COMMUNITY YOUTH FOOTBALL RULE BOOK

Transcription

1 COMMUNITY YOUTH FOOTBALL RULE BOOK Statement of Revision Control This is the official rulebook of the Community Youth Football League, Inc. (CYFL). The purpose of this rulebook is to define the rules governing the CYFL. This rulebook is owned by the CYFL, Inc. and any changes or additions must be approved under the guidelines set forth in the additions, deletions and/or revisions portion of this book. This book is a controlled document, subject to revision control. 1

2 Table of Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS... 2 OBJECTIVE OF COMMUNITY YOUTH FOOTBALL... 4 MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES... 4 SECTION 1: POLICIES AND PROCEDURES... 5 POLICIES AND PROCEDURES OF COMMUNITY YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE... 5 League Organization... 5 DEFINITIONS... 9 SECTION 2: RULES OF AFFILIATION...10 COMMUNITY YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE RULES OF AFFILIATION...10 SECTION 3: OFFICERS...13 PRESIDENT OR CHIEF OFFICER...13 VICE PRESIDENT OR ASSISTANT TO CHIEF OFFICER...13 SECRETARY...14 TREASURER...14 LEAGUE INSURANCE COORDINATOR...14 CHEERLEADING COORDINATOR COMMITTEE...15 COACHES OF FOOTBALL PLAYERS AND CHEERLEADERS...15 Head Coach...17 ATHLETIC DIRECTOR (OPTIONAL) AND DIRECTOR OF CHEERLEADING...18 SECTION 4: ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY...18 SECTION 5: REGISTRATION, AGE AND WEIGHT LIMITS...20 REGISTRATION...20 TABLE 1 BASIS FOR ASSIGNMENT OF PARTICIPANTS...21 SECTION 6: FOOTBALL AND CHEERLEADING PRACTICE SESSIONS...22 PRACTICE SESSIONS...22 FOOTBALL PRACTICE SESSIONS...23 TABLE 2: PRACTICE WEIGHT LIMITS...23 CHEERLEADING PRACTICE SESSIONS...24 SECTION 7: CERTIFICATION OF PLAYERS AND CHEERLEADERS...24 SECTION 8: SCHEDULE, REQUIREMENTS AND ELIGIBILITY...26 GAME SCHEDULE...26 REQUIREMENTS FOR PLAYING FIELD...26 ELIGIBILITY OF PLAYERS/CHEERLEADERS FOR LEAGUE GAMES...28 RULES FOR LEAGUE GAMES...29 SECTION 9A: DISQUALIFICATION GUIDELINES...33 DISQUALIFICATION OF PLAYER...33 DISQUALIFICATION OF A COACH, SUBSTITUTE OR OTHER TEAM ATTENDANT...34 GAME FORFEITURE...42 SECTION 9B: DISQUALIFICATION PROCEDURE...35 Player...35 Coach, Substitute or Other Team Attendant...36 SECTION 10: FORMAT FOR DUE PROCESS HEARING

3 MISCELLANEOUS TEAM STANDINGS.. 38 CHAMPIONSHIP GAME.. 39 SECTION 11: CHEERLEADING...39 PRACTICE SESSIONS DEFINITIONS:...42 GENERAL RULES...43 GUIDELINES FOR TUMBLING, PARTNER STUNTS AND PYRAMIDS...45 GENERAL GUIDELINES:...45 TUMBLING:...45 COMPETETION RULES...46 SECTION 12A: DISQUALIFICATION GUIDELINES...40 DISQUALIFICATION OF CHEERLEADER...46 DISQUALIFICATION OF A COACH, SUBSTITUTE OR OTHER TEAM ATTENDANT...46 GAME FORFEITURE...48 SECTION 12B: DISQUALIFICATION PROCEDURE...48 Cheerleader...48 Coach, Substitute or Other Team Attendant...49 SECTION 13: FORMAT FOR DUE PROCESS HEARING...49 ADDITIONS, DELETIONS AND/OR REVISIONS OF THIS RULEBOOK...52 SEPARABILITY WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION POLICY...53 CONFLICT OF INTEREST.. 54 ATTACHMENTS Attachment 1.CYFL Player/Cheerleader Registration Form Attachment 2...CYFL Physical Form Attachment 3...CYFL Roster Form Attachment 4...CYFL Monitor Sheet Attachment 5..CYFL Accident Form Attachment 6 CYFL Player/Cheerleader Disqualification Form Attachment 7.. CYFL Coach s Disqualification Form Attachment 8....CYFL Disqualification Response Form Attachment 9....CYFL Coach Application Attachment 10...CYFL Manager/Mascot Registration Form Attachment 11.CYFL Cheerleading Competition Score Sheet Attachment 12...CYFL Cheerleading Safety Score Sheet 3

4 Objective of Community Youth Football With a constructive program of instruction in the sports of football and cheerleading for the youth of the community, our objectives are to: 1. Improve the physical health of our youth with a coordinated program of conditioning, training and exercise that emphasizes participation and safety. 2. Enhance the psychological well-being of our youth by stressing positive self-image, participation and fairness. 3. Teach our youth social skills such as teamwork, sportsmanship in competition, appropriate behavior and common decency. 4. Help our youth appreciate the value of personal effort and dedication to a team effort. 5. Show our youth how to judge others without bias. Member Responsibilities We, the adults who choose to join Community Youth Football, understand our success in working toward these objectives requires each of us to: 1. Encourage the greatest possible participation by each and every player and cheerleader. 2. Show fairness in all our words and actions. 3. Be an example of good sportsmanship. 4. Teach respect of officials and fair play. 5. Not to use profane or insulting language. We know that: 1. We serve without financial compensation. 2. We must work with all other members of our team organization. 3. We must communicate both criticism and compliments to the other members of our team organization. 4. We must work out any differences when the children are not present. 5. We must remember our objectives. 4

5 SECTION 1: POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Policies and Procedures of Community Youth Football League League Organization 1. The league shall be named the Community Youth Football League and shall be organized under the Community Youth Football League, Inc. and shall operate under the direction of the Board of Directors of Community Youth Football League. In this book, CYFL shall mean Community Youth Football League, League Board shall mean the Board of Directors of Community Youth Football League, League shall mean Community Youth Football League and CYFL, Inc. shall mean Community Youth Football League, Inc. 2. The League shall consist of the teams chartered by CYFL, Inc., which shall include the five teams represented by the incorporators of the CYFL, INC., and any teams subsequently chartered by the League Board unless and until the charter of any team organization is revoked by the League Board under the procedures established in Policies and Procedures for CYFL, Inc. If the charter of a team organization is revoked that team shall cease to be a member of the League and of CYFL, Inc. from date of revocation. See page 8, Definitions, for incorporating towns and current chartered members. 3. Each team organization shall be responsible for determining the structure of its governance and operation. However, the policies, procedures and structure of each team organization must: A. Be in accord with the philosophy and procedures of the CYFL, Inc. B. Include a Board of Directors responsible for managing the business affairs of the team organization. C. Have a treasurer responsible for maintenance of financial records, proper preservation and disbursement of any and all money in the team treasury. D. Not allow the treasurer to also be an executive of the team, and E. Manage available resources in a responsible manner to keep the organization in sound financial condition. 4. The League shall be governed by the League Board, which shall consist of two voting representatives from each team with a charter in good standing as a member of the CYFL. The selection of the two voting representatives shall be determined by the rules and regulations of each team. 5. No CYFL Executive Board member can represent a chartered team. 6. If a voting representative of a team is unable to attend a meeting, an alternate voting representative selected by the directors of that team can attend that meeting of the League Board and can vote in the stead of the absent representative. Absentee and proxy votes are not valid and shall not be included in the count of votes on any motion and shall not be included in the minutes of any meeting. 5

6 7. Attendance shall be recorded in the League Board meeting minutes. Attendance of at least one representative of a town is required at each scheduled meeting. If a town fails to send a representative, the first offense will incur a warning. If a town fails to send a representative to a second meeting, or any other meeting within in the same year (January till November), the team will be fined $50 (fifty dollars) payable to the CYFL, Inc. 8. The League Board shall be responsible for: A. Managing the business affairs of the League. B. Managing available resources in a responsible manner to keep the League in sound financial condition. C. Preparing the League Rulebook. D. Determining the interpretation of any rule or regulation in the League Rule Book. E. Receiving any dispute or complaint alleging violation of League rules and/or standards. F. Assigning to a neutral party the investigation of any dispute or complaint alleging violation of League rules and/or standards. G. Adjudicating any dispute or complaint alleging violation of League rules and/or standards. H. Imposing penalties, suspensions, dismissals, revocation or other penalties as provided for in this rulebook when it is determined by the League Board that an organization, an individual or a group of individuals has violate League rules and/or standards. I. Referring to the board of directors of a team organization any dispute or complaint that does not violate League rules and/or standards but may violate the organization s rules and/or standards. J. Arbitrating any dispute or complaint within a team if requested to do so by all involved parties. K. Setting requirements team organizations must meet to obtain and retain a League charter. i) All requirements must be contained in the League Rule Book or on a written list available from the League secretary. ii) Determining whether a team organization fulfills the requirements for obtaining or retaining a charter. iii) Issuing a charter to each team that satisfies the requirements for retaining a charter. iv) At the discretion of the League Board, issuing a charter to each team that satisfies the requirements for obtaining a charter. L. Establishing by June 1 of each year, the schedule of times and locations of league games to be played for that year. M. Setting requirements for practices, equipment, facilities and insurance required prior to and during team practice and during participation in any game or event associated with CYFL or CYFL, Inc. 6

7 N. Conducting player/cheerleading certification. During this process, 2 members, not from the team being certified, will verify that each team member s application contains all the elements listed in the Registration: no. Section 5 Paragraphs B through F. 9. The League Board shall: A. Conduct its meeting in accord with Robert s Rules of Order. B. Have a minimum of ten (10) meetings per year. C. Elect officers including but not limited to president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, official s coordinator, and insurance coordinator. The treasurer shall not be president or vice president. The term of the officers shall be twelve months from November 1 to October 31 of the following year. D. Maintain a list of names, addresses and telephone numbers of League Board members. E. Maintain a list of names, addresses and telephone numbers of members of team organizations to the extent possible with the cooperation of team organizations. F. Not release to any non-affiliated individual, group or corporation the list of League Board members or the list of members of team organizations without prior approval by vote of the members on the respective list. 10. Complaints A. The League Board shall receive and process complaints in a timely manner. B. All complaints filed with regards to violations by a team or teams belonging to the CYFL must be submitted in writing to the President, with copies to the executive board and all parties involved. C. A due process hearing will be held in accordance to the Due Process Hearing Section 10 of this rulebook. D. If the infraction requires action, a due process hearing shall be held, dependent on the infraction, no more than 1 month after receipt of the complaint. In the case of Infractions, such as violation of participation rules, that impacts the season; a due process hearing shall be held within the week prior to the next game or activity. 11. Penalties Assessed by the CYFL A. Teams found in violation of CYFL rules will be assessed a penalty commiserate with the offense. CYFL penalties are as follows: i) Fines imposed by the CYFL shall be limited to attendance as set forth in paragraph 6 of this rulebook and Section 8, Rules for League Games, paragraph 10. ii) Probation (1) Term: The term of probation will be no longer than one year and shall consist of 12 months from time of assessment. (2) Conditions: The team on probation must abide by CYFL rules and decisions. This is to include, but is not limited to: (a) Zero Tolerance Policy (b) Paying Charter, Insurance and any other fees to the CYFL in a timely 7

8 manner. Note: If unable to pay due to financial stress, notify treasurer in a timely manner. (c) Abide by attendance rules at CYFL meetings (3) If conditions of probation are met: A team on probation meeting all requirements and not having any outstanding complaints at end of term will have probation removed. (4) Consequences: If the team is found to be in violation of probation, the following will occur: (a) The team board, as well as all members of the CYFL governing board, will be notified, in writing of the violation. (b) Due Process Hearing will be scheduled. Dependent on the infraction and impact as to the time of this meeting, however it shall be held no later than 1 month after the problem has been accessed. (5) Violation of CYFL rules during probation can result in revocation of the team s charter with the CYFL. However determination of violation and consequences will not be made until the due process hearing has convened. iii) Suspension or revocation of a team s charter 8

9 Definitions CYFL, Inc. Community Youth Football League, Incorporated Team Also referenced as Town, a football/cheerleading organization chartered under the CYFL. Teams of Incorporation Charter Teams Division Squad NFHS Avon, Caledonia-Mumford, Dansville, LeRoy, Livonia Bath, Canisteo, Genesee Valley Bills, Hornell, Geneseo, Warsaw, Wayland- Cohocton, Wellsville, York A group of teams, who by geographical proximity, are considered a group whose head to head competition determines what squad on the team participates in the championship game. A team s division assignment shall be determined by the CYFL yearly. A set of participants who, by basis of age and weight, form a group of football or cheerleaders that compete against other groups with the same assignment. National Federation of High School Associations 9

10 SECTION 2: RULES OF AFFILIATION Community Youth Football League Rules of Affiliation 1. On or before February 1, the Board of Directors of each organization shall submit to the League Board a completed official application for a charter, a list of the members of the Board of Directors and proof of adequate insurance coverage (See paragraph 9 of this section for required coverage). 2. The League Board shall not terminate or refuse to renew an organization s charter except for reasons specifically included in this rulebook or for actions determined by the League board to be egregiously contrary to the purposes and/or philosophy of Community Youth Football. 3. On or before February 1, payment of the annual charter renewal fee is due in the amount established by the league Board. The annual charter renewal fee shall be the same for each team and shall not be determined by the size of an organization s program or the enrollment in the program. 4. For any organization making an initial application for a charter from CYFL, Inc. payment of a charter origination fee in the amount of $ shall accompany the application. For any organization making an initial application, payment of a charter renewal fee shall not be required for the first year of affiliation. 5. Each team organization shall select a board of directors to manage the business affairs of the organization and assure that all actions and activities of the organization are in compliance with this rulebook and consistent with the philosophy and goals of the Community Youth Football League. The method of selection of the board of directors shall be determined by the by-laws of the organization and shall be consistent with the philosophy of the Community Youth Football League. Each team organization shall provide the secretary of the League Board with a list of the names, addresses and telephone numbers of members of the organization s board of directors with the application for a charter and shall notify the secretary of the League Board within two weeks of any changes in board members during the term of the charter. 6. A quorum of the board of directors of each organization shall meet to manage the business affairs of the organization a minimum of ten (10) times a year. 7. Each team organization shall be responsible for maintaining its fiscal integrity and financial solvency. For each team organization, the board of directors shall elect a treasurer who will be responsible for depositing all monies collected in the name of the organization in a federally insured financial institution, disbursing of those monies for expenses properly incurred by the organization and expressly approved by the organization s board of directors, maintaining adequate financial records, reporting of any and all financial transactions at each official meeting of the organization board of directors, and having all financial records available for audit at the request of the organization s board of directors within two weeks of receipt of the request. 8. The offering and/or sale of any product or service by any organization or individual 10

11 affiliated with CYFL shall be legal and ethical and shall accurately state the nature and cost of the product or service. All funds solicited, donated or collected in the name of a team organization shall be the property of that team organization and shall only be disbursed by the treasurer to individuals, corporations or other entities as approved by the board of directors of the team organization. 9. Each team organization shall obtain and have in effect adequate insurance coverage during any activity, which is, or may be associated with Community Youth Football, Inc. or any of its affiliates. The coverage shall include all players, cheerleaders, coaches, managers, and members of board of directors, sponsors and any other participants deemed necessary by the League Board. The type and amount of adequate insurance coverage shall be determined by the League Board and shall include: A. Liability and insurance, including coverage for suits involving injury to participants in any League activity in the amount of one million dollars ($1,000,000) or more. B. An Accident Insurance Policy acceptable to the league Board with coverage equal to or better than the coverage limits established by the League Board. Failure to have adequate insurance coverage in force during any activity, which is or maybe associated with CYFL, INC., is full and adequate reason for the League board to suspend and/revoke the charter of and League affiliation with any organization. 10. Each team organization shall select an insurance facilitator who shall be responsible for: A. Submitting the League insurance coordinator of an accident report within seven days of the accident. B. Obtaining any forms necessary for filing a claim against any insurance covering the Team organization or the League. C. Assisting any claimant with proper and complete filing of a claim regardless of the merit of the claim. D. Forwarding to the League insurance coordinator any forms filing a claim against any insurance coverage issued to the League and retaining a copy of each filed claim for a period determined to be appropriate by the insurance carrier. E. Submitting to the appropriate insurance carrier any forms filing a claim against any insurance coverage issued to the team organizations and maintaining a copy of each filed claim for a period determined to be appropriate by the insurance carrier. F. Denying access to any records relating to a claim except as determined to be appropriate by the League insurance coordinator and/or insurance carrier. 11. Each team organization shall establish in writing procedures for receiving and investigating any complaints or allegations of violation of either League or team rules and for arbitrating and/or adjudicating such complaints or allegations of violations of team rules and for referring allegations of violation of League rules to the League Board. 12. Each team organization shall register its name, colors and brief description of their 11

12 uniforms with the league Board. No two teams may have similar names or uniforms. The league Board shall resolve any disputes about team names or uniforms between two or more organizations. The decision of the League Board shall be binding on all parties involved. 13. The terms Community Youth Football, Community Youth Football League, CYFL and Community Youth Football League, Inc. are copyrighted, and no team, organization, group or individual with or without application or payment of fee shall claim or represent itself as associated with or affiliated with Community Youth Football until it has received an official charter and as long as the organization and its charter remain in good standing as determined by the League Board. 14. All patches, certificates, statues, plaques and insignia distributed by any representative of CYFL and the method of distributing same shall be consistent with the purposes and philosophy of Community Youth Football. 15. Except when giving an award or recognition to an entire football team, cheerleading squad or coaching staff, no organization or individual acting as a representative of Community Youth Football shall give any participant or group of participants an award or any other recognition without the approval of the League Board. Approval shall not be required for recognition given as acknowledgment for products or services donated to the team organization. 16. Each team organization shall prepare and submit addresses and telephone numbers of the program directors, coaches and helpers to the secretary of the League Board prior to beginning team practices. 17. Each team organization shall prepare for each team in the organization a roster of players who have completed required conditioning and training and are eligible to play if requirements at weigh-in and for equipment are met. The rosters shall be sent to the secretary of the League Board prior to the first game. 18. All towns will be required to turn a copy of their 990 tax return form to the league Treasurer by February 15 th. SECTION 3: OFFICERS President or Chief Officer Purpose: Coordinate all portions of your organization s program. Ensure that all members of your organization exemplify the objectives and philosophy of Community Youth Football. Insure that all members of your organization support the rules and regulations of CYFL and of the team organizations. Facilitate communications within your organization. Keep members of your organization and parents involved and informed. Methods: Listen. Set a personal example of behavior and speech supporting the objectives and philosophies of Community Youth Football. 12

13 Direct any criticism of rules and regulations personally and by members of your organization to positive efforts to change those rules and regulations in a timely manner and democratic manner. Use established procedures for proposing the change of any rule or regulation. Publicly accept the democratically determined rules and regulations of the League and the team organizations and support their enforcement. In concert with the board of directors, direct the investigation of any allegation of violation of CYFL and/or team rules and/or regulations. If the investigation finds significant evidence to support the allegation of violation, call and chair a meeting of the board of directors to hear and consider testimony and evidence and adjudicate the allegation. If the board of directors votes to sustain the allegation, enforce the decision of the board of directors with the appropriate reprimand, suspension or dismissal. For the team organization presidents, notify the president of the League Board of any allegation and of any subsequent investigation, hearing and/or board decisions related to the allegation. Hold at least ten (10) meetings of your board of directors each year. Delegate as much authority and work to as many individuals as possible while maintaining control and direction of your organization. Establish necessary policies and procedures in writing and post for or distribute to all members affected. Have informal conversations with members of the organization and with parents at practice sessions and during games. Have informational meetings for and distributes informational handouts to coaches, board members, other volunteers and parents as needed to keep them informed and involved. Use established procedures for receiving and responding to complaints from members of your team organization, from parents of your participants, from members of other team organization and from the public. Facilitate communication between complainants and individuals identified in the complaint. Vice President or Assistant to Chief Officer Purpose and Methods: Assist the president/chief officer in successfully performing his/her responsibilities. Keep adequately informed about the business affairs of the organization to be able to assume the duties of the president/chief officer of the organization. At the request of the president and or chief officer, or when instructed to by a formal vote of the board of directors, assume the position and responsibilities of the president/chief officer of the organization. 13

14 Secretary Purpose: Facilitate the work of the officers and the board of directors of the organization. Methods: Prepare and retain written records of meetings of the board of directors. Treasurer Accurately record motions brought before the board of directors and the votes on those motions. Maintain current copies of League and team organization rules team by-laws, papers of incorporation, League charter and other significant documentation. Maintain a current list of names, addresses and telephone of organization members. Prepare and mail correspondence as directed by the president/chief officer or the board of directors. Retain copies of all correspondence. Purpose: Assist the officers and board of directors in maintaining the fiscal integrity and financial solvency of the organization. Methods: Maintain accurate and current records of receipts, disbursements, fund balances and obligations due. Receive and safely deposit all monies collected in the name of the organization. Receive and present to the board of directors all bills claiming payment due from the organization. Upon approval of the board of directors, disburse funds in a timely manner for obligations of the organization properly incurred. At each meeting of the board of directors, inform the members of the financial condition of the organization. Advise the board of directors on the ability of the organization to meet due and/or proposed obligations. Complete and submit necessary financial forms to governmental agencies. Within two weeks of a written request from the board of directors, submit all requested financial records of the organization to the board of directors in such form that they might be audited. League Insurance Coordinator Purpose: Expedite the filing and payment of appropriate insurance claims. Assist participants and/or their parents in obtaining timely payment of justifiable claims. Methods: Provide the insurance coordinator for each team organization with the forms necessary for filing a claim. As requested, assist the team s insurance coordinator with the proper completion 14

15 and filing of any claims. Act as a liaison between the League and the insurance carrier and/or agent. Receive accident reports. Respond to complaints about amounts or delays in payment of claims. Receive and retain copies of forms completed and submitted for claims. Notify the President of the League Board of any unusual pattern of injuries. If a town fails to send their accident report, within three business days, the team will be fines $50 (Fifty dollars) payable to CYFL, Inc. Cheerleading Coordinator Committee Purpose: The committee reviews and makes recommendations to the CYFL on matters pertaining to the CYFL Cheerleaders. Methods: Annually review all cheerleading rules against NHFS and Section 5 rulebooks. Recommend cheerleading rules for adoption by the CYFL. Methods: Organize the annual Cheerleading Competition. Obtain at least 3 (three quotes) for each vendor. Obtain facilities quotes, which include breakdown of cost and restrictions. Recommend any changes to format and/or rules for annual Cheerleading Competition. Present all quotes and recommendations to the CYFL governing board for approval, being prepared to explain in detail. Coaches of Football Players and Cheerleaders Purpose: Develop and nurture a positive attitude and a positive self-image in all players/cheerleaders. Direct the conditioning and training of each player/cheerleader to improve their endurance, resistance to injury, physical health and coordination. Improve each player s/cheerleader understands of teamwork and sportsmanship. Method: Require players to complete adequate conditioning prior to practices involving physical contact. Supervise proper stretching and warm-up of players/cheerleaders prior to each practice and game. Plan conditioning and practice appropriate for the weather. For football, conduct conditioning and practice all of the Coaches on the practice 15

16 field is a certified EMT or is certified in American Red Cross First Aid. Training in American Red Cross or American Heart Associated adult/child CPR and AED is mandatory. This is mandatory for cheerleading warm-up and practice too. Teach the proper use of equipment. Provide the president and/or athletic director and/or cheerleading coordinator with a list of any defective or needed equipment. Stress positive and constructive criticism with an emphasis on how to do it right, not how you did it wrong. If a player/cheerleader consistently makes the same mistake, discuss the problem with player/cheerleader after practice. Compliment effort, dedication and improvement by even the poorest players/cheerleaders. Encourage ball carriers and tacklers to compliment the other members of the team who made the play successful. Encourage cheerleaders to compliment all of the members of the squad for the success of a routine. Make the extra effort to treat all players/cheerleaders equally. When the number of players is adequate, make each player the member of a squad. Involve the other coaches, president and/or athletic director in solving any persistent behavioral problems with one or more of the participants. Make your actions; language and dress during the game exemplify the ideals of CYFL. Constructively criticize any player whose language and/or actions are not appropriate in CYFL football. Notify an official of the League or the team organization if a spectator s behavior is not appropriate. If needed, know and use the proper channels for protesting actions by the other team or by game officials. As required by either the League Board or governmental agencies, obtain necessary NYSCA certifications. If required by either the League Board or governmental agencies, complete and submit a clearance form to the secretary of your organization to be forwarded to the New York State Department of Social Services. Boundary Courtesy-If a child attempts to register in a town they do not live and there is an established team in their town of residence the team will provide the parents with contact information for the town the child resides, this will enable the family to make an informed decision. This is for new registrants only. Head Coach One required for each football team/cheerleading squad in the organization. 16

17 Purpose: Coordinate the activities of all the coaches for a team/squad. Determine that the activities planned are appropriate for the condition and experience of the players/cheerleaders, the equipment available, the weather conditions and the teaching of the principles of CYFL. Act as the representative of your team organization when your team/squad is on the playing field. Facilitate communications within the team organization. Method: Be of good moral character and at least 18 years of age for head football coach and at least 18 years of age for head cheerleading coach. However each local town may incorporate their own rule regarding the age of the head coach. Meet with your assistant coaches and helpers prior to the first day of practice and outline objective for the year and the methods to be used to reach those objectives. Discuss and review the plan with the coaches and helpers. Use your experience in coaching to determine what is appropriate for players/cheerleaders of the age and size of those on your team. If you are uncertain about any part of your program, discuss it with the president, the athletic director, and the director of cheerleading and/or coaches of the other teams in your organization. Meet with your coaches and helpers before each practice to discuss the activities planned for that day. Be certain they are appropriate for the weather. When your team/squad is on the playing field, maintain control of your team s squad s activities and the behavior of the players/cheerleader, the assistant coaches and helpers. Be the team s squad s representative in discussions with game officials, and be the only member to request a review of an official s ruling during a game. If you disagree with a decision, do not contest it during the game, but refer the problem to the president of your organization to request a formal review. All coaches present at practices or games are required to be trained in First Aid and CPR / AED and the use of an AED. Communicate the concerns of your coaches, helpers and players to the athletic director and/or president and board of directors of your organization and the concerns of the athletic director, president and board of directors to your coaches, helpers and/or players. With the assistance of the other coaches, prepare a list of needed and desired equipment and submit it to the president of your organization. Assist the president and/or athletic director in determining which coaches and helpers need or will need certifications to meet league requirements. Provide necessary assistance to the president and board of directors in any investigation of any alleged violation of rules by a member of your team. 17

18 Athletic Director (optional) and Director of Cheerleading If there is no athletic director, these responsibilities are assumed by the president. Purpose: Coordinate the football programs or cheerleading program for your team organization. Insure the programs under your supervision will effectively work toward the objectives of CYFL. Facilitate communications within your organization. Methods: Good character, Athletic Director should be 21 or more and Director of Cheerleading should be 21 or more. Prior to the first practice session and periodically during the preseason and season, meet with the head coaches to discuss the progress and problems with the program for each team/squad. Using your experience and that of the other coaches, provide each head coach with suggestions for dealing effectively with the problems. Act as a liaison between the coaches and the president and board of directors of the team organization. Provide the president with a list of the kinds and numbers of copies, needed of the regulation under which the team/squads are required to play/cheer, and distributes those copies to the head coaches. The team organization shall provide the copies needed. Distribute to the head coaches any schedules, maps, announcements, circular, etc. to be provided to the players/cheerleaders. Assist the president in prioritizing the proposed purchases of equipment and supplies for presentation to the board. Attend the meetings of the board of directors as an ex officio member. Assists the president and board of directors in the investigation of any allegation of violation of team and/or League rules and regulations. Assist a head coach in the filing of a formal request for a review of a field official s ruling. Advise the president of any significant complaints by coaches, helpers, volunteers, parents or participants. SECTION 4: ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY In an effort to make youth football and youth cheerleading a more desirable and rewarding experience for all participants, the Community Youth Football League Board of Directors have instructed the participating local boards to adhere to certain points of emphasis relating to sportsmanship. This policy is designed to require all players, cheerleaders, coaches, helpers, officials, board members, administrators, parents and spectators to maintain a sportsmanlike and educational atmosphere before, during and after all CYFL functions (games, practices, competitions, etc.). Thus, the following points of emphasis will be implemented: 18

19 PLAYERS / CHEERLEADERS During games an On-Field Official or Judge will assess a Zero Tolerance un-sportsmanlike penalty whenever a player or cheerleader: 1. Openly disputes or argues any decision by an official or judge. 2. Uses obscene or vulgar language at any time, even if it is not directed at a particular person. 3. Visually demonstrates any sign of dissatisfaction with any official / judge s decision. 1 Any time that a player or cheerleader persists in any of these actions, a game disqualification will be assessed and the appropriate paperwork will be submitted to the league president for further action. See Section 9 of this rulebook. COACHES During games an On-Field Official or Judge will assess a Zero Tolerance un-sportsmanlike penalty whenever a coach: 1. Openly disputes or argues any decision by an official or judge. 2. Uses obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to anyone at any time. 3. Visually demonstrates any sign of dissatisfaction with any official / judge s decision, including intent to incite the officials, players or spectators. 2 Any time that a coach persists in any of these actions, a game disqualification will be assessed. See Section 9 of this rulebook. OFFICIALS Officials are required to conduct themselves in a business like, sportsmanlike, impartial and constructive manner at all times. The actions of officials must be above reproach. Actions such as baiting or inciting players or coaches are strictly prohibited. On field officials are ambassadors of the game and must always conduct themselves with this responsibility in mind. PARENTS / SPECTATORS Parents / spectators will display appropriate behavior at all times. When parents / spectators display inappropriate and disruptive behavior that interferes with other spectators or the game, the game will be stopped for the purpose of removing the offender(s) from the spectator s viewing and game area. Once removed, play will resume. Lost time will not be replaced and violators may be subject to further disciplinary action by the local governing board. This inappropriate and disruptive behavior shall include: 1. Use of obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to anyone at any time. 2. Taunting of players, cheerleaders, coaches, officials or other spectators by means of baiting, ridiculing, threat of physical violence or physical violence. 3. Throwing of any object in the spectators viewing area, sidelines or playing field, directed in any manner as to create a safety hazard. 19

20 SECTION 5: REGISTRATION, AGE AND WEIGHT LIMITS Registration 1. Prior to league roster certification, each team organization shall register young men and young women intending to participate as players or cheerleaders in CYFL. The general registration sessions shall include hours during the evening and/or during the weekend. Registrations of players/cheerleaders shall not be accepted after league certification except for registrants meeting guidelines established by the League Board. 2. Cheerleaders with one year prior experience at their age appropriate level are eligible to move up a squad level with approval of coaches and final approval from the Towns Head Cheer Coordinator. Example A flag Cheerleader with one year flag cheer experience can be moved up to Junior level, a Junior Cheerleader with one year cheer experience can move up to Senior level, a Senior Cheerleader with one year experience can be moved up to the Senior level. A senior cheerleader can be moved up to elite level with one year Senior Cheer experience. Keep in mind that ANY CHEERLEADER MOVED UP CAN NOT BE AN ACTIVE FLYER FOR THAT CHEER SEASON. 3. Registration of each young man or young woman shall be completed if: A. One or more parents or legal guardians is present during the completion and submission of a registration form acceptable to the League Board, and B. The applicant presents his/her birth certificate as proof of his/her birth date. A copy of this certificate shall be attached to the registration form C. The applicant must provide a prior grade report or educational letter as proof of present grade. D. The applicant submits a representative photo showing the face in adequate detail for identification, and E. The parent or legal guardian of the applicant submits a signed consent form. The form shall be acceptable to the League Board and shall include acknowledgment of the risks associate with any sport involving physical contact or strenuous activities and shall indicate that the applicant s school work has to be satisfactory, and F. Physicals for participation in football or cheerleading may be scheduled at any time during the calendar year. To begin the season on August 1 st, the participant most provide proof by submitting a form signed by a licensed physician or physician s assistant stating in the physician s opinion, the applicant is physically able to participate in football or cheerleading. The results of the physical shall be valid for a period of twelve (12) months. If the twelve-month period of the physical expires during the season, participants may complete the season and G. The parent or guardian completes a form identifying any primary health/accident insurance coverage for the applicant, and H. All fees have been paid in the amount specified on the schedule approved by the 20

21 board of directors of the team organization. J. Each town team will be made up of players that are enrolled in that town s school district. This will be called your Home District all other players must come from other Open Districts, which are not represented by CYFL. If a player wishes to not participate for his or her Home District, but would like to play for a different CYFL team then he/she must obtain annual written consent signed by both towns and a copy filed with the league secretary. Players from Open Districts will not be allowed to change teams year to year without written permission from the town that the participant was registered to the previous season. This will be based on the 2010 and later certified rosters. K. Any player that has moved into a district and was not participating in a CYFL organization, May registrar with a town after certification, must follow certification rules. 4. Prior to the first practice, each participant will be temporarily assigned to a football team or cheer squad. The placement of a participant will initially be based on grade as determined by Table 1 Column 1. If a change of placement is necessary, it shall be within the limits set by Table 1 columns 2 & 3. Participants that are moved up a squad or team a grade early may not be moved back down for the remainder of their CYFL eligibility. 5. If requested by the parent or guardian and approved by the president of the team organization, a player may be assigned to another team only as a Bantam Player. TABLE 1 Basis for Assignment of Participants Column 1 Grade Column 2 Age Limits Column 3 Weight Limits* Football Limits Senior Squad 5 th & 6 th grade 9, 10, 11,12 Senior Squad Bantam 7 th grade lbs. or less Junior Squad 3 rd & 4 th grade *8, 9,10 Junior Squad Bantam 5 th grade lbs Flag Squad K- 2 nd grade None Pee Wee 1 st & 2 nd grade 6, 7 None Cheerleading Limits Elite Squad Entering 7 th or 8 th 11, 12, 13 Elite Squad Entering 8 th grade 14 Senior Squad Entering 5 th or 6 th 9, 10, 11 Junior Squad Entering 3 rd or 4 th *8,9, 10 Flag Squad K-2 nd grade 21

22 *An 8 year old in 2 nd grade will be allowed to play Jr. Football or Cheerleading, providing they are 8 by November 30 th. *Pee wee program is up to each individual town *Flag Football is up to each individual town * Start time is 10:30 am unless changed with both presidents * Run time is between two coaches * Flag Football is to host and travel to all CYFL scheduled home and away games. Flag football is to follow all CYFL football rules. ~No member of the CYFL shall recommend or suggest that a participant lose weight to be eligible for a team or squad, and in no event shall participants be allowed to use rubber sweat suits, excessive layers of clothing, steam rooms, steam cabinets, hot tubs, medication, or significantly reduced water intake to reduce weight to be eligible to practice or play on any team. ~ Any child in weight 104 lbs. (Lock weight) or over for the Junior Squad and 129 (lock weight) for the Senior Squad must be given a interior lineman position and wear a number between 70 and 79. In event that more numbers are needed, use 90 series jersey. This must be noted on roster and monitor sheets. 6. Any assignment of a player not consistent with ages and weights defined in table 1 are not allowed. Children assigned to a squad not consistent with these specifications must be moved to the appropriate squad or that child is rendered ineligible to participate. SECTION 6: FOOTBALL PRACTICE SESSIONS Practice Sessions For football, the regulations shall include: 1. Any formal meeting of the players for physical and/or mental training in the fundamentals of football shall be considered a practice session. Note: Football camps are not considered formal training sessions. 2. No practice session shall occur before the set date by CYFL. 3. No practice session shall occur without insurance in force as required under the Rules of Affiliation Section 2 Paragraph 9. 22

23 4. Each player shall have complied with all of the requirements of registration and have a satisfactory physical examination by a physician on file with the team organization as defined in the registration rules defined in Section 5 paragraph 4E. 5. All players shall be assigned to a team/squad as determined by REGISTRATION, SECTION 5,Table No player shall be excluded on the basis of tryout. 7. Practice sessions shall not exceed ten hours per week during the summer vacation and shall not exceed six (6) hours per week after Labor Day. 8. Games and scrimmages are not included in practice times. 9. Split sessions shall not be permitted. Football Practice Sessions Table 2: Practice Weight Limits For Practice Only 1. The board of directors for the team organization shall determine the maximum number of players assigned to each team but the number of players for each team shall not exceed fifty (50). 2. If the number of registrants for any team exceeds the permitted limit and if an adequate number of qualified assistant coaches and/or helpers can be assigned, the board of directors of the team organization may: A. Direct the formation of a taxi squad. As members of a taxi squad, players are eligible to participate in pre-season and post-season scrimmages and games, but shall not play in scheduled League games. All members of the taxi squad must meet registration requirements and must be certified by the CYFL. B. A member of the taxi squad may become a member of the regular squad of their age bracket only when a position becomes available on the regular squad due to injury or attrition renders a certified player unable to play for the remainder of the season. 3. A physician, Emergency Medical Technician or person currently certified in American Red Cross First Aid shall be present in the practice area. 4. Consistent with the requirements for play during games, practice shall be guided by the rules contained in the most recent edition of National Federation of State High School Associations Football Rulebook. 5. All equipment used shall meet or exceed the minimum requirements of New York Section 5, the latest edition of NFHS and the League Board. 23

24 6. All helmets shall have been reconditioned and recertified in accord with approved standards as defined by the manufacturer of the helmet. 7. Each player shall complete a minimum of ten (10) hours of conditioning practice prior to participating in practice involving physical contact. Any player with proof of recent participation in a contact sport under a recognized organization may be exempt from this requirement. 8. For all activities involving physical contact, all players shall be required to wear an approved helmet with attached mouthpiece, approved pads for shoulders, hips, kidneys, ribs, thighs and knees, pants, jockey briefs, practice jersey and either sneakers or shoes with molded or screw-in ½ cleats. The CYFL also recommends that the player wear an athletic supporter with cup. 9. All labels, writing, drawings and stickers on equipment shall be consistent with the philosophy and standards of CYFL. If helmet reward stickers are to be used, every player should receive an identical and equal amount 10. Any player participating in a modified school football program is ineligible for participation in the CYFL football. SECTION 7: CERTIFICATION OF PLAYERS AND CHEERLEADERS Teams requesting certification shall present the following: A. Rosters at a minimum must have the following: All Rosters will be done on a uniform league wide roster form. The town name and mascot (i.e.: Bulldogs, Knights) Type of team (football or cheerleading) Squad Assignment (Elite, Senior or Junior) List of Head Coach, Assistant Coaches, Cheerleading Helpers, Water Boy, Ball Boy under the age of 16 (manager) and mascot with a minimum of their phone number, including area code, and their coaches certification number, or if a new member, expiration date of their certification. All levels of CYFL coaches must be certified. (elite, senior, junior, and flag) * Helper for cheer must be 18 or under and in high school to be a Jr helper Otherwise must certify as a coach Alphabetical list of all players/cheerleaders with at a minimum address, phone number, date of birth and R-Regular Player and B-Bantam. Game jersey number and football player s practice weight must be noted on roster. B. Certification Paperwork: Registration form with (see attachment 2) with all necessary signatures and insurance information. Copy of certified birth certificate. Originals should not be used, as the certificate needs to be kept with team files. Alphabetical list of all players/cheerleaders with at a minimum address, phone 24