contents issue 12 • winter 2010

Coaching Commissioners Officiating

12 Art of rushing the passer 18 Registration for today’s youth 24 USA Football’s LeMonnier Keys to QB pressure from NFL, high leagues referees Fiesta Bowl school and youth football minds Leagues plan ahead, employ new tech- By Alex Fink By Alex Fink niques to reach players & families By Alex Fink 26 Meet a USA Football Member: 13 Quick-Hitter Grid Donnie Stitt 19 USA Football Regional By Alex Fink 14 Season in Rewind: Managers Grant Brawith usa Football Coach Member develops 20 How To Get The Most From features and excels Your Fundraiser By Alex Fink By Tim Polzer 6 “Team USA vs. The World” Game set for Jan. 30 15 What If? 21 Background checks give usa Football’s Junior National Team to usa Football Coaching Members share peace of mind face the world’s best in South Florida thoughts about selecting assistant League commissioners protect players By Michael Kuebler coaches with help from USA Football & NCSI By Alex Fink By Alex Fink inside slants 4 Kickoff Health & Safety 22 Youth leagues capitalize on USA Football State Forums 10 Meet a USA Football Staff Member: 16 USA Football shares testimony By Alex Fink shedrick Taylor, Member Services Coordinator with U.S. House Judiciary 11 what Football Taught My Son Committee 23 USA Football’s Grants Program By Nicole Lukosius executive Director Scott Hallenbeck strengthens the sport in represents youth football community 28 what Football Taught Me: 40-plus states Bill Hemmer, FOX News By Michael Kuebler By Alex Fink By Steve Alic 17 USA Football continues con- cussion awareness education

Coaches honed their craft at USA Football’s 2009 Green Bay Coaching School, presented by the Packers. Check out this year’s coaching school schedule on pg. 10. Photo by Scott LeVeque, usa football Front Cover photos by shawn hubbard

Kickoff

Dear Readers, Welcome to the first USA Football Magazine to be delivered to you in a digital format. To serve you better, your magazine now harnesses the full potential of the internet and usafootball.com to keep you informed of your fellow members and USA Football news most important to you. Speaking of news, there’s plenty to cover here. usafootball.com Fresh in our minds are memories of another great season; memories made by you – youth football’s coaches, commissioners, game officials, parents and players. As we know, there is Executive Director no off-season for those who power the sport on youth Scott Hallenbeck and amateur levels. It’s time to get ready for 2010. Our team of regional managers and our non-profit office staff is inspired to make the upcoming season Usa football your best to date. State Leadership Forums (pg. 22) are editorial staff now underway. And registration through usafootball.com for Coaching Schools and Player Academies is now open. Managing Editor USA Football’s 2010 Junior National Team will face a Steve Alic World Select team in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. on Jan. 30. NFL Contributors: Network will televise the 12 p.m. ET game featuring top Brian Feener, Alex Fink, high school-aged football players from nine countries Michael Kuebler, Bill LeMonnier, spanning four continents. Check out pages 6-9 for more Scott LeVeque, Nicole Lukosius, on this exciting matchup within our growing global foot- Tim Polzer, Shedrick Taylor, Jimmy Thomas ball community.

Our equipment grant program (pg. 23) awarded To contact USA Football: $1 million in new equipment and apparel to more than 800 youth and high school programs (703) 918-0007 in 44 states in this winter. USA Football’s subsidized background check program (pg. 21), protecting our kids in the fight against sexual predators, has proven to be an invaluable resource and continues to be available to every youth league across the United States. This issue also holds insight on how to rush the quarterback from an accomplished USA traction media staff Football coaching member, a high school coach, and an NFL defensive end (pg. 12). Read ideas from commissioner members on how to improve a league’s registration (pg. 18). And Publisher check out how USA Football is continuing to work for the sport’s betterment when it comes Rudy J. Klancnik to player safety through CDC-approved concussion awareness and education measures Editorial Director (pgs. 16-17). Tim Polzer This and more awaits you in the pages ahead. Designer And like a sure-handed receiver who’s always open, USA Football’s regional managers william Bridgeforth and office staff is ready to serve you. Contact your regional manager (pg. 19) and ask how Traction Media he can help you gain an edge or strengthen your league. In addition, you’re only a toll-free Editorial Offices call (1-877-5-FOOTBALL) or a mouse click away (usafootball.com) from our member services 7115 Tartan Trl. department. Garland, TX 75044 All the best to you in 2010 and we look forward to seeing you at a USA Football event in the [email protected] months ahead. Editorial Department Phone (972) 896-8006 Sincerely, Custom Publishing (972) 898-8585

USA Football Magazine is published by We want to hear your thoughts Traction Media, LLC©. All rights reserved. about USA Football Magazine. Write to us Traction Media does not accept unsolicited Scott Hallenbeck manuscripts. Publisher assumes no at [email protected] today. USA Football Executive Director responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts or art. No part of this magazine may be reprinted or otherwise duplicated without the written permission of the editor.

4 USA Football Magazine

U S A F o o t b a l l’ s Team USA vs. The World Game set for Jan. 30 USA Football’s Junior National Team to face the world’s best in South Florida By Michael Kuebler

New faces, same goal. ter befitting a USA Football national team. A fresh crop of 45 high school seniors will don the red, white, “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said North Bro- and blue for USA Football’s second Junior National Team. ward (Fla.) Prep running back Ethan Grant to the South Flori- USA Football’s hand-picked roster follows da Sun Sentinel. Grant has verbally committed in the footsteps of the team that won the gold to play at TCU next fall. “This is a chance to medal in the eight-nation 2009 International represent my country and show what we have Federation of (IFAF) Junior to offer in football as a whole.” World Championship in Canton, Ohio, this past “I’m looking forward to competing with the summer. The 2010 squad looks to prove itself best,” added Hollywood Hills cornerback Tony against a World Select team this time around in Grimes, who is considering scholarship offers USA Football’s “Team USA vs. The World” game, from Alabama, Georgia, Michigan, Ohio State, presented by Riddell in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., on Oregon, and other schools. “It’s pretty exciting Jan. 30 at 12 p.m. ET. to be able to represent your whole country The game will be nationally televised by NFL Network with Rich and see players from around the world. I’m excited.” Eisen, Deion Sanders, and Scott Kennedy calling the action. USA Football’s roster consists of young men who will play USA Football’s roster is composed of America’s best high in nine collegiate athletic conferences next season. school senior football players who also demonstrate charac- In light of the athletic achievements of Team USA’s players,

6 USA Football Magazine USA Football National Teams ready for 2010 USA Football will further strengthen its international presence by fielding several national teams in 2010. USA Football joins the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) and its other 56 national federation members on five continents to advance and NFL Network to Broadcast grow the sport’s burgeoning international popularity. “Team USA vs. The World” Game The following teams will be assembled for interna- tional play this year: When USA Football’s “Team USA vs. The World” game, • USA Football Junior National Team (January) presented by Riddell, kicks off at 12 p.m. ET on Saturday, • USA Football Women’s National Team (June-July) Jan. 30, NFL Network will be there to televise it live from Ft. • USA Football’s Youth National Team (July) Lauderdale’s Lockhart Stadium. • USA Football Men’s Flag National Team (August) NFL Network is the only television network dedicated • USA Football’s Women’s Flag National Team (August) exclusively to the NFL and to the sport of football. Stay tuned to www.usafootball.com for more in the As an official NFL Week event, USA Football’s months ahead. “Team USA vs. The World” game will be on after the AFC and NFC All-Star morning practices on Jan. 30 held in Lockhart Stadium. Following the “Team USA vs. The World” game, NFL Merritt of those selected. “They have garnered dozens of Network will have the Senior Bowl game live at 4:00 p.m. individual honors at their respective high schools, but those ET. The Pro Bowl will be played on Jan. 31 at 7:20 p.m. ET in won’t help us on January 30. South Florida’s Dolphin Stadium. “We will prepare diligently for a very talented World team. I – Michael Kuebler look forward to putting our preparation into action at Lockhart Stadium at the end of this month.” Grant’s and Grimes’ comments point to the fact that “Team What awaits Team USA on January 30 is a World team USA vs. the World” is more than just another game. Wearing composed of 45 of the best players aged 19 and under from “U-S-A” across their chest means something greater and outside the United States, spanning eight countries on four requires more than on-field talent. continents. Jan Jenmert of Sweden will lead the World team Team USA athlete selections are based on the values of with a staff of coaches from 11 countries. teamwork and leadership as well as athletic ability. Roster “USA Football shares in the enthusiasm for January’s game selections are made by USA Football and its coaching staff, with the dozens of national football federations across the headed by Chris Merritt of Miami Christopher Columbus High globe,” said USA Football Executive Director Scott Hallenbeck. School. Merritt served as the defensive backs coach of USA “This is a significant event for the sport’s continued interna- Football’s 2009 team and owns a 79-22 (.782) record as head tional popularity and it will be an incredible experience for coach at Miami Columbus. His staff is composed of eight high our players and coaches to represent the United States in school coaches from five states. America’s favorite game.” “These young men were hand-selected to represent our Follow USA Football’s “Team USA vs. The World” game and country as elite athletes and exceptional ambassadors,” said the events leading up to Jan. 30 at www.usavworld.com. Lockhart Stadium history grows on Jan. 30 USA Football’s “Team USA vs. The World” game will be held in Ft. Lauderdale’s legendary Lockhart Stadium on Jan. 30. The historical 50-year-old venue’s intimate seating arrangement brings fans on top of the action. Lockhart has showcased premier high school football games for decades, including Broward County’s All-Star Football Game and high-profile matchups such as this past October’s game between nationally-ranked No. 1 vs. No. 2 showdown be- tween Ft. Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas and Byrnes (S.C.). The recently-renovated 50-year-old stadium holds 18,000 fans and is the football home of Florida Atlantic Univer- sity, Dillard High School, and Ft. Lauderdale High School. – Alex Fink

7 USA Football’s 2010 Junior National Team

#72 • C #70 • C #53 • LB #23 • S #7 • WR #6 • WR #17 • LB #76 • OT Jake josh Demetre Corey shawn Anthony Steele Andrew Alexander allen Baker Cooper corker Creecy Divitto Donnal

#8 • WR #62 • OG #2 • WR #3 • RB #10 • RB #25 • CB #88 • TE #32 • LB Quinton Dan Sam Jakhari Ethan Tony Michael Tommy Dunbar Foose Gagliano Gore Grant Grimes Hartvigson Heffernan

#31 • PK #26 • CB #44 • LB #71 • OT #4 • S #59 • DT #28 • CB #5 • WR ben josh Mike Kody Bryant Jordan richard Keiwone hopfinger huff Hull Innes Jackson Johnson leonard Malone

#24 • CB #42 • DE #33 • DE #39 • TE #73 • OT #18 • QB #30 • CB #75 • OG Tyrann Zack Jordan kendall Mike Mark keion Colin Mathieu McCray McDonald montgomery Moudy Myers payne Porter

#9 • WR #92 • DE #77 • OG #36 • DE #78 • T #66 • OG #11 • QB #40 • LB Josh lebranden nick thomas kevin Adam Tyler A.J. Reese richardson rowland ryan schloemer Shead Smith Tarpley Kirk Heidelberg, Offensive Telly Lockette, Wide Receivers Coordinator/Line Pat Murphy, Defensive Backs Gabe Infante, Defensive John Roderique, Linebackers Coordinator Rich Stuart, Running Backs s he Harold Barnwell, Defensive Line Steve Walsh, Quarterbacks ac #1 • S #22 • RB #41 • LB HEAD COACH Titus Dontae Travis Co chris Till Williams Williams merritt

8 USA Football Magazine 2010 World TEam

#45 • DL #87 • WR #42 • LB #83 • WR #24 • RB #7 • QB #40 • LB #10 • DB Mehdi Alex Marcus Julian Guillame Brandon JOVANNI Soonbum Abdesmad Anthony Babic Bailey Bourassa Bridge CARRILLO Cha canada canada canada canada canada canada mexico canada

#31 • LB #8 • K #12 • QB #33 • DB #15 • WR #94 • DL #77 • OL #68 • OL Beck Tyler Jeremi Mike Shoma Elias Danny Dillon Coulter Crapigna Doyon-Roch Dubuisson Endo Groon Groulx Guy american samoa canada canada canada japan sweden canada canada

#34 • RB #75 • OL #6 • RB #21 • DB #26 • DB #74 • OL #44 • LB #85 • WR Jeff Ben Hampus Dylan Scott Sebastian Tavita Jerit Hassler Heenan Hellermark Hollohan Janz Johansson Katina Lambert canada canada sweden canada canada sweden american samoa canada

#95 • DL #3 • RB #36 • DB #22 • DB #4 • LB #11 • LB #76 • OL #89 • OL David Steven Cody Yudai Jerod Byron Perez- Cam Jacob Lee Lumbala Lynch Maruyama McCrory Archambault Redl Ruby canada canada canada japan canada canada canada canada

#5 • WR #52 • LB #93 • DL #78 • OL #32 • FB #84 • WR #37 • DB #9 • LB Thomas Tyler Joel Matt James Adam Cameron Christian Ruiz Sawyer Seutter Sewell Sifakis Thibault Wade Walcott france canada canada canada canada canada canada canada Masato Itai, Offensive Salomon Solano, Defensive Line Coordinator Shinichi Takeda, Defensive Warren Craney,Defensive Backs Coordinator Niclas Carlson, Strength & s he Oliver Moret,Special Teams Conditioning

ac Greg Marshall,Offensive Line Rick Sowieta, Team Manager #49 • DL #54 • DL #81 • WR HEAD COACH Marco Iadeluca,Running Backs

Bjoern Jesse Jumpei Co JAN Werner Williams Yoshimoto JENMERT Peter Tos,Tight Ends germany australia japan sweden

9 Meet a USA Football staffer

Shedrick Taylor member services coordinator What are your responsibilities as a I enjoy hanging out with friends and Shedrick Taylor member services coordinator? spending time with my wife. I take care of our members through constant communication on the What is one thing that most people phone or over email along with many do not know about you? behind-the-scenes responsibilities. I I’ve lived in five states (Ga., Kan., compile reports and member feedback Minn., Texas, and Va.). I grew up in on our resources, coaching schools, Minnesota and traveled and lived back and other USA Football events. I also and forth to see my father and mother. field calls and emails from people who My mother was in Minnesota and my need help registering for an event or father was in Dallas and Austin. My who wish to upgrade from a Certified dad then got a job transfer to Atlanta Coaching Education Program (CCEP) and we all moved there. I graduated user to a full member. four sports where an individual cannot high school in Minnesota and went to typically single-handedly win or lose the college in Lawrence, Kan., at the Uni- What is your favorite part of the job? game. It’s about team: offense, defense, versity of Kansas. I now live in Virginia. I enjoy talking and working with our special teams, and coaching. Depending members from all over the country. on how each of these components func- What do you aim to accomplish in I get to learn how each part of the tion, it will determine the team’s success. 2010 for USA Football members? country handles different scenarios I look forward to continuing to help and concerns. What kinds of things do you do in upgrade our member resources, make your spare time? sure that our members get the high-quality What does football mean to you? I really enjoy working out and play- service they deserve, and find even more Football means teamwork and dedica- ing sports. I am also pretty active in ways that USA Football can be efficient

tion. It’s arguably the only sport of the top my church and its activities as well. and productive for the sport’s benefit. B r ia n F ee e o by t p ho

USA FOOTBALL COACHING SCHOOL SCHEDULE

DATE LOCATION DATE LOCATION April 10 northern Virginia (Washington Redskins) June 19 Atlanta, Ga. (Atlanta Falcons) April 17 Sacramento, Calif. (Granite Bay H.S.) June 26 Seattle, Wash. (Seattle Seahawks) April 17 Des Moines, Iowa July 10 Phoenix, Ariz. (Desert Vista H.S.) USA Football kicks off its ambitious (Valley Southwoods Freshman School) July 17 Kansas City, Mo. (Kansas City Chiefs) April 17 Indianapolis, Ind. () July 17 oakland, Calif. (Oakland Raiders) 2010 Coaching School schedule on April April 24 baltimore, Md. () July 24 Minneapolis, Minn. (Minnesota Vikings) 10. In addition to gaining a coaching edge, May TBD Charlotte, N.C. (Carolina Panthers) TBD Chicago, Ill. () attendees also receive lunch, a USA Foot- May TBD raleigh, N.C. TBD Cleveland, Ohio (Cleveland Browns) May 1 Foxborough, Mass. (New England Patriots) TBD Dallas, Texas (Dallas Cowboys) ball Coaching School Tee, and a gift bag. May 1 Green Bay, Wis. (Green Bay Packers) TBD Denver, Colo. (Denver Broncos) Every USA Football Coaching School May 1 Paisley, Fla. (All-Star Sports Complex) TBD houston, Texas () features a keynote speaker. Past speak- May 1 Santa Clara, Calif. (San Francisco 49ers) TBD Long Island, N.Y. May 8 Los Angeles, Calif. (Notre Dame H.S.) TBD new Orleans, La. (New Orleans Saints) ers have included New England Patriots May 8 omaha, Neb. TBD East Rutherford, N.J. (New York Giants) Head Coach Bill Belichick, Pro Football Hall (University of Nebraska-Omaha) TBD Florham Park, N.J. (New York Jets) of Famer Fred Biletnikoff, Atlanta Falcons May 22 Columbus, Ohio (Dublin Scioto High School) TBD Philadelphia, Pa. (Philadelphia Eagles) May 22 San Diego, Calif. (San Diego Chargers) TBD Pittsburgh, Pa. (Pittsburgh Steelers) Head Coach Mike Smith, and College Foot- May 29 St. Louis, Mo. (St. Louis Rams) TBD nashville, Tenn. (Tennessee Titans) ball Hall of Fame linebacker Chris Spielman. June TBD Tampa, Fla. (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) June 12 Ann Arbor, Mich. (Pioneer H.S.) *For the most up-to-date USA Football Coaching Seats are already moving fast, so June 17 San Diego, Calif. School schedule, click here. reserve yours today. (San Diego Hall of Champions) 10 USA Football Magazine Presented by: What Football Has Taught My Son By nicole lukosius

illy Hampton is a youth the life lessons football can give … to football veteran. be a part of something so profound B The 13-year-old has and great and to be supportive in eight seasons of America’s favorite what they are passionate about is sport under his belt, having played what it’s all about. two years of flag football and the What has football taught your past six seasons with the Football son? and Cheer Club of Johnson County Billy has developed from a (FCCJC) in strong little boy to a respectful Kansas. His young man all while making last- little brother, ing friendships and I’ve observed Tony, is my youngest become stronger making his and more confident. Seeing way through Billy grow through that time has the program taught him loyalty, perseverance, as well, and sportsmanship and to respect his their father is elders and his teammates. Billy’s the league’s also been a team captain for each secretary/ of the past eight years. This has treasurer. Angele and Billy Hampton taught him how to be a role model on Billy’s mother, and off the field. Angele, doesn’t miss a minute of the What does your son enjoy most How have other aspects of your action either, taking on the role of team about playing football and why has son’s life been positively affected by photographer for the FCCJC Falcons. he stuck with it? playing football? Angele says that youth football is Billy enjoys the personal and team Football has taught my son to be about lasting friendships, teamwork and challenges that come with football, and confident in the preparation he’s taken perseverance. USA Football Magazine he also enjoys doing what he is pas- and that preparation and hard work recently spoke with Angele to learn more sionate about – and that is football. I are not always the key to a successful about what football has taught her son. think he sees that if you’re passionate turnout – you lose some and you win When did your son start playing about something, you’ll be great at it no some. It’s what you learn along the way. football and how did he get started? matter what. You may not be the best It’s knowing even though he gave 110 Billy started playing football at age on the team, but if you’re passionate percent, it doesn’t mean a sure thing. 5 with flag football. He’s always been about what you’re doing, you’re going to Billy has applied this to every aspect athletic, active and busy playing outside shine like you’re the best player and be of his life. He has also learned about y with one ball or another. My husband (Bill successful at it. loyalty to someone or something other amil Hampton) and I believe that organized Why is it important to you as his than himself. on F sports help keep children out of trouble mother to be involved with his youth USA Football is the official youth foot- while teaching them valuable life lessons, football experience? ball development partner of the NFL, its 32 t h e Hampt therefore, we wanted that for our boys Being involved in the boys’ sports teams and the NFL Players Association. y o f (Billy 13, Tony 8). They enjoy sports so gives me the best seat in the world! To Learn more about football fundamentals much and have decided to keep up with it. watch them grow and mature through and values at usafootball.com. Co u r tes 11 officiating commissioner Health & fitness Coaching 12 quarterback. to the get drills to successfully and his proven offers and techniques scrimmage the line of off burst solid a of importance the echoes STORM, (Neb.) Omaha the of member board founding a and coach Koenig, Michael member is essential.” the ball rusher, off pass getting but great a be to fast very be to have don’t You off. take your with begins rushing pass good that realize really don’t people think I have. to needs rusher pass technique a good underrated your opportunity. to be is going you have down tolike play every that so to come, is going asack when know You“You have relentless. to be never Ogunleye. soul,” and said yourall heart out. week in and week coordinators stant headache for opposing offensive acon hasbeen and sacks career 65 Ogunleye hasaccumulated season, through the 2009 the quarterback. Midway on pressure putting at best the NFL’sOgunleye is among end and NFL all-star Adewale be. rather would they there place other is no quarterback, unsuspecting is an him asack and tween be thing standing the only E By AlexFink Keys toQBpressure from NFL,highschoolandyouth football minds of rushingArt the passer

USA Football coaching coaching Football USA is the most takeoff agood “Having play,“Each you have with go to just Chicago Bears defensive USA Football Magazine he beats his man and his and man he beats tell once will you that defensive end very - Adew Michael Koening - a le Ogunleye,Chicago BearsDE closer to a track runner’s start than than start torunner’s atrack closer something we teachresembles stance trigger. and get-off –stance great The to a elements aretwo Infante. “There to focusis ‘get-off’,” on coach said the distance/depth.” stand for dummies them to under and cones to walk through the use technique and there first. get can who to see have and the players compete position collisions)to head drop step afive at adummy (usetion to avoid head two posi also will “I rush,” Koenig explains. for the angles and depth ensure proper to cones align and atight end as “Children need visuals, so you need you need so visuals, “Children need dummy ablocking use often will “I tant component for a youth for ayouth component tant your stance quickly.your stance of out getting of importance Team, emphasizes the also National Junior Football USA the 2010 of coordinator defensive and School High (N.J.) Paramus Catholic at “I think the most impor think the“I most Infante, coach head Gabe - - - are dedicated to defensive play. line 100 computer-animated drills found here usafootball.com. Twelve of the more than quarterback to –go the Drills Library at your defensive linemen get to the you is paramount.” to block player the assigned offensive you and tect him. Closing the distance between to pro assigned by the person getting entails to the quarterback getting on Focus his strengths. and own opponent his of study careful on execute based he intends to move or plan should have a He is snapped. before the ball done be should ing or planning all. at thinking not is actually is snapped thekeep ball inonce mind thing adefensive should end portant keying man’s our movement.” USA Football Coach Members: help think “His im the most that out Infante points want to beat the offensive ball movement. trigger as I call it, is all about shoulder-width stance. atraditional with that to do is difficult it and possible, as quickly as upthe field get we to want is because That stance. football a traditional movement gives us the best believe keying the football for player out of his stance. we believe is better than stimulus is aneutral chance. It “The second component, or - Gabe Inf

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Adewale Ogunleye photo by Bill Smith, Gabe Infante courtesy of Gabe Infante quick-hitter grid With members in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, USA Football recently caught up with four Coach Members spanning the Heartland to the West Coast. Below are their straight-ahead thoughts covering coaching, music, movies, and other topics of interest. Note that their Super Bowl predictions were submitted during Week 8 of the NFL’s 2009 regular season.

Coach: Willie Reeves James McGoldrick Doug Whipple Jim Wormuth Experience: 39 years 6 years 5 years 11 years Team: Lexington Colts Santa Clarita Wildcats Greene County Rams Noblesville Elementary Location: Lexington, Miss. Los Angeles, Calif. Jefferson, Iowa Noblesville, Indiana

Gutsiest call you’ve Three years ago in the I’m saving it for Sitting a kid for getting Starting the game with an ever made: playoffs, we were tied 8-8 the playoffs detention. We set rules onside kick. We recovered with 2:00 left and faced a to help the kids under- it and went on to win the 4th and 11 near midfield. stand that football is a game. I called a halfback option privilege and not the pass and it went for a most important thing 40-yard TD to win the game.

Best Football Friday Night Lights Jim Thorpe: Remember The Longest Movie: All- the Titans Yard American

Favorite NFL player: Devin Hester Eli Manning Barry Sanders Walter Payton

Super Bowl Giants vs. Colts Steelers and Giants Vikings and the Minnesota vs. Denver prediction: Colts (Denver to win)

Favorite USA USA Football Magazine Practice Planner Drills Library Practice Planner Football coaching resource:

Favorite Coach Bobby Bowden Lou Holtz Kirk Ferentz Lou Holtz (College or Pro):

Best thing about Working with youth Teaching football, but Helping kids understand Teaching coaching: even more so, instilling the what it takes to be suc- the game of values of sportsmanship, cessful at something football character and family

Favorite musician The O’Jays The Clash Toby Keith Journey or group:

Skill or value most Confidence Patience and a quick Patience Leadership & Honesty needed to coach: mind.

One player (past or Dick Butkus Walter Payton Brett Favre Dan Marino present) you’d like to coach for a day:

USA Football offers resource-packed memberships to give coaches, game officials, youth league commissioners and players an edge. Learn more at www.usafootball.com/register.

13 officiating commissioner Health & fitness Coaching 14 (12-14 year-olds). his at back Looking Jr. the as Varsity coach head Tigers’ seven those three of seven years, commissioner.” league and acoach as me helped have certainly they and values same those shared Football Commissioner. felt USA “I League Association Sports D and Tigers the Tokay of President Jr. Brawith, the field,”on said and in the classroom learner alifetime to be to strive the level highest and at cally athleti to compete athletes teaching young student- our things right. doing of byproduct anatural ning hasbecome Win in place. set he had term goals the short- for both long- and equipped was readily organization to makewanted sure his in 2007,tion Brawith championship. division the four their reached three of and .500 above the season finished hisof Jr. program Tigers four divisions All house. power aperennial into organization football youth from agrassroots Jr. Calif., Lodi, of Tigers I By AlexFink USA Football CoachMember develops andexcels Grant B S

has taken hishas taken Tokay Brawith Grant years, three short n just Brawith has been coaching for coaching hasbeen Brawith to committed was to be goal “Our incep its Before USA Football Magazine eason in R elta Youthelta - - - Gr Gr ant Br rawith ant Br - a with a with season with a 5-3 record and con and record a5-3 with season the his regularand finished team Brawith Coach games. five first their in victories four with strong season schools.” coaching Football which arefrom of the USA – some over gathered the years drills I’ve and reach and how to coach-up ing of philosophy. and skills coaching wayhe’s in terms along of come admits Brawith years, coaching early The Varsity Jr. Tigers started the the started Tigers Jr. Varsity The understand have“I amuch better ewind: implemented techniques implemented nize my practices and also also and nize my practices to orga thiswebsite season from the planner practice cisco). Football’s USA used “I Fran San of east miles Calif. (85 in Lodi, resides who Brawith, said started,” Ifirst when than the kids - - - -

membership Coach Member renew or your current seasons.” improve in the on upcoming Ican what to see film game of alot studying be I’ll seminars, other and schools coaching (see 10). page the attending of top “On said released,” toBrawith be schedule School Coaching Football new USA come. for to years successes the same to enjoy ensure his league and team his well hard work the into offseason is.”school coaching Football USA thewhen next and return they if can areasking all They season. for next anxious already were happy.coaches are coaches The happy, were happy, the parents the Join Coach BrawithJoin aUSA as Football to the forward looking really “I’m to continue he plans for Brawith, As

her Brawith was very very was Brawith game, championship league’s the in short upjust came team his Although playoffs. the into well showing theirtinued strong said. “The players were “The said. the Brawith season,” the wayof we finished proud I’m and success achieved great a whole season. the throughout made hishe and had team progress the of proud e . “Our organization as as organization “Our What If? USA Football Coaching Members share thoughts about selecting assistant coaches By alex fink

Timothy Bunting Glen Kelley Jamie Hess

City, State: Columbus, Ga. City, State: Eden Prairie, Minn. City, State: Endwell, N.Y. Youth League: League: Eden League: Maine Columbus Youth Prairie Football Endwell Youth Indoor Football Association Football League Team: 5th grade Team: Blue Upper Team: Steelers Yellow (10-11 (11-12 year olds) (11-12 year olds) year olds) Coaching Coaching Coaching Experience: 6 years Experience: 3 years Experience: 5 years

Coaching turnover in youth football is a when they coached or led other youth coach. They should believe in what you common occurrence. Volunteer coaches’ activities? Second, respect for the game: do and teach and be sure to not just take work schedules may change year-to-year, players, parents, fellow coaches and refs. a dad because he is your friend or that a family may move – numerous scenarios This can sometimes be hard to determine his son is a beast on the field. may alter a team’s coaching staff. Three right away but “hot heads” need not apply. Kelley: Balance, Balance, Balance – if USA Football coach members, all of whom Third, they need to have passion for the you’re an offensive guy, get a defensive are youth head coaches, recently shared activity. As we often tell our coaches, guy (and vice versa). If you had play- their thoughts about how they would fill “Football is a great game, don’t screw ing experience at a skill position, look positions on their staffs. it up.” The passion indeed sometimes for someone that spent their time as a means taking extra steps for the weak- lineman. Most importantly, look for an What if you are seeking a new as- est player on the team. It can also mean assistant that will be complimentary to sistant coach? What are some things waiting for the 20-minute-late parent your communication and coaching style. you take into consideration during the picking up their child from practice. Not all kids are motivated the same way. selection process? Hess: I think the most important thing Hess: I have coached now for six years Bunting: I believe that looking for an to me in picking an assistant coach is and have had 10-0 teams two of those assistant coach should start with his coaching philosophies. Ninety-five per- years. The first year I coached, it was a 6-8 or her character. If you don’t believe in a cent of the people I have coached with year old team and we won our first five coach as a person, you shouldn’t believe fully understand the game and know how games and our coaching staff thought we in his or her philosophy or abilities as a to teach X’s & O’s, but only 50 percent of would have an undefeated season. We lost coach. A coach should have morals and them have what I consider to be a good our sixth game and my whole coaching truly believe that the kids come first. coaching philosophy. The most important staff and parents were heartbroken. My I believe that all coaches should have thing at this level is teaching them how 6-year-old son came up to me after the no less than the USA Football Coaches to love football while you teach them game and said, “Dad did we win?” When Certification (online CCEP course how to play football. I told him, “No,” he said, “Bummer, can we completion), although some of the other What if you were giving advice to stay a while so I can play with my friends?” certifications are fine. I truly believe in new coaches seeking assistants? His team went to the playground and what USA Football is teaching. What would you tell them? had a great time playing. That was a life Kelley: First, can they relate to the Bunting: A coach should trust his lesson for me on wins and losses, we as kids? Have the coaches and kids had fun instincts when looking for an assistant parents get hung up on it. 15 officiating commissioner Health & fitness Coaching 16 By MichaelKuebler Executive Director ScottHallenbeckrepresents youth football community U.S. House Judiciary Committee USA Football shares testimony with school programs, based on merit and need. and merit on based programs, school high and to youth 2006 since equipment football of worth by awardingthan$2million safer more makes football also program grant equipment injury. of chance Football’s USA the lessen which can fundamentals, tackling and blocking how to teach know coaches youth volunteer dedicated emphasis in 2010.”greater even with so we do will and football youth throughout information awareness to years share concussion two awareness. concussion on the CDC with work including weour provide, information safety and is the health leadership that of part critical community,” infootball his testimony. Hallenbeck said “A officials. game and commissioners, players, coaches, its and states, events in 27 85 its in 2010 through usafootball.com, management and awareness concussion emphasizewill CDC-approved Football USA initiatives. safety and health providing and Prevention(CDC) and Control for Disease in developing the Centers with work its and community football youth industries. science and medical, from the sports, professionals hearings. Committee Judiciary House this in U.S. topic on community football the youth to represent called been Medicine. of School University the Wayne at State Mich., in theDetroit, hearing conducted which the Committee, before to testify invited individuals 21 of Director Executive Football USA 4. Jan. on Injuries Head to Football Relating T

By April of this of year, 11-chapter April Football’s online By USA curriculum helps education coaching Football’s USA than for more the CDC hasworked with Football “USA the youth serve and development the sport’s lead “We to the responsibility Football’s USA stated Hallenbeck Those invited to give testimony on Jan. 4 included prominent has who person is the only Hallenbeck Football’s USA USA Football Magazine hearing on Legal Issues Issues Legal on hearing second heldits Committee Judiciary House he U.S. Scott Hallenbeck Scott was one was one membership offerings serving serving offerings commitment to our young toathletes.” our commitment make usand asimilar to join governing bodies national sports’ other encourage “We said. parents,”Hallenbeck and athletes, officials, game administrators, league coaches, our among education for further the need and concussions “All youth sports need to recognize the seriousness of of tothe recognize seriousness need “All sports youth scott ha llenbeck symptoms and shares what to do if a if to do shareswhat and symptoms signs and concussion recognize polic awareness CDC-approved Football’s USA fitting. equipment and hydration, athlete awareness, concussion on new chapters with expanded be will course coaching concussion is even suspected. is even suspected. concussion concussion concussion y helps coaches coaches helps USA Football continues concussion awareness education

wenty-six youth sports b. “When in doubt, sit them out” – organizations, including USA UP athletes with signs or symptoms of HEADSIN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Football, have worked with CONCUSSION FOOTBALL CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION concussion must not return to play T SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS ACTION PLAN the Centers for Disease Control Athletes who experience any of the signs and symptoms listed below If you suspect that an athlete has a concussion, you should take the after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body may have a concussion. following four steps: 1. Remove athlete from play. Signs Observed by Symptoms Reported and Prevention (CDC) for more than Coaching Staff by Athlete 2. Ensure that the athlete is evaluated by an appropriate health 2. ensure that the athlete care professional. Do not try to judge the seriousness of the Appears dazed Headache or injury yourself. or stunned “pressure” in head two years to educate the youth 3. Inform the athlete’s parents or guardians about the possible is evaluated immediately by Is confused about Nausea or vomiting concussion and give them the fact sheet on concussion. assignment or position 4. Keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury and until an sports community on concussion Forgets an instruction Balance problems appropriate health care professional says they are symptom-free an appropriate health care or dizziness and it’s OK to return to play. Is unsure of game, awareness. score, or opponent Double or blurry vision IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS professional Moves clumsily Sensitivity to light Emergency Medical Services Answers questions slowly Name: Sensitivity to noise Phone: Continuing this practice for the Loses consciousness a. Do not try to judge the severity (even briefly) Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, Health Care Professional Name: Shows mood, behavior, or groggy sport’s betterment, USA Football or personality changes Phone: of the injury yourself Concentration or Can’t recall events memory problems School Staff Available During Practice prior to hit or fall Name: is emphasizing this topic in 2010. Confusion Phone: b. Coaches recording the following Can’t recall events after hit or fall Does not “feel right” or is School Staff Available During Games USA Football’s CDC-approved “feeling down” Name: can help a health care professional Phone: 2 0 1 For more information and safety resources, visit a r y u www.cdc.gov/Concussion or www.usafootball.com. concussion awareness policy a n WHEN IN DOUBT, SIT THEM OUT in assessing the athlete: J was created for youth leagues to i. Cause of the injury and the force adopt. USA Football recommends Every coach who attends one of USA Football’s 37 of the hit or blow to the head full-day coaching schools in 2010 will receive this that every youth football league ii. Any loss of consciousness and if clipboard sticker, created by USA Football and the CDC. – and every youth sports league so, for how long This same information, screened onto clipboards and – employ such a policy. This refrigerator magnets, will be distributed to league iii. Any memory loss or seizures information is shared through USA commissioners at USA Football’s 38 State Leadership immediately following the injury Football’s curriculum, events, and Forums, spanning 27 states. iv. Number of previous concussions resources. (if any) 3. teach athletes and parents that it is Prevention and Preparation not safe to play with a concussion 3. Inform the athlete’s parents/ for Coaches a. Explain that it is not “courageous” guardians of the possible (Primary Source: CDC) nor does it show strength to play concussion & and give them the with a concussion concussion fact sheet for parents 1. educate athletes and parents about found on usafootball.com concussion 4. Prevent long-term problems a. Ensure that parents know a. Talk with athletes and parents a. “When in doubt, sit them out.” Keep the athlete must be seen by about preventative measures, athletes with known or suspected an appropriate healthcare symptoms, and proper action to concussion off the field until an professional take relative to concussions. appropriate health care professional b. Provide formal documentation of b. Emphasize the dangers of playing clears them to return. Returning to the injury and notify the league through a concussion. play must be a medical decision. commissioner

2. Insist that safety comes first What a Coach Should Do When 4. Allow the athlete to return to play a. Teach athletes safe playing a Concussion is Suspected only after an appropriate healthcare techniques and good (Primary Source: CDC) professional clears his or her return sportsmanship a. A repeat concussion that occurs b. Review the “Concussion Fact 1. Remove the athlete from play before the brain recovers from the Sheet for Players” found at a. Look for signs and symptoms of first can slow recovery or increase usafootball.com with players and concussion if an athlete experienced the likelihood of having long-term their parents a bump or blow to the head problems 17 officiating commissioner Health & fitness Coaching 18 By AlexFink Leagues planahead,employ new techniquestoreach players &families youth leagues Registration for today’s local elementary and middle schools schools middle and elementary local us.” with in contact stay them to to entice website our on offer we can means for anysearch we consistently familiesour and with contact have constant to the ability have “We teams. 366 of consists league whose ference (Okla.) Tom Commissioner Lott, Con Football Nations Indian explains their familiesand through the internet,” reachplayers now –we can home it make –whichmay not may or a school per, to out handed yard flyers signs or to the newspa limited was strictly tion this resource. harness ways leagues popular more the of aresome websites and surveys blasts, Email the internet. employing by even productive more made been country. the across strategies tive through innova registration for league prepare monly com now Commissioners commissioners. league football for youth itself T

Commissioners also partner with with partner also Commissioners communica when “Unlike the past have efforts registration League USA Football Magazine as the actual season season theas actual important as just be can he off-season Tom Lo - tt - year for the last five years.” registration by 10-20 percent a the technology to increase our – Erick Heckman, Rockville (Md.) Football League President League (Md.) Football Rockville – Erick Heckman, “ We have successfully used - - - able via email and phone to answer phone and email via able avail we make that ourselves portant im very it’s so enforced, be must that rules recruiting and boundaries of lot have “We a Erick Heckman. President (Md.) League Football Rockville said book,” much like Dummies’ the ‘For is written that website our on primer information. more for online to go aredirected parents in playing, interested players become Once players. to reachprospective lists theirdistribution use email and confusion and arms the players, par the players, arms and confusion eliminates ahead Planning possible. as early as day registration and out hand for equipment alocation secure to imperative It’s ahead. ing to plan is remember theduring offseason mind in keep should commissioners years.”five by 10-20 ayear for the percent last registration our to increase technology the team. right weight and groups and age to the correct are registered make and sure players questions “We have a very good registration registration good have“We avery Perhaps the most important thing important the most Perhaps the used have“We successfully - - - - - “Commissioner usafootball.com andclickthegreen operate your youth league,go to the into season.” sition tran makes for asmooth also It arise. which otherwise would complaints of early, amount amajor eliminates it locations. combine and field practice assigning as well as coaches and camps preseason our ings. meet preseason through their first gone have coaches our and date; to up is website our online; and open are registrations our shelves; the to returned and organized conditioned, re purchased, hasbeen equipment our us, For April. by typically – early place in set is everything sure make to needs season upcoming the for is preparing who commissioner feel anew “I years. 23 than more for Conference Football Nations Indian of commissioner been has who Lott, said Performance),” Poor Prevents Planning (Prior the 5‘P’s of rule the follow always and business For more insighton how to best by that preparing have“We learned

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- - - USA Football Regional Managers merica’s favorite sport is powered by you – dedicated youth league commissioners, coaches, game Aofficials and volunteers. For each of you, there is a face and name to place in your football Rolodex: your USA Football Regional Manager. USA Football Regional Managers are current and former coaches, players and administrators working for you. Each has the experience needed to help you make your league or team even stronger with USA Football’s resources. Contact your USA Football Regional Manager to learn how you can kick off your free commissioner membership or to ask about coaching certification, the nearest USA Football Coaching School, Player Academy or Officiating School. Stay in touch with your regional manager, whether it’s to share news about your league or team or to ask about member resources. In addition, you may always contact our office, based outside of Washington, D.C., through usafootball.com or by phone at 1-877-5-FOOTBALL. Let us know how we can serve you better. Together we’ll ensure that teamwork and leadership continue to serve as the laces binding our favorite game.

Northeast Region Ed Passino Northwest Region Great Lakes Region (703) 992-8246 Central Region Bassel Faltas Scott LeVeque [email protected] (571) 730-4816 Joe Owens (571) 730-4815 (571) 730-4822 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

West Region Southeast Region Bucky Brooks Rick Peacock (818) 921-7616 (703) 992-8107 South & Mid-Atlantic [email protected] [email protected] Deno Campbell (703) 992-8653 [email protected]

19 officiating commissioner Health & fitness Coaching 20 Why arewe goals. ing those for, publish and goals setting you’re raising money ing what players. and ents par coaches, including youth key players motivating of capable communicator good leader, aggressive an is a who be for yourshould fundraiser year.”long a have to going you’re men, line have good only two and defense a5-3 to run you try “If said. Reader people,” or ers their of play fail by the merits your fundraiser.to manage S tip: important most raiser,” and His first, said. Reader for your fund plan agame you need game, your playsyear for or your next it. to run people right the finding and plan fundraising game a is creating suggests things Reader B Western foras Fundraising Director fundraising in of his role the bad and the good seen hasalso association, football youth challenged a financially the goal-line. of short out stalling before clock of alot upeating wind that drives are putting together long, dedicated Too many associations and leagues plan. game hasagood organization E By TimPolzer From Your Fundraiser H RAX S RAX The next step is determin step next The quarterback perfect The or succeed teams know, you “As “ J

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Use Motivational Items To Promote Monitor Progress Toward Goals Program Include Incentives in Promotion Progress Goals vs. Reaching Goals Document &Communicate Methods for Set &Publish Fundraising Goals Fundraiser Select Right Person to Manage raiser and what it was,” said. it Reader what and raiser afund Iwas doing said that e-mail an out Isent if was okay it if my boss even out-of-town relatives. and co-workers teachers, families, suchfriends, as opportunities and said. Reader the all the way line,” down municated how much? And raising money? et T “When I took mine to work, Iasked mineto work, Itook “When targets You sales outline also must is com sure“Make this information pirit C ups Western Fundraising he Most -

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- Background checks give peace of mind League commissioners protect players with help from USA Football & NCSI By Alex Fink

nsuring a positive foot- “Red Lights” by Category of his league. He learned ball experience for our (662 red lights in 2009) about USA Football’s subsidy Eyoungsters begins with program in a coaches meet- a coach-player relationship 47% any felony ing with USA Football Central built on trust. Recognizing any lesser crime involving force or threat of Regional Manager Joe Owens. this, USA Football continues 27% force against a person “When we started our to be America’s only youth organization, we were any lesser crime involving controlled sub- sports organization that dedi- adamant about doing back- 19% stances, not paraphernalia or alcohol cates as much as $500,000 ground checks on everyone to help pay for gold-standard 4% any lesser crime in which sexual relations is having contact with the background checks on youth an element, including “victimless” crimes of a players,” he said. “I sat down football volunteers. sexual nature and pornography with Joe and he detailed the Established in 2007, USA program and the ease of use Football continues to offer a $15 two- coach or volunteer is deemed suitable by the user and the league. It’s a small season gold-standard background check to interact with children. NCSI performs cost incurred by the organization that through special pricing from the National searches in two national criminal databas- gives volumes of peace of mind to both Center for Safety Initiatives (NCSI) – the es as well as all state sex offender reg- the parents and players. official background screening company istries. The search also includes county “We actually had a uniform supplier of the U.S. Olympic Committee. The records. Depending on the individual that was on the watchdog list. Upon normal price for this premium service is league’s preferences, NCSI can search finding out and verifying that he was a $25. USA Football’s background check lifetime records or just a time frame for registered sex offender, we severed all subsidy is open to every youth football when certain crimes have taken place. ties with him and the company and any league in the United States. After the applicant’s report is com- future companies he works for.” “Our league has definitely seen the plete, the individual is flagged with a Youth football background checks positive outcomes from USA Football’s “green light” or a “red light.” If an indi- conducted with USA Football’s financial program with NCSI,” said Robert Mead- vidual receives a “red light,” NCSI notifies help have resulted in more than 1,300 “red ows, commissioner of the Annandale them and allows the individual to explain lights” during the past two youth football (Va.) Boys & Girls Club. The ABGC oper- or dispute the record. Following that con- seasons. The program’s success is due ates within the Fairfax (Va.) County versation, NCSI sends in large part to the simplicity of the NCSI Youth Football League which encom- screening findings to application process. They manage the passes more than 7,200 youngsters. the league, but no con- data entry with a quick online survey and “The background checks allow you to fidential information is leagues are able to check the status of see what kind of individuals are volun- exchanged. the application online. teering and working with our kids. We The criteria for “red “One of my favorite features is the red have been using the background checks lights” are separated mark boles light/green light,” Boles said. “Remember, for about three years now and we’ve into specific categories in the graph above. no go until you get the green light!” gotten nothing but positive feedback.” President and Co-Founder of South Visit usafootball.com to employ USA The purpose of the background checks County (Mo.) Athletic Club Mark Boles Football’s subsidized background check are to help youth leagues determine if a made sure background checks were part program today. 21 officiating commissioner Health & fitness Coaching 22 more. and raising guidance, U to access rulebook, football-specific ayouth structure, organizational tion, to grow participa aleague marketing safety, and player health education, officiating and from coaching range Discussions size of location. or less regard to leagues pertinent topics of forums cover array an state Football’s administrator; U player football or coach, former acurrent as or enced is experi whom of each managers, problems that can arise in the future.” certain with how to deal and my league how to on improve understanding better problems I was having, I now have a commissioners discuss these same member.missioner to other “Listening B Le dent,” said presi myleague during as time arose through the different problems that thought that I was the only one working U from sprout can benefits what hand first- hasseen nine years, for the past (La.) 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- - 23 - officiating league Health & fitness Coaching 24 Football’s USA oversees LeMonnier three ago.” years game ma State-Oklaho the Boise of part being of the Ihad honor and Bowl, Fiesta was my fourth “This eight years. past Test the Officiating of for each ball Foot the NCAA hasco-authored who in 1997,” back ment LeMonnier, said assign bowl mywas thefirst of site –it to me special was extremely Bowl crown. Bowl Fiesta year’s (12-1), 17-10, for this Ariz., in Glendale, Youth Book. Rule Football Football’s USA of editor is the rules and consultant officiating primary Football’s is USA 1995, LeMonnier others. among Holiday,two aCotton, and Orange, two Bowls, Fiesta fourresume includes now 15 His postseason seasons. in the past assignment bowl 12th college LeMonnier’s FOX-TV. on nationally televised 4, Jan. on TCU and State Boise between Tostitos Bowl Fiesta to referee the 39th selected thisment he year when was assign Championship Series Bowl another nier earned U By AlexFink referees Fiesta Bowl USA Football’s LeMonnier A Big TenA Big referee 1995, since the toFiesta work selected “Being (14-0) State Boise TCU defeated TenA Big referee since 2010The is Bowl Fiesta

USA Football Magazine Consultant Bill LeMon Bill Consultant Officiating and Editor Rules Football SA - - Bill LeMonnier - - - resident also contributes to usafoot contributes also resident Chicago-area The usafootball.com. through members officiating Football Progra tion innovative Certified Officiating Educa Officiating Certified m (COEP), to USA accessible - - (see 6-9). pages 30 Jan. on in Ft. Lauderdale Riddell, by presented game, World” The vs. USA “Team Football’s USA for referee favorite sport.” to America’s contribute succeed and provide an exciting way to help you can Football USA at others and consider becoming game officials. Bill to people We football-savvy encourage with guidance from the best in the field. officiating members hone their craft Football USA that underscores integrity officiating accomplishments and Scott Hallenbeck. “Bill’s long list of LeMonnier also will serve as the as serve will also LeMonnier Football Executive Director Football Ruleboo Football of editor is the rules and consultant officiating primary Football’s topics. of array an on members Football from USA feature, answering questions “ ball.com’s ing assignment,” said USA referee Bowl BCS another congratulates Bill on yet tosports.” play for kids place exciting most and safest the football youth making to forward we look and with to work apleasure been have members committee rules “The said. LeMonnier Youth Rulebook, Football Football for the USA editor the as rules year working LeMonnier is also USA USA is also LeMonnier “The USA Football Family exciting an be will “This USA Football’s Youth Football’s USA Ask the Exper Ask k . - t ”

Meet a USA Football Member

Donnie Stitt By alex fink he USA Football Family unites all those who con- My favorite officiating memory, believe it or not, is the tribute to America’s favorite sport. USA Football first set of games I did as an official. I blew a backwards TOfficiating Member Donnie Stitt has called youth pass call by calling the play dead. The defense picked it football games in Fairfax County up and ran it in for a TD and that (Va.) for more than 17 years and team lost by six points. I went up also has experience officiating to the head coach and apologized flag football, basketball and soft- for my mistake after the game and ball. Stitt, a member of USA Foot- admitted that I had blown it. He ball’s Rules Committee, recently respected me for my honesty and spoke with USA Football Magazine we became football friends for to discuss his officiating passion years to come. and the value of being a USA Football member. How did you learn about USA Football? What interested you in becom- I learned about USA Football ing a youth football official? after they requested that several of I became a youth official out our crews attend their youth tour- of necessity. I was a coach in our nament in Minnesota several years youth league when the commis- ago (2006 USA Football Classic). sioner approached me and I attended this event for two wanted to know if I would like years and had a great officiating to be an official. This was due Name: Donnie Stitt and learning experience. to the fact that the number of Resides: Vienna, Va. teams had increased and we USA Football Membership: Official How have you benefited from had to cover additional fields. Position: Referee & Commissioner, Fairfax USA Football’s officiating We ended up with 12 new of- County Football Officials Association membership? ficials and the Fairfax County Game Official Since: 1992 I have benefited from the Football Officials Association USA Football Member Since: 2006 officiating section on their web- was started in the early ’90s. site. I love the information and I’ve been officiating ever since. articles and I now require all of my officials to pass their certification tests (Certified Offici- What do you value most about being an official? ating Education Program) before they can become officials Trying to do my best to allow all participants of a youth in our association. I believe this reinforces our veteran of- football game to have a fair and enjoyable experience ficials and gives our first-year officials a great introduction during their time on the field. to becoming a good referee.

What is the toughest call to make as an official? What would you say to someone considering becoming The toughest call for me to make is offensive holding. an official? It is very important to have fun out there while work- What is your favorite football memory? ing games. If you’re too nervous or tense it can become My favorite football memory is John Riggins pulling stressful. away on 4th and short against Miami for a TD and a Visit usafootball.com/register to learn more about Redskins Super Bowl victory (Super Bowl XVII, Jan. 1983). USA Football’s officiating membership.

26 USA Football Magazine 27 What Football Taught Me Bill Hemmer, FOX News Channel Co-Anchor, “America’s Newsroom”

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Whether his position is news co-anchor, running back, or strong safety, and was a teammate of Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Doug Flutie. Bill Hemmer excels in the spotlight and values gained through football con- A former youth and high school football player, Hemmer is a life-long tribute to his success. Cincinnati Bengals fan. He still owns an oversized Bengals “foam finger” The co-anchor of “America’s Newsroom” on the FOX News Channel (Mon.- from 1981 when the team earned its first Super Bowl berth. Fri., 9-11 a.m. ET) grew up on Cincinnati’s west side. One of five children, his “America’s Newsroom” is the country’s ninth-most watched cable news parents celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in later this year. program as of Oct. 2009. Hemmer’s work contributes to the fact that the FOX His father, William Hemmer, Sr., played and later worked News Channel is the most watched cable news channel and is on track to full-time to support his family, but still managed to help coach his sons’ youth have its best year ever in the network’s history. football teams. Hemmer’s brother, Andy, played linebacker at Boston College Hemmer recently spoke with USA Football to share what football taught him.

was raised in a family where football was around us since as good as those who are willing to sacrifice for it. far back as I can remember. I still have pictures of me hold- One year in high school, I quit football for a day or two … my I ing a ball in my third-grade team photo at Our Lady of Victory dad often allowed us to step in our own pile. “Are you sure that grade school on Cincinnati’s west side. you want to do that – are you sure that you I figure I was a pretty typical kid. At Our want to quit?” he asked. That was the nudge Lady of Victory, I was given a jersey number that I was looking for and my boycott lasted and emulated NFL players who I shared it with. about 36 hours. I’m grateful that he encour- I distinctly remember wearing No. 44 one aged me to change my mind. season, so I became a fan of Browns running I could’ve played Division III college back Leroy Kelly. My brother was given No. 72, football, but it would’ve been tough for me so he pretended to be Howard Fest, a Bengals financially (Editor’s Note: athletic scholar- offensive guard. ships are not granted in Division III athletics. Football taught me dedication, discipline, Hemmer went on to earn a journalism degree teamwork, training in the off-season so that from Miami University of Ohio). On Sunday you’re prepared – you experience all of that when afternoons, I’ll still find myself watching foot- you play on a team. And because this game has Bill Hemmer ball. And I’ll always be a Bengals fan. physical demands, it’s a greater test. You have to When the Bengals went to their second love the game if you’re going to play it well. It demands more of you. Super Bowl (Jan. 1989), I was a young sports producer at Cincin- Football teaches you how to be a team player. We’ve got a nati’s WLWT-TV (NBC). We had six people in our department and team in “America’s Newsroom” of 12 people. We are nothing five got to work on-site in Miami. I was the one assigned to stay without each other. We need to work in symphony to pull back, but it actually turned out to be a good break. Being the only off the broadcast and I liken this to football. We all have our sports staffer in the building, I was needed to do live work on responsibility. And when you uphold that responsibility, you do camera. Well, that led to a full-time job on-air, so I have football well – it’s amazing what you can accomplish. and the Bengals to thank for that opportunity. Also, when I’ve been overseas covering our troops in Iraq Yes, I’m a Bengals fan, but I’m a football fan to the core. My or Afghanistan – I can’t say this for all of the men and women high school airs all of its football games on the internet and I – but there’s usually an allegiance to their football team. The log on to watch whenever I can. Earlier this year (Sept. 6), we – I sport can bring people together whether you cheer for the still say “we” when talking about Elder – were on ESPN. I was same team or not. It’s what you have in common. at a wedding in Hamburg, Germany, when the game was on I played practically every position in youth football, except the air. The next day I rented a bicycle, riding to about 10 of quarterback. In high school, I played strong safety. the best hotels in the city hoping to catch some of the game, I attended (Cincinnati) Elder High School, which is but I was 0-for-10. But I was there in spirit. (Editor’s Note: Elder steeped in tradition. When I reflect on my football experi- defeated Colerain High School on ESPN, 20-7). ence there, I remember the spirit of competition and how the Some people talk about music, movies, or other pastimes sport united generations of Elder families. I think the school, being “soundtracks” of their youth. Football fits that role for our like the sport, reflects a certain community, which is only as family … it’s always been there. 28 USA Football Magazine