MID-FLORIDA YOUTH FOOTBALL CONFERENCE

July 2014 Official Rules

FOOTBALL & CHEERLEADING RULES

Revised 2014 

1. Registration

2. I. D. Manual

3. Rosters

4. Official Time

5. Team Box Personnel

6. Game Ball

7. Tobacco

8. Alcohol

9. Coaches on Field

10. Time-Outs

11. Length of Quarters

12. Half-Time

13. Warm-Ups

14. Chains

15. Extra Points

16. Tie Games

17. Coach Ejection

18. Forfeits

19. Practice

20. Definition of Practice

21. General Regulations

22. Check-in Procedures and Rules

23. Protest Procedures

24. Rule Interpretations

25. Player Eligibility

26. Flag Football Rules

27. Mitey Mite Football Rules

28. Pee Wee Football Rules

29. Junior & Senior Football Rules

30. Mid-Florida Ethics Suspension/Termination

This section outlines rules to be followed for the Mid-Florida Conference 2013 season. The Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference follows the National High School rules in all cases except where noted in the following local rules. Please read these rules carefully and contact the Federation President if you have questions. All Mid-Florida Coaches Must Have a Valid Certification Through MFFCC or Another Organization equivalent or better and recognized by the National Youth Sports Association approved by MFFCC and The State Of Florida. Background checks are also required. 3

1. REGISTRATION PROCEDURE

All football players/cheerleaders cannot begin practicing with his/her assigned team until he/she has officially registered or signed up. To register the athlete must have all league forms completed and signed by his/her parent or legal guardian, including a parental consent form and shall be enrolled and attending school (public, private or home school). The local association can supply a parental consent form. During the season (from Jamboree to Super Bowl) any players/cheerleaders who wish to transfer from one Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference organization to another due to hardship must have a player’s release form signed by commissioners from the transferring team and the receiving team. The Mid-Florida Youth Conference Executive Board will address any conflicts between teams concerning transfers. No player can be allowed to transfer after the 5th game. If a team or club folds after the season has begun the Executive Board may choose a place for the kids to play out the remainder of the season. Any fees should be collected at the time of the transfer in addition to the following items.

Form #1 – Medical Release Form – A local association supplied form that must be signed by the legal guardian or parent and notarized by a notary.

Form #2 – Proof of Age - A certified ORIGINAL copy of the birth certificate for each athlete will be presented to the club at registration. A certified copy of the birth certificate bearing the seal of the issuing office of the state of birth is the most reliable form for proof of age. Passports and certified wallet size certificates issued by a State or Commonwealth are acceptable. Hospital certificates will not be acceptable for proof of age and the athlete will be unable to participate until a certified copy is obtained and presented. Foreign birth certificates need to be accompanied by a second form of proof of age.

Form #3 – Medical examination – A signed statement from any licensed medical professional may be used instead of the conference supplied physical form, provided it indicates the player has no observable conditions that would keep him/her from playing football/cheerleading. This form must be dated January 1st of the current year or later.

These three forms along with the player’s card and picture form the player I.D. Manual needed for each player to participate in a Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference game. The player’s card must also have a stamp from the conference indicating that all paper work is in order and that the player is certified for play. The stamp the conference will place on the current player picture with his game jersey number will indicate the players’ division. Each association is responsible for obtaining a current clear picture of each player/cheerleader and attaching the picture of their face to the identification card. The picture must be no older than six (6) months and must be on the identification card at the time of the Jamboree. No hats.

The Commissioner cannot change a player jersey number without 24-hour approval. If a jersey number is changed, a Board Member of the local association must report to the Conference Executive Board by the following Monday and the player must wear that jersey number for the remainder of the season. (Exception: As long as the face of the player in the New Jersey is the same as the one in the old jersey the player was originally certified to wear, the jersey can be changed. The pictures must be clear so that the face of the child is clearly visible. Both pictures must be in the book at all times.) 4

2. I.D. MANUAL

Coaches are required to submit their teams’ I.D. Manual at the scheduled check-in time for their game, at which time the opposing coach will be given the chance to review them. It is the rule that coaches keep these manuals with them at all times; as a player will be ineligible to participate in the game if they do not have a manual sheet at check-in. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Team Manuals – Shall include the following

1. *Team rosters (A TYPED copy of all rosters from each league must be submitted to the Conference Executive Board. The roster must also include the names of the coaches for each team.)

2. 2013 League Rules

3. Senior football players must have their completed ID cards stamped by their school official before jamboree.

4. Birth Certificate (copy accepted but it shall be the club’s responsibility to verify the original),

5. NO HOSPITAL CERTIFICATES WILL BE ACCEPTED.

6. Copy of physical form

7. Notarized medical release form

8. A copy of Proof of Insurance for league. Insurance must be submitted by July 29 and will be verified by Vice President of the Mid-Florida Conference by the day of Jamboree. Then insurance will be verified periodically thereafter. Any organization found guilty of violation will forfeit all games from time of loss of insurance to reinstatement.

9. Any change of leadership or representation (President or Commissioner) of any organization must be reported to the Conference Executive Board as soon as this type of organizational officer change is made.

* No league can change its uniform color or name without the approval of the Executive Board.

NOTE: Failure to have a completed manual shall result in a player being unable to participate in any conference games.

3. ROSTERS

A completed roster MUST be turned in prior to competing in each game, or the team will not be allowed to compete. Rosters will be frozen on the day of Jamboree unless arrangements are made to meet with the Executive Board. Additional football players cannot be added after the roster is frozen and stamped. Any team with 14 or less players has the opportunity until Friday prior to the first game to add up to 22 players. Their books will then be frozen. If a team’s roster drops below 14 players prior to the sixth game of the season they will be allowed to increase their roster back to 22 players. However, if they drop below 18 after the sixth game of the season, they will still be allowed to increase to 22 players, but all games from that point will be forfeited. A copy of each team roster from each organization participating in the present year football season for the Mid- Florida Conference shall be turned to the Executive Board immediately after certification of each team or prior to the start of the regular season games. The rosters will be kept for participate clarification in the event of a protest initiated by a member of the Conference or the Executive Board.

4. OFFICIAL TIME

The field clock is official unless otherwise designated by Game Official’s.

5. TEAM BOX PERSONNEL

Certified team personnel (MUST BE WEARING A COACHES SHIRT AND HAVE A COACHES BADGE WITH SEAL), the President, Vice President, or League Commissioner will be allowed in the team box during a game. Two water boys ONLY will be allowed on the sidelines. The only team members allowed on the sideline area must be involved with the current game. 5

6. GAME BALL

The home team is responsible for supplying the game ball. The visiting team will be allowed to use their own ball but must designate one of their own personnel to get this ball in and out of the game quickly; and at the appropriate time. Only approved LEATHER / COMPOSITE balls may be used. NOTE: The following are sizes of the game balls for each weight division (the sizes listed are for Wilson’s ball) however; any equivalent size ball is approved. (a) Ball size K-2 to be used for the Flag and Mitey MiteDivisions. (b) Ball size TDJ is to be use for the Pee-Wee and Junior Divisions.

(c) Ball size TDY or regulation high school ball is to be used for the Senior Division.

REFEREES WILL CHECK BALLS PRIOR TO GAME! The Mid-Florida Conference is not responsible for supplying balls or equipment for any game not hosted by the Mid-Florida Conference.

7. TOBACCO

Use of any tobacco product is not permitted anywhere on the playing field or in the game stadium. Tobacco products are not allowed on school property so any league using school property should follow the rules of the local Board Of Education.

8. ALCOHOL

Alcohol is not permitted in the stadium or adjacent areas. Any individual that is intoxicated will be removed from the field. Any coach, assistant coach, staff member, or official identified and determined to be under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any type of control substance (unless prescribed for that person by a doctor) will be automatically suspended from participating or working in any Mid-Florida Conference function.

9. COACHES ON FIELD

No coaches will be allowed on the field for the division of Pee Wee and up.

10. TIME-OUTS

We will follow high school rules in permitting not more than three (3) time-outs per team per half except for Mitey Mite and Flag which will get (2) time-outs per half. A coach must take a charged team time-out in order to have a discussion with a Game Official. Injury time-outs will be recorded as official time-outs and will not be charged against a team.

11. LENGTH OF QUARTERS

Pee Wee through Senior will use a 10 minute regulation clock. Mitey Mite Division will use an 8 minute regulation clock. Flag Division will use a 10 minute running clock with the last 2 minutes of the2nd and 4th quarters to run as a regulation clock.

12. HALF-TIME

There will be a ten (10) minute half time for all games played. No change of any type shall be permissibleunless the officials determine it necessary to complete the game safety reasons. Example: pending darkness.

13. WARM-UPS

Teams must warm-up in an area outside of the field and be ready to take the field and begin play as soon as the previous game has ended.

14. CHAINS

The home team shall operate the chains on the visitor side of the field except in a case where it is not physically possible. The home team may be charged with delay of game penalties for not having a chain crew in place. 6

15. EXTRA POINTS

We will allow two (2) points for a successful kick for conversion following a touchdown and one (1) point for a successful run or pass from scrimmage for the Peewee, Junior, and Senior divisions. Flags and Mitey Mites will be awarded (2) points for a pass and (1) point for a successful run.

16. TIE GAMES Overtime Procedure – Kansas City tie breaker Rule

* Only the Kansas City tie breaker rule shall be enforced by the referee group to settle tie games. There will be no agreements amongst the teams involved or the referees that will alterthe way the overtime period is to be played as governed according the MFFCC written rule. To start overtime, the ball shall be placed first and goal on the defensive team’s 10 yard line. Each team shall be permitted (1) additional time-out during overtime period. The team that wins the toss gets to decide who gets the ball first. Each team gets the ball and is allotted a series of (4) downs; at the same end of the field to conserve time and ensure equal conditions. That series shall be terminated by ANY SCORE by the offensive team or if defensive team gets possession of ball. If the team on offense scores a touchdown, it is entitled to the opportunity for extra point attempt; unless the points would not affect the outcome of the game. Pee Wees, Juniors, and Seniors divisions, a field goal attempt is permitted during any down. If the defensive team gains possession, the ball becomes dead immediately and the offensive team’s series of downs is ended. At the end of the overtime period if the two teams are stillequal with the same score, the game will be declared a tie by the referees and each team will be awarded a ½ game win credit thus ending the contest immediately.

**During Playoff games, we will follow same format as above with Kansas City tie breaker (only a winner has to be determined). So if the game is still tied at end of overtime period, we will go to aSecond Kansas City tie breaker. Offensive series shall be terminated by any score by the offensive team or if defensive team gets possession of ball, NOW ONLY 2 point extra point attempts permitted to help determine the winner. Flag and Mitey Mites after touchdown must try a pass for 2 point attempt; Pee Wees, Juniors, and Seniors after touchdown must kick for 2 point attempt. Contest is over once both teams had possession(s) of ball and score is not tied.

17. COACH/PLAYER EJECTION

*The first time any or all coaches/players are ejected from a game, the said coaches/players willautomatically be suspended from participation in the next scheduled Mid-Florida Conference game. A second ejection, during the current season (of a coach); will result in expulsion from the Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference, from the date of ejection, for one season. All ejections must be reported to the Mid-Florida Conference Executive Board, by the site director (or designee) in writing over the internet or with a phone call to your area Vice President within 24 hours. That league shall be charged a $50.00 fine for each coach ejection that must be paid in full to the conference before that coach is allowed to participate with/in any conference function.

18. FORFEITS

Game time is forfeit time; any exceptions will be made by the site Commissioners. Any forfeited game will result in an automatic $100.00 fine for failing to field a football team plus another $100.00 fine if the cheer team is not present at the game payable to the opposing team via the Mid-Florida Conference prior to the next scheduled game. No Gentleman’s agreements shall be allowed. 7

19. PRACTICE

No Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference team may begin practice prior to July 8 (conditioning may begin July 1) of the current football season year. No team may schedule more than eight (8) hours of practice per week. A week is defined as seven (7) consecutive calendar days. No more than 2 ½ hours of practice may be scheduled on any one-day.

NOTE: No local association may practice on Sunday without prior permission from the Mid-Florida Executive Board.

20. DEFINITION OF PRACTICE

To prevent possible bending of the rules and as protection of children, practice is defined as a gathering of players, without a minimum number, requiring the presence of at least one coach, where one or more activities take place.

1. Weekly film review

2. Chalk talk, strategy session

3. Play run through without pads

4. Controlled scrimmage.

The so-called "party" at the coach’s home where films are shown or football is worked on or discussed can be deemed a practice. Use of the football field or a football is not required to satisfy the definition of practice. Each local association should set up a policy with regards of these types of gatherings.

END OF GAME – If a game is ended for any reason after the halfway point of the fourth quarter, the game will be considered final.

RUNNING CLOCK – A running clock WILL be used at the beginning of the fourth quarter after a 24-point spread is obtained, however, if the Head Coach of the losing team requests that the clock be ran continuously before the fourth quarter of a regular season game due to a point spread of 24 points or more and does not feel that the team can close the point spread, THE OFFICIATING TEAM MUST COMPLY. In the event that the spread is decreased below 24 points, the clock will return to a regular clock. DURING PLAY-OFF and CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES THE CLOCK WILL NOT BE RAN CONTINUOUSLY BEFORE THE START OF THE FOURTH QUARTER OF THE GAME.

21. GENERAL REGULATIONS FOR ALL ASSOCIATIONS

1. Each player / cheerleader must participate in a minimum of six (6) regular season games in order to be eligible for the play-offs, Super Bowl or Cheer-off competition. Exception to this rule will be any players added by the Mid-Florida Conference President to teams that fall below the "Sixth Game Rule".

2. All football players and cheerleading squads will be required to participate at all Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference games for which they are present and dressed. Coaches will play everyone who shows for a game for at least* one set of four downs. This rule should be closely monitored by the league members in an effort to increase the minimum playing time for the child. This will help develop the skills of the child while at the same time create a positive attitude as a team member. Minimum play rule shall be enforced by your local club.

3. All teams must be present at the game site 1 hour prior to the scheduled start of any Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference league game. The Site Commissioners will consider any exceptions.

4. Upon arrival at the game site, ALL Head Coaches MUST check-in with the Site Director (or designee) prior to the scheduled game.

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5. In order to prevent any misunderstanding during the course of the game, Site Directors (or designee) and Game Officials should meet prior to kick-off to discuss rules and regulations.

6. All Game Officials have been requested to inform the Head coach of the jersey number of the player(s) involved in major (15 yard) penalties. Coaches may call over and ask which jersey number is involved if the Game Official does not report the jersey number. A coach must call a time-out if he/she wishes to discuss anything with the Game Officials.

7. All Game Officials are members of the Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference and have been certified by the Florida High School Activities Association or certified by USA Football Officiating Course. Game officials will read and understand the Mid-Florida Conference rules.

8. Coaches must report all accidents promptly to the local association’s insurance representative and complete an accident report immediately while the facts are fresh. League President’s must also be notified within 48 hours verbally and in writing.

9. REPORT ALL PROBLEMS TO THE DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT WHO IS ASSIGNED TO YOUR LEAGUE. All correspondence, whether verbal or written, must be transmitted through the District Vice President. Do not contact another local association or another Mid-Florida District Vice President. In the event your assigned District Vice President cannot be reached, your commissioner may contact the Executive Vice President or the President of the Federation to try and obtain an answer for the situation in reference to the telephone call that was made. If you are not satisfied with the decision rendered then the Commissioner must submit a written protest letter along with a fifty dollar check to be reviewed by the Executive Board. The Vice Presidents must report to the Conference President to meet and discuss any item that will alter or change the rules of the federation in any way prior to allowing the league to disperse unnecessary funds that is mandatory to go along with a protest submission.

10. All teams must shake hands in a sportsman like manner after the game is completed or the head coach will be suspended for one (1) game. Note: Any improper conduct by any coach at a game site shall be grounds for ejection by the site commissioner with possible suspension by the Mid-Florida Conference.

11. A fee of $200.00 must be sent to the Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference prior to the first regular season game for a Forfeit Fund. Your Association fee will be refunded at the conclusion of the season unless you forfeit a game at which time your fee must be immediately replenished.

12. *Coaches Background Checks: MANDATORY

13. Due to scheduling, deadline for new teams or leagues will be *February 15th of 2013. EXCEPTIONS: Mid-Florida Federation will consider interviewing an established organization that can meet the minimum requirement of teams (5), can prove financial stability, can participate under the rules and by-laws of the Conference without reservation, and agree to a two or three year contract that depends on whether the league is newly formed or an already well established league, may be allow to join the Conference after the deadline of the February 15th date with the approved vote of the current federation organization members of the past year and the Executive Board.

14. REMINDER: There is a $35.00 fine for "NO SHOWS" at a conference meeting. You may protest this fine at the next scheduled meeting. Any organization representative more than one hour late shall be considered as a NO SHOW and the organization that person represents will be fined the $35.00 late fee. All Fees must be paid before that organization can participate in the next scheduled event.

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15. Only a Chartered League Commissioner or President along with Conference Executive Board Members are allowed to speak or vote at any Mid-Florida Conference Meeting reference any item that is in discussion or is a part of the meeting agenda. There shall be no interference or input allowed from anyone attending a Mid-Florida Meeting that is not a representative or designee of a chartered league member (a chartered league member is a member that has met all financial and expected obligations for the calendar year of the Mid-Florida Conference). Visitors (parents/coaches of players or cheerleaders) are only allowed to address the board during the open floor forum of the meeting based on a time limit established by the Executive Board. Any item addressed by a visitor / guest speaker during the open floor forum, will not be discussed or voted on at that meeting but may be placed on the agenda for a future meeting.

16. A majority votes by the Chartered League Commissioners or Presidents, will be considered final and upheld by the Mid-Florida Conference Executive Board. Those that wish to file an appeal of a final vote can only do so by appearing before the Executive Board at a scheduled Executive Board Meeting. The appealing chartered League Commissioner and President must be present to present the appeal. (Definition of a chartered league commissioner is a commissioner representing a league that is in full compliance of the Mid-Florida Conference).

17. Only the Conference Executive Board can vote on player eligibility, forfeitures, or game (cont)

reversals. The decision of the Executive Board referencing any of the three items is final and cannot be overturned.

22. CHECK IN PROCEDURES AND RULES

The Site Director or a designee handles these procedures and rules for check-in have been approved by the Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference. Check-in Officials must become familiar with this information and see that all procedures and rules are enforced. There will be NO EXCEPTIONS made. The decisions of the Check-in Officials are final.

1. The Site Commissioners/Presidents/ Vice President of each league will be the Check-in Officials.

2. Both teams MUST BE PRESENT ONE HOUR BEFORE SCHEDULED TIME OF GAME. Failure to have the team present one hour before game time will result in a financial penalty to your home organization (emergency situations will be considered by the Conference Executive Board for allowance.

3. The head coach hands the I.D. Manual to the opposing representative.

4. The opposing representative examines the I.D. Manual and calls the players forward to be checked. Players should be in book order.

5. *The Check-in Official makes a final decision on the player’s eligibility and completes the I.D. sheet in ink, in the appropriate box at the bottom of the sheet. There will be no Gentlemen’s Agreement made that will allow any player the opportunity to participate when that player does not meet the requirement of his or her qualification requirement. (note: correct age and proof of identification a must)

6. Since the Mid-Florida Conference requires a certification at Jamboree, if a player is deemed ineligible, he/she will be removed from the field of play.

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7. All players must also be certified the day of Jamboree. There will be only one make-up day on the Monday after Jamboree unless an excused emergency situation occurs, also including emergency decisions made by the Executive Board to help preserve the stability of the conference leagues. The emergency situation will be reviewed and the final decision will be made by the Conference Executive Board. (Coaches will be responsible for players’ knowledge of time and place.)

8. All teams will line up in I.D. Manual order so that each opposing coach may look at the book and player of each team. NOTE: Eligibility of any challenged players shall be made at the time of inspection of the book. The athlete in question, both coaches and Site Commissioners must be present for this challenge. Ruling by the Site Commissioners will be final for that game unless protested by the head coach to the Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference. All players must have played in a minimum of six (6) conference games to be eligible players for the post-season games. Any injured players must attend the games.

9. All Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference players may compete with only one team on any given day in any Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference event. If a player is participating with a high school football team during the season that player is not eligible to participate in the Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference. Please note that playing middle school is allowed.

10. With the exception of Flag and Mitey Mite teams, if a team is unable to field 11 eligible players, that team will be assessed with a forfeit and the game will not be played.

11. Shoes with all Metal cleats are not legal for use in any Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference practice or game. Further, No shoes with exposed metal are allowed. However, shoes with cleats with metal caps WILL be allowed. The Head Coach will be suspended for one (1) game if this type of cleat is worn during a game.

12. Cheerleaders, just like players, are only allowed to move up one age group to remain a legal participant.

13. Numbers of players allowed per division. For all tackle teams the maximum number of player is 35 per team except for the seniors who are allowed 45. For the Flag Division the maximum number of players is 30. There shall not be more than the maximum number of participants allowed to take part in practice sessions unless approved by the Executive Board. No children shall be held for any period of time on a trial basis. This type of action will delay the child from signing up with another available league with open positions on its roster.

14. NOTE: League Age is the age you are on July 31, 2014. Breakdown of age cutoff with explanation:

Flag - If a 6yr old birthdate is July 31st with them turning 7, he/she would be a Mitey Mite player.

Mitey Mites - If a 8yr old birthdate is July 31st with them turning 9, he/she would be a Pee Wee player.

Pee Wee - If a 10yr old birthdate is July 31st with them turning 11, he/she would be a Juniors player.

Juniors - If a 12yr old birthdate is July 31st with them turning 13, he/she would be a Seniors player.

 

Seniors* - If a 14yr old birthdate is Apr. 30thor thereafter, with them turning 15, he/she are eligible for the current season. ABSOLUTELY NO 10th Graders. 11DIVISION

GRADE RESTRICTIONS

AGE

JAMBOREE WEIGHT

Seniors*

No 10th Graders

*14& under on Apr. 30th

Unlimited

Juniors

None

12 & under on July 31st

Unlimited

Pee Wee

None

10 & under on July 31st

Unlimited

Mitey Mites

None

8 & under on July 31st

Unlimited

Flags

None

4,5,6 on July 31st

Unlimited

 

PLEASE NOTE: No player that is playing High School is allowed to play in the MFFCC during the same season. Once a player has entered High School and has played on a High School tackle football team, he will no longer be eligible to return to play with any MFFCC Football team ever.

23. PROTEST PROCEDURES

Only protests regarding rule interpretations and play eligibility will be accepted. The judgment of the Game Officials cannot be protested.

24. RULE INTERPRETATIONS

1. Immediately upon deciding that a protest situation exists, the Head Coach must notify the game officials or the Site Director, as appropriate, in addition to the opposing Head Coach. At this point, the activity will continue under protest.

2. The protesting coach must write a letter explaining the details of the protest. The Mid-Florida Conference Vice President or President must receive this letter within 48 hours after completion of the activity.

3. A $50.00 fee must accompany all protests.

4. The protest will be reviewed by the Mid-Florida Conference Executive Board for recommendation of a penalty, if any. The Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference President will organize and convene a Protest Committee for recommendation of a penalty, it any.

5. A maximum of two (2) people from each side of the issue in question may attend any protest meeting. Persons failing to attend a protest meeting will forfeit all future rights of appeal.

6. The $50.00 fee will be returned to the protesting party if the protest is upheld, and the appropriate action will be taken.

7. The protesting party will forfeit the $50.00 fee if the protest is overruled. The fee will then be deposited in the treasury of the Mid-Florida Youth Football Conference.

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25. PLAYER ELIGIBILITY

1. Protests regarding a player or cheerleader eligibility must be made as soon as a coach or association becomes aware of the illegal player or cheerleader.

2. Follow steps 2 through 7 in "Rule Interpretations" above. The 48-hour rule is waived for protests regarding player eligibility. It is advisable that the Site Commissioner notifies the Head Coach of the opposing team before notifying the Conference Vice President. Note: (Protest must be made as soon as possible regarding an ineligible player).

26. FLAG RULES

1. Normal play shall require nine (9) players on the field; however, a team may request to play with five (5), six (6), seven (7) or eight (8) players if that is all that they have show up for the game. If less than five (5) players show, that team must forfeit the game.

The staff of each Mid-Florida Flag team shall consist of the following:

One (1) Head Coach

No more than five (5) Assistant Coaches

No more than two (2) Team Moms

No more than two (2) water boys who shall not be wearing team jerseys. Use common sense.

I.D. Manual – Flag Football will require the same paperwork in the I.D. Manual that the tackle football team does. No more than 30 players are allowed on the Flag Division Team. No more than the maximum number of players shall be allowed to practice at any time. No participant shall be retained for a trial period. This will delay the participant from the opportunity to sign with another league that has opening on its roster.

Equipment

1. Each player shall be dressed in a team uniform consisting of shirt and shorts (shirt must be long enough to be tucked in at all times); numbers are to be put on the back of the shirts.

2. *The player shall wear socks and football cleats (rubber cleats only) or tennis shoes.

3. The flag belt is of one-piece construction with two flag. One of the two flags or the entire belt must fall off completely when pulled. The belt must be clipped at the waistline and should be of contrasting color to the team shorts. It is illegal to tie the flags to the belt or otherwise tamper with the belt. All players must wear a belt at all times. Flags must be at least twelve (12) inches long and worn on either side of the player (not front and back). FLAGS with Velcro or Suction Cups ARE ALLOWED. BUT NO STAPLED FLAGS SHALL BE ALLOWED. Referees will check flags prior to the game. Any league identified using illegal flags as required by the conference, will be required to attend Conference Executive Board Meeting for a Board decision on game forfeitures, possible suspensions of the league, and suspension or removal of the team coaches from the Mid-Florida Conference.

4. During cold weather it is permissible for the player to wear long sleeves or sweat pants under the regulation uniform.

5. Mouthpiece is required.

6. Jewelry, helmets, caps of any kind, padded uniforms, towels or anything that covers the flag belt is illegal. Partial flags are illegal and no player shall be allowed to wear a partial flag.

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Playing Field

1. The field shall be from the twenty (20) yard line to the twenty (20) yard line. Side boundaries shall be the regulation football field lines.

2. The goal line shall be designated by ten (10) orange cones on each end. Cones will be placed at five (5) yards apart. The host team shall be responsible for placing these on the twenty (20) yard lines.

3. Cones are not to be any larger than 12 inches high. These are to be provided by the hosting team. The hosting team is responsible for having the field ready by fifteen (15) minutes prior to game time.

Playing Rules

1. A coin is to be tossed and the winner may elect to kick, receive, choose ends or defer choice to the second half.

2. To start the game and after toss, the ball shall be placed on the (35) yard line of the offensive team. There shall be no kick offs.

3. The game shall consist of four (10) minute quarters running clock and a standard clock for the last two (2) minutes for the 2nd and 4th quarter.

4. Each team has two (2) time outs per half. (No carry over)

5. Scoring will be six (6) points for a touchdown, two (2) points for a safety. Extra points will be scored as one (1) point for running, two (2) points for passing. The ball is to be spotted on the twenty-three (23) yard line.

6. All Chartered League Members are responsible to ensure that all coaches are familiar with and understand these and all other applicable rules of the conference.

7. Every effort should be made to allow each player to carry or catch the ball in every game. No player is to dominate the game by constantly carrying or catching the ball. Two offensive touchdowns per player per game maximum. No showboating. If the same player scores a second touchdown, then an additional touchdown shall be allowed but only if all players have scored twice.

8. Two coaches from each team shall be allowed on the playing field at all times. They will be a minimum of five (5) yards behind the closest player and cannot move inside a five (5) yard box. The coaches must make EVERY attempt to remain five (5) yards from the closest player from either team. Coaches may not escort players down the field while ball is in play. Coaches, who are on the field, CANNOT shout football instructions to the players after the ball is in play.

9. There must be a minimum of three (3) players on the line, both offensively and defensively, when the ball is hiked. Defensive players must line up six (6) feet from the line of scrimmage, regardless of the placement of the ball, even when it is in the end zone. Example: If ball is on the one-yard line, defensive players must still be six (6) feet behind the line of scrimmage.

10. The ball is down when the ball carrier’s flag has been pulled, falls off, or he/she has one knee on the ground.

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11. A fumble of any kind constitutes a dead ball. The point of fumble will be marked. Pass interceptions are allowed. An intercepted ball can be advanced by the intercepting team. At no time is an interception to be ruled as a fumble or a fumble to be rule an interception.

12. If a punt is elected, the team will be granted 35 yards with the exception that no punt shall exceed the 30-yard line of the opposing team.

13. The offensive line can block the defense by pushing with open palms, blocking with a "Chicken Wing Style" i.e.…with hands in towards chest and elbows out and high, forming a wide block." There is no blocking with the shoulders or head like in tackle football. At no time shall any child grab or punch another around the neck, head or any sensitive areas.

PENALTIES (Flag)

FIVE (5) YARD PENALTIES

1. Excess time-out illegally used or requested

2. Illegal delay of game

3. Putting the ball into play before declared "ready for play"

4. Infraction of scrimmage formation

5. False start or stimulating start of play

6. Too many players on the field

7. Illegal kick

8. Helping the runner

9. Holding defensively or offensively

10. Jumping or hurdling to avoid have a flag pulled

11. Illegal blocking on the line

12. Illegal blocking down field

13. Offensive pass interference

TEN (10) YARD PENALTIES

1. Stiff arming

2. Sticking, kicking, kneeing, elbowing, etc.

3. Tripping

4. Clipping

5. Un-sportsman like conduct*

6. Tackling*

*After the second offense of un-sportsman like conduct or tackling ball carriers the player will be ejected for the remainder of the game.

**Scoring an additional touchdown beyond the allotment will result in the ball being returned to the original line of scrimmage and a loss of the down. 15

27. MITEY MITE RULES

Normal play shall require eleven (11) players on the field. If less than nine (9) players show; that team must forfeit the game.

The staff of each Mid-Florida Mitey Mite team shall consist of the following:

One (1) Head Coach

No more than five (5) Assistant Coaches

No more than one (1) Team Mom

No more than two (2) water boys who shall not be wearing the current team jerseys.

I.D. Manual – Mitey Mite Football will require the same paperwork in the I.D. Manual that the other tackle football teams do.

Equipment

1. The Mitey Mite team will have identical equipment and playing field to the regular tackle teams.

2. The player shall wear socks and football cleats or tennis shoes.

3. During cold weather, it is permissible for the player to wear long sleeves or sweat pants under the regulation uniform.

4. Mouthpieces required.

Playing Rules

1. A coin is to be tossed and the winner may elect to kick, receive, choose ends or defer choice to the second half.

2. To start the game and after toss, the ball shall be kicked off from the forty-five (45) yard line of the offensive team. The defensive team will line up on the opposite forty-five (45) yard line.

3. The game shall consist of four (4), eight (8) minute quarters of standard clock.

4. Each team has two (2) time outs per half.

5. Scoring will be six (6) points for a touchdown, two (2) points for a safety. Extra points will be scored as one (1) point for running, two (2) points for passing. The ball is to be spotted on the three (3) yard line.

6. All local organizations are charged with the responsibility to ensure that all coaches are familiar with and understand these and all other applicable rules.

7. One coach from each team shall be allowed on the playing field at all times. The coach will be a minimum of five (5) yards behind the closest player and cannot move inside a five (5) yard box. The coaches must make EVERY attempt to remain five (5) yards from the closest player from either team. Coaches may not escort players down the field while ball is in play. Coaches who are on the field cannot shout football instructions to the players after the offense is set and the ref says coaches out.

8. No player can line up inside the guards except a middle linebacker who must be at least six (6) feet from the ball. Defensive linemen may line up heads up with the guards but not inside the guards.

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9. There will be a maximum of six (6) men on the defensive line. The linebackers or corner backs must be a minimum of six (6) feet off the line of scrimmage and are not allowed to blitz or stunt.

10. No turnovers on a kick-off.

11. During a kick-off, the receiving team must have POSSESSION of the ball before a dead ball can occur,no fumbles are allowed during kick-offs.

12. If a punt is elected, the team will be granted 35 yards with the exception that no punt shall exceed the ten (10) yard line of the opposing team.

13. Interceptions are allowed and the intercepting team can advance the ball after the interception has been made.

14. Fumbles ARE ALLOWED in the Mitey Mite Division except during kick-offs.

PENALTIES (Mitey Mites)

The Mitey Mite team will follow Standard Tackle Penalties for infractions. The only exception to this rule will be "Illegal Participation of a Coach" See Playing Rule #7. This infraction carries a 15-yard penalty.

Second infraction will result in coaches’ ejection from the game.

28. PEE WEE RULES

The playing rules for the Pee Wee Division are the exactly the same as the rules for the Junior and Senior Divisions with only one exception which is listed below:

(1). **Exception: There shall be no rush allowed by the opposing team on punts or field goals in this division. The defensive players can stand or jump and wave hands/arms to try and distract the kicking team.

(2). To help develop kids in proper technique on punts and fields goal attempts, ball must be long snapped to punter and holder for kicking of field goal/extra point kick attempts.

29. JUNIOR & SENIOR RULES

The playing rules for the Junior and Senior Divisions are exactly the same as the National High School rules except that we use a smaller ball, we play 10 minute quarters, and we award 2 points for an extra point kick and only 1 point for an extra point run or pass. 17

30. MID FLORIDA FOOTBALL & CHEER FEDERATION Suspension/Termination

Any coach, player, cheerleader, worker, or officer that takes any part in the illegal participation of an ineligible participant (Player/Cheerleader}for the purpose of strengthening or improving the quality of any league division or to gain an advantage over the opposing team will automatically be suspended from participating in any or all Mid- Florida Conference activities. The severity of the rule violation will be decided by the Executive Board of the Mid- Florida Federation, and the terms of suspension or termination will become affective immediately. Any player, cheerleader, coach, or worker of any League of the Mid- Florida Federation that initiates any physical confrontation or life threatening situation between any leagues or participants of the Mid-Florida Federation function will be suspended from all other federation functions for the remainder of the season year or indefinitely pending the severity of the rule violation, which will be decided by the Executive Board of the MFFCC Federation. No participant (player / cheerleader) shall be allowed to engaged in any physical confrontation with any coach, officer, game official, or staff member of the Mid- Florida Federation, neither shall verbal abuse (profanity / physical threats) of the mentioned parties be tolerated from any child participating in a Mid-Florida function. Again, the severity of the act of the person or persons involved in this type of activity will be decided by the Executive Board of the Federation and the rule violation penalty will immediately become affective. The Executive Board reserves the right to make fair and reasonable decisions when making a judgment pertaining to suspensions or termination that apply to the future participation of anyone at any level of the Mid- Florida Federation.

(B). At the end of a game with only a few seconds left to play, and the losing team does not stand a chance of winning the game and is on the defensive side of the ball, the coach of the losing team should not allow his players to rush the players on the offensive side of the ball that are kneeling to end the contest. This is ethical by way of not allowing angry or disappoint on the losing team the opportunity to inflict unnecessary injury to anyone on the winning team.

Anyone HEAD COACH that allows this to happen will be automatically suspended for one game if this type of incident is reported and found to be true by the Executive Board. This rule violation can be applied for the first scheduled game for the next season if it happens during the last game of the current season.

(C ). Angry fans, parents, friends, coaches, cheerleaders, team mothers, etc. shall not be allowed to harass or confront the members of the officiating group to express their personal opinion of opposing a field judgment made during the game. The OFFICIALS are employed by the Mid-Florida Federation and have agreed by contract to maintain a professional work manner in order to apply the rules of the game as stated by the Mid-Florida Federation. Any fan or member of the federation that violates the security of the officials or is identified to be out of control when addressing the officials should be given the opportunity to *refrain or ask to leave the function. The home team should assist in helping to remove this person or group of people. Crowd control is the responsibility of the home team and your team could be penalized if the fans are allowed the opportunity to dictate the mode of the contest in progress by way of uncontrollable outburst, use of profanity, unwarranted harassment, or continuous non-ethical behavior that affects or infringes on the freedom of enjoyment and the safety of others attending the game. USE THE EMERGENCY # 911 if an uncontrollable and life threatening condition develops as a direct result of this type of fan behavior. 18

*LEAGUE CONTRACT COMMITMENT

* All newly formed leagues to the Mid-Florida Youth Football / Cheerleading Federation that has been officially voted in and noted, must sign a contract agreement that commits that league to remain in the Mid-Florida Federation for a minimum of 3 years of service prior to engaging in or with any Mid-Florida function. At the end of the 3 year term, that league may depart from the federation if it chooses to do so by submitting a letter of resignation to the executive board in no more than 30 days, including weekends (Saturday/Sunday) after the end of the completion of the championship games of that particular season without penalty. Failure to submit a notification of the departure prior to exceeding the set number 30 days will result in the lost of all forfeit fees, or any other monies that that the league was due to receive prior to the time of the resignation of that league.

* All pre-established functioning leagues that are voted into the federation must sign a minimum two year contract agreement that commits that league to remain in the federation until the two year period is completed. At the end of the two year period that league has the right to resign as a member of the federation and must submit letter of resignation to the Executive Board 30 days prior to the resignation. Failure to meet any of the contractual requirement will result in the lost of any forfeit fees, or any other monies that the league was due to receive prior to the time of the resignation of that league.

ANY LEAGUE THAT BREAKS THE CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT OF PARTICIPATION WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO BE A FEDERATION LEAGUE MEMBER FOR A PERIOD OF 3 YEARS. ANY LEAGUE THAT CHANGES THE NAME AFTER BREAKING THE CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT AND RE-APPLY FOR MEMBERSHIP AS A NEW LEAGUE WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO JOIN THE FEDERATION FOR 3 YEARS FROM THE YEAR THE AGREEMENT IS BROKEN. ANY PERSON OR PERSON THAT’S TAKE PART IN ANY TYPE OF ACTIONS WITH THE INTENT OF DEMORALIZING, HUMILIATING, THREATNING, OR DISBANDING OF ANY MIDFLORIDA LEAGUE SHALL NOT BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE IN ANY MIDFLORIDA FEDERATION FUNCTION INDEFINITELY. ANY LEAGUE THAT TAKES PART IN ANY TYPE OF PROMOTION OR UNAUTHORIZED ACTIVITIES, THAT CAN DAMAGED THE CREDIBILITY OF ANOTHER LEAGUE MEMBER AND DEEMED UNSATISFACTORY IN REFERENCE TO THE LEAGUE MEMBERSHIP CODE OF ETHICS, AS DETERMINED BY THE MIDFLORIDA EXECUTIVE BOARD, SHALL NOT BE ALLOWED TO CONTINUE IT’S MEMBERSHIP IN THE MID-FLORIDA FEDERATION FOR AN INDEFINITE PERIOD OF TIME

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MID-FLORIDA ALL COACHES MEETING REQUIREMENTS

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ALL LEAGUES MUST BE REPRESENTED AT THE ALL COACHES MEETING TO START THE NEW SEASONS. ALL COACHES ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND. AT THIS MEETING THERE SHALL BE A ACKNOWLEDGEMENT DISCUSSION OF THE RULES, SCHEDULED EVENTS, ETHICS AND LEAGUE EXPECTATIONS AS SET FORTH BY THE MID-FLORIDA FEDERATION. THE PRESIDENT AND/OR COMMISIONER OF EACH INDIVIDUAL LEAGUE SHALL INFORM ITS OWN LEAGUE MEMBERS (coaches, coordinators, workers, etc.) NOT TO PARTITION TO IMPLIMENT CHANGE OR REVERSAL OF ANY TOPIC THAT HAS ALREADY BEEN DECIDED BY THE FEDERATION EXECUTIVE BOARD AND THE ATTENDING LEAGUE REPRESENTATIVE DURING PRESEASON FEDERATION MEETINGS PRIOR TO THE ALL COACHES MEETING.

AT THE ALL COACHES MEETING, EVERY LEAGUE MUST SUBMIT DOCUMENTATION VERIFYING EACH TEAM COUNT (both football/cheerleading). ANY LEAGUE THAT DOES NOT HAVE THE MINIMUM NUMBER OF TEAMS (5) TO PARTICIPATE AT THE PRE-SEASON JAMBOREE AND ALL REGULAR SEASON GAMES AS SUBMITED TO THE FEDERATION PRIOR TO THE JAMBOREE WILL BE PENALIZED WITH A FINE IN THE AMOUNT OF $100.00 PER TEAM PER GAME.

THE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERATION SHALL ADDRESS THE LEAGUES OF THE FEDERATION TO KICK OFF THE NEW SEASON. DOCUMENTS OF THE FEDERATION RULES, BY-LAWS, SEASON GAME SCHEDULES, and REFEREE CONTRACTS SHALL BE AVAILABLE FOR THE LEAGUE AT THIS TIME. 20