Football Program Table of Contents
Rule 1 – Clock Management ...... 1 Tackle Football Rule 2 – Scoring & Winning ...... 7
Rules Rule 3 – Offense & Defense ...... 11
Not being familiar with the contents of this rulebook will Rule 4 – Special Teams ...... 17 provide no excuse or defense for violations. TYFA expects its participants to comply with the letter, spirit and intent of Rule 5 – Contact ...... 21 each of its policies, procedures and rules regardless of technicalities, loopholes and ambiguous language. TYFA’s interpretation of any policy, procedure or rule is the official Rule 6 – Conduct ...... 29 and final interpretation.
Rule 7 – Football Player Equipment & Accessories .... 35
Index ...... 39
TFR-2017-M Tackle Football Rules Football Program
List of Abbreviations & Terms
All Abbreviations and Terms used throughout the policies, procedures and rules in this binder are listed here. Within the body of the text on the documents in the binder, the terms listed below will be tagged with a # letting you know the term in listed here. E.g. #RCC
Abbreviations
RCC Regulatory & Compliance Committee whose job it is to review and rule on waivers, requests and disciplinary action.
Terms
Black Shirt TYFA League Staff who run the league and enforce the policies, rules, and who typically wear black shirts.
ON FIELD Minimum of Eligible Players This is the minimum number of players that must be on the field to avoid a forfeit. 9 Players for Tykes (7U), Rookie (9U) and Junior (11U) and 11 for Seniors (13U).
References
In the body of the text when a reference is made to another area the reference will be formatted as such:
Within the same rule: (See: Section [section].Article [article] / [article description])
Within another rule: (See: Rule [rule].Section [section].Article [article] / [article description])
EXAMPLE
(See: Section 1.Article 4 / Homecoming Delays)
(See: Rule 1.Section 1.Article 4 / Homecoming Delays)
Member Organization Operations Football Program Tackle Football Rules Rule 1 – Clock Management 1
Table of Contents
Section 1 – Periods & Intermissions ...... 2 Article 1. Periods (Quarters) ...... 2 Article 2. Intermission ...... 2 Article 3. Period Extensions ...... 2 Article 4. Homecoming Delays ...... 2
Section 2 – Clock Mechanics ...... 2 Article 1. The Play Clock ...... 2 Article 2. Timing Adjustments ...... 3 Article 3. Two-Minute Warning ...... 3 Article 4. Game Clock Stops/Starts on Referee’s Signal ...... 3 Article 5. Game Clock Stops/Starts on Snap of the Ball ...... 3 Article 6. Game Clock Starts/Stops on Kickoffs ...... 3 Article 7. Game Clock Does Not Run ...... 3 Article 8. Game Clock Stops/Starts During Mercy Rule ...... 3 Article 9. Ten-Second Runoff ...... 4
Section 3 – Timeout Mechanics ...... 4 Article 1. Standard Timeouts ...... 4 Article 2. Injury Timeouts ...... 4 Article 3. Equipment/Uniform Timeouts ...... 5 Article 4. Mercy Rule Timeouts ...... 5 Article 5. Inadvertent Whistle ...... 5
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 2 Rule 1 – Clock Management
Section 1 Periods & Intermissions ) Article 1. Periods (Quarters) Article 2. Intermissions
Periods in a game 4 Between Halves 10 Minutes Period Tyke (7U)/Rookie (9U) 10 Minutes Between Periods (Quarters) 1 Minute Length Junior (11U)/Senior (13U) 12 Minutes After Safety, XP or FG 1 Minute A head referee or #Black Shirt has the authority to reduce halftime or the time between games to a minimum of 2-minutes in order to try to avoid cancelling or postponing a game due to oncoming darkness or bad weather.
Article 3. Period Extension If during a play where time expires ending a half the defense accepts Situation & Result a Live-Ball foul to avoid an offensive score, there were offsetting The offense scores a touchdown to take a 12-7 lead. Live-Ball fouls or a referee sounds his whistle inadvertently or During the play the offense commits a live-ball foul otherwise incorrectly signals the ball dead, an untimed down will be and time expires ending the half. The defense played until a down is free of any of the circumstances listed. The accepts the penalty to avoid the touchdown. Result: period is not extended though if the statement of the penalty The penalty is marched off and the offense will be includes loss of down. given an un-timed down.
Article 4. Homecoming Delays Homecoming events cannot delay the scheduled start of a game or half by more than 10 minutes (twenty minutes maximum [10-minute intermission + 10-minute extension]).
If an organization needs more than a 10 minute extension, the start of the game or half may be extended to a maximum of 30 minutes (10 minute intermission and 20 minutes of extension), but they will be required to pay EACH referee an additional $10 per game.
The head referee will attempt to start the game at the 20-minute mark (or 30 if paid) and if either team refuses to take the field, they will declare a forfeit. The #RCC will determine if a Class “A” (game not yet started) or Class “B” if it had.
If a game cannot be finished due to light issues or bad weather because of homecoming events, the responsible organization will be charged with a Level II violation.
Section 2 Clock Mechanics . Each game has a GAME CLOCK (keeps the time of the game) and a PLAY CLOCK (the amount of time the offense has to run a play after the ball has been set). Tip The referees will always keep the official game clock on the field unless there is a If a referee is not controlling the referee controlling the scoreboard. scoreboard, it should not even be running to help avoid confusion. Article 1. The Play Clock When a referee places the ball and signals “ready for play” the play clock will begin.
35 Seconds Tykes (7U) Play Clock 25 Seconds Rookies (9U), Juniors (11U), Seniors (13U)
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Article 2. Timing Adjustments The White Hat has the authority to correct obvious errors in timing if discovered prior to the official end of a period. Timing errors cannot be corrected in a different period from when they happened.
Article 3. Two-Minute Warning The 2-minute warning is given when 2 minutes of game time remain on the game clock in each half. If the football is in play when the clock reaches 2:00, the 2-minute warning is called immediately after the play concludes, when the ball is declared dead. The 2-minute warning stops the game clock until the snap of the ball, but is NOT a timeout.
Article 4. Game Clock Stops/Starts on Referee’s Signal . When a team is awarded a first down . For a measurement . For a referee’s timeout or an injury timeout . To complete a penalty . For an inadvertent whistle . For a head coaches conference or challenge
Article 5. Game Clock Stops/Starts on Snap of the Ball . Timeout called by either team . Change of possession . Ball goes out of bounds or pass is incomplete within the last two minutes of each half . Offense commits a delay-of-game foul while in a scrimmage-kick formation . At the end of each period . Two-minute warning
Article 6. Game Clock Starts/Stops on Kickoffs The game clock shall be started when the ball is free kicked and is legally touched in the field of play by someone other than the kicker or crosses the goal line after being legally touched by the receiving team in its end zone. The game clock will stop when the ball is dead by rule.
Article 7. Game Clock Does Not Run The game clock shall not run during an XP attempt, during a Period Extension or during Overtime.
Article 8. Game Clock Stops/Starts During Mercy Rule Once the Mercy Rule is in effect, the game clock becomes a “running clock” with only a few exceptions. This rule supersedes previous clock mechanics. The only time the clock will stop:
. Injury – until referee starts the clock . Two-Minute Warning or a Timeout by either team – until the snap of the ball . Referee’s time out (challenges, measurements, penalty consultations etc.) – until referee starts the clock . The clock will stop within the last 2-minutes of a half if the losing team spikes the ball, throws an incomplete pass or gets the ball out of bounds.
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Article 9. Ten-Second Runoff
Subtraction from the Game Clock on a Foul If a player from either team, before a change of team possession commits a foul that causes the clock to stop when there is less than a minute left in either half, the head referee may subtract 10 seconds from the game clock at the option of the offended team. The 10-second rule does not apply if the game clock is NOT running when the foul occurs or if the foul does not cause the game clock to stop. The 10-second subtraction does not apply when there are offsetting fouls.
The offended team may: . Accept the yardage penalty and 10-second subtraction. Important . Accept the yardage penalty and decline the 10-second subtraction. The penalized team calling a timeout . Decline the yardage penalty, which by rule also declines the 10-second can avoid the 10-second runoff. In this subtraction. case, the game clock starts on the snap.
Subtraction from the Game Clock on an Injury With the Mercy Rule in effect, the If there is an Injury Timeout with less than a minute in either half, the opponent winning team may NOT use a timeout has the option of a 10-second runoff. There is no option for a 10-second runoff to avoid a 10-second runoff. if both teams have players injured on the field.
Subtraction from the Game Clock for Equipment Issues If there is a Referee’s Timeout (for equipment issues) with less than a minute in either half, the opponent has the option of a 10-second runoff. There is no option for a 10-second runoff if both teams have equipment issues.
Section 3 Timeout Mechanics . Article 1. Standard Timeouts Each team is allotted (3) timeouts per half. The length is based on when they are called as per the table below. In special cases like the State Championships, timeouts will become Media Timeouts, which are 1-minute and 30-seconds.
Outside of the 2 minute warning 60 second timeout Inside the 2 minute warning 30 second timeout
Article 2. Injury Timeouts If a player lies down, takes a knee or cannot take themselves off the field, a referee will call an Injury Timeout. (See: Section 2.Article 9 / Ten-Second Runoff)
If the referees call an Injury Timeout, all remaining players are to move to the hash marks for watering and coaching. They do not need to take a knee.
Coaching during an Injury Timeout is allowed as long as the coaches speak with their players in a low tone. If a coach is loud, the referees will remove them from the field no warning. If they do not leave, they will be penalized an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15).
The injured player must leave the game for at least one play unless either team calls for and is charged with a timeout. If the team does not have a timeout and the loss of the player will cause the “If there is team to fall below the #ON-FIELD Minimum of Eligible Players, the head referee will call a Referee’s any doubt, sit Timeout and penalize the team a Delay of Game (LOS/5). If at the end of the timeout the player is them out!” CLEARLY OK, the game will continue. If the player is CLEARLY NOT OK, the head referee will declare a forfeit. The #RCC will classify it as a Class “C”
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Article 3. Equipment/Uniform Timeouts A team shall NOT be permitted to delay a game while making equipment/uniform repairs or adjustments; the player must leave the field. If the loss of the player will cause the team to fall below the #ON-FIELD Minimum of Eligible Players, the team must take their timeouts to avoid a forfeit. If they have no timeouts, the head referee will call a Referee’s Timeout (the length appropriate to the age bracket) and penalize the team a Delay of Game (LOS/5). If the problem is not fixed during the timeout, the head referee will declare a forfeit. The #RCC will determine if a Class “B” (illegal equipment) or Class “C” (accident).
Article 4. Mercy Rule Timeouts Once the Mercy Rule is in effect, the winning team may not call a timeout for anything except to give water on hot days. If the head referee allows the timeout, the winning team’s volunteers may only give water; there can be no discussions with their players. There will be no warning! If caught, the winning team’s head coach will be penalized an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15). On a second occurrence, the head coach will be ejected. On a third occurrence the head referee will declare a forfeit. The RCC will classify it as a Class “B” If there is an ejection or forfeit, the RCC will review as a Level III violation.
Article 5. Inadvertent Whistle In the case of an inadvertent whistle by a referee, the team with the ball has two options: . Take the ball where it was when the whistle blew and the down is consumed; . Replay the down from the original LOS (if time had expired, an untimed down is allowed); or . Take the result of the play
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Left blank on purpose Member Organization Operations Football Program Tackle Football Rules Rule 2 – Scoring & Winning 7
Table of Contents
Section 1 – Scoring ...... 8 Article 1. Scoring Values ...... 8 Article 2. Blocked/Missed Field Goal ...... 8 Article 3. Defensive Scoring ...... 8 Article 4. Safety ...... 8 Article 5. Quitting ...... 8 Article 6. Forfeit Scores ...... 8 Article 7. Goal Posts ...... 8 Article 8. Egregious Acts ...... 8
Section 2 – Mercy Rule ...... 9
Section 3 – Overtime ...... 9
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 8 Rule 2 – Scoring & Winning
Section 1 Scoring . P Article 1. Scoring Values
Scoring Values Extra Point Values Touchdown 6-points Run or Backward Pass 1-point Field Goal 3-points Forward Pass* or Kick for the XP 2-points Safety 2-points *A pass thrown from behind the line of scrimmage in a forward direction, toward the opponent’s goal.
Article 2. Blocked/Missed Field Goal . Either team may advance a blocked field goal recovered behind the line of scrimmage. . A blocked field goal that crosses the line of scrimmage may be advanced only by the defense. . A missed field goal that does not hit the goal posts may be advanced by the defense if caught in the air.
Article 3. Defensive Scoring Interceptions or fumbles recovered by the defense may be advanced for a touchdown during regulation play. A defensive score on an XP can be accomplished by an interception (worth 2-points), fumble recovery (worth 1-point) or blocked kicked (worth 2-points). If the defense commits a penalty while returning a ball and scores, no points will be award and the play is called dead; no do over.
Article 4. Safety The team scoring the Safety will receive 2-points and possession of the ball. The team that gave up the Safety will kick the ball from their 35-yard line for Tykes (7U) and their 25-yard line for Rookies (9U), Juniors (11U) and Seniors (13U). A Safety is scored when:
. A team loses possession of the ball out of their own end zone. . The ball carrier touches the ground with his body, other than hands or feet while in his own end zone. . The offense commits one of the following penalties in their end zone: - Illegal Use of Hands, Holding, Illegal Block, Personal Foul or an Illegal Forward Pass.
Article 5. Quitting Quitting is defined as abandoning an activity out of frustration or despair; giving up. If a team refuses to take the field at any time after the game has started and before the official end of the game, the head referee will declare a forfeit. The #RCC will classify as a Class “B”
Article 6. Forfeit Scores . If the game has not started or there is no score, the offended team will be awarded a 1-point victory. . If the game is tie, the offended team will be awarded 1-point to break the tie. . If the offended team is losing, they will be awarded a 1-point victory. . If the offended team is winning, the score will stand as is.
Article 7. Goal Posts In order to kick a field goal or an XP you must have a properly sized goal post. A goal post should measure 20 feet high, 10 feet from the ground to the cross bar and 18 feet wide.
Article 8. Egregious Acts If a person comes off the sideline or out of the stands onto the field and impedes the ball carrier, the offending team will be penalized an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (15) either from the LOS (if the play ended behind the LOS), or tacked on to the result of the play (if the play ended in front of the LOS). The offending person will be ejected.
If the ball carrier who had no one between him or her and the end zone, regardless where on the field is impeded, the ball carrier will be awarded a score, the unsportsmanlike conduct penalty will be accessed on the kick off and the offending person will be ejected.
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• A touchdown will be award to the ball carrier during a non-XP play. • 1-point will be awarded to the ball carrier on a running XP attempt. • 2-points will be awarded to the ball carrier on a passing XP attempt. • 2-points will be awarded to the ball carrier on a blocked kick XP attempt.
In Tykes, interference is called if a coach on the field accidently gets in a player’s way. However, if in the referee’s opinion the coach intentionally impeded a runner, the above will apply to them as well.
A Level III violation will be charged against any ejected TYFA participant and against an offending organization if the person ejected was a spectator.
Section 2 Mercy Rule . P When a team has a 30+ point margin, regardless at what point in the game it is, the Mercy Rule is invoked. Once the Mercy Rule is invoked it cannot be turned off unless the losing team decreases the point margin to 14 or less by the end of the 3rd quarter. Once the Mercy Rule is turned off, it cannot be invoked again. Situation & Result Team A is winning 34 to 7 in the 3rd quarter and scores a touchdown and extra point making the score 41 to 7. Result: The Mercy Rule is invoked because of the 30-point+ margin.
If a team reaches 50+ points WHILE THE MERCY RULE IS IN EFFECT (NOT 50-point margin), the game is over REGARDLESS when in the game it is. Situation & Result Team A is winning 45 to 7 in the 3rd quarter and scores a touchdown (extra point not allowed) making the score 51 to 7. Result: The Mercy Rule was already in effect because of the 30-point+ margin and now a team has reached 50+ points. The game is over.
A team can achieve the 30-point margin and 50+ points simultaneously. Situation & Result Team A is winning 42-20 and scores a TD+2-point conversion. That is both a 30-point margin and 50 points. Game Over!
Section 3 Overtime . P TYFA Overtime is not “sudden death”. Note Immediately after the conclusion of the 4th quarter, the head referee will call for a captain Each team receives (1) and a coach from each team to come to mid-field for a coin toss. After the initial OT period, timeout per OT period. Use there will not be another coin flip. it or lose it. No timeouts left from regulation play The coin toss winner has the choice to: may be used in OT. . Taking the ball first or . Go on defense first and choose which goal to defend
The referees place the ball on the 25-yard line in the 1st OT, 15-yard line in the 2nd and the 5-yard line in the 3rd and any subsequent OT periods (unless relocated by penalty). The offense takes over from there 1st down. Depending on the spot of the ball, additional first downs may be gained. During the 3rd and subsequent OT periods, teams must THROW for the XP.
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 10 Rule 2 – Scoring & Winning
Regardless if the offense scores or not, the team who was on defense first, now becomes the offense, and the team that was on offense, is now on defense and the procedure is repeated. The team scoring more points than the other does wins. If neither team scores, or both score the same amount of points, the whole process is repeated.
Fumbles recovered or interceptions made by the defense CANNOT BE ADVANCED BUT do END the offensive series. Situation & Result On first down in overtime, B3 intercepts a pass but then fumbles and A1 recovers. Result: The ball became dead immediately when B3 intercepted because interceptions cannot be advanced. Team A’s offensive series is over.
If the offense scores they will also attempt an XP only if it will make a difference in the game.
If a team forfeits in OT, the opposing team is granted 1-point to break the tie.
During the regular season, if the teams are still tie after three OT periods the game will remain tie.
During the regular season, if a game is tie and lack of lights or bad weather forces the game to be postponed, the game will remain tied. If one team had an opportunity in an OT period but not the other, the game will remain tied, as TYFA OT requires both teams to have equal opportunity.
During the playoffs, there can be no tie games. TYFA will handle light and bad weather issues on a case-by-case basis because in the playoffs there are numerous variables that need to be taken into account.
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Table of Contents
Section 1 – Passing Information ...... 12 Article 1. Passing ...... 12 Article 2. Eligibility to Touch Legal Forward Pass ...... 12 Article 3. Declaring Eligibility ...... 12
Section 2 – Offensive Plays ...... 12 Article 1. Sneaks ...... 12 Article 2. Offensive Lineman Handoff ...... 12 Article 3. Snapping the Football ...... 12 Article 4. Unfair Tactics ...... 12
Section 3 – Formations ...... 13 Article 1. Offensive Formations ...... 13 Article 2. Tyke (7U) Offensive Formation Requirements ...... 13 Article 3. Defensive Formations ...... 13 Article 4. Tyke (7U) Defensive Formation Requirements...... 13
Section 4 – Coaches on the Field [Tykes (7U) only] ...... 14
Section 5 – Pass Interference ...... 15
Section 6 – Ball Placement ...... 16
Section 7 – Referee Conference ...... 16
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 12 Rule 3 – Offense & Defense
Section 1 Passing Information . P Article 1. Passing A pass is either forward or backward. There is no such thing as a “lateral” or a “forward lateral.” A forward pass is a pass thrown with its initial direction toward the opponent’s end zone. A backward pass is a pass thrown with its initial direction parallel with or toward the runner’s end zone. A backward pass not caught is considered a fumble in tackle football.
Article 2. Eligibility to Touch Legal Forward Pass When the ball is snapped all defensive players are eligible to touch or catch a pass. Each offensive lineman who is on the end of his scrimmage line and who is wearing a number OTHER THAN 50 through 79 is eligible. Each back wearing a number OTHER THAN 50 through 79 is eligible.
Article 3. Declaring Eligibility If a player is wearing a number in the range of (50-79), they must “DECLARE THEMSELVES ELIGIBLE” to the referee EVERY time they are in a position to either catch a pass or run the ball. The referee will inform the opposing head coach.
Exception: If a player declares at the beginning of a game at a specific position and plays that position the whole game, they only have to declare once. If a player who is ineligible by number does not declare and either receives a pass or runs the ball, they will be penalized as Illegally Touching (LOS/5+ Loss of Down).
Section 2 Offensive Plays . Article 1. Sneaks Quarterback Center Quarterback Sneaks are legal in ALL tackle age brackets Center Sneaks are NOT allowed as it is too hard for the (including Tykes (7U)) and does not require the quarterback to referees to determine if there was a full exchange of the take any steps backward before moving forward. ball.
Article 2. Offensive Lineman Handoff An offensive back behind his scrimmage line may hand the ball forward to a teammate who is on his scrimmage line at the snap, if teammate leaves his line position by a movement of both feet that faces him toward his own end line and is at least two yards behind his scrimmage line when he receives the ball.
Article 3. Snapping the Football At all levels of tackle the football does not have to be snapped from between the Center’s legs; it may be side snapped. However, the Center must be in a normal center stance facing the LOS.
Article 4. Unfair Tactics Football has always been a game of deception and trickery involving multiple shifts, unusual formations and creative plays. However, actions or verbiage designed to confuse the defense into believing there is a problem and a snap IS NOT imminent (e.g. “wrong ball play”), or planned loose ball plays, are beyond the scope of sportsmanship and are ILLEGAL. Any team caught doing anything within the description of this article will have their head coach penalized with an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15).
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Section 3 Formations . Article 1. Offensive Formations The offensive team may have NO MORE than four players in the backfield or they will be penalized an Illegal Formation (LOS/5) for not enough players on the Line Of Scrimmage (LOS). The Rookie (9U), Junior (11U) and Senior (13U) teams DO NOT have to have men lined up on both sides of the center.
Article 2. Tyke (7U) Offensive Formation Requirements Tykes ARE REQUIRED to have at least one man on either side of the center to provide an “A” gap to assist in lining up the defense. Because of the limitations of the Tyke defense in Article 4 below, the offensive “A” gap cannot be any wider than 1 foot. Formations that do not comply will be penalized as Illegal Formation (LOS/5).
Article 3. Defensive Formations Except for the Center (Deep Snapper) Protection rule (See: Rule 5.Section 2 / Contact Against the Snapper), the Rookie (9U), Junior (11U) and Senior (13U) defenses can line up in any formation.
Article 4. Tyke (7U) Defensive Formation Requirements Two years of testing before Tykes became a mandatory age bracket determined that a 6-7 year old offensive line could not consistently execute a play if the defense lined up nine players in the “Box”. y) To help the offensive line, the defense is limited to a max of five players in the “BOX” at the snap of the ball.
The defense CANNOT be lined up directly over Center in the “BOX” at the snap of the ball, but can be lined up over Center outside the “BOX”.
Center/Guard “A” Gap: The defense CANNOT be lined up in the Center/Guard “A” gap in the “BOX” at the snap of the ball, but can be lined up in the “A” gap outside the “BOX”. Since the offense cannot make their “A” gap wider than 1 foot as stated in Article 2 above, lining up over the offensive Guards helps avoid being accidently caught in the “A” gap before the snap of the ball. Defensive Tackles may crash the “A” gaps at the snap of the ball. Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 14 Rule 3 – Offense & Defense
Defensive players outside the “BOX” may be lined up on the LOS (i.e. covering TE or WR).
Defensive players lined up in the “BOX” may drop back out of the “BOX” at any time. Vice Versa, if the defense has less than five players in the “BOX”, players may walk up into the “BOX” as long as the 5-player limit and where they are lined up at the snap of the ball is not violated.
If at the snap of the ball a team’s defensive players are violating the rules above, they will be penalized an Illegal Formation (LOS/5).
Section 4 Coaches on the Field [Tykes (7U) only] . “Outside a team’s formation” = there are no players behind or (next to) left or right of the coach
One coach from each team is permitted on the field. Coaches will instruct the players and line them up. Once the QB starts his cadence both coaches must back away “outside their team’s formation” and inside the hash marks. This includes an excited coach running down the field being caught up in a formation while the play is live.
Any coach not “outside of their team’s formation” or in the referee’s opinion, is not back far enough, will be penalized as Interference. This especially includes players running behind their coach to use them as a shield. There is no exception to the rule for this as it is the coaches’ responsibility to get back out of the way.
Coaches may not physically assist a player while the play is in motion. If a coach is caught doing this, he will be penalized as Interference.
Coaches are allowed to give verbal guidance to their players at any time as long as in the referee’s opinion a coach is not yelling out instructions at the opposing players to try to confuse them. If this is the case, the coach will be penalized as Interference.
If a coach on the field gets into a verbal or physical altercation with another coach (opposing or their own), verbally attacks a player or physical touches a player (hit, push or shove) (opposing team, own team or own child), they will be ejected and will be charged with a LEVEL IV violation.
Interference (against Defense – LOS/5/automatic first down) / (against Offense – LOS/5/loss of down).
Coaches are allowed if they so choose, to have water bottles with them on the field to give water when they feel it is necessary. The water bottles cannot be placed on the field during a play. If they are, the right to have water bottles with the coaches on the field will be revoked for the game.
Rationale: Texas Heat; 6/7 year olds; time outs need to be for game play.
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Section 5 Pass Interference . Reproduced here from the NCAA rulebook for easier reference.
During a down in which a legal forward pass crosses the neutral zone, illegal contact by players is prohibited from either team from the time the ball is snapped until it is touched by any player or a referee.
Article 1. Offensive Pass Interference Offensive pass interference by an offensive player beyond the neutral zone during a legal forward pass play in which a forward pass crosses the neutral zone is contact that interferes with a defensive eligible player. It is the responsibility of the offensive player to avoid the opponents.
It is not offensive pass interference: When, after the snap, an offensive ineligible player immediately charges and contacts an opponent at a point not more than one yard beyond the neutral zone and does not continue the contact more than three yards beyond the neutral zone.
When two or more eligible players are making a simultaneous and bona fide attempt to reach, catch or bat the pass. Eligible players of either team have equal rights to the ball.
When the pass is in flight and two or more eligible players are in the area where they might receive or intercept the pass and an offensive player in that area impedes an opponent, and the pass is not catchable. PENALTY— (LOS/15).
Article 2. Defensive Pass Interference Defensive pass interference is contact beyond the neutral zone by a defensive player whose intent to impede an eligible opponent is obvious and it could prevent the opponent the opportunity of receiving a catchable forward pass. When in question, a legal forward pass is catchable. Defensive pass interference occurs only after a legal forward pass is thrown.
It is not defensive pass interference: When, after the snap, opposing players immediately charge and establish contact with opponents at a point that is within one yard beyond the neutral zone.
When two or more eligible players are making a simultaneous and bona fide attempt to reach, catch or bat the pass. Eligible players of either team have equal rights to the ball.
When a defensive player legally contacts an opponent before the pass is thrown.
When an offensive potential kicker, from scrimmage kick formation, simulates a scrimmage kick by throwing the ball high and deep, and contact by a defensive player occurs.
PENALTY— A-# means the offenses’ field location and B-# means the defenses’ field location.
The offenses’ ball at the spot of the foul, first down, if the foul occurs fewer than 15 yards beyond the previous spot. Situation & Result The offense snaps the ball at the B-35 and a defensive player commits pass interference at B-30. The offense is given a 1st down at the B-30.
If the foul occurs 15+ yards beyond the previous spot, the offenses’ ball, first down, 15 yards from the previous spot. Situation & Result The offense snaps the ball at the B-35 and a defensive player commits pass interference at B-10. The offense is given a 1st down at the B-20. Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 16 Rule 3 – Offense & Defense
When the ball is snapped on or inside the defenses’ 17-yard line and outside the defenses’ 2-yard line, and the spot of the foul is on or inside the 2-yard line, the penalty from the previous spot shall place the ball at the 2-yard line, first down. Situation & Result The offense snaps the ball at the B-15 and a defensive player commits pass interference in his or her own end zone. The offense is given a 1st down at the B-2.
No penalty enforced from outside the 2-yard line may place the ball inside the 2-yard line (Exception: On the XP Try when the snap is at the three-yard line, first down halfway between the previous spot and the goal line.) Situation & Result The offense snaps the ball at the B-3 and a defensive player commits pass interference in his or her own end zone. The offense is given a 1st down at the B-1½.
If the previous spot was on or inside the 2-yard line, first down halfway between the previous spot and the goal line. Situation & Result The offense snaps the ball at the B-2 and a defensive player commits pass interference in his or her own end zone. The offense is given a 1st down at the B-1.
Section 6 Ball Placement . If the previous play ends between the hash marks, the ball is placed at the spot the play ended. If the previous play ends out of bounds or outside of the hash marks, the ball is spotted at the nearest hash marks.
Section 7 Referee Conference . All games have a profound effect on teams for such things as making the playoffs, their seeding and winning or losing a state championship. It is therefore REQUIRED that a referee crew hold a conference of all the referees on the field to discuss and collectively make, in their opinion, the best call possible. Any referee can be overturned. This should occur on any play:
. That has a penalty that will affect a score or a turn over . That has a turn over
Member Organization Operations Football Program Tackle Football Rules Rule 4 – Special Teams 17
Table of Contents
Section 1 – Kicking...... 18 Article 1. TYFA Adopted Restraining Lines ...... 18 Article 2. Coaches on the Field ...... 18 Article 3. Ball Kicked Out of Bounds ...... 18 Article 4. Onside Kicks ...... 19
Section 2 – Punting...... 19 Article 1. Rookie (9U), Junior (11U) and Senior (13U) Punt ...... 19 Article 2. Tyke (7U) Punt ...... 19 Article 3. Quick Kick ...... 20
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 18 Rule 4 – Special Teams
Section 1 Kicking . P The NCAA rules are followed for kickoffs with the modification listed in this Rule.
Free Kick Drop Kick Dropping the ball and then kicking it when it bounces off the ground Just (Standard Kickoff) Place Kick See note below ** For Punt Dropping and kicking the ball without letting it hit the ground first Safety Drop Kick Dropping the ball and then kicking it when it bounces off the ground Info Place Kick See note below ** ** Place Kick = from a fixed position being on the ground without a tee, on the ground leaning against a tee, on the legal tee itself, held in place by a teammate either on the ground or on a tee.
Article 1. TYFA Adopted Restraining Lines Tykes (7U) Rookie thru Seniors (9U, 11U and 13U) Standard Kickoffs will be done from the Standard Kickoffs will be done from the 40- 50-yard line unless there was a penalty that yard line unless there was a penalty that modifies 50 modifies the placement of the ball. 40 the placement of the ball. Safety Kickoffs will be done from the 35- Safety Kickoffs will be done from the 25-yard yard line unless there was a penalty that line unless there was a penalty that modifies the 35 modifies the placement of the ball. 25 placement of the ball.
Article 2. Coaches on the Field For the Kickoff only, the teams may have two coaches on the field lining up their players. Once the Tykes coaches have placed all their players, they need to leave the field of play. If a coach is caught on the field, the ONLY coach will be penalized Interference (EOP/5) assessed after the kickoff.
Article 3. Ball Kicked Out of Bounds If the kicking team kicks the ball out of bounds without it being touched by an inbounds receiving player.
K-# is the kicking team’s field location and R-# is the receiving team’s field location.
Option 1 – Receiving team may put the ball into play 5-yards from the spot of the violation. Situation & Result The ball is kicked out of bounds at the R-35. The receiving team chooses to put the ball into play at the R-40 gaining themselves 5 yards.
Option 2 – The receiving team may put the ball into play 30-yards from the kicking team’s Restraining Line. Situation & Result The ball is kicked out of bounds at the R-15. The receiving team chooses to put the ball into play at the R-30 saving themselves 15 yards.
Option 3 – The receiving team may accept the 5-yard penalty and have the ball re-kicked. Situation & Result The offense just scored to take the lead 24-23 with 30 seconds left in the game. They kick the ball out of bounds at the R- 25. The receiving team chooses to take the 5-yard penalty and have the ball re-kicked from the K-35 because they need to try to return the ball farther up the field.
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Article 4. Onside Kicks K-# is the kicking team’s field location and R-# is the receiving team’s field location.
If a kicking player comes into contact with the ball prior to it being touched by a receiving player or traveling 10 yards, the kicking team will be penalized Illegal Touching (5).
Option 1 – Receiving team may put the ball into play at the spot of the violation + 5 yards. Situation & Result A kicking team player makes contact with the ball at the K-48 causing an Illegal Touching penalty. Receiving team chooses to accept the 5-yard penalty and put the ball into play at the K-43.
Option 2 – Receiving team may accept the 5-yard penalty and have the ball re-kicked. Situation & Result A kicking team player makes contact with the ball at the K-48 causing an Illegal Touching penalty. The receiving team chooses to accept the 5-yard penalty and have the ball re-kicked from the K-35.
Once the mercy rule is in effect the WINNING team can no longer do an Onside Kick or they will be penalized an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (15). The Unsportsmanlike Conduct penalty supersedes the Illegal Touch by rule. It will be a judgment call for the head referee to determine if a kick was an attempt at an Onside or just a bad kick.
Option 1 – Receiving team may put the ball into play 15-yards from the spot of the violation. Situation & Result Kicking team does an onside kick during the mercy rule and the receiving team recovers at the R-45. The receiving team accepts the 15-yard penalty and puts the ball into play at the K-40.
Kicking team does an onside kick during the mercy rule and recovers the ball at the R-48. Because the kicking team is not allowed to attempt an Onside Kick, the ball turns over to the receiving team at the point the kicking team recovered it. The receiving team also accepts the penalty and puts the ball into play at the K-37.
Option 2 – Receiving team may accept the 15-yard penalty and have the ball re-kicked. Situation & Result Kicking team does an onside kick during the mercy rule and the receiving team recovers at the R-45. The receiving team choose to accept the 15-yard penalty and have the ball re-kicked from the K-25.
Section 2 Punting . P Article 1. Rookie (9U), Junior (11U) and Senior (13U) Punt 1. NCAA rules are followed. 2. Just for Info – either team may advance a punt recovered in or behind the neutral zone.
Article 2. Tyke (7U) Punt On 4th down the offense MUST declare they are either “going to punt” or “are going for it”. Once the offense declares their intent, they cannot change their mind unless EITHER team calls for and is charged a time out.
The offense must be in a legal formation and the players in proper stances. Movement by the offense is still penalized as normal. The punt is a timed down and the offense must deal with a 35-second Play Clock just as if it was a normal non-punting play or they will be penalized a Delay of Game (LOS/5). A Tyke’s punt is a thrown ball and therefore there are no “Fake” punts allowed. If a team fakes a punt, they will be penalized a Delay of Game (LOS/5).
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 20 Rule 4 – Special Teams
Once the coach has placed all their players, they need to leave the field of play. If the coach is caught on the field, the coach will be penalized Interference (EOP/5) assessed after the punt.
The referee will pick up the ball and hold it out in front of the Punter. The Punter will call a cadence (any signal the offense uses to snap the ball) and the Punter will then take possession of the ball from the referee. Once the Punter has possession of the ball, the play becomes “live”. Live in this case means that the defense can rush, the ‘gunners’ can go down field and the team receiving the Punt can return it (run it back).
If the ball is muffed it may be picked up and kicked (thrown). Note If the punter takes off running executing a ‘Fake’ Punt, they If they throw the ball as their punt, they are protected like will penalize as Unsportsmanlike (LOS/15). any Quarterback as it pertains to “Roughing the Passer”.
Article 3. “Quick Kick” Rookies (9U), Juniors (11U) and Seniors (13U) may “Quick Kick” on any down including 4th down.
Tykes (7U) can “Quick Kick” on any down except 4th down and only if the ball is physically kicked.
Member Organization Operations Football Program Tackle Football Rules Rule 5 – Contact 21
Table of Contents
Section 1 – Blocking ...... 22 Article 1. Chop Block (High/Low) ...... 22 Article 2. Cut Block (Block Below the Waist) ...... 22 Article 3. Clip (Block in the Back at or Below the Waist) ...... 23 Article 4. Block in the Back (Above the Waist) ...... 24
Section 2 – Contact against the Snapper...... 24
Section 3 – Roughing or Running Into ...... 25 Article 1. The Kicker or Holder ...... 25 Article 2. Roughing the Passer ...... 25
Section 4 – Helmet Off ...... 26
Section 5 – Targeting & Defenseless ...... 27 Article 1. “Defenseless Player” ...... 27 Article 2. Target/Initiate Contact with Crown of the Helmet ...... 27 Article 3. Target/Initiate Contact to Head/Neck area of “Defenseless Player” ...... 27
Section 6 – Tackling ...... 28 Article 1. Horse Collar Tackle ...... 28
Section 7 – Blood Rule ...... 28
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 22 Rule 5 – Contact
Section 1 Blocking . P Reproduced here from the NCAA rulebook for easier reference.
Article 1. Chop Block (High/Low) A Chop Block is a high-low or low-high combination block by any two players against an opponent (not the runner) anywhere on the field, with or without a delay between contacts; the “low” component is at the opponent’s thigh or below. This is illegal and will be penalized as (EOP/15) + automatic 1st Down (if committed by the defense).
Article 2. Cut Block (Block Below the Waist) A. The offense prior to a change of team possession: Consider a low-blocking zone as a rectangle that extends seven yards laterally in each direction from the snapper, five yards beyond the neutral zone and back to the offense’s end line.
1. The following offensive players may legally block below the waist inside the tackle box until they leave the tackle box or until the ball has left the tackle box:
a) Players on the line of scrimmage completely within this zone and
b) Stationary backs who are at least partially inside the tackle box and at least partially inside the frame of the body of the second lineman from the snapper.
2. Players not covered in paragraph 1 (above) while the ball is still in the tackle box, and all players after the ball has left the tackle box, are allowed to block below the waist only if the force of the initial contact is from the front, but they may not block below the waist if the force of the initial contact is from the side or back. “From the front” is understood to mean within the clock-face region between “10 o’clock and 2 o’clock” forward of the player being blocked.
3. Once the ball has left the tackle box a player may not block below the waist toward his own end line.
4. Players not covered in paragraph 1 (above) may not block below the waist toward the line through the original position of the ball at the snap until the ball carrier is clearly beyond the neutral zone.
B. The defense prior to a change of team possession:
1. Other than in paragraphs 2 and 3 (below), players of the defense may block below the waist only within the area defined by lines parallel to the goal line five yards beyond and behind the neutral zone extended to the sidelines. Blocking below the waist by players of the defense outside this zone is illegal except against the ball carrier.
2. Players of the defense may not block below the waist against an opponent who is in position to receive a backward pass.
3. Players of the defense may not block below the waist against an eligible offensive pass receiver beyond the neutral zone unless attempting to get to the ball or ball carrier. This prohibition ends when a legal forward pass is no longer possible by rule.
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C. Kicks During a down in which there is a free kick or scrimmage kick, blocking below the waist by any player is illegal except against a ball carrier.
D. After change of team possession: After any change of team possession, blocking below the waist by any player is illegal except against the ball carrier.
Article 3. Clip (Block in the Back at or Below the Waist) There shall be no clipping. Penalized as (LOS/15) + automatic 1st Down (if committed by the defense).
Exceptions: The blocking zone is a rectangle centered on the middle lineman of the offensive formation and extending five yards laterally and three yards longitudinally in each direction. The blocking zone disintegrates when the ball leaves the zone.
A. Offensive players who are on the line of scrimmage at the snap within the blocking zone legally may clip in the blocking zone, subject to the following restrictions:
1. A player in the blocking zone may not block an opponent with the force of the initial contact from behind and at or below the knee.
2. A player on the line of scrimmage within the blocking zone may not leave the zone and return and legally clip.
3. The blocking zone disintegrates when the ball leaves the zone.
B. When a player turns his back to a potential blocker who has committed himself in intent and direction or movement.
C. When a player attempts to reach a runner or legally attempts to recover or catch a fumble, a backward pass, a kick or a touched forward pass, he may push an opponent below the waist at or to the buttocks.
D. When an eligible player behind the neutral zone pushes an opponent below the waist at or to the buttocks to get to a forward pass.
E. Clipping is allowed against the runner
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 24 Rule 5 – Contact
Article 4. Block in the Back (Above the Waist) A block in the back (other than against the ball carrier) is illegal. Penalized as (LOS/10). Safety if against the offense in their own end zone.
Exceptions: The blocking zone is a rectangle centered on the middle lineman of the offensive formation and extending five yards laterally and three yards longitudinally in each direction. The blocking zone disintegrates when the ball leaves the zone.
A. Offensive players who are on the line of scrimmage at the snap within the blocking zone may legally block in the back, subject to the following restrictions:
1. A player on the line of scrimmage within the blocking zone may not leave the zone and return and legally clip.
2. The blocking zone disintegrates when the ball leaves the zone.
B. When a player turns his back to a potential blocker who has committed himself in intent and direction or movement.
C. When a player attempts to reach a runner or legally attempts to recover or catch a fumble, a backward pass, a kick or a touched forward pass, he may push an opponent above the waist.
D. When an eligible player behind the neutral zone pushes an opponent above the waist to get to a forward pass.
Section 2 Contact against the Snapper . P Reproduced here from the NCAA rulebook for easier reference.
When a team is in scrimmage kick formation, a defensive player may not initiate contact with the snapper until one second has elapsed after the snap.
Situation 1 A10 is in a shotgun- type formation 7-1/2 yards behind the snapper, who has his head down and is looking backward through his legs. Immediately after the snap, nose guard B55 charges directly at the snapper and contacts him by pushing him backwards. RULING: Legal. The snapper is not afforded any special protection because it was not reasonably obvious that a kick might be attempted. The snapper does have the usual protection against any personal foul for unnecessary roughness.
Situation 2 Team A is in an obvious scrimmage kick formation. Immediately after the snap, nose guard B55 charges directly at the snapper, contacts him, and drives him backward. The ball is snapped to an upback three yards behind the scrimmage line or to the potential kicker, who instead runs with or passes the ball. RULING: Foul. Penalty – 15 yards and automatic first down. The snapper may not be contacted until one second has elapsed after the snap when Team A is in a scrimmage kick formation and it is reasonably obvious that a kick might be attempted.
Situation 3 Immediately after the snap, with Team A in an obvious scrimmage kick formation, nose guard B71 attempts to “shoot the gap” between the snapper and the adjacent lineman. B71’s initial legal contact is with the lineman next to the snapper. RULING: Legal. Incidental contact with the snapper after this initial legal contact is not a foul.
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Section 3 Roughing or Running Into… . P Reproduced here from the NCAA rulebook for easier reference.
Article 1. The Kicker or Holder A. When it is obvious that a scrimmage kick will be made, no opponent shall run into or rough the kicker or the holder of a place kick.
1. Roughing is a live-ball personal foul that endangers the kicker or holder. This is penalized as (LOS/15) + automatic 1st Down.
2. Running into the kicker or holder is a live-ball foul that occurs when the kicker or holder is displaced from his kicking or holding position but is not roughed. This is penalized as (LOS/5).
3. Incidental contact with a kicker or holder is not a foul.
4. The kicker’s protection under this rule ends:
a) When he has had a reasonable time to regain his balance
b) When he carries the ball outside the tackle box (a rectangular area enclosed by the neutral zone, the two lines parallel to the sidelines five yards from the snapper, and Team A’s end line) before kicking.
5. When a defensive player’s contact against the kicker or holder is caused by an opponent’s block (legal or illegal), there is no foul for running into or roughing.
6. A player who makes contact with the kicker or holder after touching the kick is not charged with running into or roughing the kicker.
7. When a player other than one who blocks a scrimmage kick runs into or roughs the kicker or holder, it is a foul.
8. When in question whether the foul is running into or roughing, the foul is roughing.
B. A kicker or holder simulating being roughed or run into by a defensive player commits an unsportsmanlike act penalized as Unsportsmanlike (LOS/15).
Article 2. Roughing the Passer No defensive player shall charge into a passer or throw him to the ground when it is obvious the ball has been thrown. (Exception: A defensive player who is blocked by a Team A player[s] with a force so that he has no opportunity to avoid contact with the passer. However, this does not relieve the defensive player of responsibility for personal fouls as described in elsewhere in this section.)
A. When an offensive player is in a passing posture with one or both feet on the ground, no defensive player rushing unabated shall hit him forcibly at the knee area or below. The defensive player also may not initiate a roll or lunge and forcibly hit this opponent in the knee area or below. Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 26 Rule 5 – Contact
B. [Exceptions. (1) It is not a foul if the offensive player is a runner not in a passing posture, either inside or outside the tackle box (a rectangular area enclosed by the neutral zone, the two lines parallel to the sidelines five yards from the snapper, and Team A’s end line). (2) It is not a foul if the defender grabs or wraps this opponent in an attempt to make a conventional tackle. (3) It is not a foul if the Defender is not rushing unabated or is blocked or fouled into this opponent.]
C. Penalized as (LOS/15) + automatic 1st Down. If the pass was completed, penalty is enforced from EOP instead.
Section 4 Helmet Off . P TYFA's Helmet Off rule supersedes the NCAA rule.
If a player's helmet comes off during a play, they are allowed to put it back on and stay in the game. The Referee will not stop the clock to allow the player extra time. Either the player gets it on, his team calls a time out or he leaves the field. If the player is forced to leave the field and this causes a team to fall below the #ON-FIELD Minimum of Eligible Players, the player may stay in. The referee will penalize the team a Delay of Game (LOS/5) but will allow the game to continue.
If a player removes their helmet other than during the situations listed below they will be penalized an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15). . In team area . Team, media or injury timeouts . Equipment adjustment . Through play . Between periods or at half time . During a measurement for a first down
If the Ball Carrier’s helmet comes off the play is blown dead for Safety reasons.
If the player is not the Ball Carrier the ball remains live, but the player losing their helmet MUST NOT continue to participate in the play beyond the immediate action in which he is engaged even if he gets his helmet back on. By definition, such a player is obviously out of the play (considered defenseless).
Prolonged participation is a personal foul which will cause the player to sit out a play. If this forces a team to fall below the #ON-FIELD Minimum of Eligible Players, the player may stay in. The referee will penalize the team a Delay of Game (LOS/5) but will allow the game to continue.
Situation & Result During a down B55’s helmet comes off without a helmet foul by Team A. B55 immediately picks up his helmet, puts it on and continues to chase the ball carrier. Result: Personal foul will be called on B55 for continuing to participate after losing his helmet. The clock stops at the end of the down and B55 must leave the game for the next down.
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Section 5 Targeting & Defenseless . P TYFA's Targeting rule supersedes the NCAA © rule.
Article 1. “Defenseless Player” Defined as one who because his physical position and focus of concentration is especially vulnerable to injury.
• A player in the act of or just after throwing a pass. • A receiver attempting to catch a pass, or one who has completed a catch and has not had time to protect themselves or has not clearly become a ball carrier. • A kicker in the act of or just after kicking a ball, or during the kick or the return. • A kick returner attempting to catch or recover a kick. • A player on the ground. • A player obviously out of the play. • A player who receives a blind-side block. • A ball carrier already in the grasp of an opponent and whose forward progress has been stopped. • A quarterback any time after a change of possession.
Article 2. Targeting/Initiate Contact with Crown of Helmet No player shall target and initiate contact against an opponent with the crown (top) of his helmet. When in question, it is a foul. This is penalized as a Personal Foul (LOS/15). If the same player commits this infraction, again they will be ejected Level IV violation. If multiple players commit this infraction from the same team, the Referees will report this to TYFA for review. Situation & Result Passer A12 inside the tackle box is looking for an open receiver. Before or just as he releases the ball, A12 is hit from the side at the ribs, thigh or knee by B79, who dives forward and leads with the crown (top) of his helmet. Result: Foul by B79 for targeting his opponent and initiating contact with the top of his helmet. Personal Foul +15 yards.
Article 3. Target/Initiate Contact to Head/Neck area of “Defenseless Player” No player shall target and initiate contact to the head or neck area of a defenseless opponent with the helmet, forearm, fist, elbow and/or shoulder. When in question, it is a foul. This is penalized as a Personal Foul (LOS/15). If the same player commits this infraction again they will be ejected Level IV violation. If multiple players commit this infraction from the same team, the Referees will report this to TYFA for review. Situation & Result Receiver A83 has just leaped and received a forward pass. As A83 is about to regain his balance, B45 launches and drives into A83 above the shoulder area with his helmet or shoulder. Result: Foul by B45 for targeting and initiating contact with a defenseless opponent above the shoulders. Personal Foul +15 yards.
As ball carrier A20 sweeps around the end and heads up field, he lowers his head and contacts defensive end B89 who is trying to tackle him. The players meet helmet to helmet. Result: No foul. Neither A20 nor B89 is a defenseless player and neither has targeted his opponent.
A44 is covering the kickoff that opens the second half. As A44 is running at the B-45, B66 targets and launches into A44 from the side, a blind-side block. B66 first makes contact with his forearm at A44’s (a) neck (b) upper arm or shoulder. Result: (a) Foul by B66 for targeting a defenseless player and initiating contact at the head or neck area. Personal Foul +15 yards. (b) No foul. Although A44 is a defenseless player and B66 targets him, the contact by B66 is not to the head or neck area.
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 28 Rule 5 – Contact
Section 6 Tackling . P Reproduced here from the NCAA © rulebook for easier reference.
Article 1. Horse Collar Tackle All players are prohibited from grabbing the inside back collar of the shoulder pads or jersey, or the inside collar of the side of the shoulder pads or jersey, and immediately pulling the ball carrier down.
Exception: This does not apply to a ball carrier, including a potential passer, who is inside the tackle box. Note that the tackle box disintegrates when the ball leaves it.
** The above exception does not apply to Tykes. A Horse Collar can be called anywhere on the field for Tykes.
Section 7 Blood Rule . P If a referee discovers a player bleeding, has an open wound or has an excessive amount of blood on their uniform, the player will be removed from the game until the wound is covered and the player is cleaned up.
If this brings a team under the #On-Field Minimum of Eligible Players, the head referee will call a Referee’s Timeout (the length appropriate to the age bracket) and penalize the team a Delay of Game (LOS/5). If at the end of the timeout the player is not available to play, the head referee will declare a forfeit. TYFA will classify it as a Class “C”
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Table of Contents
Section 1 – Conduct ...... 30 Article 1. Personal Foul vs Unsportsmanlike Penalty ...... 30 Article 2. Physical Conduct ...... 30 Article 3. Verbal or Visual Conduct ...... 30 Article 4. Head Hunting ...... 31 Article 5. Tobacco, Alcohol and Illegal Substances ...... 32 Article 6. Urinating or Defecating in Public ...... 32 Article 7. Unsportsmanlike Acts ...... 32 Article 8. Unfair Acts ...... 32 Article 9. Egregious Act ...... 32
Section 2 – Ejections ...... 32 Article 1. Ejected Personnel ...... 33
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 30 Rule 6 – Conduct
Section 1 Conduct . P Article 1. Personal Foul vs Unsportsmanlike Penalty
• A Personal Foul is a conduct or safety-related infraction. Includes unnecessary roughness, such as hitting a ball carrier after he is already out of bounds, “piling on” a ball carrier who is already down, or violent contact with an opponent who is away from and out of the play.
• An Unsportsmanlike Penalty is any person acting or speaking in a manner deemed to be intentionally harmful or especially objectionable by the referees, or by rule. Unsportsmanlike conduct is a non-contact foul; if contact is involved it becomes a Personal Foul. Examples include verbal abuse of referees, taunting and excessive celebration.
This rule applies to Field Level (sideline and playing area) and covers physical, verbal or visual aggression against TYFA Participants or spectators.
Article 2. Physical Conduct If a player uses their cast as a weapon, they will be ejected Level IV violation WITHOUT warning and the team will be penalized a Personal Foul (LOS/15).
TYFA participants that attempt and/or actually come to blows (touching in any way) with another TYFA participant or spectator (opponent or same organization, regardless if a relative), referee or TYFA Staff will be ejected Level IV violation WITHOUT warning and the team will be penalized a Personal Foul (LOS/15).
Touching an official (in any way) is considered an assault. Texas Penal Code § 22.01 | Class B Misdemeanor: up to 180 days in prison, up to $2,000 fine, or both.
Article 3. Verbal or Visual Conduct TYFA participants making unsportsmanlike comments, using abusive, threatening or obscene language or severely criticizing or berating another TYFA participant (regardless if they are relatives), referee or TYFA Staff, are in violation of this rule.
TYFA participants with threatening or obscene gestures, or engages in an act such that it could provoke ill will or is demeaning is in violation of this rule.
A perceived threat is still considered a threat. E.g. a person is angry at another and tells them they better watch out is a perceived threat regardless if the person talking didn’t say they would hurt them. Perception is Reality.
The following is a list of possible violations (but is not all inclusive):
. Pointing the finger(s), hand(s), arm(s) or ball at an opponent, or imitating the slashing of the throat . Taunting, baiting or ridiculing an opponent verbally . Inciting an opponent or spectators in any other way, such as simulating the firing of a weapon . Excessive profanity or gratuitous use of racial slurs
Any violation of this rule during a game and the violator will be penalized an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15) or possibly ejected. If there was an ejection, the violator will be charged with a Level IV violation.
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Article 4. Head Hunting If a volunteer is discovered telling a player to hurt, target or hit another in an inappropriate place (such as the head), (paid bounty or not), they will be charged with a Level IV or V violation.
Article 5. Tobacco, Alcohol and Illegal Substances TYFA participants and spectators are not allowed to use tobacco, alcohol or illegal substance products of any type at any TYFA events. If a spectator is found doing so, they will be ejected from the facility. If a TYFA participant is found doing so, regardless of where in the facility they are, they will be charged with a Level IV violation.
Article 6. Urinating or Defecating in Pubic It is inappropriate, offensive and therefore prohibited for any TYFA participant to relieve themselves “in clear sight” of the public. If certified players are caught violating this rule the organization will be charged with a Level II violation) per player. If certified volunteers are caught violating this rule, they will be charged with a Level IV violation.
Article 7. Unsportsmanlike Acts The following actions will be penalized as an Unsportsmanlike (15/LOS).
. Any delayed, excessive, prolonged or choreographed act by which players attempt to focus attention upon themselves. . Obviously altering stride as an unopposed runner approaches the opponent’s goal line, or diving into the end zone when unopposed. . Punching one’s own chest, crossing one’s arms in front of the chest and/or standing over a prone player. . Going into the stands to interact with spectators, or bowing at the waist after a good play. . Kicking, throwing, spinning or carrying (including off the field) the ball any distance that requires a referee to retrieve it. . Spiking the ball to the ground (Exception: A pass thrown to the ground at the QB’s feet to conserve time). . Throwing the ball high into the air. . Any other unsportsmanlike act or actions that delay the game.
Article 8. Unfair Acts If a team refuses to take the field after repeated requests by the referees, the head referee may declare a forfeit. #RCC will determine if a Class “A” if the game has not started or a Class “B” if it has.
Article 9. Egregious Act See Rule 2.Section 1.Article 8 / Egregious Act
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 32 Rule 6 – Conduct
Section 2 Ejections . P Authority Organization board members have no authority to eject a TYFA participant from the playing field or the sideline (unless that person is from their organization). Hosting board members do however have the authority to remove unruly spectators from their facility.
The head referee has the authority (granted to them by this rule) to:
1. Eject a TYFA participant from a game for unsportsmanlike or personal fouls.
2. Penalize a team for a cheerleader or unruly spectator’s actions exhibiting any form of excessive unsportsmanlike conduct.
Black Shirts (when properly attired and never at their own games) have the authority (granted to them by this rule) to:
1. Eject a TYFA participant on the sideline from a game if exhibiting any form of unsportsmanlike conduct. Only the head referee can remove a TYFA participant from the field.
2. Eject a TYFA participant on the sideline for not being properly attired.
3. Eject an adult from the sideline who is not in the TYFA WebApp or has holds.
4. Eject a certified volunteer from the sideline for being in violation of the Tobacco, Alcohol and Illegal Substance or Communication Device rule.
5. Eject any spectator exhibiting any form of excessive unsportsmanlike conduct.
Procedure If the head referee decides to eject a TYFA participant for unsportsmanlike conduct or a personal foul, he will inform both head coaches that the individual is ejected. There will be NO DEBATE. Referees only ejects, they do not set the punishment; TYFA’s #RCC does that.
If a #Black Shirt decides to eject a TYFA participant from the sideline for unsportsmanlike conduct, being inappropriately attired or any of the other items listed above, they will work with the head coach to handle the situation. If the head coach handles the situation, the ejection is only for the current game with no additional consequences. If the head coach will not handle the situation, the Black Shirt will have the head referee eject the TYFA participant. If the head referee has to make the ejection it will be treated as an on-field ejection which carries an Unsportsmanlike (LOS/15) penalty and the RCC will review for further disciplinary action. In addition, the head coach will be charged with a Level II violation for non-compliance.
Consequences If a TYFA participant is ejected from a game for an unsportsmanlike or personal foul, they are ineligible to participate in the current game or any other games they have prior to the RCC “Cool Downs” DO reviewing and ruling on the ejection. This includes those coaches who coach several age NOT EXIST. Just brackets. This type of ejection is in Weeks, not games. Ejections.
If a TYFA participant is ejected from a game for not being properly attired they must sit out the remainder of the current game or until they correct the issue.
When a certified player is ejected, they may remain on the sideline, but must remove their equipment so that it is obvious they will not go back in. A certified player ejected from a game even on the final play of the game is considered ejected.
When a certified volunteer is ejected, they must leave the sideline and are prohibited from any further contact, direct or indirect, with the team during the remainder of the game. They are not allowed in the stands either, but may stay in the facility. A certified volunteer ejected from a game even on the final play of the game is considered ejected. Member Organization Operations Football Program Tackle Football Rules Rule 6 – Conduct 33
Exception: If a certified volunteer is removed from the sideline for not being properly attired or not having their badge, they will be allowed to sit in the stands.
Article 1. Ejected Personnel This rule pertains to a player or volunteer that has been ejected and suspended by the RCC. Unless stated otherwise by the discipline set forth by the RCC, the following states where a TYFA participant may be, while suspended on game day.
1. A player may be on the sideline with their team or cheer squad as long as they do not have any equipment on and are not dressed out to participate.
2. A volunteer may only be in the spectator area.
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 34 Rule 6 – Conduct
Left blank on purpose Member Organization Operations Football Program Tackle Football Rules Rule 7 – Football Player Equipment & Accessories 35
Table of Contents
Section 1 – Equipment ...... 36 Article 1. Footballs ...... 36 Article 2. Jerseys ...... 36
Section 2 – Accessories...... 37 Article 1. Casts ...... 37 Article 2. Cleats ...... 37 Article 3. Eye Wear ...... 37 Article 4. Gloves ...... 37 Article 5. Hand Warmers ...... 37 Article 6. Helmet Stickers ...... 37 Article 7. Jewelry ...... 37 Article 8. Mouth Guards ...... 37 Article 9. Towels ...... 38 Article 10. Facemasks ...... 38 Enforcement ...... 38
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 36 Rule 7 – Football Player Equipment & Accessories
Section 1 Equipment . P Article 1. Footballs A TYFA “Approved Football” is a Wilson Football of a size and type listed in the table below and that is properly inflated.
Team Football Size Type Tyke (7U) and Rookie (9U) Wilson K2 Leather1 GST or Traditional with TYFA logo2 Junior (11U) Wilson TDJ Leather1 GST or Traditional with TYFA logo2 Senior (13U) Wilson TDY Leather1 GST or Traditional with TYFA logo2
1Composite or Rubber balls are prohibited from being used as Game Balls. 2An exception to having a TYFA logo football is only allowed in the Spring Season.
Only TYFA approved footballs may be used at officially schedule TYFA games. Both the home team and the visiting team should have their own game footballs and may use them while on offense.
If a referee is given a football from the sidelines and recognizes that it is not an approved football, they will throw it out of the game and request a TYFA approved football. If a football is determined to be unauthorized after a play has been run, the offending team will be penalized: Equipment Violation (LOS/5) and the ball will be removed from play.
If a team does not have a TYFA approved football then they are required to use an approved football from their opponent who is required to allow it. If neither team has an approved football and cannot borrow one, a non-approved football will be authorized to complete that game. There can be no protest or grievance from either team in reference to footballs. Organizations without approved footballs will be charged with a Level I violation the first time is it reported and a Level II violation for any and every subsequent violations.
Article 2. Jerseys Numbers MUST be clearly visible and readable. This means the type of numerals used must be clearly discernable (e.g. Permanent Arabic numerals) and be of a color that is CLEARLY in distinct contrast with the color of the jersey irrespective of any border.
The jersey must have a number on the FRONT and BACK. The size must be appropriate to the age of the player. The possible locations are shown. All players of a team MUST have the same color and general style of numbers front and back.
All jerseys must be numbered 00 through 99. Any number preceded by zero (‘0’) (except double zero ‘00’) is prohibited. A single zero (‘0’) is allowed.
Any player not in compliance with the numbering on their jersey will not be eligible to play until they become compliant and if discovered on the field, the offending team will be penalized an Illegal Equipment (LOS/5). If this brings a team under the #ON-FIELD Minimum of Eligible Players, the player can stay and the game will continue but the organization will be charged with a Level II violation.
Multiple players with the same number (on the same team) are prohibited from being on the field at the same time. If discovered, all players with the same number but one must come off the field and the offending team will be penalized an Illegal Equipment (LOS/5). If this brings a team under the #ON-FIELD Minimum of Eligible Players, players may stay and the game will continue but the organization will be charged with a Level II violation.
When a player enters the game after changing his jersey number, he must report to the head referee, who will then inform the head coach of the opposing team. A player who enters the game after changing their jersey number and does not report, commits a foul and if discovered, the offending team is penalized an Unsportsmanlike Conduct (LOS/15).
Names on jerseys can be anything as long as it is youth appropriate.
Member Organization Operations Football Program Tackle Football Rules Rule 7 – Football Player Equipment & Accessories 37
Section 2 Accessories . P Approved Neutral Colors are (Black, White, Gray and shades of Brown)
Article 1. Casts Tackle players may have casts only if: • The cast is completely wrapped in foam or some type of padding at least ½” thick; and • The cast is on an arm or hand and only below the elbow
Article 2. Cleats An “Approved Cleat” is a rubber soled cleat or replaceable (detachable) cleat with hard plastic soles – the replaceable cleat stud being no longer than ½” and may not be metal tipped.
Article 3. Eye Wear An “Approved Visor” or “Approved Strap on Goggle”) is a clear or tinted (blue, amber or smoke) Polycarbonate visor or goggle where the player’s eyes can be seen when standing directly in front of them. A Mirrored or Blacked Out visor or goggle is prohibited.
The exception to this policy is if the team can show it is required for medical reasons. A letter from the player’s doctor, on the doctor’s letterhead, stating the player’s name, the doctor’s name, phone number, the reason for the dark eyewear and signed by the doctor must be shown to the head referee or #Black Shirts when asked.
Article 4. Gloves An “Approved Glove” is a fitted covering for a hand having separate sections for each finger and thumb, without any additional material that connects any of the fingers and/or thumb, and that completely covers each finger and thumb. There is no restriction on the color of gloves.
Article 5. Hand Warmers An “Approved Hand Warmer” must be within the team color scheme or an Approved Neutral Color.
Article 6. Helmet Stickers Helmet Stickers are acceptable as long as they are youth appropriate.
Article 7. Jewelry Chains and necklaces around a player’s neck or attached by piercing is prohibited.
Article 8. Mouth Guards An “Approved Mouth Guard” is a mouth piece that is of any color and that is usable and safe (not chewed up to where it basically protects nothing).
Players DO NOT have to have it attached to their helmets.
At the snap of the ball, an Illegal Equipment penalty will be called if a player does not have their Mouth Guard in. The first violation will be penalized as Illegal Equipment (warning). The second and subsequent violations will be penalized as Illegal Equipment (time out). Once there are no time outs, violations will be penalized as Illegal Equipment (LOS/5). It does not have to be the same player to qualify for subsequent violations.
Mouth Guards should be checked during pre-game certification for usability and safety by a team’s own coaching staff. If it is determined to be unusable, it should be replaced. If a player’s teeth are hurt and the Mouth Guard is reviewed and determined NOT to be complaint with this policy, the head coach will be charged with a Level IV violation.
Member Organization Operations Tackle Football Rules Football Program 38 Rule 7 – Football Player Equipment & Accessories
Article 9. Towels Any tackle player may wear a towel. Towels must be “true” football towels of an appropriate size (no larger than 6”x12”). Towels that are worn must be within the team color scheme or an Approved Neutral Color; otherwise, it will have to be removed. Refusing to remove a towel will be penalized as Illegal Equipment (LOS/5).
Article 10. Facemasks TYFA has no rule against any specific type of facemask, which supersedes the NCAA rules.
Enforcement Unless specified differently above, if a player is found on the field with inappropriate equipment, the head referee will remove that player until the equipment issue is resolved.
If that brings a team under the #ON-FIELD Minimum of Eligible Players, timeouts will automatically be used if available or the team will be penalized a Delay of Game (LOS/5) and the player will be attended to for the length of a normal age bracket appropriate timeout. If the player is not available to play after that time, the head referee will declare a forfeit. TYFA will classify it as a Class “B”
Tackle Football Rules – Index Football Program 39
A • Gloves… 37 • • Accessories… 37 Goal Post… 8
• Accessories Enforcement… 38
• Alcohol, Tobacco and Illegal Substances… 32 H • Hand Warmers… 37 B • Head Hunting… 31 • • Ball Kicked out of Bounds… 18 Helmet Off… 26 • • Ball Placement… 16 Helmet Stickers… 37 • • Block in the Back (Above the Waist)… 24 Homecoming Delays… 2 • • Blocked Field Goals… 8 Horse Collar Tackle… 28
• Blocking… 22
I C • Illegal Substances, Tobacco and Alcohol… 32 • • Casts…37 Inadvertent Whistle… 5 • • Center Sneaks… 12 Injury Timeouts… 4 • • Chop Block (High/Low)… 22 Intermissions… 2
• Cleats… 37
• Clip (Block in the Back at or Below the Waist)… 23 J • Clock Mechanics… 2 • Jerseys… 36 • Coaches on the Field (Kicking)… 18 • Jewelry… 37 • Coaches on the Field (Tykes only)… 14 • Conduct… 30 K • Contact Against the Snapper… 24 • Kicking… 18 • Cut Block (Block Below the Waist)… 22
M D • Mercy Rule… 9 • Declaring Eligibility… 12 • Mercy Rule Timeouts… 5 • Defecating in Public… 32 • Tyke Defensive Formation Requirements… 13 • Defenseless Player… 27 • Tyke Offensive Formation Requirements… 13 • Defensive Formations… 13 • Missed Field Goals… 8 • Defensive Scores… 8 • Mouth Guards… 37
E O • Egregious Acts… 8 • Offensive Formations… 13 • Ejected Personnel… 33 • Offensive Lineman Handoff… 12 • Ejections… 32 • Offensive Plays… 12 • Eligibility to Touch Legal Forward Pass… 12 • Onside Kicks… 19 • Equipment… 36 • Overtime… 9 • Equipment Timeouts… 5 • Eye Wear… 37 P
• Passing… 12 F • Passing Information… 12 • Facemasks… 38 • Pass Interference… 15 • Forfeit Scores… 8 • Periods & Intermissions… 2 • Formations… 13 • Periods (Quarters)… 2 • Footballs… 36 • Period Extension… 2 • Personal Foul vs Unsportsmanlike… 30 G • Physical Conduct… 30 • Game Clock Does Not Run… 3 • Play Clock… 2 • Game Clock Stops/Starts During Mercy Rule… 3 • Punting… 19 • Game Clock Starts/Stops on Kickoffs… 3 • Punting (Tyke) • Game Clock Stops/Starts on Referee’s Signal… 3 • Punting (Rookie, Junior, Senior) • Game Clock Stops/Starts on Snap of the Ball… 3 40 Football Program Tackle Football Rules - Index
Q
• Quarterback Sneaks… 12
• Quick Kick… 20
• Quitting… 8
R • Referee Conference… 16 • Roughing or Running Into Kicker/Holder… 25 • Roughing the Passer… 25
S • Safety… 8 • Scoring… 8 • Scoring Values… 8 • Snapping the Football… 12 • Sneaks… 12 • Standard Timeouts… 4
T
• Tackling… 28 • Targeting & Defenseless… 27 • Targeting/Initiate Contact with Crown… 27 • Targeting/Initiate Contact to Head/Neck… 27 • Ten-Second Runoff… 4 • Timeout Mechanics… 4 • Timing Adjustments… 3 • Tobacco, Alcohol and Illegal Substances… 32 • Towels… 38 • Trick Plays… 12 • Two-Minute Warning… 3 • TYFA Adopted Restraining Lines… 18
U • Unfair Acts… 32 • Unfair Tactics… 12 • Uniform Timeouts… 5 • Unsportsmanlike Acts… 32 • Unsportsmanlike vs Personal Foul… 30 • Urinating in Public… 32
V
• Verbal or Visual Conduct… 30