mmyfsa.handbook.2013.docx · web viewmandi maloney december, 2013 elected treasurer robyn lee...

2013Parent / Athlete Handbook

This handbook is intended to provide both parents and participants with the general rules and regulations for the Monadnock Mountaineers Youth Football and Spirit program. We request that parents and participants read the information to become familiar with the program and appreciate the commitment necessary by both participants and their parents. It is extremely important that you understand and abide by these rules for the best interest of the program. Thank you for your cooperation!

Monadnock Mountaineers Youth Football & Spirit AssociationP.O. Box 3012, Peterborough NH 03458

www.MonadnockMountaineers.com

MMYFSA Handbook ~ 2013

Table of ContentsSection I. Welcome Letter

Section II. Board of Directors

Section III. Registration Fees & RefundsArticle 1: Football & Spirit Registration FeesArticle 2 Flag Football & Cheer Mascot Registration FeesArticle 3: Refunds

Section IV. Registration Information & PaperworkArticle 1: Financial ResponsibilityArticle 2: Registration Paperwork

A. MMYFSA Registration PacketB. NHYFSC Online RegistrationC. NHYFSC Medical Release FormD. Birth CertificateE. Report Card

Section V. Fundraising & VolunteeringArticle 1: FundraisingArticle 2: Volunteering

A. Home GamesB. Additional Volunteering & Reward

Section VI. Equipment Deposit, Pick Up, Drop OffArticle 1: Equipment DepositArticle 2: Equipment Pick UpArticle 3: Equipment Drop Off

Section VII. General Rules & RegulationsArticle 1: Parental Rules & Expectations

A. Attendance PolicyB. Vacation PolicyC. Practice & Game ArrivalD. Inclement WeatherE. Field AccessF. Ethical Conduct Expectations

Article 2: Participant’s InvolvementA. Absenteeism PolicyB. Code of Conduct

Article 3: SafetyA. Football / Spirit Safety IssuesB. Spirit (only) Safety and Other Issues

Article 4: Use of Oak Park PropertyA. ParkingB. Property / GroundsC. No Drug ZonesD. Hosting

Article 5: Officiating

Section VIII. Practice and Game SchedulesArticle 1: Practice ScheduleArticle 2: Preseason and/or Season ScrimmagesArticle 3: Game ScheduleArticle 4: Game Day Requirements

Section IX. Football RequirementsArticle 1: Age / Grade RequirementsArticle 2: Parental Guidelines & ConductArticle 3: Assigned PositionsArticle 4: Playing Time / Mandatory Play Rule (MPR’s)

Section X. Spirit RequirementsArticle 1: General Information

A. Spirit RulesB. Football GamesC. CompetitionD. TeamsE. Program Duration & Competition

Article 2: Uniform InformationArticle 3: Parental Guidelines & Conduct


Section I. Welcome LetterWelcome to the Monadnock Mountaineers Youth Football & Spirit (MMYFSA) program. I would like to

take this opportunity to welcome you to our program. This handbook is provided to you as a tool to help you understand the objectives of our program and provide crucial information regarding the program and the expectations of the members of the MMYFSA.

It is strongly recommended that you read this handbook. Both parents and participants will be expected to abide by the rules and regulations of the MMYFSA. Our hope is to provide an organized document that addresses your questions and provides the framework that our program operates under. This handbook is not inclusive of all the rules and regulations. We are also governed by the New Hampshire Youth Football / Spirit Conference (NHYFSC) constitution. The board members and coaches take their commitment seriously and will follow these regulations consistently. We will make every effort to work with parents and participants to resolve any problems; however, we may at times need to take disciplinary actions that are in the best interest of the program as a whole.

The objective of the MMYFSA is to develop well-rounded young men and women who learn both the fundamentals of football or cheerleading in an organized and supervised environment with an emphasis on maximum safety, and the importance of good sportsmanship, scholarship and personal integrity.

With that said, I would like to thank you in advance for your cooperation and support of this program. It is with your help and support that our organization can continue to exist and serve the needs of our communities. We have many changes this coming year, these changes will require patience, understanding and support; but I feel that they are needed and in the end will only improve our program as a whole and the services it provides. Thank you again for you cooperation and support and please feel free to contact me anytime with any questions, concerns or ideas.

Best Regards on behalf of the MMYFSA Board of Directors,Nicholas Marks, President


Section II. Board of DirectorsThe Board of Directors of the Monadnock Mountaineers Youth Football & Spirit Association (MMYFSA) is responsible for the establishment and enforcement of all policies and objectives of the MMYFSA and NHYFSC. All Executive Board members (President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Football Director and Spirit Director) will be voted in by the general membership in accordance with the MMYFSA by-laws. All remaining positions are appointed by the Executive Board in accordance with the MMYFSA by-laws.

Position Name End of Term Office

President Nick Marks December, 2014 Elected

Vice President Mandi Maloney December, 2013 Elected

Treasurer Robyn Lee December, 2014 Elected

Secretary Kate Bourque December, 2013 Elected

Football Director Nick Duffy December, 2013 Elected

Spirit Director Tara Potter December, 2014 Elected

Concessions Coordinator Elizabeth Henderson December, 2013 Appointed

Corporate Fundraising Coordinator Sarah Dunning December, 2013 Appointed

Equipment / Field Manager Lou Maloney December, 2013 Appointed

Fundraising Coordinator OPEN December, 2013 Appointed

Publicity / Web Coordinator Chrissy Elliott December, 2013 Appointed

Registration / Recruitment Coordinator Talia Marks December, 2013 Appointed

Scholastics Coordinator Tammy Trahan December, 2013 Appointed

We welcome everyone’s participation in the program. Any parent wishing to get more involved with organizing and running the program should contact one of the board members for more information.


Section III. Registration Fees & Refunds

Article 1: Football & Spirit Registration Fees1) The following fee schedule is for grade based or contact football players and grade based or competition

level cheerleaders, this schedule is not applicable to flag football players or cheer mascots. This fee schedule is for returning players only, new players will be assessed at the lowest amount regardless of date of registration. $175 (before April 1, 2013) $200 (before May 15, 2013) $225 (before July 1, 2013) $300 (after July 1, 2013)

2) A discount of $25 will be applied for each additional child registered in the program.

3) At least 50% payment must be made at the time of registration to be locked into the amount quoted. Any registrations received without payment will be assessed the maximum amount depending on the date payment is made unless other arrangements have been made.

Article 2: Flag Football & Cheer Mascot Registration Fees1) The following fee schedule is for our flag football and cheer mascots, this schedule is not applicable to

contact football players or cheer squad participants. This fee schedule is for returning players only, new players will be assessed at the lowest amount regardless of date of registration. $100 (before May 15, 2013) $125 (before July 1, 2013) $150 (after July 1, 2013)

2) There is no discount for multiple children registered in the flag or cheer mascot programs.

3) At least 50% payment must be made at the time of registration to be locked into the amount quoted. Any registrations received without payment will be assessed the maximum amount depending on the date payment is made unless other arrangements have been made.

Article 3: Refunds1) If an athlete drops prior to the first day of practice the family will receive a full refund. If an athlete drops

before the 2nd week of practice the family receive a 50% refund. After the 2nd week of practice there are no refunds if a child drops unless it is in the event of a medical issue or for not having a team available for the athlete to play on.

2) There are no refunds if your child drops causing a team to fold and therefore causing the MMYFSA to not have a team available for that age group.

3) There are no refunds if your child is asked to leave the squad or team due to disciplinary issues by the athlete or parent(s)/guardian(s).


4) If equipment has already, no refunds will be issued until all equipment has been returned and accounted for.

Section IV. Registration Information & Paperwork

Article 1: Financial Responsibility1) Any family with an outstanding financial obligation to the MMYFSA will not be able to register their

child for the upcoming season until said obligation is paid in full. Outstanding financial obligation can include, but it is not limited to, fundraising obligations from a previous year or registration fees from a previous year.

2) No child will be allowed to register unless their uniform and/or equipment from the previous year have been returned. If the family is unable to produce the uniform and equipment they will be assessed for the full new value replacement of all items outstanding.

Article 2: Registration PaperworkAll paperwork described must be completed in order to participate in the program and handed in before your child will be issued a uniform or allowed to take the field for practice.

A. MMYFSA Registration Packeta) Packet must be completed in its entirety. b) Packet can be filled out online via the MMYFSA website; it will still require initials and a signature.

B. NHYFSC Online Registrationa) All players are required to register via the NHYFSC (www.NHYFSC.org) website.b) Upon completion of registration print and sign the following forms

o NHYFSC Certification Recordo NHYFSC Parent Consent Form

C. NHYFSC Medical Clearance Forma) This form must be signed by the Doctor’s office and stamped to confirm authenticity.b) A physical form certifying that your child is physically well enough to participate in sports from your

Doctor’s office may be used in lieu of this form. c) The medical clearance form (or physical release) must not expire during the football or cheer season.

Any forms with an expiration date during the season will not be accepted.d) The date of the physical or Doctor’s authorization must be after January 1st of the current calendar

year.

D. Birth Certificatea) Copy of your child’s birth certificate. b) The MMYFSA does retain copies of Birth Certificates for returning players.


E. Report Carda) Three (3) copies of the child’s complete end of year report card. The report card must show the entire

school year (all 4 quarters, or 3 terms) including specialists. The report card must also include the school name, the child’s name and the school year.

b) The report card cannot be handwritten on by the parent(s)/guardian(s) or altered in anyway. c) Teacher comments are not required, if you wish to make a copy and block out the comments you are

more than welcome, but please consider the above, and in the event you are unsure please contact us so we may assist you.

We look forward to completing the paperwork process and making sure your child can participate fully and on the first day of practice, however we will not allow any child to take the field unless all paperwork has been completed and turned in.

Section V. Fundraising & Volunteering

Article 1: Fundraising1) The MMYFSA is a not-for-profit organization that depends on the commitment and dedication of our

volunteers and the generosity of our sponsors. The organization receives no funding from the NHFYSC, AYF the State of NH or any of its agencies. To offset the costs of operation in addition to our registration fees we have various fundraising requirements for our participants.

2) Since fundraising is such a large part of our organization and how we raise funds we offer a few different choices for our families and participants. Also new for the 2013 season is our Recruit-A-Sponsor program, in lieu of fundraising or the buyout option families may recruit a sponsor for the 2013 season. In addition to the sponsoring the family in place of fundraising, the sponsor will also be entitled to all the perks and benefits of every other sponsor.

Fundraising InformationFundraising Amount Fundraising Buyout Recruit-A-Sponsor

1 Player $100 $150 $2502 Players $175 $225 $325

3+ Players $250 $300 $400

3) A fundraising schedule will be handed out prior to the start of the season. The schedule will determine the dates of fundraising as well as the date all fundraising monies are required to be turned in. Failure to meet the deadline given can and will result in your child being removed from the field and not allowed to participate in practices or games until your fundraising obligation is complete.

Article 2: VolunteeringAs with any program like Youth Football it takes the work of many people to make the season a success, both “on” and “off” the field. Our organization is run solely on volunteers who give up countless hours to make sure that everything from practices, games and even registration events run as smoothly as possible.


A. Home Gamesa) Home games are by far the busiest day of the week for any organization, and they require the most

volunteer hours to make them happen. Parents and families are required to assist throughout the season with various home game activities. These activities include the following; pre-game day field prep, morning setup, concessions stand, merchandise stand, game announcer, MPR’s, chains, down counter and afternoon teardown and field cleanup.

b) Families will be assigned specific duties on game day throughout the season in order to distribute the workload between families and not overwork any specific person or family.

c) It is up to the person assigned to find a replacement for themselves if they are unable to work the date/time assigned.

d) If a person fails to show

B. Additional Volunteering & Rewarda) Outside of game days families are also called upon to volunteer for other events and activities. To

reward those that do volunteer for additional items we have established a drawing at the end of the season.

b) For every hour of volunteer time (excluding game days) a person earns 10pts. When that person earns 200pts their name is entered into a drawing for $100. A person’s name may be entered more than once. This also coincides with fundraising, where for every $10 beyond the fundraising minimum they also earn 10pts to go toward the 200pt goal.

Section VI. Equipment Deposit, Pick Up, Drop Off

Article 1: Equipment Deposit1) There is a $100 equipment deposit due prior to being issued any equipment. This equipment deposit will

be returned to you in full at the end of the season upon successfully returning all of the issued equipment in a reasonably undamaged state. The equipment deposit will be held in full if any of the equipment is not returned or returned damaged or in unusable condition.

2) Equipment will not be issued to anyone that has equipment outstanding from a previous season, or still has a financial obligation to the Association accrued from a previous season.

Article 2: Equipment Pick Up1) It is your responsibility to pick up uniforms on the dates and times scheduled. In order to ensure a proper

fit it is important that your son or daughter accompany you equipment pick up. In consideration of the time and effort put forth by the Coaches and Board Members please make every effort to pick up your equipment when scheduled. Children will not be allowed to practice without proper equipment.

Article 3: Equipment Drop Off1) It is your responsibility to drop off uniforms on the dates and times provided. There will be at least two

(2) equipment drop-off dates scheduled at the end of the season depending on playoffs and all-star games. Failure to drop off your equipment will result in forfeiture of your equipment deposit.


Section VII. General Rules & RegulationsThe following information is being provided to highlight some of the many rules and regulations regarding the MMYFSA. For further explanation of these and other rules applying to you and your child please contact the respective Head Coaches or Directors of either the Football or Spirit portion of the program.

Article 1: Parental Rules & Expectations

A. Attendance PolicyIt is strongly recommended that parents stay for practices & games to show support for your children and if necessary be available for any emergency situations. In the event you cannot stay it is your responsibility to see that the Team Parent or Head Coach has a contact number of where you will be. Contact information provided at registration will be used to contact you in the event of an emergency.

Failure to be available in a timely manner in the event of an emergency will require that you are present for all future practices & games, no exceptions.

B. Vacation PolicyPlease plan your family vacation for early summer. We only have four weeks of practice in August to prepare and work with the children before our first game of the season. Missing practices in August will be a major setback in your child’s conditioning, gaining knowledge and developing basic football skills. Missed practices may also affect game play time.

C. Practice & Game ArrivalPlease have your child arrive at practice at least ten (10) minutes before practice starts with your child ready to participate.

Please have your child arrive at games at least one (1) hour before the scheduled game time with your child ready to participate.

D. Inclement WeatherIn the event of threatening, forecasted and/or inclement weather it is required that you stay with your child in case the practice or game is called off early. If you cannot stay on such days due to dire necessity, it is required that you leave written notice with the Team Parent or Head Coach as to who will be authorized to being your child home that day. Board Members and/or Coaching staff cannot leave a participant unattended after practice or games.

E. Field AccessNo un-rostered adults, siblings, relatives or bystanders are allowed onto the field during practice or games, unless summoned by the Head Coach, Board Member or an Official. See the attached Emergency Plan.

F. Ethical Conduct ExpectationsThe MMYFSA as well as the New Hampshire Youth Football & Spirit Conference (NHYFSC) has a NO TOLERANCE policy in regards to any violation of the items listed below. Participants and/or parents who are in violation of any Local, Regional and/or National Constitutions or By-Laws are subject to disciplinary action by the Board of Directors. The course of disciplinary action may result first in a verbal


warning, second a written warning. If violations continue, the parent, then child, may be permanently removed from the designated property and/or the MMYFSA program altogether. Any serious offense as deemed by the Board of Directors can result in immediate and permanent removal.

a) Direct or indirect threats, uncooperative, disrespectful or unsportsmanlike behavior towards MMYFSA participants, Coaching Staff, Board Members or affiliates.

b) Smoking, smokeless tobacco, illegal substances, drugs or alcohol use is PROHIBITED on or around MMYFSA practice and game fields. Parents must adhere to all state and local laws.

c) Immoral and/or indecent behavior determined by the Coaching Staff and/or Board of Directors, to include foul or abusive language. This applies to both the practice sessions and game day. Any parent displaying abusive behavior will be asked to leave the premises and could be banned from all MMYFSA events for the rest of the season.

d) Abusing public property.e) Falsifying information and/or documents, verbal or written.f) Gambling or betting on the outcome of a game or competition.g) Inciting game officials or authoritative personnel or inciting a riot.h) Endangering the welfare of a juvenile or adult.i) Violating probation or suspension penalties.

Article 2: Participant’s Involvement

A. Absenteeism PolicyYour child’s experience in our program will depend on the level of their participation and commitment to their team and fellow team members. Proper training and conditioning are critical to prepare your children for both Football and Cheerleading. It is very important that participants do not miss practices in the month of August and support their teams throughout the season. It is for these very reasons that we have the following regulations.a) Unexcused Absences at the discretion of the Head Coach may result in probation status and/or

suspension from practice(s) and game(s). Participants MUST contact the Head Coach prior to their absence from a practice or game. The Head Coach will determine if the absence is an excused absence. In the event of an emergency, please call the Mountaineer phone (533-3857) and a message will be given to the appropriate Coach.

B. Code of ConductThe last thing any Board Member or Coach wants to do is dismiss a child from the program. The program is focused on the children and exists for those children who are committed participants in the program. With participation in the program comes responsibility to act appropriately. The program is run with consideration for all participating and at no time will the needs of a single participant override the needs of the entire group. Any of the following items are grounds for disciplinary action, which can include verbal/written warning, probation status, and suspension from practices/games or dismissal from the program.

a) Falling below a 70-point grade average and/or obtaining a less than satisfactory conduct report with their school or home schooling agent.

b) Unsportsmanlike conduct towards other team members including bullying, threats, fighting etc.c) Consistently being late to practices and/or games.d) Uncooperative and/or disrespectful attitude towards the Coaching Staff/Board Members.e) Use of foul or abusive language on or off the field.f) Abusing public property.


g) Incomplete or falsified information, verbal or written.h) Smoking, smokeless tobacco, illegal substances, drug or alcohol use or possession of illegal

substances at an MMYFSA function or event OR while wearing or in the possession of the Monadnock Mountaineer uniform.

i) Purposeful damage of the MMYFSA uniform and/or equipment.

Article 3: SafetyChildren’s safety is the MMYFSA’s first priority and failure to meet these requirements may result in a warning, suspension, and/or dismissal from the program by the Head Coach, Coordinator or Board Member.

A. Football / Spirit Safety Issuesa) No Jewelry or body piercing accessories and the like are to be worn during practice or games.b) No gum chewing at practice or games.c) No make-up, to include face paints, hair/body/face glitter, removable tattoos, is to be worn to practice

or games.d) No nail polishes of any kind, decals or artificial nails are to be worn to practice or games.

B. Spirit (only) Safety and Other Issuesa) Hair must be tied back and off of face during practices and games.b) If a spirit participant misses the pre-game warm-up drills, or enough practice time prior to game day

(determined by the Head Coach), then she/he will not be allowed to participate in the half-time performance for that game. She/he will, however, be permitted to cheer during the game at times excluding half time.

c) Appropriate dress is required for practices. NO halter tops and the like, jeans or short shorts shall be worn.

d) Sneakers supporting the ankle and/or arch should be worn. NO sandals. Socks must be worn at all times.

Article 4: Use of Oak Park Property

A. Parkinga) There is NO PARKING along the roads.b) Field entrances, exits and any areas designated as a no parking zone must not be blocked at any time.

These areas are kept clear at all times to ensure fire, police and ems personnel have access to the field and surrounding areas to aid participants, volunteers and bystanders.

c) Towing of vehicles and/or fines may be incurred to any violators.d) On Home Game days MMYFSA parents and families are asked to park in the field by the pavilion.e) On practice nights parking anywhere by the pavilion or in the designated parking lot is allowed.

B. Property / Groundsa) No climbing on trees, buildings, fences, sheds, sports equipment is allowed.b) No defacing or vandalizing property.c) Violators will pay for all costs of repair and replacement of damaged areas to restore the property

back to its original appearance/use.d) Oak Park grounds must be kept clean during our use. Please make sure all water bottles, personal

belongings and all trash is removed before you leave.


C. No Drug Zonesa) Practice Fields, Game Fields and all adjacent areas are No Drug Zones. This includes but is not

limited to smoking products, smokeless tobacco, illegal substances, drugs and alcohol.

D. Hostinga) Hosting association’s rules apply at away games.

Article 5: Officiating1) The State Association requires that we have certified officials at every game. We encourage parents to

respect the officials regardless of whether or not you agree with the calls. The Coaching Staff has been trained to address these issues and we want to set the right example for the athletes. The Coaching Staff has disciplined the kids to accept the calls - let’s also be able to accept them as adults. The official has total control over the game and its participants once the whistle blows. Excessive yelling and tantrums will only diminish our children’s opportunities of finishing the game and their view of parental behavior. The President or a designated Board Member may have any parent/participant removed from a game if he/she deems that person to be unruly.

Section VIII. Practice and Game Schedules

Article 1: Practice Schedule1) The MMYFSA Board of Directors under the guidelines of the NHYFSC Constitution sets practice

schedules. The first day of practice may be July 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st or Aug 1st, or earlier as determined by the state. July 29th is the first day of practice for the 2013 season. Prior to the start of school practices will take place on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Practice runs from 5:30pm to 8pm. (Flag schedule may be adjusted - notice will be given). After school starts practices will take place on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Practice will run from

5:30pm to 7:30pm. Practice dates, times and location are subject to change. Advance notice will be given of any changes

to the schedule.

Article 2: Preseason and/or Season Scrimmages1) Scrimmages will be coordinated and scheduled with the Football Director / Spirit Director and the

MMYFSA President in accordance with NHYFSC rules.

Article 3: Game Schedule1) Game schedules are determined and set forth by the State Commissioner of the NHYFSC. Traditionally

we will play four (4) home games and four (4) away games, excluding any bye weeks. The MMYFSA has no say in determining schedules (including location and game times) unless requesting to fill a bye (or no schedule game on a particular Sunday) with another association by the State Commissioner. Games are usually held on Sunday with the possibility of a game on a Saturday night.


This is an example of what game times may be.

Five (5) Game ScheduleKick-Off Time

Four (4) Game ScheduleKick-Off Time

8:00 am 9:00 am

10:00 am 11:00 am

12:00 pm 1:00 pm

2:00 pm 3:00 pm

4:00 pm

All game dates and times are subject to change without prior notice. Teams will be notified as soon as possible.

Article 4: Game Day Requirements1) Players and participants are expected to arrive on the field for practice in appropriate uniforms/equipment

as per the Head Coaches instructions.

2) Players and participants are to show up one (1) hour before scheduled game time for warm-up and roster checks. No practice on game days allowed.

3) Each football team must have a roster of sixteen (16) players and thirteen (13) eligible players at game time of forfeit game to opposing team. A controlled scrimmage will then be played.

4) MMYFSA Head Coaches and President will contact opposing association Head Coaches and President prior to game day to confirm dates, times, etc., so as not to forfeit a game when the hosting association does not meets its responsibility in confirming such information with visiting teams.

5) Parents will be notified of any last minute changes either on the practice field or over the phone. An emergency number should be provided in case a parent cannot be reached at home or work.

6) Maps and directions will be available on the Mountaineers website at www.MONADNOCKMOUNTAINEERS.com.

7) NHYFSC does have a lopsided score rule. For grade level teams, if at any time the score differential is 28 points or higher, the game is considered over and the score at that time will be final. The teams will continue to play the balance of the game as a controlled scrimmage.

Section IX. Football RequirementsIt is important to note that football is not a recreational sport and requires a lot of hard work and discipline. The Coaching Staff will assess each player’s capability, skill development and progress over the course of the year and will manage the player’s assignments in the best interest of the team.


All participants are expected to participate in all practices, scrimmages, games and required MMYFSA events (i.e. playoffs). Each team will have a Head Coach, Team Coordinator and a Team Parent that will work with the parents and Coaching Staff to address your specific questions. The parents are very important to our program and we encourage everyone to support your children at practice and the games.

Article 1: Age / Grade Requirements1) The MMYFSA will field as many teams as possible based on the total number of registered participants.

Children will be assigned to a team based on the tables below. The following tables are State guidelines.

Flag & Instructional DivisionGrade / Age Based

Grade Range Age Range Maximum Age Age Explanation

K | 1 5 | 6 | 7 7 Cannot turn 8 on or before 12/31

1 | 2 | 3 7 | 8 | 9 9 9 in third grade cannot turn 10 before 12/311st graders must by 7 years old by 12/31

All American DivisionGrade / Age Based

Grade Max Age Range Maximum Age Age Explanation4th 8 | 9 | 10 10 10 in 4th grade cannot turn 11 before 12/315th 9 | 10 | 11 11 11 in 5th cannot turn 12 before 12/316th 10 | 11 | 12 12 12 in 6th cannot turn 13 before 12/317th 11 | 12 | 13 13 13 in 7th cannot turn 14 before 12/318th 12 | 13 | 14 14 14 in 8th cannot turn 15 before 12/31

2) Grades can be combined and will play at the max grade level of the team. The max grade level is determined by the highest grade level of any player on the team.

3) The MMYFSA will not combine grade levels spanning 3 or more grade levels.

Article 2: Parental Guidelines & Conduct1) School is the children’s first priority. All participants must maintain satisfactory grades (2.0 or greater) to

participate in the MMYFSA program.

2) Your child’s safety is our main concern. Please check all equipment before practices and games for proper fit and function. If the equipment looks broken or in need of repair please bring it to our attention as soon as possible.

3) Please do not run onto the field if your child gets hurt. If it is necessary, you will be summoned onto the field. It is recommended that one parent be at every practice just in case a medical problem arises. Please


provide the Team Parent with emergency phone numbers if different from the number listed in the folder. Also be on alert for signs of a concussion (headache, nausea, amnesia). Let us know if your child is experiencing concussion-related symptoms.

4) If your child sees a doctor for a football related injury or cannot participate because of an injury, a note from the doctor allowing the child to resume playing must be provided. Until the note is provided, the player will not be allowed to participate.

5) If your child is on medication, please make the Coach aware of it. Asthma sprays, Diabetes tablets, bee sting medicine, etc., should be kept in the on field first aid kit. This information, if necessary, will be kept in the strictest confidence.

6) If your child has any learning disabilities, please notify the Coach. Again, this information will be kept in the strictest confidence.

7) All players must attend every practice except when they are sick or school activities take a priority. Parents and children should take caution in participating in other sports as it may interfere with the strict attendance policy of the MMYFSA. Attendance is taken at every practice. In the event your child cannot make a practice, it is your responsibility to notify the Head Coach or Team Parent. Three unexcused practices may result in disciplinary action.

8) All male players must wear a protective cup and jock every practice and every game. Chest protectors are available for female football players.

9) All football players are required to have cleats.

10) For the safety of your child and other children, excessive absences, excused or not, will result in reduced playing time, probation, game suspension or removal from the program.

11) Your child’s eating habits are very important. Make sure your child’s fluid (water) intake is increased before and after practice. Please do not feed your child a large meal just before practice or a game. Your child should come with a water bottle to every practice, filled with water or a sport drink. The Coaching Staff will provide some water during games.

12) Please remember that this is not the NFL. Some rules and guidelines are different. If you have questions on a certain call or non-call please approach the Coach after the game or practice and he will explain to the best of his ability.

13) If you are not a part of the field crew or the Coaching Staff, you are not allowed on the field. This includes the practice field and the sidelines. This rule will be strictly enforced. If you want to get involved please see a Coach or the Team Parent.

14) Jewelry of all kinds including earrings is strictly prohibited. Bandannas, special markings on helmets and any other device that would distinguish one player from another are strictly prohibited.

15) Threatening Weather: The MMYFSA will cancel or suspend practice in the event of severe weather, including downpours and lightning storms. We request that parents stay for the entire practice or give the


Team Parent the name of the person who is authorized to take your child home in the event practice is cancelled due to severe weather. The Coaches and Board Members will not leave the field until all kids are safely with their parents and/or guardians. Please be courteous and use common sense for the welfare of your children.

16) Please do not Coach from the sidelines. Your child will be instructed in specific techniques and responsibilities by the Coaching Staff and they will be expected to perform according to those instructions. If they abandon those instructions to follow yours, they will be letting their teammates down.

Article 3: Assigned Positions1) The Coaching Staff, based on their evaluation of each player, will assign positions. There are many

factors that contribute to determining who will play each position. Some of these factors include physical ability, experience, effort, attitude and attendance. Positions are not permanent and the players will be continually evaluated throughout the season to be sure that they are being utilized in the best interest of the team.

2) Parents will not be allowed to determine what position their child will play.

Article 4: Playing Time / Mandatory Play Rule (MPR’s)1) NHYFSC rules state that each player in the instructional and All-American divisions must receive a

minimum number of plays per game. This is known as the minimum play rule (MPR). The Head Coach will attempt to give each player the most amount of playing time possible based on his/her ability, attitude, practice efforts and attendance. Each player will meet the MPR every game.

2) Mandatory Play Rule (MPR’s)

Day of Game Squad Size Each Player Must Play31 – 36 Players Eight (8) Plays25 – 30 Players Ten (10) Plays19 – 24 Players Twelve (12) Plays13 – 18 Players Sixteen (16) Plays

i. The plays must be from the line of scrimmage. Kickoffs, extra points and free kicks do not count toward fulfilling MPR requirement.

ii. Plays or Downs that are called back by the referee do not count. The ensuing “replay” of that down does count toward MPR of participants.

iii. All players shall be provided their MPR by participation in “active” plays. No intent to minimize the action or integrity of plays is allowed. Plays such as, but not limited to, having the center snap the ball to the quarterback and then having the QB fall to the ground, while subs play the other positions, shall NOT be considered active plays.

iv. The number of rostered players ready to play at the beginning of the game will determine roster size for the MPR of that game.

v. The only exceptions to the MPR will be for injuries or for discipline reasons (such as unexcused absence from practices) or other local rules that are thoroughly understood by players, cheerleaders, parents and rules are applied equally to players of all abilities. Any player held out


for reasons such as these should have an explanation present on the MPR sheet. Any player not eligible to play, need not be roster checked, and must remove shoulder pads and wear jersey only.

vi. At the end of the third quarter, all players who have not yet completed their MPR will enter the game to start the fourth quarter. These players will remain in the game until their plays have been met (or longer). This includes plays that do not count towards the fulfillment of their MPR’s (such as kickoffs, free kicks and extra points – They Stay In).

vii. Each team must provide two (2) monitors at every game to ensure compliance with NHYFSC MPR. The opposing team’s monitor will record your team’s MPR on your sideline with your monitor spotting for him and vice versa.

viii. Coaches should inquire about MPR status for their team only. MPR status will be reviewed by the referees, the team president (only their team), and the NHYFSC State staff. MPR’s are not subject to review by any other persons.

3) Once MPR requirement has been met for all eligible players the MPR certification sheet must be signed by the Head Coach and both monitors on the sideline and sent to the Football Director assigned to that Association within seven (7) days. Failure to comply with this seven-day rule will result in a $25 fine. A player who fails to meet his/her MPR is required to start the next game and complete twice the usual number of MPR’s (as determined by the roster size on the day of the game MPR was missed). Further action for failure to allow a player to meet MPR may be determined by the NHYFSC Executive Board and will include, but not limited to a $100 fine, probation and game suspension for the Head Coach. Consequences will double with each subsequent offense. Failure to provide two (2) monitors at each game will result in a $25 fine. Monitors should remain on the field until the end of game to record final score.

Section X. Spirit RequirementsThe MMYFSA Spirit program is not a recreational sport and requires a full commitment from the participants and the Coaching Staff. Children will be involved with approximately 50 practices, cheering at games, and competing in at least one competition. The program is designed to teach the fundamentals of cheerleading including sportsmanship, sideline cheers, proper stunting techniques, and guidelines for Spirit competitions. There are several key aspects of the program that are the foundation including a focus on Safety, Discipline, Sportsmanship, Cheerleading Skills and knowledge of the Football program.

All participants are expected to participate in all practices, attend all games and required MMYFSA events and all competitions. Each team with have a Head Coach and a Team Parent that will work with the parents and coaching staff to address your specific questions. The parents are very important to our program and we encourage everyone to support your children at practice and games.

Article 1: General Information


A. Spirit RulesMMYFSA Spirit rules will be reviewed on the first night of practice with you and your child by their Coach. These rules are in place to insure the safety of your child, in support of good sportsmanship, and for the good of the team in general. Please be advised that no earrings or body jewelry are allowed while cheerleading. If you plan to have your child’s ears pierced before the season allow enough time so that the earrings may be removed during practice.

B. Football GamesThe regular season consists of eight (8) games played on Saturday or Sunday. The time and location will vary week to week. Participants will be provided a schedule of all games once it is available. Dates, times and locations will be posted on the website.

C. Competitiona) The State Spirit Competition is usually scheduled for October and usually at the Whittemore Center

at UNH in Durham, NH.b) Spirit Squads will typically compete in one other competition. Information will be provided in

advance.

D. TeamsParticipants are assigned to teams based on their age and the number of registered participants.

Division Ages LevelTiny Mites 5 | 6 WhiteDivision 8 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 White & Red Level OnlyDivision 10 8 | 9 | 10 White & Red Level OnlyDivision 12 10 | 11 | 12 White, Red & BlueDivision 13 11 | 12 | 13 White, Red & BlueDivision 15 13 | 14 | 15 Red & Blue Only

The age cutoff for all divisions is July 31st.

If a Tiny Mite division is not offered those participants may be mascots for another division.

E. Program Duration & CompetitionThe MMYFSA Spirit Program runs from the beginning of August through late October and could extend into December for the following reasons.a) Spirit Squads placing 1st, 2nd or 3rd at the State Spirit Competition will advance to Regional

Competition in November.b) Support their respective Football teams that are involved with post-season games.c) Spirit Squads placing 1st, 2nd or 3rd at Regional’s must move on to Nationals in December.

Article 2: Uniform Information


1) The MMYFSA will provide you a uniform. Extra items will be at the expense of the family (e.g. crop top, boy-cut briefs and hair bow). The purchase of these items will be coordinated with the Spirit Director.

2) Parents are also required to purchase plain white sneakers, navy blue yoga pants or sweatpants with elastic ankles and no show socks.

Article 3: Parental Guidelines & Conduct1) School is the children’s first priority. All participants must maintain satisfactory grades (2.0 or greater) to

participate in the MMYFSA program.

2) Your child’s safety is our main concern. Please check all equipment before practices and games for proper fit and function. If the equipment looks broken or in need of repair please bring it to our attention as soon as possible.

3) Please do not run onto the field if your child gets hurt. If it is necessary, you will be summoned onto the field. It is recommended that one parent be at every practice just in case a medical problem arises. Please provide the Team Parent with emergency phone numbers if different from the number listed in the folder. Also be on alert for signs of a concussion (headache, nausea, amnesia). Let us know if your child is experiencing concussion-related symptoms.

4) If your child sees a doctor for a football related injury or cannot participate because of an injury, a note from the doctor allowing the child to resume playing must be provided. Until the note is provided, the player will not be allowed to participate.

5) If your child is on medication, please make the Coach aware of it. Asthma sprays, Diabetes tablets, bee sting medicine, etc., should be kept in the on field first aid kit. This information, if necessary, will be kept in the strictest confidence.

6) If your child has any learning disabilities, please notify the Coach. Again, this information will be kept in the strictest confidence.

7) All players must attend every practice except when they are sick or school activities take a priority. Parents and children should take caution in participating in other sports as it may interfere with the strict attendance policy of the MMYFSA. Attendance is taken at every practice. In the event your child cannot make a practice, it is your responsibility to notify the Head Coach or Team Parent. Three unexcused practices may result in disciplinary action.

8) For the safety of your child and other children, excessive absences, excused or not, will result in reduced playing time, probation, game suspension or removal from the program.

9) Your child’s eating habits are very important. Make sure your child’s fluid (water) intake is increased before and after practice. Please do not feed your child a large meal just before practice or a game. Your child should come with a water bottle to every practice, filled with water or a sport drink. The Coaching Staff will provide some water during games.

10) If you are not a part of the field crew or the Coaching Staff, you are not allowed on the field. This includes the practice field and the sidelines. This rule will be strictly enforced. If you want to get involved


please see a Coach or the Team Parent.

11) Jewelry of all kinds including earrings is strictly prohibited. Bandannas, special markings on helmets and any other device that would distinguish one player from another are strictly prohibited.

12) Threatening Weather: The MMYFSA will cancel or suspend practice in the event of severe weather, including downpours and lightning storms. We request that parents stay for the entire practice or give the Team Parent the name of the person who is authorized to take your child home in the event practice is cancelled due to severe weather. The Coaches and Board Members will not leave the field until all kids are safely with their parents and/or guardians. Please be courteous and use common sense for the welfare of your children.

13) Please do not Coach from the sidelines. Your child will be instructed in specific techniques and responsibilities by the Coaching Staff and they will be expected to perform according to those instructions. If they abandon those instructions to follow yours, they will be letting their teammates down.


mmyfsa.handbook.2013.docx · web viewmandi maloney december, 2013 elected treasurer robyn lee...

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