cannot be 15 years of age or older on or before October 15th, 2012.
GRADE No 9th graders are eligible.
WEIGHT
(See specific rules for "B", "C", "D", and "ROOKIE" leagues for
additional comments).
3.
Participation
All players who attend practice regularly (excused absence accepted) and actively
participate with a proper attitude must play the minimum number of plays. The "A"
league minimum is 10 plays per game. The "B" and "C" league minimum is 12 plays
per game. The "D" and "Rookie" league minimum is 14 plays per game. Parents are
asked to report any violations of the minimums to League Officials. The League
suggests that there be a designated “play counter” to track each player’s plays.
4.
Rosters
Each team shall supply a typed roster to League Officials by the date specified on the
League calendar. Waived players must be noted on the submitted roster. Each
roster must include a minimum of 22 players and cannot exceed 30 active players.
"D" and "Rookie" teams that are split must have a minimum of 15 active players. The
roster shall be in numerical order, lowest number first. Once a player is listed on a
given teams roster, he/she may move up, but not down without prior league approval.
The League reserves the right to move a player when the Executive Board deems
necessary. (See Example 2)
5.
Game Day Weigh-ins
Each player will be weighed before each game. Each player must make his league's
weight limit at this weigh-in. There will be only ONE OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN PER
PLAYER. A player, who is near a weight limit, MUST arrive at the scale stripped.
Players will not be permitted to strip at the scale to make weight. Players arriving at
the scale in equipment will play using the "equipped" weight. During weigh-ins, only
one coach per team weighing in and one opposing coach may be at the scales.
23
Parents are not allowed within the weigh-in area. Weight protests shall be handled at
the time of the weigh-in of the team in question.
Pre First game Weigh-in – All Sponsors will weigh-in their teams at the Runza
Football Complex during the week preceding the third week of pre-game practice.
Players will come stripped with their equipment in a bag. The League will record the
player’s stripped and equipped weights.
First Game Weigh-in – The players exceeding the league’s play any position weight
will receive their helmet dot(s). Players who missed the Pre-First game weigh-in will
weigh the Sunday the League’s season starts. These players must arrive at the scale
stripped with their equipment in a bag.
NOTE: LEAGUE SCALES ARE OFFICIAL WEIGHT, NO EXCEPTIONS!!!
6.
Dotted Lineman Rule
Specific weights for dotted linemen vary by level of league play. (Refer to: "Weight
Limits" under "Additional League Rules" for each specific league). The dotted
lineman position shall consist of the following:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
7.
All teams are limited to the number of dotted linemen who may participate on
the field of play at one time. This limit is as follows: 5 offensive (center,
guards, tackles) and 5 defensive (nose guards, tackles, ends). A dotted
lineman is required to play on the line-of-scrimmage.
All linemen, weighing more than the specific league’s running back weight
limit (dotted lineman) shall wear a helmet decal determined by the League.
Any player or coach attempting to circumvent this rule by removing the decal
shall be placed upon a one-week suspension (practices and games) and
such other action determined necessary by the League.
At no time may a dotted lineman be eligible for a pass or be allowed to be
used as a ball carrier. Any time a dotted lineman gains possession of the ball
(i.e., recovering a fumble, covering a punt, intercepting a pass) the ball is
dead at the point of possession.
A dotted lineman is permitted to kick extra points and field goals.
When a dotted lineman is not on the line-of-scrimmage at the snap of the
ball except as permitted in 6.D., the offending team will be assessed with a 5yard encroachment penalty.
At no time may a dotted lineman play on kickoffs.
Game Clock
Quarters in "A", "B", "C", "D" and "Rookie" Leagues will be ten (10) minutes. The
clock runs continuously each quarter. It will stop to advance the chain and resume as
soon as the chains are set. The clock will not stop for incomplete passes and runs
going out of bounds.
In the final two (2) minutes of either half the clock will run according to high school
rules. The next paragraph’s fast clock rule is not changed by this two-minute rule.
The "D" and "Rookie" leagues shall have 45 seconds between plays (with the clock
running).
24
When a team is leading by 22 or more points in either half, the clock shall run
continuously except during injury time-outs, and after any score. If the lead drops
below the point-spread, the clock shall return to its normal operation.
8.
PAT Scoring
At the A, B and C levels of league play, teams are awarded 1 points for a kick, and 2
point for a run or pass. At the D and Rookie levels of league play, teams are awarded
2 points for a kick, and 1 point for a run or pass.
9.
Field Goal Scoring
At all levels of league play, field goals shall be scored according to high school rules.
10.
End of Field Changes
Teams will change ends of the field at quarter.
11.
Tie Breaker Rule
For all league games at the A, B, and C leagues that end regulation in a tie, the two
teams shall play a tiebreaker. This will consist of each team being allowed only one 4
down possession from the 10-yard line. If after the first tiebreaker, the teams are still
tied, then the game ends and is ruled a tie. In addition, the tiebreaker shall be played
at the following end of the fields (unless otherwise directed by a member of the
executive board): A-field at the south end zone; B-field at the north end zone; C-field
at the south end zone.
12.
Timing Official
The official keeping time will have officiating duties. This official will monitor the
language and conduct on the sidelines. Use of prohibited language by a coach or
player will be a un-sportsman-like conduct penalty (15 yards).
ADDITIONAL "A" LEAGUE RULES
(See also - "General League Rules" and "Rules for League Play")
1
Weight Limits - All weight limits are stripped weight.
o Weight limit: There is no maximum player weight.
o All players weighing 165 pounds or below may play any position.
o All players weighing 166 pounds or more will play in a dotted lineman position on
both offense and defense.
2.
Dotted Lineman Rule - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Dotted Lineman Rule").
3.
Participation - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Participation")
4.
Game Clock - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Game Clock")
5.
Field Goals/PATs - During all field goal and/or PAT attempts, the "A" League follows high
school rules. Scoring - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play – PAT Scoring")
6.
Tie Breaker Rule - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Tie Breaker Rule")
25
ADDITIONAL "B" LEAGUE RULES
(See also - "General League Rules" and "Rules for League Play")
1.
Weight Limits - All weight limits are stripped weight.
o Weight limit: All players weighing 145 pounds or less may play any position.
o Weight waiver: Players weighing more than 145 lbs may be waived to play in the
"B" league.
o All players weighing 146 pounds or more may play only a dotted lineman position
on both offense and defense.
o All players weighing 161 pounds or more (a double dot) may play on one side of
the ball (offense or defense) per week. (Refer to: "General League Rules –
Waivers-Weight Limits")
2.
Dotted Lineman Rule - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Dotted Lineman Rule").
3.
Participation - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Participation")
4.
Game Clock - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Game Clock")
5.
Field Goals/PATs - During all field goal and/or PAT attempts, the "B" League shall follow
high school rules. Scoring - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play – PAT Scoring")
6.
Penalties - All 15-yard penalties shall be 10 yards. Other penalties are unchanged.
7.
Tie Breaker Rule - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Tie Breaker Rule").
ADDITIONAL "C" LEAGUE RULES
(See also - "General League Rules" and "Rules for League Play")
1. Grade/Age Limits - Must be grade 7 or lower, and cannot be 14 years of age.
2. Weight Limits - All weight limits are stripped weight.
o Weight limit: The All players weighing 135 pounds or less may play any position.
o Weight waiver: Players weighing more than 135 lbs may be waived to play in the
"C" league. No 7th or waived 8th grade player weighing more than 199 lbs can be
waiver to the “C” league.
o All players weighing 136 pounds or more may play only a dotted lineman position
on both offense and defense.
o All players weighing 151pounds or more (a double dot) may play on one side of
the ball (offense or defense) per week. (Refer to: "General League Rules –
Waivers-Weight Limits)
3.
Dotted Lineman Rule - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Dotted Lineman Rule").
4.
Participation- (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Participation")
5.
Game Clock - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Game Clock"
6.
First Downs - A first down shall be 8 yards, instead of 10.
26
7.
Field Goals/PATs - During all field goal and/or PAT attempts, the "C" League shall follow
high school rules. Scoring - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play – PAT Scoring"). Teams
may either kick a Field Goal/PAT from a field goal tee or off the ground, but at no time
may they use a kickoff tee.
8.
Penalties - A 5-yard penalty will be 4 yards. A 10-yard penalty will be 8 yards. And a 15yard penalty will be 12 yards.
9.
Blitz Rule - Defensive teams shall be allowed no more than six defensive linemen on any
play.
10.
Defensive LB/Secondary Rule - All defensive players not in a defensive line position,
must be at least 5 yards off of the line-of-scrimmage at the snap of the ball, and when the
offensive team gets to or within the 10-yard line, the depth becomes 3 yards off the lineof-scrimmage. When the offensive center "sets" (places his hand on the ball), defensive
players may not move off or to the line-of-scrimmage. Lateral movement is still
permitted. If a player encroaches into this area, the offending team will be assessed a
penalty of 5 yards.
11.
Coaches on the Field - Coaches are allowed on the field for the first two games only.
Each team may have two coaches on the field at all times, both offensively and
defensively. The coaches on the field (both offensive & defensive) must stop talking
once the offensive team's line becomes set. In addition, all coaches must stay back a
minimum of 15 yards from the line of scrimmage and not interfere with the play at any
time. Violation of these rules shall be illegal procedure.
12.
Ball Size - The "C" League will use the smaller sized ball (TDJ).
13.
Tie Breaker Rule - (Refer to: Rules for League Play - Tie Breaker Rule").
ADDITIONAL "D" LEAGUE RULES
(See also - "General League Rules" and "Rules for League Play")
The "D" League is for participants in their first or second year in the program and who weigh a
maximum of 120 pounds.
The games will be played under a controlled scrimmage-type condition; there will be high school
referees. Coaches will be allowed on the field during all games; the offensive coaches may be
in the huddle with the players and the defensive coaches may be in his own backfield. With his
direct contact, coaches can help correct mistakes and do a more efficient job of teaching the
basics to these young players. We feel this is a more ideal situation for the younger players just
learning, than having everything yelled at them from the sidelines. There will be no league
standings kept for the "D" League.
The basic idea of the "D" League is to make football a good experience and to teach them the
basic fundamentals of football, without putting a lot of pressure on them. It will also provide a
situation where each player should get more playing time and better instruction during the
course of the game.
Referees shall contact and explain to a player when he is guilty of an infraction.
Team captains shall be the only ones on the field allowed to talk to the officials regarding calls.
At no time is a coach to interfere with the officials.
27
1.
First/Second Year Players -It shall be the first or second year of play in the program for
all "D" League players. Third year players are to be waived by the League Officials.
2.
Grade/Age Limits - Must be grade 7 or lower and players cannot be 13 years of age on or
before Oct. 15th, of current year. A 13-year-old first year player must be specially waived
to play in the “D” league. No 8th grade players will be allowed to play “D” league.
3.
Weight Limits - All weight limits are stripped weight.
o Weight limit: All players weighing 120 pounds or less may play any position.
o Weight waiver: Players weighing more than 120 lbs may be waived to play in the
"D" league.
o All players weighing 121 pounds or more may play only a dotted lineman position
on both offense and defense. No waiver will be given to a player in a grade
above 6th weighing more than 135 pounds.
o All players weighing 136 pounds or more (a double dot) may play on one side of
the ball (offense or defense) per week. (Refer to: "General League Rules –
Waivers-Weight Limits")
4.
Dotted Lineman Rule - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play- Dotted Lineman Rule").
5.
Participation - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Participation")
6.
Game Clock - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Game Clock")
7.
Coin Toss - At the start of the game, the winner of the coin toss shall state whether they
will start on offense or defense.
8.
Kickoffs - At the "D" League, there will be NO kickoffs. The ball shall be placed on the
20-yard line, and play shall commence from there.
9.
First Downs - A first down shall be 8 yards, instead of 10.
10.
Field Goal/PAT Attempts - For all field goal and/or PAT attempts the "D" League, scoring
shall be followed, (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - PAT Scoring & Field Goal
Scoring"). When a team is going to try to kick a Field Goal/PAT, the offensive captain
must declare a kick to the official. The official will then notify both teams that there will be
a kick attempt for the Field Goal/PAT. The ball must be kicked after a kick has been
declared. The kick shall be a free kick with no defensive rush; all players must hold their
positions until the ball has been kick. During all Field Goal/PAT kicking attempts, the ball
must be centered (snapped) back to the holder by the center from his normal center
stance. If the ball does not reach the holder, the holder may then go and get the ball.
The ball will, then be placed and kicked. Teams may either kick a Field Goal/PAT from a
field goal tee or off the ground, but at no time may they use a kickoff tee.
11.
Punt Following a Safety - Whenever a safety occurs, the team (giving up the safety) shall
punt the ball from its own 20-yard line. *Note: The "Punt" rule as described below shall
be employed any time a team punts. After a safety the kicking team may not recover the
punted ball.
12.
Punt - A team may call for a punt on any down. The offensive captain must declare a
punt to the official. The official will then notify both teams that there will be a punt. The
ball must be punted after a punt has been declared. All players must hold their position
until the ball has been punted. No offensive or defensive player may cross the line of
scrimmage until the ball is punted. The defensive team must have 8 players within 7
28
yards of the line of scrimmage at the time the ball is punted. During all punt attempts, the
ball must be snapped back to the punter by the center from his normal center stance. If
the ball does not reach the punter, the punter may go and get it and then return to his
normal punting position and punt the ball.
13.
Penalties - A 5-yard penalty will be 4 yards. A 10-yard penalty will be 8 yards. And a 15yard penalty will be 12 yards.
14.
Blitz Rule - Defensive teams shall be allowed no more than six defensive linemen on any
play.
15.
Defensive LB/Secondary Rule - All defensive players not in a defensive line position,
must be at least 5 yards off of the line-of-scrimmage at the snap of the ball, and when the
offensive team gets to or within the 10-yard line, the depth becomes 3 yards off the lineof-scrimmage. When the offensive center "sets" (places his hand on the ball), defensive
players may not move off or to the line-of-scrimmage. If a player encroaches into this
area, the offending team will be assessed a penalty of 5 yards.
16.
Coaches on the Field - Coaches are allowed on the field for all games. Each team may
have two coaches on the field at all times, both offensively and defensively. All coaches
on the field (both offensive & defensive) must stop talking once the offensive team's line
becomes set. In addition, all coaches must stay back a minimum of 15 yards from the
line of scrimmage and not interfere with the play at any time. Violation of these rules
shall be illegal procedure.
17.
Game Schedule - If the number of teams at this level allow, the League shall reserve the
option to reschedule games after three weeks of play, to better match the teams.
18.
Ball Size - The "D" League will use the smaller sized ball (TDJ).
ADDITIONAL "ROOKIE" LEAGUE RULES
(See also - "General League Rules" and "Rules for League Play")
The "Rookie" League is for players in their first year in the program and who weigh less than
111 pounds. Therefore, all rules shall be followed as written. There shall be NO WAIVERS
ACCEPTED for this league.
The games will be played under a controlled scrimmage-type condition; there will be high school
referees. Coaches will be allowed on the field during all games; the offensive coaches may be
in the huddle with the players and the defensive coaches may be in his own backfield. With his
direct contact, coaches can help correct mistakes and do a more efficient job of teaching the
basics to these young players. We feel this is a more ideal situation for the younger players just
learning, than having everything yelled at them from the sidelines. There will be no league
standings kept for the "Rookie" League.
The basic idea of the "Rookie" League is to make football a good experience and to teach them
the basic fundamentals of football, without putting a lot of pressure on them. It will also provide
a situation where each player should get more playing time and better instruction during the
course of the game.
Referees shall contact and explain to a player when he is guilty of an infraction.
Team captains shall be the only ones on the field allowed to talk to the officials regarding calls.
At no time is a coach to interfere with the officials.
29
1.
First Year Players Only - It shall be the first year of play in the program for all "Rookie"
League players.
2.
Age Limits - Players cannot be 12 years of age on or before October 15 of current year.
3.
Weight Limits ("Rookie" League") - All weight limits are stripped weight.
Weight limit: The maximum weight for any player shall be 110 pounds, stripped
weight. A “Rookie” player who weights more than 110 pounds (but no more
than 115 pounds) will have the choice to:
A. Play that Sunday and move to the ‘D” League for the rest of the
season, or
B. Not play and stay as a “Rookie” and work on making weight.
This is a ‘one time’ choice and a player will not later be able to play
one Sunday and then move to the “D” League.
4.
Participation - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Participation")
5.
Game Clock - (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - Game Clock")
6.
Coin Toss - At the start of the game, the winner of the coin toss shall state whether they
will start on offense or defense.
7.
Kickoffs - At the "Rookie" League, there will be NO kickoffs. The ball shall be placed on
the 20-yard line, and play shall commence from there.
8.
First Downs - A first down shall be 8 yards, instead of 10.
9.
Field Goal/PAT Attempts - For all field goal and/or PAT attempts the "Rookie" League,
scoring shall be followed, (Refer to: "Rules for League Play - PAT Scoring & Field Goal
Scoring"). When a team is going to try to kick a Field Goal/PAT, the offensive captain
must declare a kick to the official. The official will then notify both teams that there will be
a kick attempt for the Field Goal/PAT. The ball must be kicked after a kick has been
declared. The kick shall be a free kick with no defensive rush; all players must hold their
positions until the ball has been kick. During all Field Goal/PAT kicking attempts, the ball
must be centered (snapped) back to the holder by the center from his normal center
stance. If the ball does not reach the holder, the holder may then go and get the ball.
The ball will then be placed and kicked. Teams may either kick a Field Goal/PAT from a
field goal tee or off the ground, but at no time may they use a kickoff tee.
10.
. Punt Following a Safety - Whenever a safety occurs, the team (giving up the safety)
shall punt the ball from their own 20 yard line, *Note: The " Punt" rule as described below
shall be employed any time a team punts. After a safety the kicking team may not
recover the punted ball
11.
Punt - A team may call for a punt on any down. The offensive captain must declare a
punt to the official. The official will then notify both teams that there will be a punt. The
ball must be punted after a punt has been declared. All players must hold their position
until the ball has been punted. No offensive or defensive player may cross the line of
scrimmage until the ball is punted. The defensive team must have 8 players within 7
yards of the line of scrimmage at the time the ball is punted. During all punt attempts, the
ball must be snapped back to the punter by the center from his normal center stance. If
the ball does not reach the punter, the punter may go and get it, and then return to his
normal punting position and punt the ball.
30
12.
Penalties - A 5-yard penalty will be 4 yards. A 10-yard penalty will be 8 yards. And a 15yard penalty will be 12 yards.
13.
Blitz Rule - Defensive teams shall be allowed no more than six defensive linemen on any
play.
14.
Defensive LB/Secondary Rule - All defensive players not in a defensive line position,
must be at least 5 yards off of the line-of-scrimmage at the snap of the ball, and when the
offensive team gets to or within the 10-yard line, the depth becomes 3 yards off the lineof-scrimmage. When the offensive center "sets" (places his hand on the ball), defensive
players may not move off or to the line-of-scrimmage. If a player encroaches into this
area, the offending team will be assessed a penalty of 5 yards.
15.
Coaches on the Field - Coaches are allowed on the field for all games. Each team may
have two coaches on the field at all times, both offensively and defensively. All coaches
on the field (both offensive & defensive) must stop talking once the offensive team line
becomes set. In addition, all coaches must stay back a minimum of 15 yards from the
line of scrimmage and not interfere with the play at any time. Violation of these rules
shall be illegal procedure.
16.
Ball Size - The "Rookie" League will use the smaller sized ball (TDJ).
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2012 NFHS Football Rules Changes
1-2-3h,
1-2-3l (NEW)
Restrictions have been removed for corporate advertising and
markings on the field of play.
1-5-2b
Football gloves must meet the NOCSAE test standard starting in 2013.
1-5-3c(8)
Play cards must be worn on the wrist.
2-3-7
Blocking-below-the-waist rules revised.
2-4-1
Definition of a catch revised.
3-5-10d
Player required to be removed if helmet comes off during the down.
9-3-8 (NEW)
Restrictions added to blocking on free kicks.
9-4-3h
Illegal personal contact penalty has been revised.
9-4-3k
Horse-collar rule has been modified.
Points of Emphasis
1. Concussions, Contact both to and with the Helmet, and Helmet Technology and
Proper Helmet Fitting
2. Heat Acclimatization and Preventing Heat Illness
3. Hurdling
4. Illegal Block Below the Waist
5. Illegal Shifts Involving the Quarterback
6. Improper Uniforms
32
CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR 2012
Registration will run from May 1 through August 3, 2012
Any registration received after July 16, CANNOT be assured of playing in district.
Participation is GUARANTEED to only the first 1,200 to register.
May 01, 2012
(TUESDAY)
Player registrations are mailed to those who played
the 2011 season
July 10, 2012
(TUESDAY)
Early Registration ends
July 16, 2012
(MONDAY)
Board of Director's districts meeting
July 21, 2012
(SATURDAY)
Team assignments mailed out to players
July 28-31, 2012
Teams checkout equipment
Aug. 02, 2012
(THURSDAY)
First day of practice
Aug. 03, 2012
(FRIDAY)
Registration Closed
Aug. 09, 2012
(FRIDAY)
Teams will advise the league on the number of "D"
and "Rookie" teams that they will have
Aug. 09, 2012
(THURSDAY)
7:30 p.m. Coaches’ Clinic
Aug. 12, 2012
(SUNDAY)
1:00 p.m. Coaches Clinic Make-up date
Aug. 13-18, 2012
Teams will furnish the League typed rosters for
each team "A" through "Rookie" and do a “Game”
weigh-in at the complex
Aug. 26 2012
(SUNDAY)
1st Game
Sep. 02, 2012
(SUNDAY)
2nd Game
Sep. 09, 2012
(SUNDAY)
3rd Game
Sep. 16, 2012
(SUNDAY)
4th Game
Sep. 23, 2012
(SUNDAY)
5th Game
Sep. 30, 2012
(SUNDAY)
*Rainout date or Playoff Game
Oct. 07, 2012
(SUNDAY)
*Rainout date or Playoff Game
Oct. 13, 2012
(SUNDAY)
Rainout date or Playoff Game
Oct. 19 2012
(SUNDAY)
Rainout date or Playoff Game, no games after Oct,
19th
* “D” and “Rookie” leagues play 6th and 7th Games
33
Player Waiver Request Form
Example 1
34
League Roster
Example 2
35