FORNEY YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Transcription

1 FORNEY YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE CHEERLEADERS CONSTITUTION (Revised 2016) PURPOSE, RULES, REGULATIONS, AND PROCEDURES: 1. This organization shall be known as Forney Youth Football League, herein referred to as FYFL, The League or the Organization. This organization shall provide the framework in which a program of competitive and recreational cheerleading is offered and the ideals of good sportsmanship are stressed and taught. This organization shall be responsible for administering all the rules and regulations through the procedures set forth in this book and enforce the ideals by which FYFL was formed. 2. It shall be the purpose of the FYFL to promote and uphold team spirit for those we encounter, to develop good sportsmanship by example. 3. To support good relations in the community, teams and squads during events. 4. The organizational goal is to work in harmony with the Team management and administration, other athletic teams and sporting organizations. 5. All teams MUST comply with FYFL guidelines at any and all organized events. 6. FYFL Cheer Board will consist of the League, North, Central, and the South Zone Cheer Commissioner. 7. FYFL season includes the following: July 1st City Championship. 8. Teams may attend other competitions provided that it does not interfere with FYFL season and the team(s) self- raised their own funds for the event. Participation to be approved by the FYFL board. 9. All member communities are defined boundaries as the school district plus a specified community within a metropolitan area. 10. Administration of the Organization and League shall be vested in FYFL and the FYFL Executive Committee, whose purpose shall be to administer the rules and regulations set forth and to vote on all issues and rule changes presented. 11. Each member community shall have (1) commissioner representative under the League and Zone Commissioners. This representative will coordinate all information from the FYFL Executive Committee to the coaches and directors in their community; this includes, but is not limited to, inquiries about the organization, game or tournament delays or cancellations, and registration information. The names and contacts for each of these commissioner representatives must be presented to FYFL. 12. League Commissioners shall be responsible for appointment of all Zone Commissioners and Head coaches. All coaches actively instructing in practices or coaching in games shall be certified by an approved National coaches certification program (i.e. NYSCA) Page 1 of 21

2 and agree to bound by the Code of Ethics contained therein. Page 2 of 21

3 13. League shall be divided into (4) divisions. The setting of communities into divisions will be determined by the Forney Youth Football Staff and presented to the FYFL Executive Committee for approval for the upcoming season. The Forney Youth Football Staff will consider community size and win / loss percentages of the previous season(s) as the primary, but not necessarily the sole, criteria for their conference alignment. Any community can request to move to a larger conference pending approval by the FYFL Executive Committee. The divisions of the League in 2015 are to be listed under eligibility. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Transportation: parents or legal guardians are responsible for transporting to game/ events. 2. Competitions: FYFL Cheer competition is mandatory for FYFL teams. If a team wants to compete in an outside competition, an additional fee may be taken up. 3. Members will provide their own refreshments when not provided by managers/coaches. 4. The uniform package includes: Cheer shell, skirt, briefs, bow, crop top, bag, megaphone, and shoes. (You have the option to upgrade the shoe). 5. No refunds will be given once the official end of Registration has occurred for either Football or Cheerleader participants. a. The exception to the refund policy is as follows: 1. Any participant who has been diagnosed with a medical condition (not injury) prior to the first game of the season will be given a refund, minus the cost of the participant's uniform. 6. All other cheer accessories may be purchased but will not be required by FYFL for any cheerleader. 7. Personalization of cheerleader s equipment is optional, and may not be required. MEMBERSHIP: 1. [Squad Name] can be a co-ed squad consisting of a minimum of 5 cheerleaders. 2. [Squad Name] will cheer at all games, clinics, camps, competitions, promotions, fundraisers, community, and charity events. 3. [Squad Name] will honor and obey the code of conduct for both parents and participants. 4. [Squad Name] will conduct them-selves in a positive manner. ELIGIBILITY: Page 3 of 21

4 1. A cheerleader candidate must support the [squad name] above all other teams. 2. A candidate must be medically fit and provide parental permission. 3. A candidate may be male or female enrolled in school from Pre-Kindergarten- 6th grade. 4. Acceptance of candidate shall be on the basis of registration fees paid in full, code of conduct, the coach s agreement, acceptance of the squad rules, and without prejudice of race creed or color. 5. All cheerleaders must be rostered and registered with FYFL by 1 st week of July. 6. A government issued birth certificate (copies only), passed physical, and proof of residence are required for all participants, turned in with the registration sheets by this sign-up date and filed with the League Cheer Commissioner. 7. Cheering up is not an option unless the child s Mother is the Cheer Coach. The cheerleader requesting to cheer in a different age division, for any reason, may only be requesting to "cheer up" one grade level and must submit a written request, signed by the participant s parent or legal guardian, to FYFL Cheer Executive Committee. The request must also be accompanied by a legal and signed Liability Release Form releasing FYFL and its members and officers from liability. FYFL Executive Committee AND FYFL must approve the request. 8. Candidate must be enrolled in Pre- Kindergarten and not be more than (13) years of age as of September 1st as follows: a) Division F Flag -4 years of age on or before September 15 th and registered in Pre-K or Kindergarten for the fall semester. b) Division E Freshman- 8 years and under and in the 1 st or 2 nd grade. c) Division D Junior - 10 years and under and be in the 3rd or 4th grade. d) Division C Senior - 13 years and under and be in the 5th or 6th grade. 9. Mascots: the age and number of mascots will be left to the discretion of the Cheer Coach and Cheer Commissioner, provided she is not covered by cheer age/grade. On competition day no mascot will be allowed to participate with the cheer team until all judging is complete. ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS: Page 3 of 21

5 1. Cheerleaders attend all practices, competitions or events, unless pre-approved by council. 2. Camp: All cheerleaders, managers and coaches are required to attend as a squad; unless pre-approved by council. 3. Team activities other than Games: Are required to attend throughout the year. 4. Social Activities: Encouraged, but not required. Advance notice of non-attendance is required. 5. Competitions: In-house competitions are mandatory for all participants in FYFL. The exception to this is the Pre-K Kindergarten, this group will perform a show off at the competition. The squad as a group will decide to enter an outside competition by majority votes. 6. Coaches/Commissioners shall decide if any other activities or opportunities are mandatory or optional. Reasonable notice of all events will be given as early as possible for others. CHEER ATTIRE: 1. Wear clothing that is non-restrictive (no jeans) to practice. 2. Cheer game day Uniform consist of the following: shell, crop top, skirt, briefs, socks, shoes, poms, cheer bag, megaphone, water, and hair bow. 3. Cheer uniform should be worn at all games and competition events. 4. Tennis shoes with no show socks will be worn at all times. 5. No jewelry of any type may be worn at games or practice. Only exception is a medical alert necklace or bracelet (If worn, it must be taped securely to the body during all performance). 6. No midriff, crop top or strapless uniforms. Uniforms must be securely strapped on both shoulders. 7. Unduly long fingernails, including artificial nails, can become a safety hazard. Therefore, all fingernails must be kept at length appropriate to minimize risk for participants. Fingernail paint is not allowed while in uniform. 8. Hair to be worn minimizing risk and away from the face not needing attention (combing etc.) while performing for participant. Hair devices, if worn, must be secure and appropriate. 9. Glitter not readily adhered on the hair, face, uniform, props, signs or the body is illegal. 10. Only official squad jackets and warmups may be worn over uniform. Uniform will only be worn for events as designated by the coaches/managers. 11. Uniforms must be kept spotless at all times. Page 4 of 21

6 12. Makeup should be natural and not excessive for game performance except for competition day. 13. Cheer soft-soled shoes must be worn while performing. No dance shoes/boots, and/or gymnastics slippers (or similar) allowed. Shoes must have a solid sole and cheer grade. 14. Jewelry of any kind including but not limited to ear, nose, tongue, belly button and facial rings, clear plastic jewelry, bracelets, necklaces and pins on uniforms are not allowed. Jewelry must be removed and may not be taped over. (Exception: medical ID tags/bracelets, and uniform rhinestones. Temporary tattoos are also allowed.) 15. Hard casts that are unyielding or rough edged must be appropriately covered with a padded material. Clarification: Appropriately padded material must protect all athletes from injury. Any cast at competition must be covered with padded material or it counts as a deduction. CODE OF CONDUCT / BEHAVIOR FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS AND PARTICIPANTS: 1. Members are to maintain and uphold reputation of [squad] by their own conduct and squad spirit. 2. Members are required to be courteous, polite, friendly, and try to have a smile for everybody. 3. All cheers and chants shall be of a positive and sportsmanlike manner. 4. Members will make every attempt to ignore or dissuade negative responses at events and not become involved in such action themselves. 5. Participants are not permitted to chew gum or candy in their mouths during practice or performance. 6. Be kind. There is no room for personal conflicts. Do not bring them to practice, games, or events. 7. While in uniform or wearing any item of team identification, conduct themselves in a positive manner becoming of an FYFL member. 8. Athletes and coaches will not be under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, performance enhancing substances, or over the counter medications while participating in a practice or performance that would hinder the ability to supervise or execute a routine safely. 9. Any unsportsmanlike conduct may result in removal from game or competition. DO NOT criticize anyone in front of others, but reserve constructive criticism for later, in private preferably by No type of derogatory cheer or outburst will be allowed. The penalty for violation of this shall be: a) First Offense - verbal warning to the coach and must sign Disciplinary form. Page 5 of 21

7 b) Second Offense the coach is fined $50 and given a written warning. c) Third Offense removed from organization for the season is kept for the following year. 11. All decisions made by the FYFL board and judges are final. DISCIPLINARY ACTION: 1. It shall be squad policy that disciplinary action will only be invoked as a last resort, and every reasonable attempt will be made to avoid situations likely to lead to such action through squad discussion and positive encouragement, by example, and by finding ways and means to correct negative trends. Demerits will be given for every violation to the listed constitution, practice rules and/or squad rules. Written notice of such will be given. Demerits reset every quarter with practice and games being mandatory to attend regardless of disciplinary action. 2. A cheerleader may be suspended from games/events for the following reasons: Unexcused absence, excessive absence or tardiness, failure to cooperate with coaches. 3. A cheerleader may be dismissed from the squad for the following reasons: Excessive and irreconcilable disruptive influence on the squad, conduct likely to bring the squad or team reputation into disrepute, and as otherwise deemed necessary by coach. PRACTICE SCHEDULE: 1. No cheer squad shall begin practice prior to July 1st. 2. Cheer Camp is offered by FYFL for an additional expense, with a time limit of 10 hours maximum. 3. Practice locations and times must be approved by BOD prior to commencement of first practice. Use of any unauthorized facilities will be subject to Disciplinary action. 4. Practice no more than 10 hours per week 5. A calendar week is Sunday-Saturday. 6. Warming Up is not optional --- you must participate in order to cheer. 7. Never build a stunt without a coach present. 8. Squad members only at practice. Parents may observe from assigned location given by coach. 9. No talking between cheers. 10. In order to be counted as attending, you must participate in all facets of practice. 11. Stunts (mounts, pyramids, tosses and tumbling) must be modified to be appropriate to the performing surface area. 12. Performing surfaces must be suitable and free from objects. Page 6 of 21

8 13. NO SQUAD should perform any stunts without first performing skill progression drills and proper step and lock procedures. Skills should be mastered before progressing to the next skill level to ensure safety to the cheerleaders. 14. Practice Schedule to be set by the coach. Most squads practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays during school season. Summer schedule may increase due to summer and other vacations. 15. All cheerleaders are required to attend all practice sessions unless valid reasons are notified to coach. 16. During preseason no team can practice more than (5) days a week, lasting no longer than (120) minutes each. 17. All stunts and tumbling may only be done on a mat or flat grassy area. GAME DAY: 1. The entire squad must cheer on the sidelines at all four quarters (exception: after halftime performance squad can take a break for the first half of the third quarter, returning to sidelines at the last 5 minutes of the third quarter). 2. Girls must stay through the entire game. 3. Any unsportsmanlike conduct may result in removal from game or suspension. 4. Teams may build on the sidelines with an adult spotter for each build. 5. Half-time cheer performances will be limited to (4) minutes per squad including intro of entire squad performed to the press box. 6. Visiting squad shall be introduced and perform first then proceed to the sideline to watch the home cheer team perform. 7. At the end of the game, all cheerleaders shall line up behind the football team for the purpose of shaking hands with the opposing team and their cheerleaders. 8. If a football participant becomes injured during a game, both cheer squads are to stop cheering, kneel on one knee, or stand quietly, until the participant is up or removed from the playing field, at which time the injured participant should be applauded. 9. Cheer parents are to help with gate coverage and announcing games when home team. FUND RAISING ACTIVITIES: 1. All cheerleaders may participate in fundraising projects. The money raised will be used to fund additional agreed expenses during the year such as extra items of kit or equipment. Donations to, and fund raising for, (FYFL Teams) team funds or charity projects may be conducted as agreed by the squad and coaches/managers. Page 7 of 21

9 2. All fundraising activities will be approved by the majority of the squad and with the approval of the league cheer commissioner. 3. All funds from the fundraising activity will be turned into the FYFL Treasurer and submittal of expense request form is required with receipt to obtain funds. CHEERLEADER OF THE WEEK: 1. Each Squad will have one or more cheerleader(s) of the week. This person(s) will be the leader(s) for the following week selected by the coach. 2. Cheerleader of the week is given recognition at that week s game. 3. Responsibilities of the leader include leading stretches at games and calling the cheers at games. ZONE COMMISSIONERS RESPONSIBILITIES: 4. Coordinate, collect, and order coaches shirts being of the same design shirt for all three levels of coaches (family) with Head Coach being a different color. You may have more than one shirt as a family, just coordinate and make sure your Head Coaches are capable of being picked out. 5. Assist in game day activities such as open or close fields. 6. Perform the duties of treasurer (Collect remaining balances), secretary (confirming cheer rosters are correct), and other designated positions for all three levels for your family team and turn it in to the league commissioner. 7. Must have an emergency response plan in the event of injury or absence of coaches. 8. Prohibited from using any form of tobacco, alcohol, or illegal drugs as well as any form of profanity while on the playing or practice field, or at any time while in contact with children. 9. On competition day, you may be the tally room representative or designate one for your family team. 10. Attend all commissioner meetings to stay informed on any updates from the FYFL board. 11. Refrain from participating in any negative behavior towards volunteers, participants, and spectators. Page 8 of 21

10 COACHES RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: 1. Ensuring that squad members are safe, as the top priority at all times, that First Aid is available and emergency contact list is kept up to date and present at all times. 2. Organizing and arranging practice schedule, equipment, practice facilities, travel and events. 3. Set an example to the rest of the squad by following the rules and regulations of the [squad name]. 4. Act as a peacemaker in case of disagreements between cheerleaders in your squad. 5. Be at practice 15 minutes early and start practice on time. Make sure there are no physical obstructions, and that cheerleaders are not in the pathway of any other individuals. 6. Must require proficiency before skill progression. Consider the athlete, group, and team skill levels with regard to proper performance level placement. 7. Have an emergency response plan in the event of injury, submitted to league commissioner before first practice. 8. Co-ordinate the painting and hanging up of signs, and stuffing and wrapping rolls of candy. 9. Be responsible for welcoming visiting squads and setting a good example of friendliness to other cheerleaders. 10. Keep crowd cheering and squad in proper formation during games. Show no partiality within the squad. 11. If the Head Coach is unable to perform her duties, the assistant Coach will do so with the help of the designated Cheer Mom. 12. All cheers and chants are to be approved by league cheer commissioner before given to squads to confirm they are free of vulgar words, phrases, and motions. 13. All athletes must be supervised during all official functions by a qualified director/coach. 14. Set the tone for the team. Make practice fun and enjoyable, especially when teaching difficult aspects of cheerleading. 15. Make sure cheerleader uses proper technique for movement shown before adding new movements. 16. Encourage cheerleaders to cheer better, rather than spending too much time on what is done wrong. Spend more time teaching proper technique than pointing out flaws (reteach proper technique to correct flaws instead). 17. Avoid teaching too much in any one practice session, as it can confuse cheerleaders and keep them from properly learning techniques. 18. Do not allow or have your squad perform or practice illegal complicated lifts, stunts, tosses, or moves. Page 9 of 21

11 19. Coaches supervising on game day or practices must be listed on squad s roster. 20. All coaches must also complete a background check and the Volunteer Coaches Registration Form. 21. Head Coaches must be 21 years of age or older and Assistants must be at least 18 years of age of older. Maximum of 2 coach names per squad will be submitted with the squad roster. Any other adult not certified or registered will be permitted in approved cheer areas accompanied by coach. 22. To be familiar with cheerleading techniques, stunts, and jumps and in control, whether at competition, game or practice at all times in front of the squad and parents. 23. Treat and teach all cheerleaders, parents, and other coaches (football or cheer) fairly, equally, and with Respect. 24. Always look the part by dressing appropriately, following team dress-code and conduct guidelines as well. 25. Keep their cheerleaders off the playing field and within the defined sidelines boundaries, as designated by FYFL, except at half time. 26. Each squad must be accompanied by at least (1) rostered coach on game day. No squad should be on the field without a certified coach. 27. Carry certification cards at all games, practices, and competitions. No type of derogatory cheer or outburst will be allowed. The penalty for violation of this shall be: a) First Offense - verbal warning to the coach and must sign Disciplinary form. b) Second Offense the coach is fined $50 and given a written warning. c) Third Offense removed from organization for the season is kept for the following year. FORNEY YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE COACHES COMPETITION RULES and GUIDELINES: Page 10 of 21

12 Strict compliance with all rules is required. If you have ANY questions contact your Cheer Commissioner. The completion is based on the guidelines of (name organization of basis) School Rec Cheer. GUIDELINES: 1. ROUTINE REQUIREMENTS: perform 1 full cheer 1 full chant, jump sequence, tumbling pass, pyramid, stunts and a cheer dance. 2. COMPETITON SCHEDULE: provided to teams at pre-competition mandatory meeting. 3. TIME: Squads perform a maximum (5) minute routine (from beginning to end) utilizing jumps, dance, Cheers, creativity, transitions, etc.; and includes removal of props and exiting the field. Props to be set prior to your start. Timing begins on the first choreographed movement, Beat of music, or voices in unison, after your team is announced On Field and ends after squad and all props are removed from the field. 4. PERFORMANCE AREA: Perform within the designated performance floor. 5. MUSIC AND DANCE: Music and dance suggested time limit is 1 minute 45 seconds. You may use All Music but would have to vocalize over your music. Cheering skills may be incorporated with the music; however, only your actual dance will be scored in dance category. You are required to bring (2) CD's of your music - the one you will use and a backup. 6. PERFORMANCE AREA: You are not allowed outside the marked performance area after beginning routine. 7. BACKUP SPOTTERS: Members of squad must fulfill all spotting requirements. FYFL will supply emergency spotters that only back spot from a flyer falling PROPS: Signs, megaphones, hoops, streamers, flags and poms are allowed. Minitramps are not allowed. All signs must evoke a crowd response using words. 9. BEGINNING ROUTINE: Athletes must have at least one foot, hand or body part (Other than hair) on the performing surface when the Routine begins. Exception: Athletes may have feet in the hands of base(s) if the base(s) hands are resting on the surface. Wait for a signal from the Judges area before starting the intro of your routine. Page 11 of 21

13 10. ENDING ROUTINE: Time will stop when entire squad is completely off the field with all props. Failing to make the end of routine clear may result in additional time being deducted. 11. POINT DEDUCTIONS: penalty will be deducted from final score for each rule infraction. The amount of the penalty depends on the severity of the infraction. 12. DROPS: Knee, front, seat, thigh, and split drops are prohibited unless most of the weight is first borne on the hands/feet to break the impact of the drop. 13. TUMBLING: One tumble series is mandatory. CHEER CHAMPIONSHIP COMMITTEE: COMPETITION RULES 1. Championship Cheer Committee shall compose of (3) Executive FYFL Committee members, League, North, Central and South Zone Cheer Commissioners. 2. Committee members appointment will be for (1) year and is eligible for re-appointment in subsequent year. 3. FYFL Executive Committee must approve all funds spent. League Cheer Commissioner will take all budget requests to the FYFL executive board for approval. If FYFL does not approve the money being asked for, the Championship Committee are responsible for fundraising efforts to raise money, or eliminate costs. 4. The Championship Committee shall have the responsibility of: a) Determining rules, regulations, and guidelines based on FYFL established by-laws. b) Investigating and locating a host field/gym for the Cheer Championships. c) Scheduling all duties for the Cheer Championships. d) Ordering Trophies. e) Selecting Judges not affiliated with any squad in the organization. f) Determining penalty and points system for judging. g) Handling all concessions operations (set-up, staffing, orders, cleaning, etc.). h) Determining the cost of entry for teams and the cost for spectators (if any). COMPETITION FIELD SET-UP: 1. Judges will be seated in designated area Page 12 of 21

14 2. Teams will be waiting in designated holding area. 3. Teams exit field from the front and wait for awards at the left and/or right designate area. 4. DJ will be given a designated area to announce the on deck team and the performing team. 5. FYFL will provide minimum # of spotters that would cover the largest squad attending ages 14 and older at all competitions. Example: a 30 member squad would require 6 spotters. They must attend all directors meetings. COMPETITION FEES: 1. Admission fees: $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for school age children and senior citizens. All FYFL League and Zone Commissioners will eat, drink, and enter free. 2. Video photographer will be available only if the required number of videos is sold prior to competition. 3. FYFL will provide a professional CD/MP3 sound system with a microphone for announcements. 4. FYFL is to provide water to all participants after their performances. COMPETITION SCORE SHEETS: 1. FYFL will use officially adopted score sheets for all judges. 2. Blank copies of both score sheets will be given to coaches in their competition packet. 3. Score sheets are to be passed out at the last game of the day of competitions. Commissioners are not to hand the packets out to anyone until after the end of the last game. 4. Score Sheet Tally Sheet is to be included in Commissioner Packets listing all teams and division scores. COMPETITION AWARDS: 1. No goody bags/gifts etc. may be given until after awards ceremonies are completed. 2. All will receive an award for participating in FYFL at the close of Cheer competition. Trophies are given to 1st, and 2nd, and participation metals for remaining placements. Third place trophies will be awarded if more than 5 teams in each division. 3. There will be one award for the head coach for each 1st and 2nd placement. Trophies will be in different sizes. 4. Participants that become ill or unable to perform will receive a team trophy. Page 13 of 21

15 5. There will be a high point award for the (1) team who had the highest score over the entire competition. Example: Out of Pre- K-6, the one team who received the most points based on the judges score sheets, will receive the award. This is not by level, it is overall. COMPETITION GENERAL RULES:. 1. All teams must comply with FYFL Guidelines 2. Participation is mandatory for FYFL teams. Competition routines shall not exceed 5 minutes. 3. Any unsportsmanlike conduct may result in removal from game and/or competition. 4. Competition will start with F Flag, E Freshman, D Junior, and C senior levels to follow with a 30 minute break before awards are given. 5. Music must be turned in by the end of the coaches meeting which will be held by the Sunday before competition weekend. 6. Coach will provide 2 CDs clearly marked with team name and age group. Music will not be restarted once it has begun unless technical difficulties arise. 7. Only two coaches and commissioners may be with squads while waiting to perform, walking across field, sitting on coach s bench, and sitting on sidelines till the conclusion of performances, no spectators. 8. No men are allowed in dressing areas. 9. No technical skills should be performed when an advisor/coach is not present and providing direct supervision (i.e. during competitions breaks) 10. Teams are given 3 minutes on field for spacing and a mini run-through before competition begins. Coach is to show lead child where to start and end. 11. No instruction on spacing or positioning allowed once team is instructed to take the field. 12. Props may not be placed or removed by a coach. Cheerleaders must march into their positions and place their props without the aid of adults or instructors. 13. Pre-Competition mandatory meetings to be held by the Sunday prior to Competitions for all coaches and commissioners that will be allowed on the field. At this time, drawings for performance order will be completed. Any questions and/or final concerns should be asked at the end of the meeting. 14. The Cheer time: a) ENTRANTS MAY NOT PERFORM PRIOR TO BE ANNOUNCED!! b) Time is not stopped between cheer and dances. It ends as last child exits the field. 15. Competition must be held within September 15 to November 30 each year. 16. No participant should be allowed to throw objects into the stands at competition. Page 14 of 21

16 17. FYFL League Cheer Commissioner gives location and date for competition by August to Zone Commissioners, who are responsible for notifying all teams by the same day. 18. Any person found in violation of any of the foregoing rules may be punished in accordance with the FYFL CHEER Rules disciplinary actions. 19. All judges decisions are final; there will be no protest for competition. 20. Athletes must have at least one foot, hand or body part (other than hair) on the performing surface when the routine begins. Exception: Athletes may have their feet in the hands of base(s) if the base(s) hands are resting on the performing surface. COMPETITION TALLY ROOM: 1. Scores shall be tallied by a tally committee, who will be given free admission and refreshments which shall consist of family commissioner of each team at least 18 years of age verified by the director. 2. Representatives will be required to remain in tally room for the entire competition. 3. Only tally representatives, tally director, and Cheer Commissioners are allowed in the tally room. 4. Totals will be checked by the tally committee for mathematical correctness only. 5. No erasures will be allowed. All mark-outs must be initialed by the person making such mark out. 6. All score sheets must be initialed by each tally person with respective colored pen. 7. Team(s) not providing a tally person they will not be represented in the Tally Room. 8. FYFL must appoint a Tally Room host and present in the Tally room at all times, who will attend the tally room meeting. 9. Scores will be added together including violations and not averaged for total score. 10. No cell phones or other technical devices are allowed in tally room. COMPETITION JUDGES: 1. All judges must be at lease (19) years of age. 2. Judges shall be sent a copy of FYFL rules prior to competition. 3. Judges will be required to stay until the beginning of the awards ceremony. 4. Judges to be seated away from one another and given breaks only between division pauses. Judges will be qualified and from a professional organization (i.e. America s Best, NCA, etc.). Judges must score in different colored pen and initial any mark-outs, changes or corrections. 5. No one will speak to judges except the League Officials. 6. Commissioners/Officials must be together when approaching a judge. NEVER Page 15 of 21

17 APPROACH A JUDGE ALONE. If the Commissioner(s) have a team competing, they must stay away from judges and out of the Tally room during that division. 7. All envelopes with score sheets must be sealed. All judges decisions are final. 8. Persons appointed by FYFL board must run all score sheets to tally room in sealed envelopes. 9. Legality judge should be in position on the 50 yard line and be responsible for tie breaking and administering violations during performances. CHEER RULES ALL TEAMS The cheerleading teams in this league will be cheering for youth rec football and their focus is on participation and fundamentals. There is an end of season "competition", but it is not their primary focus. These rules are written to be very simple to understand by the average youth rec coach who may have no cheer experience. These guidelines are supported by the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches & Administrators (AACCA). Levels: Novice and Intermediate. Building & Tumbling Guidelines for Youth Rec Cheer: All teams: No Elevator tosses. No tension rolls. Tumbling is acceptable, but not required. No twisting tumbling (Arabians or full twists). No released twists (no helicopters, log rolls or twisting cradles). Only straight cradles allowed. A spot is required on all building. No inversions allowed in stunts. Additional age level restrictions: Flag (Pre-K K): (Show Off) No building above the waist. Thigh stands are acceptable Page 16 of 21

18 One foot must be in contact with the base at all times. (1 st, 2 nd, 3 rd, and 4 th Grade): Novice No building above shoulder level. Elevator preps, shoulder level liberties, shoulder stands/sits are acceptable. One foot must be in contact with the base at all times except during a cradle. Seniors (5 th 6 th grade): Intermediate The top girls must have one foot in contact with the base at all times during any extended stunt. A spotter is required for each top person in an extended stunt or passing through an extended stunt. GENERAL TUMBLING. A. Tumbling over, under, or through a stunt, individual, or prop, is not allowed. Clarification: An individual may jump over another individual. B. Tumbling while holding or in contact with any prop is not allowed. C. Dive rolls are allowed. Exception: Dive rolls performed in a swan/arched position are not allowed. Exception: Dive rolls that involve twisting are not allowed. D. Jumps are not considered a tumbling skill from a legalities point of view. Therefore, if a jump skill is included in a tumbling pass, the jump will break up the pass. STANDING TUMBLING RUNNING TUMBLING A. Flips and aerials are not allowed. B. Series front and back handsprings are allowed. C. Airborne skills must involve hand support with at least one hand when passing through the inverted position. D. No twisting while airborne. Exception: Round offs are allowed. Page 17 of 21

19 STUNTS A. A spotter is required for each top person in an extended stunt or passing through an extended position. B. Single leg stunts may not be held at or pass through an extended position. Clarification 1: Taking the top person above the head of the bases would be illegal. Clarification 2: If the primary bases squat, go to their knees or drop the overall height of the stunt while extending their arms, this skill would be considered extended and therefore illegal, regardless of the back spot s positioning. C. During transitions, at least one base must remain in contact with the top person. D. Free flipping or assisted flipping stunts and transitions are not allowed. E. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual. Example: A shoulder sit walking under prep is illegal. Exception: An individual may jump over another individual. F. Pendulum and pendulum style transitional stunts, where the top person falls away from the original bases, must use at least three stationary catchers, at least two of which are not original bases. Physical contact must be maintained with all of the original base(s). H. Single based split catches are not allowed. I. True (unassisted) Double Cupies are not allowed. Clarification: True (unassisted) Double Cupies are not allowed at extended, prep or below prep level. i.e. True (unassisted) Double Cupie = one base holding two top people. However, depending on the technique used, other variations of Fake (assisted) Double Cupies may or may not be allowed. J. A single full twisting log/barrel roll is allowed as long as it starts and ends in a cradle position and may only be assisted by a base. Clarification: Log/Barrel roll may not include any skill (example: kick full twists) other than the twist. Clarification: The log roll may not be assisted by another top person. Stunts - Release Moves A. Release moves may not land in a prone or inverted position. B. Release moves must return to original bases. Clarification: An individual may not land on the performing surface without assistance. D. Helicopters are not allowed. E. A single full twisting log/barrel roll is allowed as long as it starts and ends in a cradle position. Page 18 of 21

20 Clarification: The log roll may not be assisted by another top person. Clarification: Log/Barrel roll must return to original bases and may not include any skill other than the twist. Example: no kick full twists F. Release moves may not intentionally travel. G. Release moves may not pass over, under or through other stunts, pyramids or individuals. Stunts-Inversions A. All inversions must maintain contact with the performance surface. Exception: Transitions from ground level inversions to non-inverted positions are allowed. Example: Legal: Going from a handstand on the ground to a non-inverted stunt such as a shoulder sit. Example: Illegal: Going from a cradle to a handstand or from a prone position to a forward roll. B. Bases may not support any weight of a top person while that base is in a backbend or inverted position. Clarification: A person standing on the ground is not considered a top person. PYRAMIDS A. Pyramids and are allowed up to 2 high. B. Top persons must receive primary support from a base. Clarification: Anytime a top person is released by the bases during a pyramid transition, the top person must land in a cradle or dismount to the performing surface and must follow the dismount rules. C. Extended stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunts. D. No stunt, pyramid, or individual may move over or under another separate stunt, pyramid or individual. Example: A shoulder sit walking under a prep is considered illegal. E. Extended single-leg stunts: 1. Extended single-leg stunts must be braced by at least one top person at prep level or below with hand/arm connection only. The hand/arm of the top person must be, and remain, connected to the hand/arm of the bracer. 2. The connection must be made prior to executing the extended single leg stunt. 3. Prep level top persons must have both feet in bases hands. Exception: Prep level top persons do not have to have both feet in the bases hands if they are in a shoulder sit, flat back, straddle lift or shoulder stand. Page 19 of 21

21 DISMOUNTS A. Cradles from single based stunts must have a separate spotter with at least one hand/ arm supporting the waist to shoulder region to protect the head and shoulder area through the cradle. B. Cradles from multi-based stunts must have two catchers and a separate spotter with at least one hand/arm supporting the waist to shoulder region to protect the head and shoulder area through the cradle. C. Dismounts to the performing surface, from above waist level, from stunts and pyramids must be assisted by an original base. Bases may not intentionally pop, move or toss an athlete to the performance surface without assistance. Straight drops or small hop offs, with no additional skills, from waist level or below are the only dismounts allowed to the performing surface that do not require assistance. Clarification: An individual may not land on the performing surface from above waist level without assistance. D. Only straight pop downs, basic straight cradles and 1 4 turns are allowed. E. Twisting dismounts exceeding 1 4 turn are not allowed. All other positions are not allowed. Example: toe touch, pike, tuck, etc. F. No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a dismount, and a dismount may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props. G. Cradles from extended single leg stunts in pyramids are allowed. H. No free flipping or assisted flipping dismounts allowed. I. Tension drops/rolls of any kind are not allowed. TOSSES A. Tosses are allowed up to a total of 4 tossing bases. One base must be behind the top person during the toss and may assist the top person into the toss. B. Tosses must be performed with all bases having their feet on the performing surface and must land in a cradle position. Top person must be caught in a cradle position by at least 3 original bases one of which is positioned at the head and shoulder area of the top person. Bases must remain stationary during the toss. Example: No intentional traveling tosses. C. Flipping, twisting, inverted or traveling tosses are not allowed. D. No stunt, pyramid, individual, or, prop may move over or under a toss, and a toss may not be thrown over, under, or through stunts, pyramids, individuals, or props. E. E. The only body positions allowed are straight rides. Page 20 of 21

22 Clarification: An exaggerated arch would not be included as a straight ride and therefore considered illegal. F. During the straight body ride, the top person may use different arm variations such as (but not limited to) a salute or blowing a kiss but must keep the legs and body in the straight ride position. G. Top persons in separate tosses may not come in contact with each other. H. H. Only a single top person is allowed during a toss Page 21 of 21