capital district pop warner coaches’ ’ education · capital district pop warner volunteer...

Capital District Pop Warner Capital District Pop Warner CoachesCoaches’’ EducationEducation

Coaches Education Training

Unit 1: Clinic Introduction/PWLS Overview

Unit 2: Risk Management

Unit 3: Pop Warner Forms, Championships & Scholastics

Unit 4: Coach-Athlete Communication Why Children Play Youth Sports

Coach & Parent Behavior Coaches Code of Conduct

Closing Remarks and Questions

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Menu Page The Menu is designed to help the trainers present the program in sections. You can run the program from beginning to end. Or Pick the Unit that you want to present and click on the icon next to the Unit Title. This will take you to the set of slides that you want to present. When are done with this unit, you will be returned to the Menu automatically.

Capital District Pop Warner Volunteer Training

• The Coaches Education Training is for all Presidents, Commissioners, Coordinators, Head Coaches, and Assistant Coaches working with your children in Pop Warner today.– Consistent training between coaches and commissioners– Coaches are responsible for managing the team/squad– Commissioners are responsible for administrating the game

and rules.– Staff responsibilities are identified by the Certified Roster

and during games by the required Field ID Tags. – EVERYONE is responsible for following the rules!

4

2011 Eastern Region Cheer Clinic

Saturday July 30th, 2011Mega Cheer Clinic 9am

Sun National Bank Center Trenton NJ

**this is the only Region Clinic being held this year**


• All new Head Coaches and Association Coordinators as well as Head Coaches and Association Coordinators that attended in 2008 must attend.

• If the Head Coach for a team is not due to attend this year, at least 1 assistant coach from that team should attend. Please note that by 2014, all Coaches will have to have attended a Region Clinic.

• Cost per Coach is $65; lunch will be included. • If you attended last year your Cost is only $30.

5

6


Preregistration only will be available on- line. This will be the only way to register this year. Registration will be available on the day of the clinic, but the cost per coach will be $75 each for all attendees including last year’s attendees.

UNIT ONE:UNIT ONE:

POP WARNER OVERVIEWPOP WARNER OVERVIEW

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Introductory Slide to Unit One

Unit 1: Pop Warner Overview• Brief History of Pop Warner• Goals/Philosophy• Pop Warner Structure

– National, Regional, League, & Association• Authority/Powers of the Region • Authority/Powers of the League• Association Responsibilities• Protests/Complaints

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This is the second intro slide for Unit One. It highlights the topics to be covered in this unit. In this Unit, we will go over a brief history of Pop Warner and Give a brief run through of the Pop Warner structure including: National, Regional, League/Conference, & Association Structures. We will discuss the Authority/Power of each Level in the Structure. Finally, we will go over the Responsibilities of the local Association, and Briefly discuss the procedure for filing a protest or complaint.

9

Pop Warner is…

• The largest and oldest national youth football and cheerleading program.

• Endorsed by the NFL and the NFL Players Association.• The only youth sports program to emphasize education.• Pop Warner DEMANDS THAT ALL PARTICIPANTS BE

ACADEMICALLY FIT AS WELL AS PHYSICALLY FIT.– Pop Warner recognizes and awards scholar-athletes for

their performance in the classroom.– Awards include scholarships to the top award winners.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

What is Pop Warner? This slide shows the key points that make Pop Warner unique. Pop Warner is the ONLY real national youth football and spirit program with a real National competition and a true Super Bowl (unlike some other programs that claim to be a national program, but lack some of these key elements). Pop Warner is the only Youth Sports program to emphasize education. This fact alone makes Pop Warner unique. Very few young athletes move on the become professional athletes. Youth must learn the importance of an Education ,and it is important to reward them for their academic success.

POP WARNER HISTORY• Founded in 1929

by Joe Tomlin.• Based on the

relationship between scholastics and athletics.

• Named for Glen Scobie (Pop) Warner.

Occurred after he was the only coach invited to teach at a clinic that actually showed up.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Pop Warner Actually began as an attempt to get young vandals off Philadelphia Streets by providing an alternative activity. “Gangs” of youth roamed the streets breaking windows in downtown businesses.

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL POP WARNER

• NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS– Langhorne, PA.

• WORLD WIDE PARTICIPATION

United States

Russia

Guam

Germany

Japan

Canada

Mexico

Scotland

Presenter

Presentation Notes

The Pop Warner national headquarters in Langhorne, PA (Philadelphia). The program has spread worldwide with teams in several countries around the World.

PWLS GOALS & PHILOSOPHY

• Academics and athletics go hand in hand.

• Development of well rounded young men and women.

• Teach fundamentals of Football and Cheerleading.

• Stress the importance of Education.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

PWLS Goals and Philosophy. These are taken directly form the National Rule Book Review Slide Pop Warner is the only youth sports program with this philosophy We are concerned with much more than sport. Emphasis should be on teaching, not winning The tie between education and athletics is one of the founding tenants of the program. Few participants will excel at sports in later life, but they all can benefit from education. As presenters review the contents of this page, this would be a good time to point out that the name of our national organization is: POP WARNER LITTLE SCHOLARS! Not Pop Warner Football and Cheerleading.

GOALS & PHILOSOPHY• Provide an atmosphere

conducive to development of sound mind, body, and character.

• Stress importance of making this a fun experience.

• Inspire youth regardless of race, creed, religion or national origin.

• Practice the ideals of fellowship, sportsmanship, scholastics, and physical fitness.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review the contents of this slide. Point out that Pop Warner is interested in developing well rounded young people, not just football players and cheerleaders. This can be accomplished by being a positive influence, teaching appropriate physical techniques, and by talking with and mentoring to the participants in your charge. Children are all about fun. If the experience is not enjoyable, they will not return. Pop Warner can be fun and instructional at the same time.

GENERAL OBJECTIVES• Teach lessons of value in self-

discipline, teamwork, concentration, friendship, leadership, and sportsmanship

• Provide all an opportunity to participate in an organized environment that places emphasis on maximum safety and participation.

• Provide a safe environment that is structured of all participants.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Safety is Key: No activity should be undertaken without ensuring maximum safety of the participants. And All activities should be designed to provide each child an equal opportunity to participate.. The age/weight schematic for establishing divisions of play is another of the cornerstones of the program. These age/wt. restrictions reduce the chance of injury making the game safer. These age/wt. divisions have been established by years of experience and are based on a knowledge of child development.

POP WARNER STRUCTURE• National Pop Warner

• Regional Pop Warner (example: Eastern)

• League/Conference (example: Capital District)

• Association(example: Albany)

• Team (Division Pee Wee)

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This slide is an advanced organizer to give new coaches a quick snap shot of of the overall structure. Details of each level are defined in the slides to follow. Pop Warner Structure has 5 basic levels. At the top is the National Level. Then there is the Regional (section of the country) Then there is the local league or conference. Each league has several neighborhood Associations. And each Association has its teams and age divisions

Pop Warner Little ScholarsPop Warner Little Scholars National StaffNational Staff

Jon ButlerJon ButlerExecutive DirectorExecutive Director

Sam Sam MutzMutzFootball CommissionerFootball Commissioner

Lisa MoroskiLisa MoroskiCheer / Dance CommissionerCheer / Dance Commissioner

Josh Josh PrucePruceScholastics and Media RelationsScholastics and Media Relations

Mary FitzgeraldMary FitzgeraldCOOCOO

Beth DietzBeth DietzEvents CoordinatorEvents Coordinator

Trevor SchollTrevor SchollRecruiting and MarketingRecruiting and Marketing

Phyllis Phyllis FarruggioFarruggioOffice ManagerOffice Manager

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This slide shows the Pop Warner national staff. These are the people who have committed themselves to overseeing the PWLS program around the country. The national staff work full time and do receive a salary. Below this level (Regional on down) everyone else in Pop Warner is a Volunteer. Review Slide

Pop Warner Little ScholarsPop Warner Little Scholars Eight RegionsEight Regions

National National Pop WarnerPop Warner

New EnglandNew England EasternEastern MidMid--SouthSouth SoutheastSoutheast

MidMid--AmericaAmerica SouthwestSouthwest WesconWescon PacificPacificNorthwestNorthwest

Presenter

Presentation Notes

The administration of Pop Warner is divided into 8 Regions. This slide shows the current regions The number of regions can be changed by Pop Warner National if need be. Review Slide

National Authority

• Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. (PWLS)– Parent Organization – Provides the National structure for the organization– Has the final authority over all rule changes– Administers the All-American Scholastic Program.– Operates the National Championships for Football,

Cheer and Dance.– Licenses vendors for Pop Warner logo merchandise

Presenter

Presentation Notes

All Authority for the program emanates from National They establish the structure and operating mechanism for the program. National has the final say on all proposed rule changes The scholastic program has two main thrust: 1) All participants must have an overall GPA of 2.0 or 70%, or completing the scholastic eligibility form. And 2) the Scholastic All-American Program which recognizes our best and brightest for their accomplishments in the classroom and within their community. We will talk more about the Scholastic Program in a few minutes. National oversees all aspects of the National Championships including site selection, costs and criteria for participation.

LEAGUE POWERS & AUTHORITY

• Enforce National & Local rules.• Establish Association Boundaries.• Select Membership.• Training of it’s members.• Police powers/hearings & appeals.• Discipline members (adult & juvenile).• Summary Dismissal Authority

Presenter

Presentation Notes

By National directive, the Conference has the authority to make rules to govern the operation of the league. Boundaries are established to provide for an equitable distribution of the available number of participants and to protect association integrity Conference approves new associations and removes those that are not operating in accordance with rules and procedures The conference is responsible for dissemination of necessary information Hearings are conducted in accordance with Pop Warner rules and procedures The conference administers appropriate punishment The conference has the authority to dismiss any volunteer or participant for cause.

20

Eastern Region Management Eastern Region Management Team StructureTeam Structure

Larry Hahn Vendor Liaison

Tom LeCompte Sgt-At-Arms

Tom Barone Treasurer

Debby Marshall Cheer Commissioner

Jack Fuller Secretary

Neville ClothierBowl Game Commissioner

Mike ParrowChallenger Division

Dave SandersCommunications

FOOTBALL COMMITTEEBill Lynch John Wells

Boyd Woodhams Jim MisiaszekJames McDaniel Tyrone Johnson

CHEER ADVISORY BOARDNeville Clothier Janet WojcikPeggy Custode Lisa DupellDebby Marshall Melissa Westcott

REGION AUTHORITY

• The Region is an extension of Pop Warner Little Scholars.

• Oversees the business/operation of the Region.

• Enforces policies.• Conducts hearings and accepts appeals.• Disciplines when necessary.• Certifies teams for National competition.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

The Region is an extension of National Like National, Regional hears appeals at its sole discretion. Disciplinary action most often involves Conference level situations Region verifies weight and certification paperwork to certify eligibility for Regional Championships

League (Conference) StructureLeague Board

President, Commissioner, Spirit Coor. Scholastic Coor. Secretary, Treasurer, etc.

Association 1(Association Board)

Midget

Jr. Midget

PeeWee

Jr. PeeWee

Mitey Mite

Tiny Mite

Flag


Midget

Jr. Midget

PeeWee

Jr. PeeWee

Mitey Mite

Tiny Mite

Flag


Midget

Jr. Midget

PeeWee

Jr. PeeWee

Mitey Mite

Tiny Mite

Flag

Association Etc.(Association Board)

Midget

Jr. Midget

PeeWee

Jr. PeeWee

Mitey Mite

Tiny Mite

Flag

Presenter

Presentation Notes

The term league has two meanings: A) it is a group of associations, also known as a Conference, which has been chartered by National to participate in the Pop Warner program. B) it is also a group of teams in the same playing division that Are placed together for scheduling purposes. Associations are the neighborhood programs that manage the teams.

23

Capital District Pop Warner Board of Directors

Dan MartuscelloDan MartuscelloPresidentPresident

Joe PrybaJoe Pryba11stst ViceVice--President (Football)President (Football)

Yvonne ClevelandYvonne Cleveland22ndnd ViceVice--President (Cheer) President (Cheer)

Paula MarshPaula MarshSecretary / ScholasticsSecretary / Scholastics

Tom Tom HindesHindesTreasurerTreasurer

Bryan LeaheyBryan LeaheyMidget & Jr. Midget CommissionerMidget & Jr. Midget Commissioner

Don DelongDon DelongPee Wee CommissionerPee Wee Commissioner

Denis SheehanDenis SheehanFlag CommissionerFlag Commissioner

Steve LaFeverSteve LaFeverMitey Mite Commissioner/Roster Software/Web MasterMitey Mite Commissioner/Roster Software/Web Master

Grady ByrnesGrady ByrnesChallenger CommissionerChallenger Commissioner

Mike MyersMike MyersJr. Peewee CommissionerJr. Peewee Commissioner

Association / Neighborhood Program

*FOOTBALL *CHEER/DANCE

*SCHOLASTICS

24 Associations and 7 Counties24 Associations and 7 CountiesAlbanyAlbany

Averill ParkAverill ParkBallston SpaBallston SpaBethlehemBethlehemBurnt HillsBurnt Hills

ColonieColonieColumbia CountyColumbia CountyEast GreenbushEast GreenbushGreene County Greene County

GuilderlandGuilderlandHelderbergHelderberg ValleyValley

Niskayuna Niskayuna No. Columbia CountyNo. Columbia County

North North ColonieColonieRavenaRavena

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This slide is an introduction to the next section to denote a shift from discussing the national, regional, and conference levels to the local Association level. Associations are organizations that sponsor and administer one or more teams. Associations are characterized by specific geographical coverage (boundaries).

ASSOCIATION BOARD

• Personnel should include (Minimum)– President – Vice President– Secretary– Treasurer– Football Commissioner– Cheerleading Coordinator – Scholastic Coordinator

Personnel may also include:Personnel may also include:RegistrarRegistrar

Fund Raising ChairmanFund Raising ChairmanConcession Stand ManagerConcession Stand Manager

Equipment ManagerEquipment ManagerWeigh MasterWeigh Master

Whatever you think would help Whatever you think would help your Association run very your Association run very

efficiently.efficiently.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

These are the minimum positions necessary to operate a Pop Warner Association. Variations and additional positions depend on the Associations By-Laws.

ASSOCIATION RESPONSIBILITIES

• Enforce National & Local rules.• Write & Maintain Association by-laws• Keep Financial Records & Accounting Data• Police - Boundaries/Members.• Hold Hearings & Appeals.

– Discipline members (adult/juvenile).– Set Grievance Procedures

• Work together enforcing league policy and rules.

Also include -Fund raising

Buy equipmentRecruit coaches

Secure fieldLiabilities Insurance

Registration

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Association are also expected to “police” themselves to enforce local, league, regional, and national rules. Each group should have their own by-laws. They are responsible for keeping good financial records that may be subject to public review. If need be, the Association may need to hold hearings to enforce PWLS rules And the Code of Conduct (to be discussed later).

ASSOCIATION KEYS TO SUCCESS

• The representatives of your association should attend a monthly meeting to receive information so that your association will be well informed and prepared for your season of football and cheer/dance.

• Failure by your representatives to attend will create an uninformed association.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide Being informed and represented at conference meeting is key. Information & Knowledge = Empowered volunteers

ASSOCIATION KEYS TO ASSOCIATION KEYS TO SUCCESSSUCCESS

•• Background ChecksBackground Checks: A background check will be : A background check will be done on all volunteers and administrative personnel.done on all volunteers and administrative personnel.

•• All Volunteers must complete the PWLS Volunteer All Volunteers must complete the PWLS Volunteer Application for the current year.Application for the current year.

•• The minimum will be a check of the Federal Sex The minimum will be a check of the Federal Sex Offender Registry (Offender Registry (www.nsop.govwww.nsop.gov) )

•• Discretion should be top priority on information Discretion should be top priority on information received. received.

•• One affidavit per association (including a list of One affidavit per association (including a list of individuals checked) should be forwarded to the individuals checked) should be forwarded to the League (CDPW) by 08/31.League (CDPW) by 08/31.

•• League to National. League to National.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide All volunteers must now undergo a background check. At the very least, Volunteers must checked against the Sexual Predator registry. When issues do arise during a background check, be discrete. If you have to reject a coaches application, you are still responsible to protect their privacy. Limit the number of people who see background information. Once an Association has completed its background checks, they sign a sworn affidavit that goes on file with the league office. Once each association has completed its checks, the league, in turn, sends sworn affidavit to nationals verifying that all the volunteers have been cleared

KEYS TO SUCCESS

• To be a successful league and association it is important that your league and your association work hand in hand with open communications and a clear direction.

• It is imperative that your board accept responsibilities when it comes to informing your coaches and members, plus discipline when needed.

• Please ask questions if you do not understand.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide: Team work is not only the key winning games and competitions; it is the key to a successful Association and a successful league. If you hear something that does not sound right, it is probably not right. Never jump to conclusions or make ASSumptions. The dumb question is the one that you don’t ask.

The Squad• Squad Staff

– Head Coach – Assistant Coaches – Coach Trainee – Student Demonstrators– Equipment Manager– Trainer – Team Parent– Association Cheer Coordinator

Presenter

Presentation Notes

The team is the basic Pop Warner unit. Football coaches need to remember that no more 10 staff members, including the coaches may be on the sideline (in the team box) during games, and all coaches should be listed on the roster for both football & cheer. The head coach must be 21 years old Assistant coaches must be at least 18 or a high school graduate The coach trainee Must be at least 16 and student demonstrators at least 15 ( see rule book for the other restrictions that apply to student demonstrators) These positions relate directly to the positions listed on the National Rosters. They are the positions allowed by Pop Warner.

33

Football Squad Staff• A total of ten (10) staff positions

– 1 Head Coach (21 or older) and 5 Assistant Coaches (18 or older)

• Ratio of children to coaches (21+) (12:1) at all events (practice, game, competition)

• Must supervise all practices, games, etc.– 1 Coach Trainee (16 – 17 years of age) – 1 Equipment Manager– 1 Trainer– 1 Commissioner

• Only staff with a CDPW Tag will be allowed on the field.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Neville’s Slide

34

Cheer Squad Staff

• A total of nine (9) staff positions– 1 Head Coach (21 or older) and 4 Assistant

Coaches (18 or older)• Ratio of children to coaches (21+) (12:1) at all

events (practice, game, competition)• Must supervise all practices, games, etc.

– Maximum of 3 Coach-Trainees (16 – 17 years of age) and a maximum of 4 Student Demonstrators (15 – 17 years of age)

• Maximum of 4 Student Demonstrators and Coach Trainees Combined.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Neville’s Slide

35

Coach-Trainees and Student Demonstrators

• Certified like a spirit participant (BC, physical, parental approval, scholastic fitness, etc.)

• Must be at least 2 years older than the oldest child on the squad

• Must have at least 2 years of prior Cheer/Dance experience.

• Student Demonstrators Demonstrate! No hands-on coaching, may only demonstrate moves and teach words to cheers.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Neville’s Slide

36

Formation of Squads• Cheer Squads structure all levels

– Small squad (1 – 12)– Medium squad (13 – 24)– Large squad (25 - 35)

• When there are multiple teams/squads for the same division, they are split alpha (Mitey Mite through Midget)!

• The Alpha rule does not apply to the flag division.

• Flag Football teams should have equal distribution of 5, 6, and 7 year olds.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Neville’s Slide

37

Squad without Football Team

• Any cheer or dance squad w/o team– Must be age eligible– Must be attached to ONE football team

(different level) and participate at game weekly

– May compete League/Region/National– May be large or small

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Neville’s Slide

38

Cheer Eligibility Update

• Participants on Traditional Pop Warner Squads will be permitted to simultaneously participate in Pop Warner and school programs. (Revised S6-Mandatory Cuts)

• Previously referenced allowed only High School Winter Sport participation.

• Still not allowed to simultaneously participate in All-Star or Recreational Cheer and Dance.

39

Special League Rules (Mascots)

• Associations choice whether or not they will have mascots

• No mascots if Assoc. has Cub Cheer • Maximum of 2 per squad• Must be at least 5 years of age• Can NOT perform stunts, may only

perform sidelines / chants and crowd participation

• Can not perform at competition

Team Authority

• Enforce National, Regional & Local rules and procedures.

• Train Participants

• Discipline Participants (Limited Authority).

Presenter

Presentation Notes

The team is responsible for enforcing all national, regional, and local rules. Avoid disciplinary action & Be your own police. Must adhere to appropriate standards for training. Learn what things are prohibited and refrain from using these techniques. (prohibited techniques are found in the rule book.) Any disciplinary action should be designed to teach as well as correct inappropriate action. Consult with your commissioner or cheer coordinator when necessary.

COACHES COMMITMENT

• It is the Volunteer’s responsibility to support the goals and philosophy of the Pop Warner program. Please work with your local associations in supporting and making your League and National Pop Warner the best youth program in the country.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This slide was moved into this first unit so that the each will know what they are getting into, and that the program expects their support & cooperation. Working as a team, coaches can help make.. * the Pop Warner Program the best youth program in the country. More on this topic will be discussed in the Unit on the Code of Conduct which is found in the front of the National Rule Book and will be reviewed later in this presentation.

PROTESTS/COMPLAINTS• Only Protests involving the eligibility of a

participant shall be considered.• Complaints or Grievances may be filed on all

other concerns that may arise during the season.

• Both protests and complaints must be filed in a timely fashion.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This comes right out of the rule book Procedures for filing protests and complaints can be found in your league’s Procedural manual. This would be a good time for the local conference to review any specific rules or procedures that they may have related to protests and grievances. Review Slide Any item that does not constitute a protest, is handled as a complaint

UNIT 2: RISK MANAGEMENT

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Presenters should stress that this is the most important Unit. Unfortunately, we exist in a society that is sue happy. This makes it necessary to always be aware of potential risks. More importantly, this Unit will help make the Pop Warner experience safer for our young athletes.

RISK MANAGEMENT DEFINITION

• Directing or controlling the interests and performance of your program by teaching, guiding, and inspiring others to provide a safe and healthy experience for its participants.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Like any good class, we need to start by defining our important terms. So.. What is Risk Management? Definition: Directing or controlling the interests and performance of your program by teaching, guiding and inspiring others to provide a safe and healthy experience for its participants.

Risk Management

• Lawsuits are more and more common.

• How many newspaper stories have appeared lately regarding lawsuits and youth sports?

"Father sues team for not naming son MVP"

AP/ESPN, Nov. 7, 2002

"A Canadian father is suing the Amateur Hockey Association after his 16-year-old son failed to win the league's most valuable player award. The dad is seeking about $200,000

in psychological and punitive damages from the association.

He also demands that the MVP trophy be taken from the winner and given to his son.

"Parents suing youth football league".Houston Chronicle, August 28 --

Texas: "Parents of a fifth-grade boy asked the courts Tuesday to throw a yellow penalty flag on the Youth Football league over a rule change…. that switched players to

different teams after practice started. In a lawsuit filed Tuesday, an attorney sued the Youth Football league on behalf of his son. The boy had played with his grade-level team before

being switched because of age to a junior high-level group with "significantly larger" players. The parents are asking a judge to order the league to revert to rules in place when children

registered in May." (Jo Ann Zuniga, Aug. 20).

“Settlement ends paralyzed boy's lawsuit: $2

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Why is Risk Management so important/ Well, Every one has seen the news stories and heard about many sports related lawsuits. Ask participants in the audience to volunteer some of the stories that they have heard about. Take about 3 responses and then move on to the next slide.

http://www.overlawyered.com/places/canada.html

http://www.overlawyered.com/topics/schools.html#sports

http://www.overlawyered.com/topics/schools.html#sports

RISK MANAGEMENT

• The majority of litigation dealing with coaches involves negligence.

• Negligence: Defined as the failure to use reasonable and prudent care in a situation that may cause harm to someone or something.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

While some articles that we have reviewed are frivolous, most cases focus on coaching who were negligent. Review Slide.

Risk Management• IN THE SUPREME COURT OF CALIFORNIA

8/28/03Plaintiff vs - EAST SIDE UNION HIGH SCHOOL

“Coaches could be legally liable for injuries sustained by young athletes under their control, …”Reported by DAVID KRAVETS, AP Legal Affairs Writer

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Can a youth coach really be held liable for injuries to young athletes? Here is a headline to think about. In a recent ruling in CA, their Supreme Court made it real clear that Coaches can be held legally liable for injuries to young athletes.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/news/archive/2003/08/29/sports0358EDT0023.DTL

RISK MANAGEMENT

• Official Rule Book: Know and understand the rules of Pop Warner.

• League Rules & Procedures: Make sure that you understand your responsibilities and that you carry out the expectations of your board.

• Pop Warner Coaches Risk Management Handbook.

One key component of being a responsible coach is to learn the Pop Warner rules and the expectations set by your local board.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide. Coaches and administrators are responsible for all information contained in National Rule Book and local publications. Just knowing the rules and guidelines goes a long way toward avoiding litigation and being a responsible coach.

TOP DUTIES OF A COACHB. Properly plan the activity.C. Provide appropriate supervision.D. Provide proper instruction.E. Provide adequate and safe equipment.F. Evaluate for injury or incapacity.G. Provide safe physical environment.H. Match athletes appropriatelyI. Warn of inherent dangersJ. Initiate medical response.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Where’s Letter “A”? Actually, these letters come straight out of the PW Coaches Risk�Management handbook available in your binder or at www.popwarner.com The nine reasons behind a Head Coach Use this as a check list for your responsibilities

B-Properly plan the activity

• Plans must be reasonable, well thought out, based on past experience with the athletes’ readiness in mind.

• All plans should be reviewed continuously and kept for the record.

• Finally, plans should contain properly written performance objectives and documented logical sequences and progression for learning the skill.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide: Stress that good coaches (both football & cheer) come to practice with pencil and paper. The next slide will go into how to write this “lesson plan.”

Risk Management

We don’t plan to fail;

We fail to plan.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide. Pause for effect. Go to next slide.

Warm-up and Cool down

• A proper warm-up and cool-down helps athletes train and compete without being injured.

• Guidelines for Warm-up/Cool down are found in the Pop Warner Coaches Risk Management Manual as well as the Pop Warner Rule Book. They include –– Minimum 10 minute warm-up before and 10 minute

cool down after practices and games– No more than 30 minutes of warm-up before games

and competitions

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Stress the importance of warning up and cooling down. A good Practice Plan includes a set time for warming up and cooling down. Proper stretches are those that focus on increasing flexibility. AVOID BOUNCING – When stretching. Many coaches don’t know that Flexibility is a form of Strength. Flexible Muscles not only reduce the chance of injury. They tend to be stronger.

TRAININGTraining methods and type, frequency,

duration, and intensity of practices should vary among athletes, depending on the athlete’s age, physical conditioning, mental state, and training goals. The purpose of training is to prepare for competition. Training is not to be used as a disciplinary activity, unsupervised play, or competition itself.

Guidelines for Training can be found in your Risk Management Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

It is important to work to improve the athletes physical conditions. To help them Get “IN-SHAPE.” But remember this a gradual process. Work on gradually improving conditioning. Try to avoid techniques such as running laps for punishments. It does not do a whole lot to improve conditioning and just takes the athlete away from a chance to learn.

C-PROVIDE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISION

• General supervision is the oversight of all area and events taking place during the session, whether training or competition.

• Specific supervision is the oversight of specific elements or skills being performed.

• Coaches should avoid any situation where a single coach is alone with one or more minors (always have 2 or more coaches)

Guidelines for Supervision can be found in your Risk Management Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

There are two basic types of supervision: General and Specific. Review Slide. Stress the importance of never being alone (one on one) with an athlete and stress the importance of never leaving a coach alone with an athlete. Being alone with a minor is a risk that you just can’t take. The reality, is that you never who is child predator – yet to get caught, and You never know which child may accuse an adult of doing something that they did not do. Believe it or not, there have been cases of children lying about being abused to get attention. . Both situations are truly avoidable.

D-Provide Proper InstructionSports coaches are responsible for instructing athletes on sport-specific techniques and skills, game rules, safety rules, and sportsmanship.

•Introduce the Skill•Demonstrate the Skill•Explain the Skill•Pay attention to Athletes Practicing the Skill

Guidelines for Proper Instruction can be found in your Risk Management Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Remember you can be held responsible for what you should have known and/or done as well as what you do. When you agree to accept the responsibility of coaching, you will be held to a minimum standard of knowledge necessary to perform that function. Review Slide

RISK MANAGEMENT

• The number one law suit for youth sports is teaching improper technique.

• As a coach it is your responsibility to improve your coaching skills by taking classes, reading books, going to clinics, or reviewing tapes that will allow you to give proper instructions on technique.

• As a coach, do not attempt to teach skills that YOU DO NOT know or understand.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

And the answer is… Review the slide. Point out that: Coaches may go to camps & clinics to learn skills, and note that many high school coaches and college coaches are open to letting youth coaches observe practices – especially, if you are coaching players that will eventually play or cheer for them.

E- Provide Adequate and Safe Equipment

• Equipment should be fitted properly.

• Inspected daily and maintained at all times.

Guidelines for Safe Equipment can be found in your Risk

Management Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide: You can trust that in case of a lawsuit, the big time equipment manufactures can afford better attorneys than most youth football coaches. More details on the next slide.

F- Evaluate for Injury and Incapacity

• Coaches have a duty to evaluate the physical fitness, the mental condition and the skill level of athletes.

• Coaches must be able to accurately identify other conditions that must be attended to in a timely manner.

• Forcing athletes to participate is not an acceptable behavior.

Guidelines for Injury and Incapacity can be found in your Risk Management Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. More on this topic will be discussed in the section when we review the Emergency Action Plan.

G- Provide Safe Physical Environment

• Although facility managers, building owners and other operators have certain responsibilities for providing a safe environment in and around their facilities, coaches are responsible for inspecting all areas to be utilized in practice and competition to identify hazards.

Guidelines for Safe Physical Environment can be found in your Risk

Management Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review the slide. Point out that each practice should begin with a walk through of the field to check for anything unsafe. Especially those that use city and county parks for practice, God only knows what goes on at those parks when you are not at practice. Check the field daily. Also, be sure that if the park has “off-limits” areas that they are clearly marked. Tell your commissioner or cheer coordinator about any unsafe conditions,

INCLEMENT WEATHER• Monitoring weather condition is the responsibility

of the game official, Coaches, Association and League Commissioners.

• Discuss the procedures you will follow if inclement weather becomes an issue (PW rules require that you have a plan!!)

• Presidents are responsible for notifying the League Commissioner when, due to weather, a game(s) can not be played.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Everyone is responsible for keeping up with weather. Discuss with your Commissioner or Cheer Coordinator to set-up a bad weather plan. More on this issue will be discussed after our Lightning Video.

H – Match Athletes Appropriately

• Coaches must be sure their participants are not at a serious disadvantage by improperly matching them for practices or competition.

• Skill, experience, height, weight, age, injuries, maturity, mental state and gender ALL must be considered in matching participants. Guidelines for Match

Athletes can be found in your Risk Management

Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide. Mismatching athletes is not only dangerous, it is also a good way to destroy an athletes confidence. Conversely, Properly matching athletes is not only safer, it also builds confidence. It is not unusual for a young athlete who starts playing Pop Warner with little confidence, maybe afraid to make contact, to become good hitters by the end of the season – IF – he is not put in situations that make him loose confidence. Our Goal is to build confidence. In both football and cheer or dance, give the athletes tasks that they can accomplish, and then gradually increase the level of difficulty.

I- Warn of Inherent Risks

• Coaches must warn athletes of the risks of the skill, drill, or game.

• Participants need to be informed of the risks in using improper, dangerous and unethical techniques.

Guidelines for Inherent Risks can be found in

your Risk Management Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Failure to inform parents and participants of potential risks has resulted in successful lawsuits. Make sure parents have read and signed the age/wt. card.

Inherent Risks

• Meet with the parents of your athletes and explain the Dangers of Playing Football and Cheer/Dance.

• Review “Article 6” in Pop Warner Book.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide: Article 6 is outlined in the next slide.

RISK MANAGEMENTArticle 6• Football participants or Cheerleaders

– Informed Parental consent– Medical examination– Proof of age– Scholastic– ID card with picture– Waivers– Accurate/Completed official rosters

• All in a TEAM I.D. book. With you at all times

Presenter

Presentation Notes

ALL OF THESE ITEMS ARE REQUIRED BEFORE A CHILD BEGINS ANY PRACTICE OR OTHER POP WARNER ACTIVITY Parental consent must be signed by a parent or Legal Guardian. It is your responsibility to make certain they are aware of the risks involved in football or cheer and dance. A Physical (medical exam) must be current as of January 1st, must be signed and dated by a Doctor, and must contain language releasing child for specific sports activity. Birth Cert. issued by governmental agency, passport, or military ID Scholastic eligibility- 2.0 OR 70% average from previous year report card or scholastic eligibility form completed. Some conferences may use an alternative method to the scholastic eligibility form that requires bi-weekly monitoring of the child’s progress.. ID Card- issued by SE Region. All information must be completed, with all necessary signatures. Where granted, a copy of the waiver must accompany other certification paperwork. You have a Copy of yourcompleted National roster All necessary information is to be kept in team book in specific order (covered later)

PARENT ORIENTATIONParents’ Meeting – Proposed Agenda:1-Meet the coaching staff.2-Talk about team mission.3-Objectives and Goals for season.4-Expectation of Team/ Squad.5-Expectation of Parents6-Logistics7-Team Functioning8-Question and Answer period

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Each coach should meet with the parents during the first week of practice. This a sample of an agenda of items to cover with the parents.

J- INITIATE MEDICAL RESPONSE

Provide Appropriate Emergency Assistance.• Check the scene for safety.• Check the injured athlete and protect from further harm,

following universal precautions when appropriate.• DO NOT MOVE THE ATHLETE• Activate your “Emergency Action Plan”

(PW rules require that you have a plan!!)• Care for the injured athlete until EMS Arrive

Guidelines for Medical Response can be found in your Risk Management Manual.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. Know when to call for help and utilize 911. Never help an athlete up or carry them off the field or mat. If you think an injury is minor, let the athlete get up on their own and prove it. Handout Emergency Action Plan

INITIATE MEDICAL RESPONSE

• Plan: Work together with your local EMT’s to establish an Emergency Action Plan that will fit your specific area and needs.

• Plan should include informing visiting team of medical staff available, emergency numbers, directions to emergency medical facilities. The CDPW Game Report requires that this information be recorded BEFORE the start of a Game.

• Reminder – calling 911 from a cell phone is not as responsive as utilizing a “land line”

• The CDPW Game report MUST identify the individual responsible for medical emergencies (medic).

• CDPW requires that a medic be identified for ALL practices locations.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review contents of the slide.

RISK MANAGEMENT• Mandated insurance: Is required for all associations who

are members of Pop Warner. This will provide protection for practice fields, game fields, fund raisings, volunteers and drivers. – CDPW accident insurance is a secondary policy with a $100

deductable – an Injury Report MUST be submitted to the League Commissioner for that division within 5 days of injury.

– CDPW also maintains $1 million liability with $1 million excess liability coverage.

– CDPW DOES NOT provide liability coverage for Association Officers or Directors. This coverage may be obtained through PWLS.

• Coaches Training: All coaches MUST be trained through the Little Scholars training Program.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. Two big advantage of being in Pop Warner is the low cost group insurance, And this Coaches Training Program.

RISK MANAGEMENT

• Warm Weather Precautions: – Discipline of participants– Scheduling of practice– Provide plenty of water– Mandatory breaks

• Be aware what will cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

In addition to lightning, the heat is another big concern that must be included in a risk management discussion. No laps for discipline. Discipline should be as non-physical as possible. Try to schedule practices for the coolest part of the day. NEVER DENY WATER. And MAKE CERTAIN that WATER IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE AND IS PROVIDED ANYTIME A PARTICIPANT ASKS FOR IT. Mandatory 15 minute break at mid-point IN ADDITION TO THE 10 MINUTES REQUIRED EACH HOUR. Learn the signs and the differences between heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Give out Handout Keep handout available and learn it.

Unit 3: Pop Warner Forms, Championships, and Game

Guide

74

PAPERWORK DAY

• Times, dates and locations to be announced later

• All books must be complete and in alphabetical order.

• Books not complete or not in the proper format will not be certified.

• A fine will be assessed for each team book not certified, and a separate certification time will be set up

75

TEAM / SQUAD BOOKShould contain -• Orange Sportsmanship Card• Yellow Field Tag Identification Card• Copy of National Pop Warner Rule Book• Copy of Commissioner’s Game Guide• Completed Preliminary Roster(s) • Older/lighter players must be on red-inked cards – do NOT cut and staple a

card to make it from a regular card – directors can stamp the cards at certification if necessary

• Coaches ID card• Commissioners ID card• Coach Trainee and/or Student Demonstrator ID Cards (see Player ID cards

below for necessary paperwork)• Players ID Cards with paperwork in the format shown on separate sheet

– Picture (head and shoulders, wallet-size)– Parent or guardian’s permission– Emergency contact person (other than parent)– All identification information– Birth Certificate– June 2011 report card or Scholastic Eligibility Form– 2011 Physical Fitness and Medical History Form

76

PARTICIPANT ID

79

ALPHA SPLITTING• When two teams (spirit or football, Mitey Mite through

Midget Divisions) are entered in the same division, the front half of the alphabet will be the “A” team and play in the American Conference and the back half will be the “B” team in the National Conference.

• In the event there are three (3) teams or more, the third team will be Team C and play in the American Conference (or in the third conference if one is established), which shall be evenly divided by thirds (1/3) in alphabetical order.

• The alphabetic split of players into teams must occur after the first ten (10) hours of team practice.

80

ALPHA SPLIT (CONTINUED)• A roster must be submitted on paperwork day

corresponding to the player participation ID cards being certified.

• A head coach or an assistant coach’s son or daughter may play on the team their father or mother coaches no matter where their name falls in the alphabet. This will be considered before the split occurs. Family members may also remain together.

81

Rules 6 and 20

• Rule 6 – Cutting of players – any player must be cut who weighs 6 or more lbs. above the max weight for division or weighs 3 or more lbs. less than minimum at the time of the initial practice session.

• Rule 20 – Forfeiture of all games in which ineligible player was a member of the team. There are NO exceptions

82

Cheer Eligibility Update

• Participants on Traditional Pop Warner Squads will be permitted to simultaneously participate in Pop Warner and school programs. (Revised S6-Mandatory Cuts)

• Previously referenced allowed only High School Winter Sport participation.

• Still not allowed to simultaneously participate in All-Star or Recreational Cheer and Dance.

83

COMMISSIONER / ADMINISTRATOR’S GAME GUIDE

RESPONSIBILITIES – following each football game

• The Home Team’s Game Commissioner shall be responsible for filing the Game Report and associated Statistician Reports with the appropriate League Commissioner.

• The Home and Visiting Team’s Commissioner shall be responsible for recording remarks involving the character of the game, players, and coaches. They are both responsible for identifying and reporting (on the Game Report) any possible violations of rules (Federation or National). Both Commissioner/Administrators are responsible for signing the FINISHED game report acknowledging all comments (even though the Commissioner may not agree with the content).

84

COMMISSIONER FIELD IDENTIFICATION CARDS

• There shall be one (1) Home Team Game Commissioner who shall be solely responsible for the control of the game and shall be assisted by a Commissioner from the visiting team.

• All Commissioner must be certified for the current season. • Any Association president acting as an assistant coach may be

the Association Head Commissioner, but cannot be certified to act as a Game Commissioner.

• Each football team and cheer/dance squad must have an adult coach 21 years of age or older, for every 12 participants, to be present at all practices and games. Head coaches and all assistants must be certified by the Federation Board of Directors.

• All Association Presidents, Cheer Coordinators, Coaches, Commissioner, Trainers, Equipment Personnel, Statisticians, and Spotters may only be on the field of play by wearing the appropriate field identification tags.

85

Injury Report• Must be filled out anytime

a participant must be withdrawn from game or practice due to injury.

• Injury reports must be filed immediately with the league.

• Parent or guardian should acknowledge receipt of the insurance form by signing the Injury Report.

• Game injury reports MUST be sent with game report

86

Tie Ball Games

• In the event a game ends in a tie, the National Federation of State High School Associations shall govern the tiebreaker:– 4 downs from the 10 yard line

• NO GAMES (except Mitey Mite) will end in a tie.

87

Number and Payment of Officials

• All Tackle Division Games– 4 officials should be assigned, a game may

be played with a minimum of 3– If less than 3 officials, NO GAME and NO

SCRIMMAGE.• Head Game Commissioner must pay

officials during halftime (payment must be in the form of an Association Check).

88

Player Eligibility

• If a player or spirit participant is ejected from a game, ejection MUST be noted on the Game Report.

• Ejected child shall be ineligible for participation at next game.

• If the child is ejected from a second game (same season), child will be ineligible for remainder of season.

89

Medical Coverage• Medical coverage during games and practices is the

responsibility of the HOME association.• Ranking of Medical Coverage:

– A physician– A licensed physician’s assistant– A nurse practitioner– A paramedic– An emergency medical technician (including EMT-FR)– A certified multi-medical Red Cross card carrier or equivalent

(nurses do not qualify unless they fall into at least one of the above categories)

• When available coverage is equal rating, the home team coverage will prevail.

90

Pre-Game Requirements• Team book turned over to Game Commissioner 1 hour

prior to game. (Players ID Cards must be alpha)• Introduce yourself to the officials and record their

names and category next to their game assignment of the game report…

• Introduce yourself to the head coach of each team and introduce the officials to the coaches…

• Obtain 3 individuals (at least 16 years old) for down marker and yardage change. Visiting team should supply at least 1 person.

• Check size of football(s) to be used.• Sideline officials (statisticians, spotters, chain crew)

should refrain from cheering, etc.

91

Statisticians• Record names of both statisticians on game report. (Must be at

least 16 years old). Obtain a spotter for each statistician. Remember: statisticians and spotters must wear white Field ID Tags.

• Home team statistician shall record the minimum plays for the visiting team side of the field. Visiting team statistician shall record the minimum plays for the home team players on the home side of the field.

• At half time, request the statistician count of players who have not completed the required number of plays and inform the respective head coach. Repeat at the end of the 3rd quarter (if necessary).

• Notify each head coach when all of his players have completed the minimum play requirements.

• Be sure statisticians have signed and dated the Statistician Reports.

• Attach both Statistician Reports to the game report.

92

STATISTICIAN SHEET

93

Minimum Play Rule• Coaches shall follow the minimum play rule.

– 16 – 25 players 10 plays (12 for Mitey Mite)– 26 – 30 players 8 plays (10 for Mitey Mite)– 31 – 35 players 6 plays (8 for Mitey Mite)– Flag – All players will receive 10 plays.

• The following do not count toward MPR– Kickoffs, extra points, and free kicks– Plays that result in a penalty and are replayed– A non-active play – for example, the QB takes a knee

• MPR must be met for all players by start of 4th

Quarter or– ALL players with less than minimum MUST enter the

game and remain in game until MPR is met.

94

28 Point Rule• The official clock becomes running clock • The winning team cannot pass the ball or run sweeps outside the tackle.

If the winning team fails to abide by this rule, each violation will be a loss of down and a 5-yard penalty. This is at the discretion of the game referee.

• There will be no Blitzing • There will be no on-side kicks at kickoff.• The winning defense team cannot advance a fumble or pass interception

- the ball is blown dead immediately. The winning offense may start play action from this point.

• The winning team shall make every effort to replace starting players with reserves. Failure to do so will call for an immediate investigation and possible one game suspension if found guilty.

• Any coach who employs types of plays without the intent to maximize the action of play shall be in violation of this rule.

• The teams are still required to complete the mandatory play rule.• An investigation will be conducted if a game ends with a score differential

of 28 points or more.

95

Full Investigation

• When the statements of the coaches are in disagreement, the Federation requires responses to the 6 questions listed in the game guide.

• Based on answers, the Federation shall determine whether or not to conduct a Hearing.

96

16 Player Rule Tackle• There needs to be a minimum of 16 eligible players to start a game. • If a player becomes injured in the course of the game, and is unable to

return to the game (as determined by the officially designated medical personnel), and the count of eligible players falls below 16, then the game will immediately be suspended.

• The Federation Commissioner should be notified immediately, and the game will be played as a continuation on the following Wednesday evening at a place to be determined by the Federation Board. If the injured player(s) are not able to return to the game at that time, the team falling below 16 players will forfeit the game. Only players who started the game will be allowed to play in the continuation game.

• If a game is suspended for any other reason (power failure, etc.), the game will also be continued following the procedures outlined above. However, if there were any players injured at the time the game was suspended, they will not be allowed to re-enter the game. Only players eligible to play at the time the game was suspended will be allowed to play in the continuation game.

97

Minimum Player RuleTackle• There needs to be a minimum of 16 eligible players to start a game. • If a player becomes injured in the course of the game, and is unable to

return to the game (as determined by the officially designated medical personnel), and the count of eligible players falls below 16, then the game will immediately be suspended.

• The Federation Commissioner should be notified immediately, and the game will be played as a continuation on the following Wednesday evening at a place to be determined by the Federation Board. If the injured player(s) are not able to return to the game at that time, the team falling below 16 players will forfeit the game. Only players who started the game will be allowed to play in the continuation game.

• If a game is suspended for any other reason (power failure, etc.), the game will also be continued following the procedures outlined above. However, if there were any players injured at the time the game was suspended, they will not be allowed to re-enter the game. Only players eligible to play at the time the game was suspended will be allowed to play in the continuation game.

Flag• There needs to be a minimum of 10 eligible players to start a game.

98

Other Procedures• Each team shall furnish at game time a numerically listed statistician

form including starting offense and defense, and player's jersey number in the number of play square.

• For Tackle games, the Home teams shall furnish an upright scale to be used by the Game Commissioner for the pre-game weigh-in. A certified weight shall be used to check the accuracy of the scale. A certified weight must be present or the game is forfeited.

• The home team shall provide a suitable enclosure to be used for pre- game weigh-in. Enclosure shall provide adequate cover, and be out of view of fans.

• Players late for pre-game weigh-in:– 15 minutes before start of game, cannot play first half.– Any part of first half weigh-in at half-time may play second half.– After the end of second quarter - not qualified to play.

• Once a game has started, only the head official can call the game off. A Game Commissioner may request from the head coach a time out to talk to the referee if there is a circumstance pending on the field. A Game Commissioner cannot call a time out.

99

S3-SPECIAL NOTE FOR MITEY-MITES

• Although the game is serious to the kids, from the adult viewpoint, Mitey-Mite is strictly a training division, completely free of any pressure to win, with a total emphasis on learning. While scores are kept, no local championship may be declared, but post-season play is permitted. Coaches may remain on the field, at the option of the League. A maximum of one (1) coach per team is permitted on the field except during kick-offs and punts.

• There shall be no blitzing, no rushing of: punts, field goals or point after touchdown (while attempting a kick) in Mitey-Mite play.

• A special CDPW Note – Coaches will be allowed on the field during the first two (2) WEEKS of the season.

100

Sportsmanship• As part of routine operation at

all football games and the cheerleading competition, we would like to have the NYS Public High School Athletic Association statement on Sportsmanship (as modified to reflect Pop Warner as being the requiring authority) read over the loud speaker (if a PA system is available) or at the Official’s meeting at the 50 yard line prior to the coin toss).

Sportsmanship StatementThe Capital District Pop Warner

Football Federation requires officials to enforce all

sportsmanlike rules for athletes and coaches. We will not

tolerate negative statements or actions between opposing

players, especially trash-talking, taunting or baiting of opponents. If such comments are heard or actions seen, a penalty will be

assessed immediately. We have been instructed not to issue

warnings. Let today’s contest reflect mutual respect.

101

Pre-Game Weigh-In• Only certified Commissioners may be Game Commissioners and conduct weigh-

ins.• The decision of the weigh-master is final.• Weigh-in must begin one (1) hour prior to scheduled start of game and be

completed within 15 minutes of kickoff.• Weigh-in home team first.• A representative, preferably the Commissioner of the visiting team, must be

present during weigh-in. Coaches are allowed in the pre-game weigh-in area for disciplinary reasons only (at the discretion of the Game Commissioner.)

• Game Commissioner shall personally:– Check and sign cards– Check players' jersey number by having each player give number aloud.– Check helmet of each player for achievement or incentive awards. (They are not

allowed.)– Record date and place your initials and indicate the player’s status for each game where

indicated on ID card.• Players will be weighed according to the Acceptable Method described in

National Rule Book (full equipment without helmet). If a player fails to meet the weight requirement when using the Acceptable Method, they will be given an opportunity, after the other players have been weighed, to be weighed using the Ideal Method (without equipment; gym shorts and socks).

102

Acceptable Method• Player weighed with uniform and protective equipment

(no helmet).• Pass / Fail limits• Weight allowances for equipment

– Mitey Mite 7 lbs.– Jr. Peewee & Peewee 8 lbs.– Jr. Midget & Midget 9 lbs.

• Decision of weigh master is final!• Once weigh-in is completed, no equipment shall be

exchanged.• 1 lb per week beginning week 2 to max of 9 lbs. on week

10.

104

Spirit Participants• The cheer/dance squad team book(s) are to be turned over to the Game

Commissioner prior to the start of game.• Immediately following the players' weigh-in, the Game Commissioner

will take attendance and initial each ID card, including coaches’ ID card, and Commissioner/Administrators’ ID card. Participants should line up in alphabetical order and present themselves to the game commissioner certifying the book.

• If an injury or disciplinary action occurs during game conditions, it will be noted on the game report. (Same as for players.)

• Cheer/dance participants not present at the time attendance is taken may not cheer the first half. If a cheer/dance participant arrives prior to the end of the second quarter they may participate during the second half, providing the Game Commissioner is notified and the ID card is initialed accordingly.

• If a cheer/dance squad does not have an adult coach (21 years or older) for every 12 participants present at the game, the squad or squads may not participate during the game.

105

During the Game• Inside the 25 yard markers and within the coaches’ box on the playing field, each

team may have, in addition to the players, a maximum of seven team personnel. This includes 5 certified coaches, 1 equipment person, and 1 certified trainer. All others must stay behind the restraining device, except for the pre-game identified medical person.

• Cheer/dance participants may be within five (5) yards of the playing field, but may not be within the 25-yard markers. The exception to the “25 yard markers rule” will be those fields with suitable space behind the football player’s bench (e. g. fields having a running track around the field). In these cases, the cheer/dance participants may cheer within the 25-yard markers, BUT MAY NOT be inside the football player’s “box”.

• It shall be the responsibility of each team to maintain spectator control during the game. The Game Commissioner may ask the officials to penalize the team that fails to maintain control after one (1) warning. Each team must maintain control over its coaching staff during the game. Failure to maintain spectator and/or coaching staff control in pre-game, game and post-game situations could lead to an extreme penalty such as game forfeiture.

• The Game Commissioner shall personally check with medical personnel on all injuries. If an injury report is filled out, the information must be listed on the game report and the injury report(s) sent along with the game report.

• Maintain a record of score by quarters (not a running score) and record final score on game report.

106

During Game - Continued• As noted in the National Rules:

Rule 24: RADIOS AND COMMUNICATION DEVICES – No Radios or other communicative devices shall be allowed during game situations to relay information to the coaching staff on the sidelines.

This includes the use of Cellular Telephones. Teams violating this restriction will be subject to disciplinary action.

• Games may be videotaped but videotapes cannot be shown at half time, per Regional Rules.

• If a problem arises call the Federation Commissioner of the given division.

• Home team is not required to furnish visitors with enclosure unless they use enclosure themselves. If this is the case, they must also provide a suitable enclosure for the visiting team.

107

Field ID Tags• Tags must be worn in plain view around the neck. Tags

will be color-coded as follows:– Yellow = CDPW Board, and Association Presidents– Orchid = Association Spirit Coordinator– Blue = Football Team Head Coaches– Green = Football Team Assistant Coach– Orange = Football Team Trainer and – Orange = Football Team Equipment Manager– Red = Game Commissioner– White = Statistician– White = Spotter– Violet = Spirit Head Coach– Lime Green = Spirit Assistant Coaches– Tan = Spirit Squad Commissioner– Royal Blue = Football Coordinator

108

Post Game• Record all football game violations and/or suspected game violations and/or any comment

from the coaches and/or officials on game report including any incidents involving cheer/dance participants.

• Mail on Monday, with statistician and injury reports, to designated division Federation Commissioner.

• All scores must be reported (this includes Mitey Mite). The Home Association is responsible for reporting game scores as follows:

Telephone the designated number or email the scores (refer to the www.cdpw.org website). Regardless of the method, all scores MUST BE RECEIVED BY SUNDAY AT 6:00PM. The following information must be provided:

Home Association - (say the home Association - not the team nickname)Visiting Association (again, the Association, not the nickname)

Division of Play - (Jr Peewee, Peewee etc.)Conference (American, National, or Central)

Home team scoreVisiting team score

• All Games Reports, Injury Reports, and Statistician Reports shall be filed with the Federation Commissioner. The Home Game Commissioner is responsible for ensuring that all forms are filled out in their entirety, and submitted in a timely fashion.

• Game results and standings (except Mitey Mite) will posted weekly on the www.cdpw.org website.

http://www.cdpw.org/

http://www.cdpw.org/

109

Rulebook Guidelines for Practice

A. BEFORE LABOR DAY: No team or squad may schedule more than 10 hours of practice per week before Labor Day. A week is defined as Monday-Sunday. Not more than 2-1/2 hours of practice may be scheduled on any one day. Note: Practice is up to 10 hours per week. It is not mandatory for a squad to practice the full 10 allotted hours. (Year-Round Cheer squads should follow these hours of practice rules “Before Labor Day” from 1/1 to 7/31.)

110

Rulebook Guidelines for Practice

B. AFTER LABOR DAY: Practices after Labor Day weekend are limited to 6 hours per week. A week is defined as Monday-Sunday. Practices after Labor Day weekend are not to exceed 2 hours per day. Note: Practice is up to 6 hours per week. It is not mandatory for a squad to practice the full 6 allotted hours.

111

Rulebook Guidelines for PracticeC. BREAKS: Break time is not counted against the ten (10) or

six (6) hours per week or 2-1/2 or 2 hours of allowed practice time.

D. CONDITIONING: After the first week of practice (10 hours) for conditioning, and after the second week of practice (10 hours) for conditioning, performer readiness evaluation and/or camp/clinic the squad may engage in regular practice sessions and/or pre-season games.

So as to avoid any misinterpretation, 20 hours of “practice” is required for all Pop Warner Spirit squads before the squad may engage in regular practice sessions and/or pre- season games.

112

Rulebook Guidelines for PracticeH. Any spirit participant added after a squad has formed and/or

after the season has started must be subject to the initial 20 hours of conditioning/practice as mentioned in S7 of this article.

I. WARM-UP & WARM-DOWN: At least 10 minutes of warm-up exercises (to stretch and to limber-up) shall be included prior to spirit practice, with a maximum of 30 minute warm-up period prior to games and competitions. Warm-up and stretching should precede and conclude all practices, games, performances and competitions.

113

Capital District Competition• 10/9/2011 at the Glens Falls Civic Center• Mat – 54 x 42• Performance Timing

– Cheer (JPW, PW, JM, M) – 2.5 min overall / 90 sec music– Dance (JPW, PW, JM, M) – 2.5 min– Mitey Mite and Cub – 2 min overall / 60 sec music

• Interruption of performance– If a failure of official / host equipment, squad will be allowed to

present at end of division– If failure of squad’s equipment, squad must continue or withdraw

from competition

114

Advancement

• Overall division winners will be eligible to advance to the Northeastern Regional Qualifier 10/23/2011 – at the Utica Auditorium in Utica, NY.

• Capital District will be participating in Empire in 2011.

UNIT 4

COACH-ATHLETE COMMUNICATION – BEING A GOOD TEACHER OF THE GAME

&WHY CHILDREN PLAY YOUTH SPORTS

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This Unit outlines important topics in youth sports psychology. We will discuss the issues important to making your coaching experience one that will be beneficial and memorable for the athletes.

Coach-Athlete CommunicationEffective Communication

• Get to know your participants

• Communicate that you care

• Let them know that they matter to you

Presenter

Presentation Notes

First things – First. To be an effect communicator, coaches must start by creating a relationship with their players. Review the slide. Note: Coaches don’t need to be buddy-buddy with the players, but it is important that you take time to get to know each player as a person. Good coaches communicate with the players on personal level.

Coach-Athlete Communication

Giving Effective Feedback

1.Catch athletes doing things correctly.2.Be Specific & Concise.3.Focus on Strengths more than Weaknesses.4.Give feedback promptly – Immediately.5.Be sincere when giving praise.6.Reward Improvements – Not Perfection.7.Reward Effort as well as Outcome.8.Avoid being insulting and negative.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Effective Feedback is one of the keys to being a good teacher of the game. Point out that for children to learn a new skill, effective teachers use 5 times as many positive statements as they do negative statements. (research based). Review Slide Go through each point with a brief explanation of each.

WHY CHILDREN PLAY YOUTH SPORTS

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This is the intro slide into the section when we discuss why children play Youth Sports. Knowing why children have signed up for football and cheerleading is key to maximizing their experience in Pop Warner.

WHY CHILDREN PLAY SPORTS

1.

Have FUN!!! 2.

Be on Team –

Be with Friends

3.

Learn New Skills4.

The Excitement of Competition

5.

Get in Shape

SURVEY SAYS…TOP 5 REASONS WHY YOUTH SAY THAT

THEY PLAY SPORTS******************************************

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Reason 5 = Get in shape. Football players and cheerleaders like to be in good shape. Many play sports for this reason. Have the participant with the last walnut, “Get in shape” come forward. Demonstrate that when we put the adult motives for being in youth sports (winning championships, beating the cross town rival, going to Disney in Dec.) that we can not fit in the reasons why children want to play youth sports. This is the reason why we have so much turn-over and why so many lose interest in sports later on. Now, put the nuts in the empty sugar jar, pointing out each of the five reasons why youth play sports as you put them in the jar. After all the nuts are in the jar, pour in the sugar from the 1st jar. Point out that when we put the reasons “why children play youth sports” first, then some of the other things can fall in place. Championships and a winning season may be the result having your priorities in the right order.

WHY CHILDREN PLAY SPORTS

Top 5 Reasons Why Youth Drop Out of Sports

1. Lost interest (boring.)2. I was not having fun.3. It took too much time.4. Coach was a poor teacher

(always hollering.)5. Too much pressure (worrying

about the coach getting mad.)

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Now that we have discussed the 5 reasons why children play sports, let’s go through these top 5 reasons (according to research) as to why youth drop out of sports. This slide is designed to have each reason fade in. Click the slide to make the list appear as you review the slide. Note that… The reasons for leaving are directly related to the reasons that they play in the first place. If their reasonable expectations are not met, they will not return.

WHY CHILDREN PLAY SPORTSHow to Keep Young Athletes Involved

in Football & Cheerleading

1. Emphasize Learning New Skills and Improving Existing Ones.

2. Have Fun.3. Maintain a Safe Environment.4. Challenge Athletes with Physical Exercises in a

Creative Way.5. Give participants a Sense of Belonging to a Team

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. Here are some key points to avoid having athletes drop out of the program. If you have a team with a lot of drop outs, coaches may want to be sure that they are doing these 5 things. 1. Let the athletes be proud that they are learning new skills and the sport. 2. Be positive, have fun yourself. 3. Use prudent care. Keep the kids safe physically and emotionally – do NOT allow players to tease or ridicule each other. Some teams have a rule that players must always say positive things to other players. 4. One creative way to do conditioning is with relay races & challenges. 5. Do all you can to keep and maintain that feeling of “team.” Consider a team slogan, team shirts, etc.

THE CONCERN

Pop Warner has been increasingly concerned about the numbers of incidents of parental violence and misbehavior of coaches. As a member it is your responsibility to change this trend and harness the energy for a more positive result.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

With increases in problems in youth sports around the country. Pop Warner has taken action to try to prevent problems at Pop Warner events. Pop Warner has adopted a new, comprehensive code of conduct which extends to parents and spectators. As a volunteer, you are responsible for your own conduct and for helping to control the conduct of those in your charge and those who attend your games.

Coach & Parent Behavior

• The news papers and TV are full of stories about youth coaches and parents ruining youth sports for the kids.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Audience participation. By now everyone has seen the news stories such as the “Hockey Dad” and “Texas Cheerleading Mom”. Ask participants to give other examples of bad conduct from coaches and parents. Take about 3 responses and then move on to the next slide.

COACH/PARENTAL BEHAVIORWhat about the parent who:• Uses Verbal Abuse• Attempts to Intimidate• Is Flagrantly Rude• Cannot Control Their

Language or Actions

Should This Individual Be Removed From Pop Warner? Should This Individual Be Removed From Pop Warner?

What if it was aWhat if it was a……(A Board Member, Coach, Football Player, or Cheerleader)(A Board Member, Coach, Football Player, or Cheerleader)

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Now that we have seen some parents and coaches who have made the news in a negative way, what can we do to prevent these problems Review the 4 bullets on the slide. These are examples of fan behavior that will no longer be tolerated. As administrators and coaches, you are responsible to distribute this information to your parents and other fans. Ask the questions on the bottom, then advance to the next slide for more discussion. The answer, of course, is that we need to let parents know, at the start of the season, that these things will not be tolerated.

COACH/PARENTAL BEHAVIOR

• Does a coach have the right to be belligerent?

• Does a winning coach have the right to be treated differently than a coach who does not have a good season?

• If a coach physically abuses an official, administrator, or any Pop Warner volunteer, what should happen to him/her?

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review the Slide. Discuss each point. 1. Disruptive individuals must be removed for the sake of safety and the integrity of program A coach has the right to make his point. He does not have the right to cross the line into disrespect or belligerence. All coaches expend their time and energy for the benefit of the children in their care. One is not entitled to better treatment than another on the basis of win/loss records. 4. Physical abuse, by anyone in any fashion, is grounds for permanent removal from the program. This behavior may also be met with an arrest and legal consequences.

COACH/PARENTAL BEHAVIOR

• As a Coach it is your responsibility to control these types of behaviors.

• CDPW, as the governing body, will assist your Association in dealing with problem behaviors and disruptive individuals .

• CDPW, along with your Association, MUST have a zero tolerance for aggressive, disruptive, and disrespectful behavior.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide If we all work together, we can reduce, if not eliminate, instances of inappropriate behavior.

COACHES BEHAVIOR

Leadership

• Lead by example.

• To be a good leader, you must be a good follower.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. A coach is a leader. Not just of the team, but of the parents and the community that have trusted the coach to teach their children. Coaches who show respect for the authority and the game officials, will have parents and players who do the same.

Unit 9 PWLS Members Code of

Conduct

Code of Conduct

• S1: Not smoke and or use smokeless tobacco on the field.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

The trainer may choose flip through some of these slides quickly stopping to stress certain slides. Some slides are self-explanatory.

Code of Conduct

• S2: Not criticize players/cheerleaders in front of spectators, but reserve constructive criticism for later, in private, or in the presence of team/squad members if others might benefit.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. As a general rule, coaches should remember: “PUBLIC PRAISE AND PRIVATE PUNISHMENT” When coaches must reprimand a player, pull them aside and do it privately, and with respect.

Code of Conduct

• S3: Accept decisions of the game officials and judges on the field and in competitions as being fair and called to the best ability of said officials.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. Referees & judges are taken from a pull of individuals known as “Human Beings”. They are not perfect, but most intend on being fair. They have a tough job. Point out that even with instant replay and 9 officials on the field, the NFL is full of controversial calls. Coaches need to be a good example for their young athletes. A coach that is disrespectful to a referee or a judge, should not be surprised when one of their athletes gets in trouble at school or at home for back-talking a teacher or a parent. Maybe they learned it from watching the coach?

Code of Conduct

• S4: Not criticize an opposing team, its participants, coaches, cheerleaders or fans by word of mouth or by gesture.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. A true competitive athlete should always treats their opponent with respect. And if you can’t show respect then at least follow the old rule… “If you can’t say something nice, then don’t say anything at all.”

Code of Conduct

• S5: Emphasize that good athletes strive to be good students and that both are physically and mentally alert.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide See slides on Pop Warner Philosophy for discussion items.

Code of Conduct

• S6: Strive to make every football/ cheerleading activity serve as a training ground for life, and a basis for good mental and physical health.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide This issue was brought out during the discussion of the Pop Warner philosophy. See slides on Pop Warner Philosophy for discussion items.

Code of Conduct

• S7: Emphasize that winning is the result of good “teamwork.”

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide See slides on Pop Warner Philosophy for discussion items.

Code of Conduct

• S8: Not engage in excessive sideline coaching and shall not leave the bench area to shout instructions from the sideline.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. Good coaching is done at practice when skills are being taught. If the athletes do not know what to do by competition or game day, all the hollering from the sideline won’t help. Focus on being a better teacher at practice.

Code of Conduct

• S9: Together with team officials, be jointly responsible for the conduct and control of team fans and spectators. Any fan who becomes a nuisance and out of control will be asked to leave.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide. Coaches need to cooperate and work as team with the officials to enforce Pop Warner rules and maintain order.

Code of Conduct

• S10: Not use abusive or profane language at any time.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide

Code of Conduct

• S11: Not “pile it on;” not encourage their team to get a commanding lead and raise the score as high as it can. In these instances, every effort shall be made to let all participants play.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. While the lopsided score rule goes into effect at 28 points… Point out that the PWLS Rulebook states that a coach must start to take action when the score is 18 points ahead. A good coach can control the pace of game to keep a score for getting out of control.

Code of Conduct

• S12: Not receive any payment, in cash or kind, for services as a coach in Pop Warner Football/Cheerleading. This includes any coach, expert, consultant or choreographer, regardless of his/her roster status.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide.

Code of Conduct

• S13: Not permit or encourage “sweating down” tactics in order for a player to make the team weight.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide.

Code of Conduct

• S14: Not recommend or distribute any medication, controlled or over the counter, except as specifically prescribed by participant’s physician.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide. This includes aspirin. Let the parents give any medication needed.

Code of Conduct

• S15: Not permit an ineligible player to participate in a game.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. Many coaches count on their Association’s registrar to put together the Coach’s Book,, but this is the Coach’s Book and the coach is responsible for the contents. Double check your book for errors, paying close attention things like Older/lighters and late birthdays. There is no Pop Warner rule that suggests suspending a registrar; it is the coach who is responsible.

Code of Conduct

• S16: Not deliberately incite unsportsmanlike conduct.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide. Coaches need to help calm situations, not incite conflict. Show your players the proper way to handle controversy.

Code of Conduct

• S17: Not possess or drink alcoholic beverages and/or use illegal substance(s) on both the game and practice fields.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review slide. There is really no need for drinking around the athletes. Wait until there is a more appropriate time and place.

Code of Conduct

• S18: Remove from a game or practice any participant when even slightly in doubt about his/her health, whether or not as a result of injury, until competent medical advice is available.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide. If you are not sure of an athletes status, error on the side of caution.

Code of Conduct

• S19: Be responsible for and Control their fans at all times.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide Coaches set the tone for the fans. If a coach handles controversy in a respectful way, the fans will follow suit. Never encourage fans to question or “boo” calls. If fans do start to get rowdy, the coach needs to help calm the situation. Again, lead by example.

Code of Conduct

• S20: Uphold all rules and regulations, national and local, regarding Pop Warner Football, Cheerleading, and Dance

Presenter

Presentation Notes

Review Slide Coaches set the tone for the fans. If a coach handles controversy in a respectful way, the fans will follow suit. Never encourage fans to question or “boo” calls. If fans do start to get rowdy, the coach needs to help calm the situation. Again, lead by example.

Code of Conduct• S21: Refrain from engaging in

any action within or outside Pop Warner which reflects negatively upon, or causes embarrassment to, the PW program.

Presenter

Presentation Notes

This slide wraps up the presentation. One last reminder, that Pop Warner coaches need to support the rules and philosophy of Pop Warner.

150

Required Reference Material

• PWLS Official Rules• NFSHSA Rule Book (Football and Spirit)• Capital District PW Policy Manual• Commissioners’ Game Guide

151

CDPW Contacts• Chairman

• Dan Martuscello• 1st Vice-Chairperson (Football)

• Joe Pryba• 2nd Vice-Chairperson (Cheer/Dance)

• Yvonne Cleveland Treasurer

• Tom Hindes• Secretary/ Scholastics Commissioner

• Paula Marsh Midget Commissioner

• Bryan Leahey• Jr Midget Commissioner

• Bryan Leahey• Peewee Commissioner

• Don Delong• Jr Peewee Commissioner

• Mike Meyers• Challenger Commissioner

• Grady Byrnes• Flag Commissioner

• Dennis Sheehan• Mitey Mite Commissioner/Roster

Coordinator/Parliamentarian/Web Master• Steve LaFever

• CDPW Insurance Coordinator• Frank Kelly

League Web Sitewww.cdpw.org

mailto:[email protected]













152

Questions

capital district pop warner coaches’ ’ education · capital district pop warner volunteer...

Documents