San Gabriel Valley Jr. All-American

Football Conference Inc.

A Non-Profit Organization 501 (c)(3)

BYLAWS

And CONSTITUTION MANUAL

Revised 2019

Phone # (626)327-8909 Email: sgvjaaprez@sgvjaa.com

Conference Website: www.sgvjaafc.org

Brian Duffield Conference President

16033 E. San Bernardino Rd Ste #201 Covina, CA 91722

VIOLATION OF RULES

CAN RESULT IN FINES,

PROBATION AND SUSPENSION

PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE RULEBOOK

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

I pledge allegiance to the flag Of the United States of America

And to the republic for which it stands, One nation under God,

Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

Let Us Not Forget 9-11-01

The following is the Junior All-American Huddle Prayer To be said with players on one knee,

Helmet in hand, prior to the start of any game.

HUDDLE PRAYER God our Father hear us pray,

As we prepare to play this day; Give us strength and courage, too,

To do our best in all we do, Protect us as we play this game,

This much we ask and in Thy name.

Conference Office (College Scholarships & Records)

S.G.V.J.A.A Football Conference, Inc. 16033 E. San Bernardino Rd Ste #201

Covina, CA 91722 Email: sgvjaafcoff@sgvjaa.com

Insurance Coordinator

Kathy D’Amato (909)599-2525

Email: vp@kapmfg.com

Conference Minutes S.G.V.J.A.A Football Conference, Inc. Erika Navarro – Conference Secretary

Email: sgvjaasec@sgvjaa.com

San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football conference, Inc. 2019 ELECTED OFFICERS

*Members of the Conference Executive Board

Conference President Brian Duffield* 626-327-8909

Conference Vice Pres. Kathy D’Amato* 909-599-2525

Conference Secretary Erika Navarro* 424-750-6737

Conference Treasurer Cynthia Ordonez* 626-806-5713

Division Presidents Flag Div. Pres. Gaby Alvarado 562-708-4419

Jr Gremlin Div. Pres. Eren Chavez 626-274-3594

Gremlin Div. Pres. Rigo Flores 626-820-3087

Jr. Pee-Wee Div. Pres. Tommy Avila 626-253-8585

Pee-Wee Div. Pres. Mike D’Amato 626-786-2773

Jr Midget Div. Pres. Albert Canchola 626-399-9636

Appointed

Conf. Cheer Coordinator Rosio Flores-Canchola 626-494-4529

Conf. A.D. Coordinator Dena Santos 626-324-4400

Conf. Legal Counsel Kevin Lacey 818-248-1800

MANUAL AND CONSTITUTION

VOLUME I Amateur football fully deserves its important place in the lives of American youth. From its original soccer and rugby background it has grown to one of the most popular sports in this country. Because we appreciate the vital role of football as a builder of the country’s youth, both morally and physically, and because we believe in the principles and doctrine of the game itself, this booklet containing the constitution and bylaws of an amateur football’s governing organization is herewith presented. Board of Directors San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference, Inc. OBJECTIVE The objectives of this program are: to inspire youth to practice the ideals of health, citizenship, and character; to bring closer together through the means of a common interest in sportsmanship, fair play and fellowship; to impart to the game elements of safety, mindfulness and intelligent supervision; to keep the welfare of the player first, foremost and entirely free of adult lust for glory. JURISDICTION The San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference, Inc. claims complete jurisdiction and is the sole governing body over the game of the amateur football, as played under the rules and regulations of the San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference, Inc. A NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION Granted under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code Incorporated in the State of California on August 22, 1968. Federal I.D. #95-6225422 State I.D. #D-0551756 Charitable Trust #CT-112168

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Table of Contents PART I .................................................................................. 1

ARTICLE I .............................................................................. 1

AFFILIATIONS ........................................................................ 1

ARTICLE II ............................................................................. 1

POSTING OF BYLAWS ............................................................ 1

ARTICLE III ............................................................................ 1

PURPOSES ............................................................................. 1

ARTICLE IV ........................................................................... 2

OFFICES – BOARD OF DIRECTORS ......................................... 2 Section1: General Powers: ................................................. 2 Section 2: Number, Tenure, and Qualifications: ................ 2 Section 3: Election of Directors: ......................................... 2 Section 4: Duties of Directors: ........................................... 3 Section 5: Meetings of the Board of Directors: .................. 3 Section 6: Attendance: ...................................................... 3 Section 7: Quorum: ............................................................ 3 Section 8: Manner Of Acting: ............................................ 3 Section 9: Vacancies: ......................................................... 3 Section 10: Assignment: .................................................... 3 Section 11: Corporate Office: ............................................ 3

ARTICLE V ............................................................................ 3

OFFICERS – GOVERNANCE & DUTIES................................... 3 Section 1: Officers: ............................................................. 3 Section 2: Election and Term of Office:.............................. 3 Section 3: Removal ............................................................ 4 Section 4: Vacancies: ......................................................... 4 Section 5: President ........................................................... 4 Section 6: Vice President: .................................................. 4 Section 7: Treasurer: .......................................................... 4

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Section 8: Secretary: .......................................................... 4 Section 9: Executive Board: ............................................... 4 Section 10: Division Officers: ............................................. 5 Section 11: All Officers: ...................................................... 5 Section 12: Conference Cheer Coordinator: ....................... 5 Section 13: Conference Athletic Director: .......................... 5 Section 14: Conference Player Safety Coach: .................... 5

ARTICLE VI ........................................................................... 5

CONTRACTS, CHECKS, DEPOSITS AND FUNDS ....................... 5 Section 1: Contracts: .......................................................... 5 Section 2: Checks, Drafts, Etc.: .......................................... 5 Section 3: Deposits: ........................................................... 5 Section 4: Gifts:.................................................................. 5 Section 5: Affiliations: ........................................................ 6 Section 6: Scholarships: ..................................................... 6

ARTICLE VII .......................................................................... 6

BOOKS AND RECORDS ........................................................... 6

ARTICLE VIII ......................................................................... 6

FISCAL YEAR .......................................................................... 6

ARTICLE IX............................................................................ 6

SEAL ...................................................................................... 6

ARTICLE X............................................................................. 6

WAIVER OF NOTICE ............................................................... 6

ARTICLE XI............................................................................ 7

AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS .................................................. 7 Section 1: Amendments: .................................................... 7

ARTICLE XII........................................................................... 7

NOMINEES ............................................................................ 7

ARTICLE XIII.......................................................................... 7

CONFERENCE COMPOSITION ................................................ 7

ARTICLE XIV ......................................................................... 7

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MEETINGS ............................................................................ 7 Section 1: Organization and Other Meetings: ................... 7

ARTICLE XV .......................................................................... 8

FINANCE ............................................................................... 8 Section 1: Budgets: ............................................................ 8 Section 2: Teams: .............................................................. 8 Section 3: No Franchised Team: ........................................ 8

ARTICLE XVI ......................................................................... 8

INSURANCE ........................................................................... 8 Section 1: Insurance Required: .......................................... 8

A. Suspension: .................................................................. 8 B. Renewal: ...................................................................... 8 C. Conference Medical Insurance: ................................... 8 E. Medical Attendant: ...................................................... 8 F. Conference Medical Attendant: ................................... 9 G. Doctors’ Release: ......................................................... 9

ARTICLE XVII ........................................................................ 9

FRANCHISE FORMATION, ORGANIZATION & REQUIREMENTS .............................................................................................. 9

Section 1: Franchise Defined: ............................................ 9 Section 2: Franchise Territory: ........................................... 9

A. Modification of Territory: ............................................ 9 Section 3: Franchise Eligibility: ........................................ 10

A. Election of Officers and Directors: ............................. 10 1. Required Franchise Board Positions:.......................... 10 a. President: ................................................................... 10 b. Vice President: ........................................................... 10 c. Secretary: ................................................................... 10 d. Treasurer: ................................................................... 10 e. Franchise Athletic Director: ....................................... 11 f. Franchise Designated Agent:...................................... 11 g. Franchise Player Safety Coach: .................................. 11 h. Franchise Cheer Coordinator: .................................... 11 2. Holding Other Positions: ............................................ 11 B. Franchise Renewal: .................................................... 11 C. Conform to Conference Bylaws: ................................ 11 D. No Franchise Bylaw Conflicts: .................................... 11 E. Supply Constitution and Bylaws: ................................ 11

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F. Good Standing:........................................................... 11 G. Valid Non-Profit: ........................................................ 11 H. Neutral Arbitration: .................................................... 12 I. Liability Insurance: ..................................................... 12 J. Conference Jurisdiction: ............................................. 12 K. Must Be Solvent and Field Two teams: ...................... 12

Section 4: Franchise Paperwork: ..................................... 12 A. No later than February 15th ...................................... 12 B. No later than March 15th .......................................... 12 C. No later than April 15th ............................................. 12 D. Due On or before the May Conference Meeting ....... 12

Section 5: New Franchise Formation Considerations: ..... 13 Section 6: Franchise Probationary Period: ....................... 13 Section 7: Franchise Mandatory & Optional Functions: .. 13

ARTICLE XVIII ..................................................................... 13

INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS & CODE OF ETHICS ......... 13 Section 1: Members Defined: .......................................... 13 Section 2: Applicant Defined: .......................................... 14 Section 3: Membership “Identification Cards”: ............... 14

A. Three Types of Identification Cards: .......................... 14 1. New Cards: ................................................................. 14 2. Renewal Cards:........................................................... 14 3. Replacement Cards: ................................................... 14

Section 4: Process of Obtaining a Membership Identification Card: .......................................................... 14

A. Application: ................................................................ 14 B. Annual Membership Dues:......................................... 14 C. Obtain Live Scan: ........................................................ 15 D. Clinic’s or Required Programs: ................................... 15 E. Completion: ............................................................... 15

Section 5: Code of Ethics:................................................. 15 Section 6: Mandatory Display of Membership Cards: ..... 16

ARTICLE IXX ....................................................................... 16

CONFERENCE DIVISIONS, LEAGUES & TEAMS ................................ 16 Section 1: Division Defined: ............................................. 16 Section 2: Divisions Identified: ......................................... 16 Section 3: Leagues Defined: ............................................. 16 Section 4: Team Defined: ................................................. 17

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A. Flag Teams: ................................................................ 17 B. Jr Gremlin Teams: ...................................................... 17 C. Gremlin, Jr. Pee Wee, Pee Wee, and Jr. Midget Team 17 D. Modification: .............................................................. 17

ARTICLE XX ........................................................................ 17

ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS & FRANCHISE RESIDENCE .......................... 17 Section 1: Eligible Participants Defined: .......................... 17 Section 2: Eligible Participant Football: ........................... 17 Section 3: Eligible Participant Cheer: ............................... 17 Section 4: Franchise Residence: ....................................... 18

A. Resides in Franchise Territory: ................................... 18 Section 5: Residence Defined: .......................................... 18

ARTICLE XXI ....................................................................... 19

FREE AGENCY & CUT CONTRACTS ............................................... 19 Section 1: Free Agency: ................................................... 19

A. Free Agent Status: ...................................................... 19 b. Sibling Rule: ................................................................ 21

Section 2: Cut Contracts: ................................................. 21 A. Mandatory Cut Contracts: .......................................... 21 B. Voluntary Cut Contracts: ............................................ 21 C. Cheer Cut Contracts: .................................................. 22 D. Obtaining a valid Cut Contract for Football: ............... 22 E. Obtaining a valid Cut Contract for Cheer: .................. 22

ARTICLE XXII ...................................................................... 22

RECRUITING GUIDELINES & REQUIREMENTS ................................. 22 Section 2: Recruiting Guidelines and General Requirements: ................................................................. 22 Section 3: Flag Team Enrollment Requirements: ............. 23

A. Team Size: .................................................................. 23 B. Cease Enrollment/Multiple Teams: ............................ 23 C. Limit of Number of Flag Teams: ................................. 23 D. No “Cuts”: .................................................................. 23

Section 4: Tackle Team Enrollment Requirements: ......... 23 A. Maximum Enrollment: ............................................... 23 B. No Waiting List: .......................................................... 23 C. Enrollment Below 40: ................................................. 23 D. Free Agent: ................................................................. 24 E. Team Size Pre-Certification: ....................................... 24

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F. Post 33 Player Recruitment Restrictions: ................... 24 G. Restrictions on Re-Opening Enrollment: .................... 24 H. Players after Enrollment Closed: ................................ 24 I. Free Agent Status: ...................................................... 24 J. Limitations on New Players After Team “Closed”: ..... 24 K. Mandatory Cuts Prior to Certification: ....................... 24 L. No “Cuts” Below 33 Players: ...................................... 24 M. Post Certification Enrollment: .................................... 24 N. Division President’s Approval Required: .................... 24 O. Date for Adding New Players: .................................... 24

Section 5: Sanctions for Improper Recruitment or Enrollment: ...................................................................... 24 Section 6: Cheer Enrollment Requirements: .................... 24

A. Cheer Divisions: .......................................................... 25 B. Movement Between Divisions: .................................. 25 C. Minimum/Maximum Cheer Participants: .................. 25 D. Cheer Certification: .................................................... 25 E. Jr. Gremlin .................................................................. 25

ARTICLE XXIII ..................................................................... 25

GENERAL AND PLAYER ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS ......................... 25 Section 1: Determining Age for Purposes of Division Placement ........................................................................ 25

A. Exception: .................................................................. 25 Section 2: Determining Weight for Purposes of Division Placement: ....................................................................... 25

A. Enrollment Weight: .................................................... 25 B. Weight Requirements For Participation:.................... 26 C. Mandatory Movement of Players: ............................. 26

Section 3: Physical Safety: ............................................... 26 A. Physical: ..................................................................... 26

Section 4: Amateur Status Defined: ................................. 26 A. Compensation Prohibited: ......................................... 26 B. Assumed Name: ......................................................... 26 C. No Other Tackle Team: .............................................. 26

Section 5: Scholastic Requirements: ................................ 27 A. GPA: ........................................................................... 27 B. GPA check and Continued Eligibility: ......................... 27

Section 6: Parental Consent to Participate: ..................... 27 A. Franchise Enrollment Forms: ..................................... 27 B. Families in Transition/Guardians: .............................. 28

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C. Families in Transition/Shared Custody: ...................... 28 Section 7: Player/Cheer Contract: ................................... 28

A. Parental Responsibility: .............................................. 28 B. Penalty for Falsification: ............................................. 28

ARTICLE XXIV ..................................................................... 28

COACHING STAFF RULES & REQUIREMENTS .................................. 28 Section 1: Coaching Staff Defined: .................................. 28

A. No consideration: ....................................................... 28 B. Final Team Registration Form: ................................... 28

Section 2: Tackle Football Staff: ...................................... 28 A. Number: ..................................................................... 28 B. Head Coach: ............................................................... 28 C. Team Athletic Director: .............................................. 28 D. Student Coaches ........................................................ 29 E. Minimum Number of Coaches: .................................. 29 F. Requirements: ............................................................ 29

Section 3: Flag Football Staff: .......................................... 29 A. Number: ..................................................................... 29 B. Head Coach: ............................................................... 29 C. Team Athletic Director: .............................................. 29

Section 4: Cheer Coaching Staff: ...................................... 29 A. Number: ..................................................................... 29 B. Head Coach: ............................................................... 29 C. Cheer Team Athletic Director: ................................... 29 D. Clinic: .......................................................................... 29

Section 5: Head Football Coach: ...................................... 29 A. Age: ............................................................................ 29 B. Officer ........................................................................ 29 C. Relationship Limitations: ............................................ 29 D. Requirements: ............................................................ 29 E. Safety: ........................................................................ 30 F. Ensures Compliance with Must Play Rules: ................ 30 G. Verification of Must Play Sheet: ................................. 30 H. Maintaining Order: ..................................................... 30 I. No Suspended Players: ............................................... 30 J. Game/Scrimmage Player Limitations: ........................ 30 K. Attendance:................................................................ 30 L. Coach’s Code of Ethic ................................................. 30

Section 6: Head Cheer Coach: .......................................... 30 A. Age: ............................................................................ 30

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B. Officer: ....................................................................... 30 C. Relationship Limitations: ............................................ 30 D. Requirements: ............................................................ 30 E. Safety: ........................................................................ 30 F. Maintain Order: ......................................................... 30 G. No Suspended Cheerleaders: ..................................... 30 H. Participate in All Games: ............................................ 30 I. Attendance:................................................................ 30 J. Coach’s Code of Ethics: .............................................. 30

Section 7: Team & Cheer Athletic Director ...................... 31 A. Age: ............................................................................ 31 B. Officer: ....................................................................... 31 C. Coaching: ................................................................... 31 D. Relationship: .............................................................. 31 E. Safety: ........................................................................ 31 F. Protection of Injured Player: ...................................... 31 G. Verification of Information: ....................................... 31 H. Verification of Address ............................................... 31 I. Verification of Academics: ......................................... 31 J. Ensures Compliance of Must Play Rules:.................... 31 K. Verification of Must Play Sheet: ................................. 31 L. Notification of Score: ................................................. 31 M. Attendance:................................................................ 31 N. Coach’s Code of Ethics: .............................................. 31

Section 8: Student Coaches & Cheer Trainers: ................. 31 A. Football: ..................................................................... 31 B. Cheer: ......................................................................... 31 C. Age: ............................................................................ 31 D. Prior Football Participation: ....................................... 31 E. Prior Cheer Participation: ........................................... 32

Section 9: Coach and Athletic Directors’ Code of Ethics: . 32 Section 10: Limitation on Coaches Movements Between Franchises: ....................................................................... 32

ARTICLE XXV ...................................................................... 33

DARK PERIOD ......................................................................... 33 Section 1: Defined: ........................................................... 33 Section 2: Other Activities Permitted:.............................. 33 Section 3: Franchise Activities: ........................................ 33

ARTICLE XXVI ..................................................................... 33

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COMMENCING PRACTICE .......................................................... 33 Section 1: Commencing Practice: .................................... 33

A. Late Start: ................................................................... 33 B. Sunday’s: .................................................................... 33 C. Lighting: ..................................................................... 33

ARTICLE XXVII .................................................................... 33

REQUIRED PHYSICAL CONDITIONING ........................................... 33 Section 1: Required Physical Conditioning: ...................... 33

A. Limitations: ................................................................ 33 B. Required Hours: ......................................................... 33 C. Time Limitations:........................................................ 33 D. Curfew: ....................................................................... 33 E. Calisthenics: ............................................................... 33 F. No Contact: ................................................................ 34 G. Permitted Equipment: ................................................ 34 H. Prohibited Equipment: ............................................... 34 I. Issuance of Equipment (Pads): ................................... 34 J. Must Meet Weight Requirements: ............................ 34 K. No Jewelry: ................................................................. 34

ARTICLE XXVIII ................................................................... 34

FOOTBALL PRACTICE ................................................................ 34 Section 1: Football Practice: ............................................ 34

A. Time Limitations:........................................................ 34 B. Curfew: ....................................................................... 34 C. Sunday’s: .................................................................... 34 D. Lighting Requirements: .............................................. 34 E. Practice/Scrimmage Limitations Before Certification: 34 F. No Practice on Game Days: ........................................ 34 G. Contact Limitations: ................................................... 35 H. Practice Limitations After Certification: ..................... 35

Section 2: Who May Participate in Football Practice: ..... 35 A. Physical Conditioning Completed: ............................. 35 B. Weight Requirements: ............................................... 35 C. Post Certification Weight Requirements: ................... 35

Section 3: Required Equipment Supplied by the Franchise: ......................................................................................... 35

A. Helmet: ...................................................................... 35 B. Shoulder pads ............................................................ 36 C. Thigh pads .................................................................. 36

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D. Knee pads ................................................................... 36 E. Hip or kidney pads ..................................................... 36

Section 4: Required Equipment Supplied by Franchise or by the Eligible Participant: ................................................... 36

A. Athletic Supporter/Girdle .......................................... 36 B. Mouth Piece ............................................................... 36 C. Shoes .......................................................................... 36 D. Long Hair .................................................................... 36

Section 5: Other Equipment:............................................ 36 Section 6: Jewelry: ........................................................... 36 Section 7: Limitations on Practice Drills: ......................... 36 Section 8: Sensitivity toward Head Injuries – Concussion Protocol: .......................................................................... 36

A. Suspected Head Injury: .............................................. 37

ARTICLE XXIX ..................................................................... 37

SCRIMMAGES ......................................................................... 37 Section 1: Scrimmages Defined: ...................................... 37

A. Who May Participate: ................................................ 37 B. Scrimmage is “Practice”: ............................................ 37 C. No Inter-Division Scrimmages: ................................... 37

Section 2: Scheduling Scrimmages: ................................. 37 A. Scrimmage Limits: ...................................................... 37 B. Scrimmage Approval: ................................................. 37 C. Cancelling/Rescheduling: ........................................... 37 D. Penalties/Fines: .......................................................... 38 E. Unscheduled Scrimmage:........................................... 38

Section 3: Scrimmage Requirements Prior to Team Certification: .................................................................... 38

A. Time Limits: ................................................................ 38 B. ID Cards: ..................................................................... 38 C. Eligible Participants: ................................................... 38 D. Minimum Players Required: ....................................... 38 E. Weigh-In Required: .................................................... 38 F. Safety Barriers: ........................................................... 38 G. Hosting Board Member Present: ............................... 38 H. Medic Requirements: ................................................. 38

Section 4: Scrimmage Requirements Following Team Certification: .................................................................... 38

A. Post Certification Changes: ........................................ 38 1. ID Cards: ..................................................................... 38

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2. Weigh-In process: ...................................................... 39 3. Team Certification: ..................................................... 39

Section 5: Unique Rules Applicable Only to Scrimmages: 39 A. Pre-Scrimmage Coaches Meeting: ............................. 39 B. Non-Movement of Ball: .............................................. 39 C. Coaches on Field: ....................................................... 39 D. Appropriate Breaks: ................................................... 39 E. Coach as Official: ........................................................ 39 F. Suspending Play: ........................................................ 40

Section 6: Scrimmage Minimum Play Rule: ..................... 40 A. Failure to Comply: ...................................................... 40 B. Withholding Players: .................................................. 40 C. Must Play Form: ......................................................... 40

ARTICLE XXX ...................................................................... 40

TEAM CERTIFICATION ............................................................... 40 Section 1: Defined: ........................................................... 40

A. ID Card Required: ....................................................... 40 B. Non-certified Players: ................................................ 40 C. No Division Movement: ............................................. 40 D. Cut Contracts Post Certification: ................................ 40

Section 2: Process: ........................................................... 40 A. Make Up Certification: ............................................... 41 B. Importance of Attendance: ........................................ 41

Section 3: Certification Committee: ................................. 41 Section 4: Franchise Materials: ....................................... 41

A. Verification of Age: .................................................... 41 B. Complete Fully Executed Contract: ............................ 41 C. Physical Fitness: ......................................................... 41 D. Complete and Signed Forms: ..................................... 41 E. Academic Compliance: ............................................... 41 F. Other Documentation: ............................................... 41 G. Roster Limitation: ....................................................... 41

Section 5: Certification Weight for flag and tackle Eligible Participants: .................................................................... 42

A. Weigh-In Attire: ......................................................... 42 Section 6: Certification Weight Chart: ............................. 42

A. Limited to Physical Conditioning: ............................... 42 Section 7: Flag and Tackle Team Certification Requirements: ................................................................. 42

A. Flag Division: .............................................................. 42

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B. All Tackle Divisions: .................................................... 42 C. Possible Exceptions: ................................................... 43

ARTICLE XXXI ..................................................................... 43

WEIGH-IN PROCESS DURING THE FOOTBALL SEASON ..................... 43 Section 1: Procedure for Weight Calculation for Post-Certification Day Scrimmages and Games: ..................... 43

A. Failure to Make Weight: ............................................ 43 Section 2: Those Present during the Weigh-in Process: ... 43

A. Who May be Present ................................................. 43 Section 3: Time: ............................................................... 43 Section 4: Withholding Players from the Weigh-in Process: ......................................................................................... 43

A. AD Discretion to Withhold Player: ............................. 43 B. Player Must Weigh-In: ............................................... 44

Section 5: Team Athletic Directors Exchange of information:..................................................................... 44

A. Verification of Information: ....................................... 44 B. Use of Rosters: ........................................................... 44

Section 6: Proof of Medical Attendant: ........................... 44 A. Mandatory Medic: ..................................................... 44 B. Visit Team Medic:....................................................... 44

Section 7: Equipment and Clothes worn during Weigh-in Process: ........................................................................... 44 Section 8: Exclusive Use of Certified Scales and Certification Weight Chart: ............................................. 45 Section 9: Additional Weight for Equipment & During Season: ............................................................................ 45

A. Flag Uniform Allowance: ........................................... 45 B. Jr Gremlin, Gremlin, Jr. Pee-Wee, & Pee-Wee Uniform Allowance: ............................................................................. 45 C. Jr Midget Uniform Allowance: ................................... 45 D. Additional Weight Added During the Season: ............ 45

Section 10: Late Arrival of Eligible Participant: ............... 45 A. Advise Head Official and Opposing AD: ..................... 45 B. Halftime Weigh-In: ..................................................... 45 C. Minimum Plays Requirements Still Enforced: ............ 45 D. Withheld Player Cannot Weigh-In at Halftime: .......... 45 E. Late Player Must Weigh-In: ........................................ 45 F. No Re-Weigh of Over Weight Player: ......................... 45

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Section 11: Assembly: ...................................................... 45 Section 12: Allowing an Ineligible person to participate: 46

ARTICLE XXXII .................................................................... 46

SCOUTING OPPONENTS & SPOTTING DURING SCRIMMAGES OR GAMES

............................................................................................ 46 Section 1: Defined: ........................................................... 46 Section 2: Scouting Rules: ................................................ 46

A. Limitations: ................................................................ 46 B. Scouting Limited to Games: ....................................... 46 C. Penalty for Violation: ................................................. 46

Section 3: Spotting Rules: ................................................ 47 A. Position of Spotters: ................................................... 47 B. Limitations: ................................................................ 47

ARTICLE XXXIII ................................................................... 47

SEASON PLAY, FRIENDSHIP BOWLS, BOWL GAMES & FORFEITS ........ 47 Section 1: Defined: ........................................................... 47 Section 2: Length of Season: ............................................ 47

A. Byes: ........................................................................... 47 B. Notification of Score: ................................................. 47 C. Eleven Game Limit: .................................................... 47

Section 3: Schedules & Game Time: ................................ 47 A. Content of Schedule: .................................................. 47 B. Forfeit: ....................................................................... 48 C. Limitation of Pre-Game Warm-Up: ............................ 48

Section 4: Team Athletic Directors’ Responsibilities: ....... 48 A. Contrasting Jersey’s: .................................................. 48

Section 5: Post Season Bowl Games: ............................... 48 A. President Must Schedule: .......................................... 48 B. Cheerleader Attendance: ........................................... 48 C. Bylaws Enforced: ........................................................ 48 D. Conference Executive Presence: ................................ 49

Section 6: Game Limits: ................................................... 49 A. Eleven Game Limit: .................................................... 49 B. Time Between Games: ............................................... 49

Section 7: Forfeits: ........................................................... 49

ARTICLE XXXIV ................................................................... 49

DETERMINING LEAGUE CHAMPIONS & PLAYOFFS: ......................... 49

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JR. GREMLINS, GREMLINS, JR. PEE WEE, PEE WEE ........................ 49 & JR. MIDGET ........................................................................ 49

Section 1: Determining League Champion and Wild Card Teams: ............................................................................. 49

A. League Champion: ..................................................... 49 B. League Wild Card: ...................................................... 49 C. Method of Determining League Champion: ............... 49

Section 2: Calculation of Points for Wins, Losses, Ties, and Byes: ................................................................................ 49

A. Example:..................................................................... 50 Section 3: Sportsmanship: ............................................... 50

A. April Date for Sportsmanship Rule Modification: ...... 50 B. Executive Board to Gather Info from Officials: .......... 50 C. Posting of Scores: ....................................................... 50 D. Games Used to Calculate Sportsmanship Scores: ...... 50

Section 4: Determining League Champion Between Two Teams .............................................................................. 50

A. Co-Champions: ........................................................... 50 B. Sportsmanship Primary Tie-Breaker: ......................... 50 C. Head-to-Head if Sportsmanship Tied: ........................ 50 D. Division President: ..................................................... 50

Section 5: Determining League Champion Among Three Teams: ............................................................................. 50

A. Co-Champions: ........................................................... 50 B. Lowest Sportsmanship Score: .................................... 51 C. Sportsmanship Primary Tie-Breaker: ......................... 51

Section 6: Method for Determining Wild Card Teams: .... 51 A. Tie Between Two Teams: ........................................... 51 B. Tie Between Three Teams: ......................................... 51

Section 7: Playoffs: .......................................................... 51 A. Quarterfinal Round: ................................................... 51 B. Semi-Final Round: ...................................................... 51 C. Championship Game: ................................................. 51

ARTICLE XXXV .................................................................... 51

MUST PLAY RULE FOR TACKLE GAMES AND PLAYOFFS .................... 51 Section 1: Defined: ........................................................... 51 Section 2: Eligible Participant Must Play Rule: ................ 52

A. Play Defined: .............................................................. 52 B. All Types of Plays Count: ............................................ 52 C. Injured Player: ............................................................ 52

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D. Shortened Game: ....................................................... 52 Section 3: Must Play Record: ........................................... 52

A. Must Play Record: ...................................................... 52 B. Tracking Plays: ............................................................ 52 C. Custody of Must Play Record: .................................... 53

Section 4: Falsification of the Must Play Records: ........... 53 A. “Falsification” Defined: .............................................. 53 B. Mistakes: .................................................................... 53 C. Submission of False Record/Suspension- Season Games: .................................................................................. 53 D. Submission of False Record/Suspension- Playoff Games: .................................................................................. 53

Section 5: Failure to Comply with Must Play Rule: .......... 54

ARTICLE XXXVI ................................................................... 54

GAME BALL & JERSEY REGULATIONS ........................................... 54 Section 1: Game Balls: ..................................................... 54

A. Flag: ............................................................................ 54 B. Jr. Gremlin & Gremlin: ............................................... 54 C. Jr. Pee Wee & Pee Wee:............................................. 54 D. Junior Midget: ............................................................ 54 E. Use During Games: ..................................................... 54 F. Ball Use During Games: .............................................. 54

Section 2: Game Jerseys: ................................................. 54 A. Number Restrictions: ................................................. 54 B. Personalized Jerseys: ................................................. 54 C. Team Sponsors: .......................................................... 55 D. Changing Jerseys: ....................................................... 55

ARTICLE XXXVII .................................................................. 55

GAME FIELD REGULATIONS & RULES ........................................... 55 Section 1: Game Field Availability Forms: ....................... 55

A. Lighting: ..................................................................... 55 B. Restrooms: ................................................................. 55 C. Alcohol: ...................................................................... 55

Section 2: Field Dimensions: ............................................ 55 A. Flag: ............................................................................ 55 B. Tackle: ........................................................................ 55 C. Exceptions: ................................................................. 56 D. Properly Marked: ....................................................... 56 E. Goal Posts for Tackle: ................................................. 56

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Section 3: Safety Barrier: ................................................. 56 A. Hosting Franchise Requirements: .............................. 56

Section 4: Chain Crew: ..................................................... 56 A. Markers: ..................................................................... 56 B. Age Requirement: ...................................................... 56 C. Affiliation: .................................................................. 56 D. Non Members: ........................................................... 56 E. Proper Attire & Vests: ................................................ 56 F. No Phones or Electronic Devices: ............................... 56 G. Officials Control: ........................................................ 56 H. Behavior: .................................................................... 56

Section 5: Timekeeper: .................................................... 57 A. Quarters: .................................................................... 57 B. Halftime Intermission:................................................ 57 C. 5 Minute Warm-Up Warning: .................................... 57

Section 6: Game Announcers: .......................................... 57 A. Age: ............................................................................ 57 B. Announcing Limitations: ............................................ 57 C. Violations: .................................................................. 57

Section 7: Medical Attendant: ......................................... 57 A. Medic Info Exchange: ................................................. 57

Section 8: Field Restrictions - No Unauthorized Person on Field: ................................................................................ 57

A. Game Halted: ............................................................. 57 B. Injury: ......................................................................... 57 C. Coaching Staff on Field: .............................................. 57 D. Medic in Charge During Injury: .................................. 58 E. Bench Area: ................................................................ 58

ARTICLE XXXVIII ................................................................. 58

GAME OFFICIALS, RULEBOOK & GENERAL RULES ........................... 58 Section 1: General Rule: .................................................. 58 Section 2: Timeliness: ...................................................... 58

A. Late Officials: .............................................................. 58 Section 3: Game Officials Necessary: .............................. 58 Section 4: Official Rulebook: ............................................ 58 A. Conference Amended Game Rules: ........................ 58 1. Kickoffs and Punts: ................................................. 58 a. Jr Gremlin Division: ................................................ 58 b. Gremlin Division ..................................................... 59

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c. Jr-Pee-Wee through Jr Midget Divisions: ............... 59 2. Rules Specific to the Jr. Gremlin Division ............... 59 a. Minimum Plays: ..................................................... 59 b. On the Field Coach: ................................................ 59 c. Play Clock: .............................................................. 59 d. Extra Points: ........................................................... 59 Section 5: Official Discipline: ........................................... 59

A. Franchise Written Report: .......................................... 59 B. No Contact With Officials: .......................................... 59

Section 6: Conference Bylaws: ......................................... 59 A. Penalties in all Divisions: ............................................ 60 B. Injury Time Outs: ........................................................ 60

Section 7: 18 Point Rule: .................................................. 60 A. During Game: ............................................................. 60 B. Start of Second Half: .................................................. 60

Section 8: 30 Point Rule: .................................................. 60 Section 9: 48 Point Rule: .................................................. 60 Section 10: Ejection of an Eligible Participant: ................ 60

A. Officials Report: ......................................................... 60 B. Executive Board Notice: ............................................. 60 C. Penalty for Playing Suspended Player: ....................... 60

Section 11: Ejection of Member of the Coaching Staff: ... 61 A. Officials Report: ......................................................... 61 B. Franchise President’s Response: ................................ 61 C. Suspension: ................................................................ 61

Section 12: Fighting: ........................................................ 61 A. Official’s Report: ........................................................ 61

Section 13: Notification of Winning Team: ...................... 61 A. Ties: ............................................................................ 61

Section 14: No Noisemakers: ........................................... 61 Section 15: Shelter: .......................................................... 61

A. Similar Shelters at Halftime:....................................... 61

PART II - FLAG .................................................................... 62

ARTICLE I ............................................................................ 62

FLAG DIVISION – GENERAL ........................................................ 62 Section 1: Preliminary Statement: ................................... 62 Section 2: Flag Purpose: .................................................. 62

A. Score: ......................................................................... 62

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B. Notification of Winning Team: ............................... 62 C. Playoffs: ................................................................. 62 Section 3: Minimum Number of Players: ......................... 62 Section 4: Game Officials: ................................................ 62

A. Absent Officials: ......................................................... 62 Section 5: Start Time: ...................................................... 62 Section 6: Game Playing Time & Timeouts: ..................... 62

A. Clock Stoppage: .......................................................... 62 B. Timeouts: ................................................................... 62 C. Coaches & Players on Field: ....................................... 62

ARTICLE II ........................................................................... 63

PLAYER & TEAM EQUIPMENT .................................................... 63 Section 1: Equipment: ...................................................... 63

A . Franchise Provided Equipment: ................................. 63 B . Equipment Parents must provide .............................. 63 C. Equipment Limitations: .............................................. 63 D. Gloves: ....................................................................... 63 E. No Spatting: ............................................................... 63

Section 2: Home Team: .................................................... 63 Section 3: Flags: ............................................................... 63

A. Color: .......................................................................... 63 B. Length Limitation: ...................................................... 63 C. Approved Flag Types: ................................................. 63 D. No Tampering or Modifying Flags: ............................. 63

Section 4: Game Balls: ..................................................... 63 A. Size: ............................................................................ 63

ARTICLE III .......................................................................... 64

FIELD RULES ........................................................................... 64 Section 1: Field Specifications: ......................................... 64 Section 2: Safety Barrier: ................................................. 64

A. Hosting Franchise to Provide: .................................... 64 Section 3: Shelter: ............................................................ 65

A. Similar Shelters at Halftime:....................................... 65 Section 4: Positioning of Coaches & Eligible Participants: ......................................................................................... 65

A. Coach on Field During Game: ..................................... 65

ARTICLE IV ......................................................................... 65

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WEIGH-IN PROCESS FOLLOWING CERTIFICATION ........................... 65 Section 1: Procedure for Weight Calculation for Post-Certification Day Scrimmages and Games: ..................... 65

A. No Re-Weighing of Players: ........................................ 65 Section 2: Those Present during the Weigh-in Process: ... 65

A. Who May be Present: ................................................ 65 Section 3: Time: ............................................................... 65 Section 4: Withholding Players from the Weigh-in Process: ......................................................................................... 65

A. AD Discretion to Withhold Player: ............................. 65 B. Player Must Weigh-In: ............................................... 65

Section 5: Team Athletic Directors Exchange of information:..................................................................... 66

A. Verification of Information: ....................................... 66 B. Use of Rosters: ........................................................... 66

Section 6: Proof of Medical Attendant: ........................... 66 A. Medic Mandatory for Games: .................................... 66 B. Visiting Team Medic: .................................................. 66

Section 7: Equipment and Clothes worn during Weigh-in Process: ........................................................................... 66

A. Shoes/Socks: .............................................................. 66 B. Pants: ......................................................................... 66 C. Knee pads. .................................................................. 66 D. Athletic cup. ............................................................... 66 E. Tee shirt and/or Game Jersey. ................................... 66 F. Flags & Mouth Pieces. ................................................ 66 G. Equipment Inspection: ............................................... 66 H. No Changing Equipment After Weigh-In: ................... 66

Section 8: Exclusive Use of Certified Scales and Certification Weight Chart: ............................................. 67 Section 9: Scrimmages Following Certification Day and Games: ............................................................................ 67

A. Addition Weight for Equipment: ................................ 67 B. Additional Weight Added During the Season: ............ 67

Section 10: Late Arrival of Eligible Participant: ............... 67 A. Procedure:.................................................................. 67 B. Halftime Procedures: ................................................. 67 C. Minimum Plays: ......................................................... 67 D. Late Player Must Weigh-In: ........................................ 67

Section 11: Assembly: ...................................................... 67

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Section 12: Allowing an Ineligible person to participate: 67

ARTICLE V .......................................................................... 67

MUST PLAY RULE & MUST PLAY RECORD .................................... 67 Section 1: Eligible Participant Must Play Rule: ................ 67

A. Play Defined: .............................................................. 67 B. All Types of Plays Count: ............................................ 68 C. Injured Player: ............................................................ 68 D. Late Arrival: ................................................................ 68

Section 2: Must Play Record: ........................................... 68 A. Must Play Record: ...................................................... 68 B. Tracking Plays: ............................................................ 68 C. Custody of the Must Play Records: ............................ 68

Section 3: Falsification of the Must Play Records: ........... 69 A. “Falsification” Defines: ............................................... 69 B. Submission of Falsified Report- Fine & Suspension: .. 69

Section 4: Failure to Comply with Must Play Rule: .......... 69

ARTICLE VI ......................................................................... 69

PLAYERS – OFFENSE & DEFENSE ................................................ 69 Section 1: Players: ........................................................... 69

A. Properly Fitting Equipment: ....................................... 69 B. Inadvertently Losing Flag ........................................... 70

Section 2: Formations: ..................................................... 70 Section 3: Substitutions: .................................................. 70

A. Huddles: ..................................................................... 70 Section 4: Neutral Zone Defined: ..................................... 70

A. Placement of Cones: .................................................. 70 Section 5: Passing Rules: ................................................. 70

A. Offensive Eligible Players: .......................................... 70 B. Forward Pass Limit: .................................................... 70 C. Incomplete Lateral Pass – Dead Ball: ......................... 70 D. Interception in Endzone – Touchback: ....................... 70 E. Premature Flag Pulled During Pass: ........................... 70

Section 6: Offensive Rules Regarding Running Plays: ...... 70 A. Avoiding Tackle: ......................................................... 70 B. Limitation on Lead Blocking: ...................................... 70 C. Neutral Zone Restriction: ........................................... 70 D. Limitation on Center as a Runner: ............................. 70 E. Limitation on Quarterback: ........................................ 70 F. Protecting/Block Flags:............................................... 71

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Section 7: Defensive Rules Regarding Running Plays & Treatment of the Ball Carrier: ......................................... 71 Section 8: Stopping the Ball Carrier: ................................ 71 Section 9: Blocking & Use of Hands: ................................ 71

A. Limitation on Blocking: ............................................... 71 B. Limitation on Defender: ............................................. 71 C. Limitation on Blocking Center: ................................... 71

Section 10: Scoring Plays: ................................................ 71 A. Touchdown: ............................................................... 71 B. Safety: ........................................................................ 71

Section 11: Touchback: .................................................... 71 Section 12: Kick-Off and Punts: ....................................... 71

ARTICLE VII ........................................................................ 72

PENALTIES .............................................................................. 72 Section 1: Location & Enforcement of Penalties: ............. 72 Section 2: Inadvertent Whistle: ....................................... 72

A. No Penalty Involved: .................................................. 72 B. Penalty Involved: ........................................................ 73

Section 3: Violations & Penalties: .................................... 73 A. Dead Ball Violations: .............................................. 73

B. Offensive Violations: .................................................. 73 C. Defensive Violations: ................................................. 73 D. General Violations: ..................................................... 74

ARTICLE VIII ....................................................................... 74

DETERMINING LEAGUE CHAMPIONS & PLAYOFFS FLAG ................... 74 Section 1: Determining League Champion and Wild Card Teams: ............................................................................. 74

A. League Champion: ..................................................... 74 B. Wild Card Teams: ....................................................... 74 C. Method of Determining League Champion: ............... 74

Section 2: Calculation of Points for Wins, Losses, Ties, and Byes: ................................................................................ 74

A. Example:..................................................................... 74 Section 3: Sportsmanship: ............................................... 74

A. April Date for Sportsmanship Rule Modification: ...... 74 B. Executive Board to Gather Info from Officials: .......... 75 C. Posting of Scores: ....................................................... 75 D. Games Used to Calculate Sportsmanship Scores: ...... 75

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Section 4: Determining League Champion Between Two Teams .............................................................................. 75

A. Co-Champions: ........................................................... 75 B. Sportsmanship Primary Tie-Breaker: ......................... 75 C. Head-to-Head if Sportsmanship Tied: ........................ 75 D. Division President: ..................................................... 75

Section 5: Determining League Champion Among Three Teams: ............................................................................. 75

A. Co-Champions: ........................................................... 75 B. Lowest Sportsmanship Score: .................................... 75 C. Sportsmanship Primary Tie-Breaker: ......................... 75

Section 6: Method for Determining Wild Card Teams: .... 75 A. Tie Between Two Teams: ........................................... 75 B. Tie Between Three Teams: ......................................... 76

Section 7: Playoffs: .......................................................... 76 A. Quarterfinal Round: ................................................... 76 B. Semi-Final Round: ...................................................... 76 C. Championship Game: ................................................. 76

PART III - CHEER RULES ...................................................... 76

ARTICLE I ............................................................................ 76

GENERAL RULES ...................................................................... 76 Section 1: Preliminary Statement: ................................... 76 Section 2: Franchise Organization of Cheer Squads: ....... 76

A. Organization: .............................................................. 76 B. Head Coach: ............................................................... 76 C. Cheer Team Athletic Director: ................................... 76 D. Clinics: ........................................................................ 77 E. Number of Coaches Required: ................................... 77 F. City Cheer Coordinator: ............................................. 77 G. Cheer Team Applications: .......................................... 77

Section 3: Eligibility: ........................................................ 77 Section 4: Recruiting: ....................................................... 77 Section 5: Residence Requirements: ................................ 77 Section 6: Certification: ................................................... 77 Section 7: Cheer Staff: ..................................................... 77 Section 8: Fee Limitation: ................................................ 77 Section 9: No Payment: .................................................. 77 Section 10: Complaints regarding Violations: ................. 77 Section 11: Movement Among Divisions: ........................ 78

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ARTICLE II ........................................................................... 78

GENERAL SAFETY GUIDELINES .................................................... 78 Section 1: Applicability: ................................................... 78 Section 2: Training: .......................................................... 78 Section 3: Tumbling & Stunts: ......................................... 78 Section 4: Proper Footwear: ............................................ 78 Section 5: No jewelry: ...................................................... 78

ARTICLE III .......................................................................... 78

PRACTICE ............................................................................... 78 Section 1: Cheer Practice: ................................................ 78

A. Time Limit: ................................................................. 78 B. Curfew: ....................................................................... 78 C. Sunday’s: .................................................................... 78 D. Lighting Requirements: .............................................. 78 E. Practice Limit Before Certification: ............................ 78 F. Practice Limit After Certification: ............................... 78 G. Paperwork at Practices: ............................................. 78

Section 2: No Additional Practices for Competitions: ...... 78 Section 3: Necessary Members Present: .......................... 78

ARTICLE IV ......................................................................... 79

GAME AND PLAYOFF RULES ....................................................... 79 Section 1: Games & Playoffs: ........................................... 79

A. Attendance at Games: ............................................... 79 B. Academics: ................................................................. 79 C. No Cheerleader Pre-Game Field Access: .................... 79 D. Halftime: .................................................................... 79 E. Derogatory/Negative Cheers: .................................... 79 F. Profanity or Offensive Language Prohibited: ............. 79 G. Designated Cheer Area During Games: ...................... 79 H. Halftime Cheer Performance Time Limit: ................... 79 I. No Food on Field: ....................................................... 79 J. Limitations: ................................................................ 79

Section 2: Necessary Members Present: .......................... 80

ARTICLE V .......................................................................... 80

CHEER COMPETITIONS .............................................................. 80 Section 1: Defined: ........................................................... 80 Section 2: Competitions are Voluntary: ........................... 80

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A. Franchise Competitions: ............................................ 80 B. Competing at Unapproved Event: .............................. 80

Section 3: Make-up of Teams & Staffs: ........................... 80 Section 4: Restrictions on Members in Competition Area: ......................................................................................... 80

A. Franchise President or Designee: ............................... 80 B. No Other Members: ................................................... 80 C. No Fans: ..................................................................... 80 D. Viewing Area: ............................................................. 80

Section 5: Warm Ups: ...................................................... 80 Section 6: Judges: ............................................................ 81

A. Scoresheets: ............................................................... 81 Section 7: Sportsmanship: ............................................... 81

A. Artificial Noisemakers Prohibited: ............................. 81 Section 8: Cheer Competition Squads: ............................. 81 Section 9: Conference Board Approval: ........................... 81 Section 10: Participation: ................................................ 81 Section 11: Awards: ......................................................... 81 Section 12: Facilities: ....................................................... 81

ARTICLE VI ......................................................................... 81

DIVISION LIMITATIONS ............................................................. 81 Section 1: Purpose: .......................................................... 81 Section 2: Rules and Guidelines: ...................................... 81 Section 3: Tumbling and Jumping Restrictions: ............... 81 Section 4: Partner Stunts, Pyramids, and Toss Rules: ...... 81 Section 5: Routine Rules: ................................................. 82

A. Routine: ...................................................................... 82 B. Music: ......................................................................... 82 C. Time Limits: ................................................................ 82 D. Recorded Music Requirement: .................................. 82 E. Music Cued: ............................................................... 82 F. Backup Music Required: ............................................. 82 G. Music Editing Required: ............................................. 82 H. Limitation of Props: .................................................... 82 I. Safety With Props: ..................................................... 82 J. Removal of Uniform Prohibited: ................................ 82

PART IV – AWARDS ............................................................ 82

ARTICLE I ............................................................................ 82

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GENERAL RULES ...................................................................... 82 Section 1: Purpose: .......................................................... 82 Section 2: Conference Awards: ........................................ 82

A. Scholarship Patches: .................................................. 82 B. Scholarship Team Trophy: .......................................... 82 C. Team Sportsmanship Patches: ................................... 83 D. Coaching Sportsmanship Patches: ............................. 83 E. Championship Team Trophy: ..................................... 83 F. Championship Patches: .............................................. 83 G. Teams Present for Awards: ........................................ 83

Section 3: Individual Team Awards and Limitations: ....... 83 Section 4: Junior Gremlin Division: .................................. 83 Section 5: Scholarship Committee: .................................. 83

PART V – VIOLATIONS OF BYLAWS & RULES ...................... 83

ARTICLE I ............................................................................ 83

GENERAL RULES ...................................................................... 83 Section 1: General Principles: .......................................... 83 Section 2: Violations of Franchise Bylaws and Rules: ...... 83

ARTICLE II ........................................................................... 84

MONETARY FINES .................................................................... 84 Section 1: Fines: ............................................................... 84 Section 2: Factors to be Considered: ............................... 84

A. Violation Intentional: ................................................. 84 B. Prior Violation: ........................................................... 84 C. Nature of Offense: ..................................................... 84 D. No Factors Present: .................................................... 84

Section 3: Payment of Fines:............................................ 84 A. Oral Notification: ........................................................ 84 B. Written Notification: .................................................. 85

Section 4: Timeliness of Notification: .............................. 85 Section 5: Limitation on Activities Until Fine is Paid: ....... 85

A. Franchise Outstanding Fines: ..................................... 85 B. Team Outstanding Fines: ........................................... 85 C. Member Outstanding Fines: ...................................... 85

Section 6: Conference General Operating Account: ........ 85 Section 7: No Appeal or Review: ...................................... 85

ARTICLE III .......................................................................... 85

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ACTS OF SUSPENSION AND DISBARMENT ...................................... 85 Section 1: Defined: ........................................................... 85 Section 2: Suspension and Disbarment: .......................... 85 Section 3: Conduct Meriting Suspension: ........................ 85

A. Violation Intentional: ................................................. 86 B. Prior Violation of Same Rule: ..................................... 86 C. Nature of Offense: ..................................................... 86

Section 4: Length of Suspension: ..................................... 86 Section 5: Approved by Board of Directors: ..................... 86 Section 6: Presidential Prerogative:................................. 86 Section 7: Disbarment: .................................................... 86

A. Fraud: ......................................................................... 86 B. Paid coaching: ............................................................ 86 C. Competing for money: ............................................... 86 D. Violence: .................................................................... 86 E. Multiple Suspensions: ................................................ 86

Section 8: Hearing Required: ........................................... 87

ARTICLE IV ......................................................................... 87

ELIGIBILITY PROTESTS ............................................................... 87 Section 1: Protest Defined: .............................................. 87 Section 2: Pre-Game Protests: ......................................... 87

A. Example:..................................................................... 87 Section 3: Issues Arising During the Game: ..................... 87 Section 4: No Other Remedy Available: ........................... 87 Section 5: Protest Procedure: .......................................... 87

A. Must be Written:........................................................ 87 B. Transmission Timeframe: ........................................... 87 C. Deposit Required with Protest: .................................. 88 D. Non-Compliance Results in Denial: ............................ 88

Section 6: Review Committee: ......................................... 88 A. Appointment of Committee: ...................................... 88 B. Decision Based on Reports: ........................................ 88

Section 7: Decision by the Review Committee: ................ 88 A. Limitation of Decision: ............................................... 88 B. Other Proceedings: .................................................... 88 C. No Violation Deposit forfeited: .................................. 88

ARTICLE V .......................................................................... 88

ACCUSATIONS OF MISCONDUCT AGAINST MEMBERS...................... 88

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Section 1: General: .......................................................... 88 Section 2: Procedure: ....................................................... 89

A. Must be in Writing: .................................................... 89 B. Transmission Timeframe: ........................................... 89 C. Deposit Required: ...................................................... 89 D. Non-Compliance Results in Denial: ............................ 89

Section 3: Hearing: .......................................................... 89

ARTICLE VI ......................................................................... 89

REQUESTING AND CONDUCT OF HEARINGS ................................... 89 Section 1: Defined: ........................................................... 89 Section 2: Jurisdiction: ..................................................... 89 Section 3: Requesting a Hearing:..................................... 89

A. Email: ......................................................................... 89 B. Regular Mail: .............................................................. 90 C. Personal Service ......................................................... 90 D. Service on Franchise President: ................................. 90

Section 4: Contents of the Request for Hearing: ............. 90 Section 5: Calendaring of Hearing: .................................. 90 Section 6: Other Information: .......................................... 90 Section 7: Compliance with Request: .............................. 90 Section 8: Conduct of the Hearing: .................................. 90 Section 9: Litigation Waiver: ........................................... 90 Section 10: Status of Member Pending Hearing: ............. 91

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BYLAWS OF SAN GABRIEL VALLEY JUNIOR ALL-AMERICAN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE, INC.

Part I

Article I AFFILIATIONS

The San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference, Inc. shall also be known as and conduct business as Southern California Junior All-American Youth Football. For ease of reference, the San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference, Inc. shall be referred to as “Conference”. The Board of Directors of Conference may vote other Affiliations providing there is compliance with Article VI, Section 5, below.

Article II POSTING OF BYLAWS

A copy of the conference constitution and bylaws shall be furnished to each Member of Conference.

Article III PURPOSES

Section 1: The purposes of this corporation are exclusively religious, charitable, scientific, literary and educational. The members of the corporation and the directors thereof shall, at all times, act for the accomplishment and attainment of the purposes of the corporation as herein expressed and as expressed in its articles of incorporation. It is expressly understood that no part of the capital, assets, or earnings of the corporation shall inure to the benefit of any Member or Director or to any person other than the beneficiaries and donation recipients of the corporation. Section 2: No part of the activities shall consist of carrying on propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation, or doing any act or things not purely and completely religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational in its nature. Section 3: The objects of this program are to inspire youth to practice ideals of health, citizenship, character, and scholarship; to bring area youth closer together through the means of a common interest in sportsmanship, fair play, and fellowship; to impart to the game elements of safety, mindfulness, and intelligent supervision; and to keep the welfare of the player first and foremost and entirely free of adult lust for glory. Section 4: The specific purposes of this corporation are as follows:

A. To acquaint the Eligible Participants with high scholastic standards. B. To acquaint the Eligible Participant with the fundamentals of football rules: passing,

running, kicking, blocking, tackling, and cheering. C. To teach through the game, sportsmanship, love of the game, and the ability to take a few

knocks. D. To promote safe play by encouraging participants to play only in their own weight and age

divisions. E. To prevent rough playing including “piling on”.

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Article IV OFFICES – BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Section1: General Powers: The affairs of the corporation shall be managed by its Board of Directors. The directors may also be designated trustees or governors. Section 2: Number, Tenure, and Qualifications:

A. Directors of this corporation shall be the officers as designated in Article V.

B. The number of Directors shall be no fewer than six (6).

C. Each Franchise shall be entitled to a Director for each three (3) Teams or fraction thereof. No Franchise may have more than one (1) coach as a conference director.

D. The prerequisite of a Director shall be that the person be an active member and participant of this Conference for a period of at least one (1) year before becoming eligible for appointment to the Board of Directors.

Section 3: Election of Directors: Directors referenced in Section 2, subdivision A, of this Article shall be elected by ballot by the majority vote of the Franchise Directors at the organizational Conference Board of Directors meeting in November of each calendar year.

A. Electoral Process: 1 . The President shall announce no later than the August Conference Board of Directors

meeting which, if any, positions will be open for election at the Conference Board of Directors meeting in November of the same calendar year. The Secretary shall include this information in the August Minutes distributed thereafter to all Franchise Directors.

2 . Any eligible person who desires to be on the ballot must formally announce his or her candidacy by notifying the Conference President and Conference Secretary no later than the October meeting of the Conference Board of Directors. Such notification must include the specific position for which the candidate intends to stand for office. No person may stand for any office unless they have complied with this Section. There shall be no write-in candidates.

3 . During the November Conference Board of Directors meeting each standing candidate

shall have up to five minutes to address the Franchise Directors.

4 . After each candidate has addressed, or has had the opportunity to address, the Franchise Directors at the November Conference Board of Directors meeting the Secretary shall distribute ballots to the attending Franchise Directors. Each Franchise shall receive two (2) ballots. One ballot shall be distributed to the Franchise President and one ballot shall be distributed to the Franchise Conference Representative. Only the Franchise President and Franchise Conference Representative may receive ballots and vote. No other Franchise Director will be permitted to vote. In order to participate and exercise voting rights each Franchise must have the President (one ballot) and/or the Conference Representative (one ballot) present. There shall be no absentee voting.

5 . Once the voting has been concluded the Conference Secretary shall retrieve the ballots and

shall count them. The Conference President shall direct one member of the Conference Executive Board and one Franchise President or Franchise Conference Representative to assist and verify the counting of the ballots by the Conference Secretary.

6 . After the Conference Secretary has concluded counting the ballots, the Conference

President shall announce the results to the Conference Board of Directors. The Conference President shall only announce the winners and shall not announce the specific ballot totals.

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Section 4: Duties of Directors: It shall be the duty of the Board of Directors to take the initiative in determining the policies of the Conference. It shall be the Board of Director’s duty to take charge, control, and management of all property belonging to the Conference. The Board of Directors shall supervise the finances of the Conference and audit all bills prior to the payment thereof. It shall have the power to reject any or all applications for membership in the Conference. It shall have the power to render decisions on infractions, interpretations of bylaws, and all protests. The Board of Director’s decision is final and binding. The Board of Directors shall secure proper officials for the season. The Board of Directors shall complete a contract for the complete year's officiating. Section 5: Meetings of the Board of Directors: Meetings of the board of directors may be called by or at the request of the president or any director, whenever deemed necessary to conduct business of this corporation. Section 6: Attendance: Any member of the Board of Directors who misses two (2) consecutive meetings, or a total of four (4) meetings within a year, will be dropped from the Board of Directors unless prior approval to be absent has been obtained by the Conference President. Two consecutive un-excused absences will result in a $50.00 fine to the franchise involved. A Franchise with no member in attendance will be fined $100.00 Attendance will be verified by the Conference Secretary’s roll call at the meeting. Any member arriving 15 minutes after the listed meeting starting time will be considered absent. Section 7: Quorum: To conduct business, fifty-one (51%) percent of the board of directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the board. Section 8: Manner Of Acting: The act of a majority of the directors present at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the board of directors, except where otherwise provided by the law or by these bylaws. Section 9: Vacancies: The Board of Directors shall fill any vacancy occurring in the Board of Directors or any directorship to be filled by reason of an increase in the number of directors. A director elected to fill a vacancy shall be elected for the un-expired term of his or her predecessor in office. Section 10: Assignment: The Conference President will assign each board member to a division as a league director or assistant league director. They will assist the division presidents on certification day. Any director absent from this event will be fined $50.00. Division presidents may also request league directors and league assistants to assist them in performing team inspections and game monitoring. Section 11: Corporate Office: The Corporation shall maintain such offices within the County of Los Angeles or as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine.

Article V OFFICERS – GOVERNANCE & DUTIES

Section 1: Officers: The Officers of the Corporation shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Other such Officers may be elected in accordance with the provisions of this Article. The Board of Directors may elect or appoint such other Officers, including one or more assistant secretaries and one or more assistant treasurers, as it shall deem desirable. Such Officers are to have the authority and perform the duties prescribed, from time to time, by the Board of Directors. The same person, except for the President, may hold any two or more offices. Section 2: Election and Term of Office: The Board of Directors shall elect the Officers of the corporation every two (2) years. If the election of Officers shall not be held at such meeting, said elections shall be held as soon thereafter as conveniently possible. Vacancies may be filled or new offices created and filled at any meeting of the Board of Directors. Each Officer shall hold office until a successor shall have been duly elected and shall have qualified.

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Section 3: Removal: Any Officer or agent elected or appointed by the Board of Directors may be removed by the B oard of D irectors whenever in its judgment the best interest of the corporation would be served thereby, but such removal shall be without prejudice to the contract rights, if any, of the person so removed. Section 4: Vacancies: A vacancy in any office because of death, resignation, removal, disqualification or otherwise, may be filled by the board of directors for the un-expired portion of the term. Section 5: President: The President shall be the principal executive officer of the corporation and shall, in general, supervise and control all of the business and affairs of the corporation. The President shall preside at all meetings of the members and of the Board of Directors at which the President is present. The President may sign with the secretary or any other proper Officer of the corporation authorized by the Board of Directors, any deeds, mortgages, bonds, contracts, or other instruments which the Board of Directors has authorized to execute, except in such cases where the signing and execution thereof shall be especially delegated by the Board of Directors, or by these bylaws, or by statute to some other Officer or agent of the corporation, and in general, shall perform all duties incident to the office of president and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board of Directors from time to time. The President has the authority to suspend for up to thirty (30) days or place on probation for up to sixty (60) days any organization, team, conference member, or certified participant whose violation(s) of any bylaws or conference rules are, in his or her opinion, serious enough to warrant such action. Notification of any such action shall be verified in writing to the parties concerned and to the Conference Executive Board. The Executive Board may, after review, set a hearing in accordance with Part V, Article VI, if in its opinion a more severe penalty may be deemed appropriate. Should the Executive Board deem the action taken by the President to be justified, the case will be closed.

Section 6: Vice President: In the absence of the P resident, or in the event of his or her inability or refusal to act, the Vice President shall perform the duties of the president, and when so acting, shall have all the power of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the president. The vice president shall perform such other duties from time to time as may be assigned by the president or by the board of directors. Section 7: Treasurer: If required by the board of directors, the treasurer shall give a bond for the faithful discharge of duties in such sum and with such surety or have charge and custody of and be responsible for all funds for monies due and payable to the corporation from any source whatsoever. The Treasurer shall deposit all such monies in the name of the corporation in such banks, trust companies, or other depositories as shall be selected in accordance with Article IV herein; and, in general, perform all the duties incident to the office of treasurer, and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the president or the board of directors. Section 8: Secretary: The secretary shall keep minutes of the meetings of the members and of the board of directors in one or more books provided for that purpose; see that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws or as required by law; be custodian of the corporate records and of the seal of the corporation, and see that the seal of the corporation is affixed to all documents, the execution of which on behalf of the corporation under its seal is duly authorized in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws; keep a register of the post office address of each member which shall be furnished to the secretary by such member; and, in general, perform all duties incident to the office of secretary and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the president or by the Board of Directors. Section 9: Executive Board: The Conference Executive Board shall consist of the Conference Officers and Divisional Presidents. The Executive Board shall be empowered to suspend any member or members when the Board has reasonable cause to believe the member or members violated conference rules and regulations. The suspension shall remain in effect unless and until a hearing is set, as set forth in Part V, Article VI.

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Section 10: Division Officers:

A. Division Officers shall be the President and assistants who shall such duties and be elected in the manner hereinafter provided.

A. They shall call meetings of the division when they deem it necessary, or when requested by the Board, or upon written request of at least one-fourth of the members of that division.

B. The President shall appoint all standing committees of the division. Section 11: All Officers: All Officers have the responsibility of enforcing the rules and regulations as set down by Conference. All Officers shall be empowered to suspend any member or members when the Officer has reasonable cause to believe the member or members violated conference rules and regulations. The suspension shall remain in effect unless and until a hearing is set, as set forth in Part V, Article VI. Section 12: Conference Cheer Coordinator: The C.C.C. is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Conference Board of Directors. The term of appointment is one year. The appointee shall have the responsibility of enforcing the rules and regulations as set forth by this conference. The C.C.C shall be empowered to suspend any member or members when the C.C.C. has reasonable cause to believe the member or members violated conference rules and regulations. The suspension shall remain in effect unless and until a hearing is set, as set forth in Part V, Article VI.

Section 13: Conference Athletic Director: The C.A.D. is appointed by the conference president and confirmed by the conference board of directors. The term of appointment is one year. The appointee shall have the responsibility of enforcing the rules and regulations as set forth by this conference. The C.A.D. shall be empowered to suspend any member or members when the C.A.D. has reasonable cause to believe the member or members violated conference rules and regulations. The suspension shall remain in effect unless and until a hearing is set, as set forth in Part V, Article VI. Section 14: Conference Player Safety Coach: The P.S.C. is appointed by the conference president and confirmed by the conference board of directors. The term of appointment is one year. The appointee shall have the responsibility of enforcing the rules and regulations as set forth by this conference. The P.S.C. shall be empowered to suspend any member or members when the P.S.C. has reasonable cause to believe the member or members violated conference rules and regulations. The suspension shall remain in effect unless and until a hearing is set, as set forth in Part V, Article VI.

Article VI CONTRACTS, CHECKS, DEPOSITS AND FUNDS

Section 1: Contracts: The Board of Directors may authorize any Officer or Officers, agent or agents, of the corporation, in addition to the officers so authorized by these bylaws, to enter into any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the corporation and such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Section 2: Checks, Drafts, Etc.: All checks, drafts, or other orders for the payment of money, notes, or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of the corporation shall be signed by such Officer or Officers, agent or agents, of the corporation and in such manner as shall from time to time be determined by resolution of the B oard of D irectors. In the absence of such determination by the Board of Directors, such instruments shall be signed by the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer and countersigned by the President or Vice President of the corporation. Section 3: Deposits: All funds of the corporation shall be deposited from time to time to the credit of the corporation in such banks, trust companies, or other depositories as the Board of Directors may select. Section 4: Gifts: The Board of Directors may accept on behalf of the corporation any contribution, gift, bequest, or device for the general purpose or for any special purpose of the Corporation.

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Section 5: Affiliations: San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference, Inc. duly and legally incorporated under the laws of the State of California, shall not disburse any monies to any organization with which this corporation might affiliate without first receiving, in writing, from said organization:

A. A list of said organization's officers and board of directors;

B. Copies of the minutes of all meetings of said organization;

C. A copy of said organization's articles of incorporation;

D. A copy of said organization's constitution and bylaws;

E. A certified annual financial statement of said organization. Section 6: Scholarships: A college scholarship fund shall be established and maintained by the conference in the form of an irrevocable trust with the 1985 conference executive board as trustees. The trust shall be initially funded with $100,000.00 and this fund shall be invested at the discretion of the trustees but only in U.S. Government insured investments. The income generated there from, plus any contributions thereto, shall be distributed by the trustees only for college scholarships. The scholarships shall be awarded on a competitive basis to past participants at a conference meeting. The trustees set the requirements and standards. No monies in this trust may be dispensed for any other purpose nor may this Section be altered or amended.

A. In the event a 1985 conference executive board member resigns as a trustee or upon the demise of a trustee the remaining trustees shall appoint a successor trustee.

Article VII

BOOKS AND RECORDS The Corporation shall keep correct and complete books and records of account and shall also keep minutes of the proceedings of its member and Board of Directors, and shall keep at the registered or principal office a record giving the names and addresses of the members entitled to vote. Any member, or his agent or attorney may inspect all books and records of the corporation, for any proper purpose at any reasonable time.

Article VIII FISCAL YEAR

The fiscal year of the corporation shall begin on January 1st and end on December 31st of each year.

Article IX SEAL

The corporate seal of this corporation shall consist of two concentric circles with the words "San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference" and the date of incorporation thereon.

Article X WAIVER OF NOTICE

Whenever any notice is required to be given under the provisions of the General Non-Profit Corporation Law of California or under the provisions of the articles of incorporation or the bylaws of the corporation, a waiver thereof in writing signed by the person or persons entitled to such notice whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to the giving of such notice.

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Article XI AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS

Section 1: Amendments: These bylaws may be altered, amended, or repealed and new bylaws may be adopted by majority of the Directors present at any regular meeting or at any special meeting provided that at least two (2) days written notice is given of intention to alter, amend, repeal, or to adopt new bylaws at such meetings.

A. No Rule changes may occur from April 1 to January 1 of any year. In the event of a conflict, the President may call a special meeting, but any changes made as a result of the special meeting will not become effective until the following year.

Article XII

NOMINEES Stocks, bonds, and other property owned by the corporation may be issued or held in the name of any nominee from time to time designated by the Board of Directors, t h e President, or Vice President of the corporation.

Article XIII

CONFERENCE COMPOSITION The San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference shall be composed of six (6) D ivisions; F l a g D i v i s i o n , Junior Gremlin Division, Gremlin Division, Junior Pee Wee Division, Pee Wee Division, and Junior Midget Division. Each Division shall not be composed of less than four (4) teams, or more than ten (10) teams. To comply with the above, teams may be placed in Leagues. (See Article IXX.)

Article XIV MEETINGS

Section 1: Organization and Other Meetings: The organization meeting of the conference shall be held in November, and Directors elected as required by these bylaws. Regular meetings of the conference shall take place on any third or fourth weekday of each month thereafter. All franchises must have representation at each conference meeting. The representation shall consist of the Franchise President and the Franchise Conference Representative. The Conference President or Division President may call special meetings at any time upon proper notice. The purpose of Conference meetings is to obtain a consensus of opinions of the conference as a whole, as well as to impart information to members.

A. General Voting: Each franchise is entitled to one (1) vote for each Member present for a total of no more than two (2) votes.

B. Voting on Division Issues: Each team within the conference shall be entitled to one (1) vote per team at Divisional level on matters pertaining to the respective Division only.

C. All matters brought to a vote at Division or Conference level shall be ratified for final approval by the Board of Directors.

D. The City President is also considered a Conference Representative.

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Article XV FINANCE

Section 1: Budgets: The president and secretary or treasurer of the conference, on approval of the board of directors, shall set up a budget of the amount of monies necessary to operate the conference for the entire season. The conference budget shall be proportioned equally. Section 2: Teams: No Team shall be permitted to participate in Conference play until all Conference financial requirements are met. Any team that fails to pay their team budget for the current year by October 15th will be disbanded for the remainder of the season. Any team owing Conference monies from the previous year shall not be permitted to participate. Any team failing to complete its season of play for any reason forfeits all monies paid to Conference. Section 3: No Franchised Team: shall solicit funds in other franchise areas. Exception: donations, advertisements and sponsorships may be obtained from individuals, corporations and businesses in other Franchise areas provided there is a direct personal contact with the donor.

A. Direct personal contact is defined as any Member of the Franchise having a personal or professional friendship and/or association with the donor.

Article XVI

INSURANCE

Section 1: Insurance Required: All teams in conference shall be insured with medical and liability insurance during season play. The policies are negotiated by conference and the cost is included in conference fees. Also included are Directors and Officers policies for each Franchise. Equipment Floater and Fidelity Bonds are additional policies that may be purchased.

A. Suspension: Any franchise, or team that belongs to a franchised member of Jr. All American, that practices, scrimmages or plays without liability insurance then in effect is automatically suspended from further participation in Conference play.

B. Renewal: Insurance policies renew on or Before April 15th of each year. Certificates of Insurance will be available as needed to each Franchise as they secure their required facilities for each season.

C. Conference Medical Insurance: Conference provides medical insurance for football players

and cheerleaders that is a “secondary” coverage requiring a $500.00 deductible and is intended for reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.

1. An explanation of the insurance shall be included on player and cheer contracts, and

sufficient information provided to parents as to making a claim on this policy.

2. In the event that an injury requiring medical attention occurs that will be covered by Conference Medical Insurance the team Athletic Director shall report such injury to the Conference Insurance Administrator within 48 hours of the occurrence of the injury.

3. Parents and Guardians may contact the Conference Insurance Administrator to obtain a claim form.

D. Forms Required to be Present at All Times: All Participants’ contracts, code of ethics, and insurance forms must be on the field with the team during conditioning, practices, games, and team functions. A copy of participants’ contract must be distributed to parent or guardian at the teams parents meeting.

E. Medical Attendant: Every home team must have a qualified medical attendant on the

field at all home games and scrimmages. The Visiting Athletic Director must ask for proof of the presence of a medical attendant.

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1. Failure to have a qualified medical attendant could result in scheduled home team sanctions or forfeiture.

2. The name, address, phone number, and credentials of the qualified medical attendant must be on fi le with Conference for the current year.

3. If any individual team has a traveling team medical attendant the same information shall be submitted before the start of season play.

4. Cities hosting kick-off bowls, playoffs and post season games must provide a medical attendant.

5. No scheduled game may be played in the absence of a qualified medical attendant.

6. For purposes of this rule the term “qualified medical attendant” refers to any physician,

nurse, certified or accredited athletic trainer, or any person who has completed the necessary classes and is certified by the State of California as an EMT-1 (or EMT-B).

7. Any person who is designated or serves as a Medical Attendant for any Conference

scrimmage, game or event must either be a Member of Conference, or shall have proof of qualifications present at the time the services are provided.

F. Conference Medical Attendant: The Conference medical advisor or physician has the

prerogative to examine and challenge all claims, injuries, and diagnoses.

G. Doctors’ Release: An injured player may not participate in any practice, scrimmage or game until released by a doctor.

Article XVII

FRANCHISE FORMATION, ORGANIZATION & REQUIREMENTS

Section 1: Franchise Defined: “Franchise” is an eligible non-profit organization that has been accepted by the Conference Board of Directors as a member of Jr. All-American. Each Franchise shall be entitled to one Director on the Conference Board of Directors and one (1) Conference Representative, pursuant to Article II, Section 2, subdivision (C). Section 2: Franchise Territory: A Franchise approved by Conference shall operate within a specific geographical territory as imposed by Conference. A Franchise shall have the right to develop its assigned geographical territory, recruit Eligible Participants within that territory, solicit donations, and add teams so long as it complies with Conference and the Franchise’s Bylaws. Certain territory designated by Conference may be shared between two or more Franchises.

A. Modification of Territory: A Franchise may petition to modify its existing operating territory.

1. A Franchise seeking to modify its existing operating territory must petition the

Conference President prior to February 2nd of the calendar year to change or modify the then existing territorial limitations within which that Franchise operates.

a. Any Petition must include: (1) A statement as to why the Franchise believes a

territorial modification is warranted; (2) A detailed map indicating the area the Franchise wishes to incorporate; (3) A statement whether the area the Franchise wishes to incorporate is then currently operated in whole or in part by one or more other Franchises; and (4) Whether the petitioning Franchises has contacted the other Franchise(s) impacted by the proposed territorial modification.

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2. If a Franchise seeks to modify its operating territory by incorporating territory then currently operated by one or more other current Franchises the petitioning Franchise shall also give notice prior to February 2nd of the calendar year to any such Franchise so impacted.

3. As a non-profit organization, each Franchise is encouraged to raise funds and solicit donations in its territory. A Franchise may also raise funds and solicit donations in Open Territory. No Franchise may solicit funds in the territory of another Franchise. (See Article XV, Section 3.)

Section 3: Franchise Eligibility: To be eligible as a Franchise of Jr. All-American, an organization must:

A. Election of Officers and Directors: Elect its officers and directors (“Franchise Board”) no later than December 31st of each calendar year. The Franchise must submit the names and other contact information requested by Conference of the Franchise Board to the Conference Office no later than the first scheduled January Conference Board of Directors Meeting. All members of the Franchise Executive Board shall be at least twenty-one (21) years of age. A Franchise Executive Board may have assistants who are under twenty-one (21) years of age.

1. Required Franchise Board Positions: Although each Franchise may create board

positions that do not conflict with the Conference Bylaws, each Franchise must have certain positions specifically designated as directed by Conference. These will vary from time to time, but those currently required are:

a. President: It is recommended that the individual have at least one (1) year of

prior experience as an officer of the Franchise Board. A Franchise may have only one (1) President. A Franchise President may petition the Conference Executive Board after Certification to become an assistant coach or assistant AD position for a team. The Franchise must be in “good standing” before a petition will be reviewed.

b. Vice President: It is recommended that the individual have at least one (1) year

of prior experience as an officer of the Franchise Board. No Franchise Vice President may simultaneously serve as a Head Coach or Team Athletic Director unless approved by the Conference President.

c. Secretary: No Franchise Secretary may simultaneously serve as a Head Coach or Team Athletic Director unless approved by the Conference President. i. The Franchise Secretary shall email a copy of the meeting minutes of the

Franchise Board of Directors to the Conference Secretary.

d. Treasurer: It is recommended that the individual have at least one (1) year of prior experience as an officer of the Franchise Board, and also some prior bookkeeping of accounting experience. No Franchise Treasurer may simultaneously serve as a Head Coach or Team Athletic Director.

i. The Treasurer is required to be bonded.

ii. Any funds, of any kind, raised or collected by a Franchise, or by a Team or

Cheer squad within a Franchise, must be deposited with the Franchise Treasurer. Electronic share payment accounts, such as Venmo, are not permitted to be set up by a Team or Parent.

iii. Each Franchise shall have only one (1) checking account. Each Franchise may also have one (1) savings account. NOTE: A second checking and savings account may be added for cheer, but the Treasurer and Cheer Coordinator shall be the only signatures. Cheer Checking Accounts may only be used for approved cheer expenditures

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iv. The Franchise Treasurer is required to transmit to the Conference Secretary a copy of the monthly statement from any institution where Franchise funds are deposited.

e. Franchise Athletic Director: It is recommended that the individual have at least

one (1) year of prior experience as an athletic director. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, coordination and instruction of division athletic directors. The city athletic director shall be responsible for facilitating program objectives and directing division athletic directors in their roles. No Franchise Athletic Director may simultaneously serve as a Head Coach or Team Athletic Director unless approved by the Conference President.

f. Franchise Designated Agent: It is recommended that the individual have at least one (1) year of prior experience as a member of the Franchise Board. No Franchise Designated Agent may simultaneously serve as a Head Coach or Team Athletic Director unless approved by the Conference President.

g. Franchise Player Safety Coach: It is recommended that the individual have at least one (1) year of prior coaching experience. No Franchise Player Safety Coach may simultaneously serve as a Head Football coach or Team Athletic Director unless approved by the Conference President.

h. Franchise Cheer Coordinator: It is recommended that the individual have at least one (1) year of prior cheer coaching or administration experience. A Franchise Cheer Coordinator may petition the Conference Executive Board after Certification to become an assistant coach or assistant AD position for a team. The Franchise must be in “good standing” before a petition will be reviewed.

2. Holding Other Positions: In any volunteer organization it is not uncommon for

members to hold more than one position at the same time. Any Franchise Member is permitted to hold more than one position except as noted in Section 3, (A)(1)(a)-(h) of this Article, and so long as this does not violate the Franchise Bylaws.

B. Franchise Renewal: Apply in writing for Franchise membership not later than January 31st

of the calendar year in which the Franchisee intends to participate.

C. Conform to Conference Bylaws: Read and conform to the Conference Constitution and Bylaws.

D. No Franchise Bylaw Conflicts: Ensure that the Franchise Bylaws do not conflict with those of Conference. If the Franchise Bylaws do conflict in any material way with the Conference Bylaws, the Franchise Bylaws must be amended prior to the time the Franchise commences recruiting participants for the upcoming season so as to conform to those of Conference.

E. Supply Constitution and Bylaws: Provide Conference with two (2) copies of the Franchise Constitution and Bylaws not later than February 15th of the calendar year in which the Franchise intends to participate. The Franchise Constitution and Bylaws must be submitted to Conference before final approval of a franchise is granted by Conference.

F. Good Standing: Be in good standing, and have paid or resolved all fees, debts, and/or fines then due and owing from the prior season if that organization participated as a Franchise in the preceding year(s).

G. Valid Non-Profit: Be a valid non-profit organization under Section 501 of the IRC with a valid Federal and State identification number.

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H. Neutral Arbitration: Agree to neutral arbitration by a third party in the event of any dispute of any kind whatsoever as between the Franchise, including any of its participants, coaches, athletic directors, or board members, and Conference concerning the interpretation and application of the Constitution and Bylaws of Conference, including any penalties, fines, or suspensions assessed by Conference against the Franchise, the Franchises’ members and participants, or any of the Franchise’s teams.

I. Liability Insurance: Each franchise must carry a minimum of $2,000,000 in liability insurance. The cost is included in team registration fees.

J. Conference Jurisdiction: The Conference Board of Directors shall have jurisdiction over and will assist in the formation of Franchises and teams within Conference and each franchise shall agree to follow the direction or decision of Conference.

K. Must Be Solvent and Field Two teams: Any new Franchise must be financially solvent and have at least two (2) Teams in any tackle division at the time of enrollment.

Section 4: Franchise Paperwork: Each year all Franchises are required to submit to Conference certain documents necessary for the administration and operation of Conference and to comply with State and Federal requirements. The list of materials varies from year to year, and the list below is not intended to be exclusive. To the extent additional materials are required in any given year, Conference will advise the Franchises in a timely manner of what is required, usually at the initial meeting of the Board of Directors in January. The due dates identified below are subject to change.

A. No later than February 15th of each calendar year, every Franchise shall provide:

1. Two (2) copies of the Franchise’s current constitution and bylaws amended and dated.

2. One (1) copy of the Franchise’s Federal Disclosure Letter.

3. One (1) copy of Statement b y Domestic N o n -Profit Corporation.

B. No later than March 15th of each calendar year, every Franchise shall provide:

1. An audited financial report of the previous year’s operation. The audited financial report must be submitted on conference financial form or other format as approved by conference treasurer.

2. One (1) copy of the Franchise Treasurer’s bond. Each Franchise Treasurer must be bonded for a minimum of $25,000.00.

C. No later than April 15th of each calendar year, every Franchise shall provide:

1. One (1) copy of the Franchise’s current treasurer’s bond.

2. One (1) copy of California State Registry of Charitable Trusts (Form RRF-1).

3. One (1) copy of Federal Tax Form 990 as filed for the previous year.

4. One (1) copy of State Tax Form 199 as filed for the previous year.

D. Due On or before the May Conference Meeting of each calendar year, each Franchise shall

provide:

1. An official team registration form for each flag and tackle team, and cheer squad, and pay the deposit for each team as set forth in the current year’s budget. Deposit is not refundable.

2. The cost of the liability insurance referenced above in Section, 3(I) is included is included in team registration fees.

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Section 5: New Franchise Formation Considerations: In the event circumstances arise wherein a new organization desires to operate within an area wholly or partially operated by another established Franchise, the following procedures shall be implemented:

A. The Conference Board of Directors shall initially review at the monthly Conference Board of Directors meeting the organization’s application for the proposed new Franchise to determine and evaluate the practicality and rationale of the request. If the Conference Board of Directors initially determines that the request and circumstances presented by the organization’s application warrant negotiating another Franchise in the geographical area then in question, the Conference President shall schedule a hearing for the next Monthly Conference Board of Directors meeting to take a final vote of the Conference Board of Directors. In any such determination, the Board of Directors shall be guided by:

1. To take into consideration the views and objections of any existing Franchise currently

in good standing that will be adversely impacted by allowing the new organization to be franchised in the area requested by the application.

2. To find a resolution to consolidate all activities in one geographical area under one Franchise organization.

3. If consolidation into a single franchised organization is not possible, then to determine

an equitable arrangement relating to the recruitment of players, the solicitation of funds, the use of common facilities, etc., so as to minimize or eliminate any friction between existing Franchise(s) and the new organization. It shall be the duty of the new and existing Franchises to jointly submit a written proposal implementing these goals and submit the same to the Conference Board of Directors for approval.

4. In reviewing the written proposals of the new and existing Franchise(s) that are to

operate in the same geographical area, the Conference Board of Directors shall take particular care in the manner in which participants shall be allotted to each Franchise and ensure that the respective Franchises have access to the same or similar facilities so that no Franchise is distinctly disadvantaged.

Section 6: Franchise Probationary Period: Any Franchise admitted as a member of Conference that did not participate in Conference during the prior calendar year may be initially admitted for a two (2) year probationary period. At the conclusion of this probationary period the Board of Directors and the Executive Board will either deny or give final approval to the Franchise.

Section 7: Franchise Mandatory & Optional Functions: As a general rule, each Franchise may, at its discretion, operate at it sees fit so long as it complies with the terms and conditions of the Conference Constitution and Bylaws and the Franchise’s Constitution and Bylaws. However, the following functions are mandatory for each Franchise:

A. Conference encourages a strong effort on the part of each franchise and team to ac t ive ly promote parent participation. Therefore, a meeting or gathering of parents or guardians shall be held to explain the purpose of this program and the benefits of the San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference. This meeting shall occur no later than two (2) weeks after conditioning week begins.

B. Franchises are encouraged to have opening day ceremonies.

C. Franchises are encouraged to have Homecoming celebrations.

Article XVIII Individual Membership Requirements & Code of Ethics

Section 1: Members Defined: A “Member” is an individual who actively serves in some capacity at the Conference or the Franchise level. Members include, but are not limited to, Conference and Franchise Board Members, all football and cheer coaches, all football student coaches and cheer trainers, all football and cheer athletic directors, and other volunteers as defined by the Conference Bylaws and the respective Franchise Bylaws.

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Section 2: Applicant Defined: An “Applicant” is an individual who is seeking to become a Member. Section 3: Membership “Identification Cards”: Once an Applicant has successfully met the requirements as set forth in this Article, and has agreed to comply with the Conference Code of Ethics set forth in Section 4 of this Article and, if applicable, the Coaches and Athletic Director’s Code of Ethics set forth in Article XXIV, Section 9, that individual will be a “Member” and will be issued an Identification Card by Conference containing the Member’s name, position, year of issuance, and whatever other information Conference deems proper. The Member’s Identification Card must be visible at all times during any practice, game, or any other function designated by Conference or the respective Franchise to which the Member belongs.

A. Three Types of Identification Cards:

1. New Cards: these are issued to first time Applicants, or to a former Member who has experienced an interruption in service at either the Conference or Franchise level.

2. Renewal Cards: A Member, who possessed a valid Membership card in the prior calendar year, who is currently applying to return at either the Conference or Franchise level, and who possesses a valid and current Department of Justice form on file with Conference, may obtain a Renewal Card.

3. Replacement Cards: Any Member in good standing who has lost or misplaced his or her Membership Card for the current calendar year may obtain a Replacement Card. A Replacement Card must be identical, in all respects, to the Membership Card lost by the current Member.

Section 4: Process of Obtaining a Membership Identification Card: The process of obtaining a Membership Card involves four independent steps, each of which must be completed before a Membership Card is issued. The four steps are: (1) Application, (2) Payment of Membership Dues; (3) Successful completion of the “Live Scan” process, and (4) Completion of all required classes or clinics.

A. Application: Each season Conference shall provide a written application that will be available from the Conference web page. The form may vary from year to year.

1. The application must be filled out and signed by the Applicant, and also signed by the

Franchise President and Franchise Designated Agent. An application not signed and approved by both the Franchise President and Designated Agent shall not be submitted to, or approved by, Conference.

2. The signed application, along with a color photograph of the Applicant’s driver’s license, California Identification Card and/or other information as requested by Conference or the Franchise, shall then be submitted by the Designated Agent to Conference for approval.

3. Conference maintains the exclusive right to approve or reject any application for Membership.

B. Annual Membership Dues: Each Applicant must pay yearly dues to obtain a Membership

Identification Card. The membership fee and due dates for the season will be provided no later than the February Conference Meeting and/or posted on the website under DA Forms. Each franchise will be invoiced by the Conference Office based on the date in which the completed application was submitted for processing. The cost for membership cards can range from $5 to $20, and are subject to change.

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C. Obtain Live Scan: “Live Scan fingerprinting” refers to both the technique and the technology used by law enforcement agencies and private facilities to capture fingerprints and palm prints electronically, without the need for the more traditional method of ink and paper. The information obtained during a live scan is transmitted to the Department of Justice database. The Department of Justice then forwards a report on the individual applicant to Conference. All reports received by Conference are confidential.

1. Student Coaches and Cheer Trainers need not obtain a Live Scan.

2. Live Scans may be obtained from a variety of locations. These vary from year to year.

3. A returning Member, previously live scanned, need not obtain a new Live Scan if there

has been no break in Membership. Since this policy is dependent upon the Department of Justice, the Live Scan requirements may vary from year to year.

4. Live Scan Reports: Each Applicant’s Live Scan will result in the generation of a report by the Department of Justice indicating the presence, if any, of past criminal activity. If a Member who has been live scanned is charged with certain criminal activity while a Member of Conference a report will be generated regarding that activity and sent to Conference.

a. If a report obtained from the Department of Justice is received by Conference

indicating that an Applicant has been arrested or charged with a criminal offense that Applicant shall be denied a Membership Card.

b. If a report obtained from the Department of Justice is received by Conference indicating that a Member has been arrested or charged with a criminal offense that Member shall immediately surrender his or her Membership Card and cease all official participation with Conference and/or his or her Franchise.

c. Review: Circumstances may arise in which an Applicant could have a Department of Justice report that, because of the nature of the offense, remoteness in time, or a number of other factors, may not preclude participation by that Applicant as a Member of Conference or of a Franchise. Conference will review the report and may contact the applicant for further information concerning the information contained in the Department of Justice report. All review decisions by Conference are final.

5. Live Scan reports are prepared by the Department of Justice. Conference can neither

confirm nor contest the accuracy of Live Scan Reports.

D. Clinic’s or Required Programs: Completion, if necessary, of any clinics or other required programs as designated by Conference.

E. Completion: Upon completion and approval of the application, payment of dues, necessary clinic and successful completion of the Live Scan process an Applicant is considered approved for Membership and will receive a Photo Identification Card and a copy of the Conference Constitution and Bylaws.

Section 5: Code of Ethics: Athletics is an integral part of youth development and education. All school activities, curricular and extracurricular, in the classroom and on the playing field, must be congruent with the Conference’ goals and objectives established for the intellectual, physical, social and moral development of all its participants. No Applicant will be issued a Membership Identification Card without agreeing in writing to comply with the following Code of Ethics supporting Conference’s goals and objectives:

A. Show respect for players, cheerleaders, officials and other coaches.

B. Respect the integrity and judgment of game officials.

C. Establish and model fair play, sportsmanship, and proper conduct.

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D. Maintain player, whether football or cheer leader, safety and welfare as the highest priority.

E. Provide proper supervision of all Eligible Participants at all times.

F. Use discretion when providing constructive criticism and when reprimanding all Eligible

Participants.

G. Maintain consistency in requiring all Eligible Participants to adhere to the establish rules and standards of the game to be played.

H. Properly instruct in the safe use of equipment.

I. Avoid suggesting, providing, or encouraging any athlete to use non-prescription drugs, anabolic steroids, or any substance to increase physical development or performance that is not approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, Surgeon General of the United States, or the American Medical Association.

J. Avoid recruitment of athletes who reside within the boundaries of other Franchises.

K. Follow the rules of behavior and the procedures for crowd control as the host or visiting team as established by Conference.

L. Refrain from the use of profanity, vulgarity, and other offensive language and gestures.

Section 6: Mandatory Display of Membership Cards: the purpose of the Identification Card is to allow Conference, game officials, Franchise officers and officials, parents, and others to recognize that the individual possessing the card has completed the application process and been cleared by the Department of Justice to participate at the Conference or Franchise level. Therefore, the Photo Identification Card must be worn in a conspicuous and clearly visible manner at all practices, scrimmages, games, or any other Conference or Franchise function involving Conference Participants.

Article IXX Conference Divisions, Leagues & Teams

Section 1: Division Defined: Jr. All American Football is divided in six (6) classification based on a combination of age and weight. Each such classification is a “Division”. Section 2: Divisions Identified: The six (6) Football Divisions within Conference are:

A. Flag Division, Ages 5-6 B. Junior Gremlin Division (Tackle), ages 8U C. Gremlin Division, ages 10U D. Junior Pee Wee Division ages 11U E. Pee Wee Division, ages 12U F. Junior Midget Division, ages 14U

(for Cheer refer to Article XXII, Section 6, “Cheer Enrollment Guidelines”) Section 3: Leagues Defined: A “League” is a subdivision of a “Division”. Prior to the commencement of the regular season, each Division shall be divided into Leagues of no fewer than three (3) and no more than ten (10) teams. The Conference Executive Board, with the approval of the Conference Board of Directors, shall be responsible for the creation of all Leagues.

A. It is possible that in any given calendar year factors including, but not limited to, demographics or declining enrollment, could limit the number of participants in a particular Division. If such factors exist, and with the approval of the Conference Board of Directors, a League may be created by the Conference Executive Board with less than four (4) teams. Such modification shall be temporary and shall be effective only for that particular season.

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Section 4: Team Defined: A “Team” is a group of Eligible Participants who have met the age and weight requirements of a particular Division and who have been certified by Conference. Certification requirements are set forth in Article XXXI, below.

A. Flag Teams: Shall consist of no less that sixteen (16) and no more than twenty (20) certifiable participants. Each Franchise may have up to four (4) Jr. Gremlin Teams during the same season.

B. Jr Gremlin Teams: Shall consist of a maximum of twenty-five (25) or a minimum of twenty (20) certifiable participants. A franchise may elect to open additional teams if they have enough participants and staff to meet team requirements. A team may exceed 25 participants with Division President approval.

C. Gremlin, Jr. Pee Wee, Pee Wee, and Jr. Midget Team: Shall consist of a maximum of thirty-

three (33) or a minimum of twenty-four (24) certifiable participants. A Franchise may have more than one (1) Gremlin, Jr. Pee Wee, Pee Wee, and Jr. Midget Team in any season.

D. Modification: It is possible that in any given calendar year factors including, but not limited

to, demographics or declining enrollment, could limit the number of participants. If such factors exist, and with the approval of the Conference Board of Directors, Conference may amend or modify the required number of minimum participants. Such modification shall be temporary and shall be effective only for that particular season.

Article XX

Eligible Participants & Franchise Residence

Section 1: Eligible Participants Defined: An Eligible Participant is a person qualified to participate in flag football, tackle football or cheer. Once an Eligible Participant has satisfied all requirements and has certified with Conference the Eligible Participant will be issued a Player Identification Card for football participants or a Cheer Identification Card for cheer participants. Section 2: Eligible Participant Football: An Eligible Participant for football is one who:

A. Resides in the Franchise’s exclusive or shared territory; or

B. Is a Free Agent, or;

C. Possesses a valid Cut Contract from another Franchise, and

D. Meets the necessary age, weight, and academic requirements for the Division in which the participant is enrolled, and

E. Properly executes a valid Player Contract. Section 3: Eligible Participant Cheer: An Eligible Participant for cheer is one who:

A. Resides in the Franchise’s exclusive or shared territory; or

B. Is a Free Agent, and;

C. Meets the necessary age and academic requirements for the Division in which the participant is enrolled, and

D. Properly executes a valid Cheer Contract.

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Section 4: Franchise Residence:

A. Resides in Franchise Territory: (See Article XVII, Section 2.) If an Eligible Participant resides in an area operated or shared by a Franchise, that person must enroll in that Franchise unless that person acquires Free Agent Status or obtains a Cut Contract. If an Eligible Participant resides in territory that is “shared” between one or more Franchises that person may enroll with any of the Franchises that share the territory. All applicants who did not participate during the prior calendar year must provide proof of residency in the form of a utility bill issued within 30 days of the applicant’s enrollment, unless the Division President waives his/her requirement.

1. If an Eligible Participant enrolled in a Franchise moves his or her place of residence

to a geographical area that is within the territory of another Franchise that person has the option the following year of either: (a) Remaining with the Franchise in which the Eligible Participant enrolled before changing residences, or (b) Enroll in the Franchise where the participant currently resides. This option must be exercised within the calendar year that the participant changed residences.

2. If an Eligible Participant enrolled in a Franchise moves his or her place of residence to a geographical area that is not within the territory operated by any Franchise that person has the option the following year of either: (a) Remaining with the Franchise in which the Eligible Participant enrolled before changing residences, or (b) Becoming a Free Agent. This option must be exercised within the calendar year that the participant changed residences.

3. If an Eligible Participant resides in territory shared by one or more other Franchises, that person may enroll in either Franchise, but once an election is made the participant may not enroll in any other Franchise without obtaining a Cut Contract.

Section 5: Residence Defined: Except as set forth below in this Section, subdivision C, an Eligible Participant’s residence is the home address where the participant primarily resides with his parents or legal guardians.

A. Legal Guardian: For purposes of determining residence, only Eligible Participants residing with a court appointed legal guardians may claim the guardian’s address as a residence.

1. The purported Legal Guardian must provide the Team Athletic Director with conformed

copies of the Court order establishing the guardianship.

B. The Team Athletic Director is responsible for verifying residence and shall attest to the verification by signing the Eligible Participant’s contract as required.

1. To ensure compliance the Team Athletic Director may request Utility Bills or other

similar documentation to verify the participant’s address.

C. For Eligible Participants from families in transition (e.g., divorce, legal separation, or any other circumstance where the parents or guardians of the person reside in different households) residence for purposes of these rules shall be determined in order of priority by:

1. The residence of the parent/guardian showing proof of legal physical custody.

2. If legal physical custody cannot be reasonably established as in the case of divorce or

separation, the Eligible Participant’s school address shall be used to determine residence.

3. In the case of joint physical/legal custody, the Eligible Participant has the option to play for the city in which either parent resides. Parents shall provide proof of joint physical/legal custody. If either parent under this rule resides in territory not administered by any Franchise the participant may elect to be a Free Agent.

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4. If as of the first day of Required Physical Conditioning the Team Athletic Director is unable to properly establish residence by reference to this Section, then the Division President, Conference President, or Conference Vice President shall determine the participant’s residence.

Article XXI

Free Agency & Cut Contracts

Section 1: Free Agency: An Eligible Participant may be a Free Agent as a result of residence or may become a Free Agent as a result of external circumstances. If an Eligible Participant acquires Free Agency status that person may enroll in any current Franchise in Conference. Once a Free Agent elects to certify with a Franchise, that Eligible Participant is no longer a Free Agent and must remain with that Franchise unless the Free Agency status is restored. This Article is applicable both to football and cheer Eligible Participants unless stated otherwise.

A. Free Agent Status: there are several ways a participant may be or may become a Free Agent.

1. Any Eligible Participant residing in Open Territory that is not part of any current

Franchise is a Free Agent.

a. Once a Free Agent certifies with any Franchise that person loses Free Agent Status and must participate with that Franchise in subsequent seasons.

b. A person’s Free Agent status will be restored if the Eligible Participant continues to reside in Open Territory and does not participate in Jr. All American for at least one (1) year.

2. Any Eligible Participant who resides in an area of an existing Franchise and that

Franchise does not file with Conference for a team in the Division in which the person would be eligible to participate is a Free Agent.

a. Because of the overlapping requirements between Divisions, it is possible that an Eligible Participant may be technically qualified to play in more than one Division. Should a Franchise attempt to compel any person to participate in a Division above that in which the person would otherwise be eligible to play and the person’s parents object, the issue must be submitted to the Division President for resolution. This rule applies only to football.

b. Once an Eligible Participant certifies with a Franchise under this rule that person may, in the following year, either (1) remain with that Franchise, or (2) return to the Franchise in the area of residence if that Franchise files for a Team in the Division in which the participant would be eligible to participate. If neither Franchise fields Teams for which the person is eligible, the Eligible participant becomes a Free Agent.

3. Any Eligible Participant who resides in an area of an existing Franchise where that Franchise either folds or fails to certify a team or cheer squad in the Division in which the person is eligible is a Free Agent.

a. Because of the overlapping requirements between Divisions, it is possible that an Eligible Participant may be technically qualified to play in more than one Division. Should a Franchise attempt to compel any person to participate in a Division above that in which the person would otherwise be eligible to play and the person’s parents object, the issue must be submitted to the Division President for resolution. This rule applies only to football.

b. If the Franchise Team folds after certification and the Eligible Participant has been “certified” by Conference, the person may transfer the certified contract to another Franchise.

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c. Once an Eligible Participant certifies with a Franchise under this rule that person may, in the following year, either (1) remain with that Franchise or (2) return to the Franchise in the area of residence if that Franchise files for a Team in the Division in which the participant would be eligible to participate. If neither Franchise fields Teams for which the participant is eligible, the Eligible Participant becomes a Free Agent.

4. Any Eligible Participant who resides in an area of an existing Franchise where that

Franchise has ceased enrolling participants in the Division in which the person is eligible is a Free Agent.

a. Because of the overlapping requirements between Divisions, it is possible that an Eligible Participant may be technically qualified to play in more than one Division. Should a Franchise attempt to compel any person to participate in a Division above that in which the person would otherwise be eligible to play and the person’s parents object, the issue must be submitted to the Division President for resolution. This rule applies only to football.

b. Once an Eligible Participant certifies with a Franchise under this rule that person may, in the following year, either (1) remain with that Franchise or (2) return to the Franchise in the area of residence if that Franchise files for a Team in the Division in which the participant would be eligible to play. If neither Franchise fields Teams for which the participant is eligible, the Eligible Participant becomes a Free Agent.

5. Any Eligible Participant in a tackle football Division who resides in an area of an

existing Franchise, who was cut by that Franchise for the purpose of reducing a tackle Division roster to thirty-three (33) players, or who was unable to meet the requisite weight requirements and could not be transferred to another Division within that Franchise, is a Free Agent.

a. Because of the overlapping requirements between Divisions, it is possible that an

Eligible Participant may be technically qualified to play in more than one Division. Should a Franchise attempt to compel any person to participate in a Division above that in which the person would otherwise be eligible to play and the person’s parents object, the issue must be submitted to the Division President for resolution. This rule applies only to football.

b. Once an Eligible Participant certifies with a Franchise under this rule that person may, in the following year, either (1) remain with that Franchise or (2) return to the Franchise in the area of residence if that Franchise files for a Team in the Division in which the participant would be eligible to play. If neither Franchise fields Teams for which the participant is eligible, the Eligible Participant becomes a Free Agent.

6. A Franchise may form more than one (1) flag team. If a Jr. Gremlin Team has already

been formed in any Franchise, and that Franchise desires to form one or more other Teams, and commences enrollment for that purpose, all Eligible Participants enrolled are placed on a waiting list until at least sixteen (16) Eligible Participants have been enrolled allowing the formation of another Team. During the period of time between enrollment and the formation of the flag Team those Eligible Participants on the waiting list are considered Free Agents and must be provided a Cut Contract to play at a different Franchise if requested.

a. Once an Eligible Participant certifies with a Franchise under this rule that person

may, in the following year, either (1) remain with that Franchise or (2) return to the Franchise in the area of residence if that Franchise files for a Team in the Division in which the participant would be eligible to play. If neither Franchise fields Teams for which the participant is eligible, the participant becomes a Free Agent.

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b. Sibling Rule: If an Eligible Participant legally enrolls in a Franchise and

continues to participate in that Franchise in successive years, any sibling of that person who resides in the same household as the Eligible Participant and who subsequently becomes eligible to participate in Jr. All American Football may request a cut contract in order to participate with in the same Franchise as the older sibling. If the cut contract is refused, the Division President shall determine where the younger Sibling shall participate.

Section 2: Cut Contracts: A “Cut Contract” permits an Eligible Participant required by these Bylaws to enroll in a particular Franchise to enroll in another Franchise where the Eligible Participant would not otherwise be qualified to participate. Cut Contracts are either mandatory or voluntary.

A. Mandatory Cut Contracts: A Franchise must provide a Cut Contract to an Eligible Participant

when any of the following circumstances exist:

1. Any Eligible Participant who resides in an area of an existing Franchise, who was cut by that Franchise for the purpose of reducing a Division roster to thirty-three (33) players must be provided a Cut Contract and becomes a Free Agent. (Section 1, (B)(5) of this Article.) This rule does not apply to Cheerleaders.

2. Any Eligible Participant who resides in an area of an existing Franchise, who was

unable to meet the requisite weight requirements and could not be transferred to another Division within that Franchise must be provided a Cut Contract and becomes a Free Agent. (Section 1, (B)(5) of this Article.) This rule does not apply to Cheerleaders.

3. Any Eligible Participant who resides in an area of an existing Franchise and who enrolled on a Team in that Franchise that either folds or fails to certify must be provided a Cut Contract and becomes a Free Agent. (Section 1, (B)(3) of this Article.) This rule does not apply to Cheerleaders if there is another cheer team in the Franchise where the Eligible Participant may cheer.

4. Any Eligible Participant who resides in an area of an existing Franchise where that Franchise has ceased enrolling participants in the Division in which the participant is eligible must be provided a Cut Contract and becomes a Free Agent. (Section 1, (B)(4) of this Article.) This rule does not apply to Cheerleaders if there is another cheer team in the Franchise where the Eligible Participant may cheer.

5. Any Eligible Participant who resides in an area of an existing Franchise and that Franchise does not file for a team in the Division in which the participant would be eligible to play must be provided a Cut Contract and becomes a Free Agent. (Section 1, (B)(2) of this Article.) This rule does not apply to Cheerleaders if there is another cheer team in the Franchise where the Eligible Participant may cheer.

6. Any Eligible Participant in the Jr. Gremlin Division then currently on a waiting list

in any Franchise seeking to form an additional flag Team must, if requested by the Eligible Participant’s parents, be provided a Cut Contract and becomes a Free Agent. (Section 1, (B)(6) of this Article.)

B. Voluntary Cut Contracts: Any Franchise may, at the sole discretion of the Franchise Board

of Directors, issue a Cut Contract to an Eligible Participant providing that Franchise complies with the following restrictions:

1. No Franchise may issue a voluntary Cut Contract for any tackle Division unless there are

at least twenty-four (24) Eligible Participants currently on the cutting Franchise’s Team Roster.

2. No Franchise may issue a voluntary Cut Contract on or after Certification Day.

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C. Cheer Cut Contracts: Unlike football, Cheerleaders may be moved from one Team to another

Team within the Franchise regardless of age. (See Article XXII, Section 5.) Therefore, even if a Franchise fails to field or certify a football Team in a specific Division, Eligible Participant Cheerleaders in that same Division are not Free Agents and need not be issued Cut Contracts if those persons can be moved to a Cheer Team in a different Division. If the Franchise cannot or for whatever reason refuses to move the Cheer Eligible Participants to another Division, then the Cheerleaders become Free Agents and must be issued Cut Contracts.

D. Obtaining a valid Cut Contract for Football: Every Eligible Participant must complete a

Player Contract. A properly executed “Cut Contract” for flag and tackle football is obtained by having the Franchise President and either the Franchise City Athletic Director or the Team Athletic Director sign the Player Contract indicating that Franchise consents to permit the Eligible Participant to enroll and participate in a different Franchise. It is the responsibility of the player seeking or obtaining a cut to obtain a contract from the Franchise where that player intends to enroll. The Franchise issuing the cut does not provide the contract.

E. Obtaining a valid Cut Contract for Cheer: Every Eligible Participant must complete a Player Contract. A properly executed “Cut Contract” for cheer is obtained by having the Franchise President and either the Franchise City Athletic Director or the Franchise City Cheer Coordinator sign the Cheer Contract indicating that Franchise consents to permit the Eligible Participant to enroll and participate in a different Franchise.

Article XXII

Recruiting Guidelines & Requirements Section 1: Recruiting Defined: Recruiting in the process by which each Franchise obtains Eligible Participants for its Teams and Cheer Squads. Section 2: Recruiting Guidelines and General Requirements: Each Franchise may begin recruiting Eligible Participants at any time after the conclusion of the prior season. All Franchises must begin recruiting no later than May 1st of the calendar year to ensure the availability of report cards and other information necessary for certification.

A. Recruiting and hosting public sign-ups are permitted only within the Franchise’s assigned territory or in areas that are unaffiliated with any other current Franchise.

1. If Conference schedules an official event with a Conference Sponsor all Franchises

may recruit Eligible Participants as that official event regardless of the location.

B. A Franchise may never recruit, nor host a sign-up, in another Franchise’s territory.

1. It is possible due to Franchise territorial overlap that recruiting advertisements contained in flyers or newspapers may be distributed in areas outside the territory controlled or shared by the recruiting Franchise. Information so disseminated should inform the intended recipients of the recruiting Franchises territorial restrictions, but is not considered a violation of this rule.

C. Each Franchise must enroll all Eligible Participants for all Divisions even if that Franchise does not intend to field Teams in all Divisions during the current football season. Eligible Participants so enrolled are Free Agents.

1. Eligible participants who are enrolled should be advised when enrolled whether the

Franchise intends to field a Team in the Division in which the person is eligible to play or cheer. If the Franchise does not intend to field such a team, the Franchise must advise the person that he or she is a Free Agent.

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2. The Franchise must also provide the Division President with the sign-up roster so that the Division President may assist finding a Team in another Franchise for the Eligible Participant.

D. All Flyers, advertisements, brochures, posters, or other sign-up information created by a

Franchise must state that participants aged 5-14 are eligible. Each Franchise must advertise and accept Eligible Participants for all six (6) Divisions regardless of whether that Franchise intends to field Teams in all six (6) Divisions.

Section 3: Flag Team Enrollment Requirements:

A. Team Size: Each Flag Team must have a minimum of sixteen (16) and a maximum of twenty (20) Eligible Participants.

B. Cease Enrollment/Multiple Teams: When enrollment reaches twenty (20) Eligible Participants, the Franchise must cease enrollment for that Team.

1. If a Franchise intends to recruit more than one (1) flag Team it may recruit sufficient

eligible participants for each anticipated Team. a. Before any Franchise commences enrollment for additional flag Teams, than

Franchise must have a coaching staff for that Team and must have submitted the coaching roster and Team registration form to the Jr. Gremlin Division President.

2. Those Eligible Participants enrolled after a Team has closed and before sufficient

participants have been enrolled to create another Team may be placed on a waiting list until at least sixteen (16) Eligible Participants have been enrolled. When at least sixteen (16) Eligible Participants have been enrolled another flag Team may be formed with the approval of the Conference and Division Presidents.

3. During the period of time between enrollment and the formation of the flag Team those Eligible Participants on the waiting list are considered Free Agents and must be provided a Cut Contract to play at a different Franchise if requested.

C. Limit of Number of Flag Teams: No Franchise may have more than four (4) flag Teams in

any season. The formation of multiple flag teams is governed by the Flag Division Presidents.

D. No “Cuts”: No Flag participant may ever be “cut” from the roster.

Section 4: Tackle Team Enrollment Requirements:

A. Maximum Enrollment: No Franchise may enroll more than thirty-three (33) Eligible Participants for the Jr Gremlin Team or forty (40) Eligible Participants for any other tackle Team in any tackle Division.

1. When a Franchise reaches thirty-three (33) or forty (40) potential participants on any

tackle Team roster, as indicated above, all further potential applicants in that Division become Free Agents.

a. The Franchise must provide the Conference Division President with the names of

all Free Agents so that the Free Agents may be timely assisted to another Franchise.

B. No Waiting List: No Franchise may have a “waiting list” for Eligible Participants above

thirty-three (33) or forty (40) in any tackle Division as indicated in section A.

C. Enrollment Below 40: A Franchise may cease enrollment only when a tackle Division Team roster reaches thirty-three (33) Eligible Participants.

1. A Franchise may, when it reaches thirty-three (33) Eligible Applicants, continue

enrollment by maintaining a waiting list of no more than seven (7) Eligible Applicants.

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2. Eligible Participants on a tackle Team’s waiting list are not considered Free Agents.

D. Free Agent: An Eligible Participant who attempts to enroll on a Franchise that has closed

the Team roster for that Division is a Free Agent.

E. Team Size Pre-Certification: Any Team with more than thirty-three (33) players must reduce its roster to no more than thirty-three (33) players no later than one (1) week prior to that year’s scheduled Certification Date.

F. Post 33 Player Recruitment Restrictions: No Franchise may close enrollment for any tackle Team until the roster for that Team reaches thirty-three (33) players, inclusive. Any Team that closes enrollment before the Team roster reaches at least thirty-three (33) participants, inclusive, is ineligible for post season play in either Playoff Games or Bowl Games.

G. Restrictions on Re-Opening Enrollment: If a Franchises closes enrollment of any tackle Team at thirty-three (33) players it may not reopen enrollment during that calendar year except (a) for the purpose of maintaining the Team roster at thirty-three (33) players, and (b) any participants subsequently recruited must be from the Franchise’s exclusive or shared territory. It may neither enroll Free Agents nor may it accept Eligible Participants with Cut Contracts.

H. Players after Enrollment Closed: If a Franchise closes enrollment at thirty-three (33), all

further potential applicants for that Division must be provided the contact information for the Conference Division President so that the Free Agents may be timely directed to another Franchise.

I. Free Agent Status: A participant who attempts to enroll on a Franchise that has closed the Team roster for that Division is a Free Agent.

J. Limitations on New Players After Team “Closed”: Any Franchise that has closed enrollment or that has more than thirty-three (33) players on any tackle Division roster may only add players that reside within the Franchise’s operating territory.

K. Mandatory Cuts Prior to Certification: All tackle Teams must cut to a maximum of thirty-three (33) players at least one (1) week before that year’s scheduled Certification date. Players that are cut become Free Agents. The cut participant’s player contract must be marked “Free Agent”. The Franchise must notify the Division Presidents of all participants who were cut and that these participants are now Free Agents.

L. No “Cuts” Below 33 Players: No team may “cut” players to below thirty-three (33). Any

Team that cuts below thirty-three (33) will be ineligible for Playoff Games or post-season Bowl games.

M. Post Certification Enrollment: Post-Certification Enrollment: After Certification Conference may, at its discretion, permit a certified Team to fill vacancies created by certified Eligible Participants dropping from the Team. A Team may not, however, recruit or add participants after Certification in excess of the number of Eligible Participants previously certified.

N. Division President’s Approval Required: Post Certification enrollment of new players will

be at the discretion of the Division Presidents. The decision of the Division President shall be final and not subject to appeal or review.

O. Date for Adding New Players: Each calendar year at either the January or February meeting of the Conference Board of Directors, Conference shall set a date after which no new players may be added to any Team.

Section 5: Sanctions for Improper Recruitment or Enrollment: Any Franchise that knowingly enrolls a participant who is ineligible to participate with that Franchise because that participant is a resident in the territory of another Franchise, and who is not a Free Agent and does not have a Cut Contract shall be subject to monetary fine and probation, as determined by the Conference Executive Board.

Section 6: Cheer Enrollment Requirements: All Franchises must enroll all age groups and make an effort to field cheer teams in all Divisions. Unlike football cheer enrollment is based exclusively on age.

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A. Cheer Divisions:

1. Jr. Gremlin: Ages 5-6-7 and (1st Year 8YO).

2. Gremlins: Ages 8-10

3. Jr. Pee Wee: Ages 9-11

4. Pee Wee: Ages 10-12

5. Jr. Midget: Ages 11-14

B. Movement Between Divisions: Cheer permits movement between Divisions regardless of age if, in order to field a squad at a certain Division level, additional cheerleaders are needed. Cheer squads may also be consolidated for this purpose. Franchises are required to obtain the consent of the Conference Cheer Coordinator before any such consolidation.

1. Example: One week before Certification a Franchise has four (4) Eligible Participants

in the Gremlin Division and four (4) Eligible Participants in the Junior Midget Division. That Franchise may, with the consent of the Conference Cheer Coordinator, consolidate the Gremlin and Junior Midget Divisions into a single Team in either the Gremlin or Junior Midget Division. Any Franchise seeking such consolidation should keep in mind the Division Restrictions set forth in Part III, Article VI of these Bylaws.

C. Minimum/Maximum Cheer Participants: No cheer squad may have less than five (5)

Eligible Participants, and no more than a maximum of forty-five (45) Eligible Participants.

D. Cheer Certification: Article XXXI regarding Certification also apply to cheer, with the sole exception of weight requirements and free agency.

E. Jr. Gremlin: All seven-year-old participants or first (1st) year eight-year-olds must enroll as a Jr Gremlin Division Participant. All second year eight-year-olds must enroll as a Gremlin Division Participant.

Article XXIII

General and Player Eligibility Requirements Section 1: Determining Age for Purposes of Division Placement: For purposes of these rules, a football or cheer participant’s age for purposes of ascertaining the participant’s appropriate Division is determined as of July 31st of the current calendar year.

A. Exception: Any cheer or football participant who was born in or before 2008 and who was

enrolled in the 2016 calendar year may, at his or her option, continue to use December 31st as the date for purposes of ascertaining the participant’s age for Division placement. Any participant who exercises this option may continue to do so as long as that participant is continuously enrolled. Any participant who declines to exercise this option in 2016 may not, in a subsequent calendar year, use any date for purposes of ascertaining the participant’s appropriate Division except that set forth in Section 1 of this Article.

Section 2: Determining Weight for Purposes of Division Placement: A participant should be weighed by his parents or guardian at the time the participant in enrolled in the Franchise as to ensure the participant is placed in the appropriate Division. At the time of Team Certification an Eligible Participant must meet the weight requirements set forth in Article XXXI, Section 6. Weight requirements are inapplicable to cheer.

A. Enrollment Weight: A franchise may enroll a participant who exceeds the maximum weight

of the Division if his/her age meets the Division requirements. Any player who exceeds the maximum weight of the Division will be classified as a non-skilled ‘X’ player in that respective Division. **Note** The player will have until Week #2 of the season to reclassify in their respective Division as a skilled player by meeting the Division Weight requirement.

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B. Weight Requirements For Participation: A participant’s ability to participate in drills,

scrimmages, and games requires that, at the time of participation in that particular drill, scrimmage, or game the participant meets the requisite weight requirements set forth below in Articles XXX and XXXI.

C. Mandatory Movement of Players: A participant is no longer mandated to move Divisions

based of their participation weight as long as their age meets the Division requirements. Any player who exceeds the maximum weight requirements for the Division can remain enrolled in that respective Division as a non-skilled ‘X’ player and will be limited to interior lineman positions only for games, scrimmages, and practices. If a player exceeds the maximum weight, they can voluntarily elect to move up a Division to enable them to become a skilled player position if they meet the weight requirement of that Division.

Section 3: Physical Safety: Conference places great emphasis on the safety and health of all its participants. Participation in cheer and football requires that each participant be healthy and capable of participating.

A. Physical: All Eligible Participants, including, without exception, Flag, Tackle, Cheer shall not be qualified to participate in any manner with any Franchise if they have not attained, and do not sustain, sound physical condition.

1. Each year, Conference will create/update a “Participant Physical Form” for

Franchises to provide their participants. That portion of the form must be filled out and completed in proper form, and signed, as then required, by a duly qualified examining physician and shall attest to the attainment of the participant’s sound physical condition. **Note- A participant may use a Doctor’s provide physical examination form which must clearly the participant is cleared to participate in sports (football or cheer) with no restrictions.

2. Only physicals conducted after June 1st of the calendar year in which the Eligible Participant intends to play or cheer shall be accepted by Conference.

3. The Team Athletic Director and Head Coach are responsible for periodically ensuring that each Eligible Participant maintains a sound physical condition.

Section 4: Amateur Status Defined: An amateur sportsman is one who engages in sports solely for the pleasure and physical, mental, or social benefits he or she derives from playing. For this athlete sports are nothing more than an avocation. To be an amateur under San Gabriel Valley Junior All-American Football Conference Rules:

A. Compensation Prohibited: No Eligible Participant, coach or athletic director may accept directly, or indirectly, any payment, compensation or other consideration in exchange for participating in Jr. All-American Football.

B. Assumed Name: Eligible Participants may not compete or otherwise participate under an assumed name.

1. An athlete who competes under an assumed name may lose amateur status in all sports

for the remainder of his or her career including high school and college.

C. No Other Tackle Team: No tackle football participant may compete on any other tackle football team during the same season.

1. An Eligible Participant enrolled and certified with a Franchise Team for the current year

who later participates in High School football is ineligible to play in Jr. All-American for the remainder of the season.

2. A player who has participated in High School football during the calendar year may not be a late registrant for any Franchise, unless that player was “cut” from the high school team.

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Section 5: Scholastic Requirements: Eligible Participants shall not be enrolled or eligible to participate if they have not attained, and do not continue to maintain, a sound scholastic record. The maintenance of a sound scholastic record shall be attested to by the constant vigilance of the Team Athletic Director

A. GPA: To be eligible to play football or participate in cheer each Eligible Participant must attain and maintain a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0. This GPA must be met based on the last regular semester report card issued to the participant prior to Certification.

1. Conference recognizes that different schools employ different methods to determine a

student’s GPA, and will make every effort to utilize a method of ascertaining the participant’s GPA that is fair and equitable.

2. The precise method for calculating the GPA of the current year will be contained in the Athletic Director Manual.

3. Students with a modified academic plan, such as an IEP, are required to submit all

documentation for review. These athletes are expected to meet the objectives of their modified academic plan. These athletes are not exempt from the academic requirements of this program.

B. GPA check and Continued Eligibility: GPA check and continued eligibility for scholarship

awards and patches: Each year during the season Conference requires that all Eligible Participants must submit a grade report card to ensure continued compliance with Conference Scholastic Requirements.

1. Conference will designate the date and time of the report card must be submitted.

2. Eligible Participants shall submit their Grade Report, which must contain a minimum of

five (5) grades. All academic grades, plus Physical Education, will be considered and must average 2.0.

3. Each Team Athletic Director and Cheer Athletic Director must verify the Eligible Participant’s grades and submit them to the appropriate Conference Division President or Conference Cheer Coordinator along with a photocopy of the Certified Roster.

4. Eligible Participants whose GPA is 3.3 of higher will be awarded a Conference Scholar Patch.

5. Eligible Football Participants whose GPA is below 2.0 are deemed ineligible. An

ineligible Football Participant may play through the eighth (8th) scheduled game. An ineligible Football Participant may not play after the conclusion of the eighth game, which is the last scheduled game of the regular season. An ineligible Football Participant may not play in any further Games, including Bowl Games or Playoff Games. Any Participant who fails to submit a required Grade Report shall be deemed ineligible and shall not participate in the eighth (8th) scheduled game, Playoffs or Bowl Games. This section does not apply to Cheer.

6. Grade Reports must be submitted to the appropriate Conference Division President or

Conference Cheer Coordinator no later than the Wednesday following the sixth (6th) regularly scheduled football game.

7. There are no extensions or exceptions. Section 6: Parental Consent to Participate: No participant shall be registered on any Team or Cheer Squad until written consent has been obtained from the participant’s parents or legal guardian, and such consent is filed with the Conference office.

A. Franchise Enrollment Forms: A Franchise may draft appropriate enrollment forms to obtain consent. However, any such form must be signed by both the potential participant’s parents/guardians.

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B. Families in Transition/Guardians: If the potential participant comes from a family in transition (divorce or separation) and one parent or guardian has full legal custody to the exclusion of the other parents, then only that parent or guardian need sign.

1. The parent claiming full legal custody must provide the Team Athletic Director or Cheer

Athletic Director with conformed copies of all court documents establishing legal custody.

C. Families in Transition/Shared Custody: If the potential participant comes from a family in

transition (divorce or separation) and both parents share custody then both parents must sign the consent.

Section 7: Player/Cheer Contract: Each year Conference will issue an electronic form to every Franchise, Contracts for Football and Cheer Participants. The various terms and conditions contained in the contracts will vary from year to year.

A. Parental Responsibility: Every Eligible Participant and their respective parents or guardians are responsible for accurately completing the requested information on the Player and Cheer Contracts.

B. Penalty for Falsification: If any Eligible Participant, parent, or guardian falsifies any information on the Player and/or Cheer Contract that Contract shall be rendered null and void and the Eligible Participant shall be deemed ineligible to participate. The length of the suspension to participate shall depend on whether the violation was deliberate or unintentional as determined by the Rules Committee.

Article XXIV

Coaching Staff Rules & Requirements Section 1: Coaching Staff Defined: Those individuals who have met the Membership requirements set forth in Article XVIII, above, and who have met all applicable requirements as set forth below, and who have been issued Identification Cards designating them for a specific Team or Squad are considered the Coaching Staff for that Team or Squad.

A. No consideration: No coach or athletic director may accept directly, or indirectly, any payment, compensation or other consideration in exchange for participating in Jr. All-American Football.

B. Final Team Registration Form: Every Team must have a Team Athletic Director and Team Head Coach identified on the Final Team Registration form. These forms are due in July before the annual Mandatory Athletic Director/Head Coaches’ meeting. A Franchise that does not comply with this requirement renders that Team ineligible to participate.

Section 2: Tackle Football Staff: Consist of football coaches, including the Head Coach and all Assistant Coaches, the Student Coaches, and the Team Athletic Director and all Assistant Athletic Directors.

A. Number: All Tackle Football Staffs will consist of a minimum of five (5) and a maximum of thirteen (13) Members. No staff may have more than two (2) Student Coaches. For purposes of calculating Football Staffs, Student Coaches are counted for determining the maximum number of coaches, but are not considered for determining the minimum number of required coaches.

B. Head Coach: Each team must have one person designated as the Head Coach. All other adult

coaches are considered Assistant Coaches. No Student Coach may be a Head Coach.

C. Team Athletic Director: Each Team must have one person designated as the Team Athletic Director. All other adult athletic directors are Assistant Athletic Directors. No Student Coach may be a Team Athletic Director.

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D. Student Coaches: Each Team may use a maximum of two (2) Student Coaches.

E. Minimum Number of Coaches: No tackle Team may practice, scrimmage, or participate in any game unless a minimum of three (3) staff members, exclusive of Student Coaches, are present.

F. Requirements: Every football coach, including Student Coaches, must complete all requirements, including the “USA Heads Up Football” certification process, and any football clinics or other functions required by Conference.

Section 3: Flag Football Staff: Consist of football coaches, including the Head Coach and all Assistant Coaches, the Student Coaches, and the Team Athletic Director and all Assistant Athletic Directors.

A. Number: All Flag Football staffs shall consist of a minimum of three (3) and a maximum of seven (7) Members. No staff may have more than two (2) Student Coaches. For purposes of calculating Football Staffs, Student Coaches are counted for determining the maximum number of coaches, but are not considered for determining the minimum number of required coaches.

B. Head Coach: Each team must have one person designated as the Head Coach. All other adult coaches are considered Assistant Coaches. No Student Coach may be a Head Coach.

C. Team Athletic Director: Each Team must have one person designated as the Team Athletic

Director. All other adult athletic directors are Assistant Athletic Directors. No Student Coach may be a Team Athletic Director.

Section 4: Cheer Coaching Staff: Consists of cheer coaches, including the Head Coach and all Assistant Coaches, the Cheer Trainers, and the Cheer Athletic Director and all Assistant Athletic Directors.

A. Number: Each Franchise may organize cheer squads providing they are under the supervision of a minimum of two (2) adults and a maximum of thirteen (13) Members. For purposes of calculating Cheer Staffs, Cheer Trainers are counted for determining the maximum number of coaches, but are not considered for determining the minimum number of required coaches.

B. Head Coach: Each team must have one person designated as the Head Cheer Coach. All other

adult coaches are considered Assistant Coaches. No Student Coach may be a Head Cheer Coach.

C. Cheer Team Athletic Director: Each Team must have one person designated as the Cheer Team Athletic Director. All other adult athletic directors are Assistant Athletic Directors.

D. Clinic: Cheer Coaches, including the Head Cheer Coach, and Trainers must attend a Conference Approved Cheer Coaching Clinic as required by the Conference Cheer Coordinator.

Section 5: Head Football Coach: In addition to the Membership requirements set for in Article XVIII, the Head Coach:

A. Age: Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.

B. Officer: May not be an Officer of the Franchise. (See Article XVII, Section 3(A)(1)(a)-(h).)

C. Relationship Limitations: May not be the father, mother, brother, sister, husband, wife, son, daughter or “significant other” (i.e. boyfriend, girlfriend or cohabitant) of the Team Athletic Director on the team in which the Head Coach is serving.

D. Requirements: Will successfully complete all requirements, including the “USA Heads-Up Football” certification process, and any football clinics or other functions required by Conference.

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E. Safety: Will always endeavor to place the safety and wellbeing of the Team paramount before any other consideration.

F. Ensures Compliance with Must Play Rules: Is responsible for ensuring that each Eligible Participant on the Team Roster who qualifies for a scrimmage or a game participates in the requisite number of plays. (See Article XXIX, Section 6 and Article XXXVII, Section 2.)

G. Verification of Must Play Sheet: Shall, immediately after the conclusion of any scheduled game sign the Play Sheet verifying that every Eligible Participant qualified to play had a minimum of Plays. (Article XXXVII, Section 3.)

H. Maintaining Order: Is responsible for maintaining order among the staff and players during scrimmages and games.

I. No Suspended Players: Is responsible for ensuring that no player suspended by the Officials or Conference participates in any practice, game, or scrimmage until that suspension is lifted. (See Article XL, Section 10.)

J. Game/Scrimmage Player Limitations: Shall ensure that the Team never commences play in any game with less than requisite number of required Eligible Participants. (See Article XXIX, Section 3(D) and Article XXXIV, Section 8.)

K. Attendance: Shall attend in person all Conference functions where the presence of the Team Head Coach is required.

L. Coach’s Code of Ethics: Must adhere to the Member and Coach’s Code of Ethics at all times. (See Article XVIII, Section 4 and Section 9 of this Article.)

Section 6: Head Cheer Coach: In addition to the Membership requirements set for in Article XVIII, the Head Coach:

A. Age: Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.

B. Officer: May not be an Officer of the Franchise. (See Article XVII, Section 3(A)(1)(a)-(h).)

C. Relationship Limitations: May not be the father, mother, brother, sister, husband, wife, son, daughter or “significant other” (i.e. boyfriend, girlfriend or cohabitant) of the Cheer Athletic Director on the team in which the Head Coach is serving.

D. Requirements: Will successfully complete all requirements; including any cheer clinics or other functions required by Conference.

E. Safety: Will always endeavor to place the safety and wellbeing of the Team paramount before any other consideration.

F. Maintain Order: Is responsible for maintaining order among the staff and players during games and at competition(s).

G. No Suspended Cheerleaders: Is responsible for ensuring that no cheerleader suspended by the Officials or Conference participates in any practice, game, or competition until that suspension is lifted.

H. Participate in All Games: Shall ensure that the Team always participates at every scheduled football game in the same cheer Division.

I. Attendance: Shall attend in person all Conference functions where the presence of the Team Head Cheer Coach is required.

J. Coach’s Code of Ethics: Must adhere to Member and Coach’s Code of Ethics at all times. (See Article XVIII, Section 4 and Section 9 of this Article.)

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Section 7: Team & Cheer Athletic Director: In addition to the Membership requirements set forth in Article XVIII, the Team Athletic Director:

A. Age: Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.

B. Officer: May not be an Officer of the Franchise. (See Article XVII, Section 3(A)(1)(a)-(h).)

C. Coaching: May not also simultaneously serve as a coach.

D. Relationship: May not be the father, mother, brother, sister, husband, wife, son, daughter or “significant other” (i.e. boyfriend, girlfriend or cohabitant) of the Head Coach on the team in which the Team or Cheer Athletic Director is serving.

E. Safety: Will always endeavor to place the safety and wellbeing of the Team paramount before any other consideration.

F. Protection of Injured Player: Will ensure that any injured player who has consulted a physician will not be permitted to participate until released in writing by a doctor.

G. Verification of Information: Will verify and attest to the accuracy of the information contained in the Eligible Participants’ Player or Cheer contracts.

H. Verification of Address: Will verify the residence of all Eligible Participants, and if unable to do so pursuant to these rules, will advise the Division President.

I. Verification of Academics: Will verify the Eligible Participants’ academic information.

J. Ensures Compliance of Must Play Rules: Is responsible for ensuring that each Eligible

Participant on the Team Roster who qualifies for a scrimmage or a game participates in the requisite number of plays. (See Article XXIX, Section 6 and Article XXXVII, Section 2.) Not applicable to Cheer.

K. Verification of Must Play Sheet: Shall, immediately after the conclusion of any scheduled

game sign the Play Sheet verifying that every Eligible Participant qualified to play had a minimum of Plays. (Article XXXVII, Section 3.)

L. Notification of Score: Shall, within 24 hours after the conclusion of any victorious Game or

Playoff Game, notify the Tackle Division President or Division Vice President and report the score of that Game or Playoff Game. Not applicable to Flag or Cheer.

M. Attendance: Shall attend in person all Conference functions where the presence of the Team

or Cheer Athletic Director is required.

N. Coach’s Code of Ethics: Must adhere to Member and Coach’s Code of Ethics at all times. (See Article XVIII, Section 4 and Section 9 of this Article.)

Section 8: Student Coaches & Cheer Trainers: In addition to the Membership requirements set forth in Article XVIII, the following applies to Student Coaches:

A. Football: Each flag or tackle Team may have a maximum of two (2) Student Coaches.

B. Cheer: Each Cheer squad may have more than two (2) Cheer Trainers, with the Conference Cheer Coordinator Approval.

C. Age: Student Coaches and Cheer Trainers must be between fifteen (15) and seventeen (17) years of age. For this purpose, the date of birth for determining eligibility under this rule is the potential Student Coach/Cheer Trainer’s actual birth date. (Contact Conference Office)

D. Prior Football Participation: A Student Coach for football must have participated at least one (1) year in the Jr. All American football Program to qualify as a Student Coach.

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E. Prior Cheer Participation: A Cheer Trainer for cheer must have participated at least one (1) year in the Jr. All American Cheer Program to qualify as a Student Coach.

Section 9: Coach and Athletic Directors’ Code of Ethics: A youth coach, by example of personal behavior, is a living hero to American youth. Actions of coaches affect thousands of youngsters who look up to them. It is mandatory that they conduct themselves and their Team within the framework of these bylaws Therefore, in addition to the Code of Ethics required under Article XVIII, Section 4, by every Member of Conference, all Coaches and Athletic Directors shall also adhere to the following Code of Ethics. A Coach and Athletic Director:

A. Should refrain from smoking within the immediate vicinity of the practice or playing field.

B. Should not criticize Eligible Participants in front of spectators, but reserves constructive criticism for private or in the presence of the team for teaching purposes.

C. Should accept decisions of the officials on the field as being fair and called to the best of their ability.

D. Will not criticize the opposing team, the coaches, or fans, by word or gesture.

E. Will not use social media outlets in a negative manner to criticize any “member” of the SGVJAAFC Conference, including Board Members, Franchise Members, Parents, or Participants.

F. Will emphasize that good athletes are good students and are both physically and mentally alert.

G. Will strive to make football and cheer activities serve as a training ground for life and as a basis for good mental and physical health.

H. Will emphasize that winning a Game is the result of teamwork and that winning at all costs is not a message we wish to relay to our youth. Instead we want them to have fun, to play safe and to encourage good sportsmanship.

I. Will refrain from using abusive and profane language before anyone connected with the game.

J. Will refrain from "piling it on" as the phrase is used when a team gets a commanding lead and desires to raise the score as high as it can. In these instances, a coach will make every effort to let all players play, not just one play, but many.

K. Shall not be on the playing field under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

L. Will set an example in personal appearance at all times.

M. The violation of any of the rules in this section, or those under Article XVIII, Section 4, will subject the Coach or Athletic Directors to loss of Membership. Depending on the severity of the offense, loss of Membership could be for a Game, multiple Games, an entire season or permanently.

Section 10: Limitation on Coaches Movements Between Franchises: Any Member who was a Head or Assistant Coach the prior season in any Franchise who desires to coach in any capacity the following season in a different Franchise must: (1) Obtain the written approval of the Franchise President where the coach participated the prior season and (2) Obtain the written approval of the Franchise President where the coach intends to participate in the upcoming season; or (3) Obtain the written approval of the Conference Executive Board. No Member who was a coach during the prior season may coach in any other Franchise without the written approval of all three. Any Member attempting to coach in any Franchise without first obtaining the necessary approval will result in that Member being expelled from Conference for a period of one year.

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Article XXV Dark Period

Section 1: Defined: The period beginning January 1st and concluding on June 30th, inclusive, of each calendar year shall be a “Dark Period”. Section 2: Other Activities Permitted: During the Dark Period, all players and cheerleaders who were enrolled or who intend to enroll in Jr. All American may freely participate in any team or social function with other organizations. The period beginning July 1st and continuing through December 31st, inclusive, all participants in Jr. All American must comply with the rules and regulations governing Conference contained in these bylaws. Section 3: Franchise Activities: Starting July 1st and prior to the 1st day of conditioning, teams may organize pre-season work-outs but there may be no physical contact drills between players. Contact is limited to tackling dummies ONLY and player acclimation of equipment. Player equipment is limited to helmets, shoulder pads, and shorts. 7 on 7 Tournaments/Camps are permitted during this period Cheerleaders may participate in pre-season activities to work on sideline cheers or stunting.

Article XXVI

Commencing Practice Section 1: Commencing Practice: Each calendar year the Board of Directors will determine, from year to year, the start date of Required Physical Conditioning. All Franchises will be notified of this date no later than the January Conference Board of Directors Meeting. This date shall be the first date upon which practice may begin. No Franchise may commence practice prior to this date.

A. Late Start: Any Franchise may commence practice on a date after that set by Conference Board of Directors. A team may elect to begin conditioning two (2) weeks before Labor Day and must so designate on the team registration form.

B. Sunday’s: No Team may ever practice on a Sunday. A scrimmage may be held on a Sunday with the Franchise Presidents approval.

C. Lighting: If any Team practices after sundown adequate lighting must be provided. All lighting shall be at least 20 ft. above the ground.

Article XXVII

Required Physical Conditioning Section 1: Required Physical Conditioning: Necessary Physical Conditioning is a prerequisite to participation in tackle Football. Required Physical Conditioning must be completed before any tackle Team commences Football Practice sessions.

A. Limitations: The Physical Conditioning program shall be conducted for a maximum of six (6) calendar days per week not including Sunday.

B. Required Hours: All Eligible Participants must have a minimum of six (6) hours of Required Physical Conditioning before they may participate in Football Practice. (See Article XXVIII.)

C. Time Limitations: Each Required Physical Conditioning session shall be limited to two (2) hours per day.

D. Curfew: No Required Physical Conditioning session shall extend beyond 9:00 p.m.

E. Calisthenics: Required Physical Conditioning sessions may include calisthenics and isometrics.

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F. No Contact: Required Physical Conditioning sessions may not employ any form of contact

drills of any kind between Eligible Participants, or between Eligible Participants and blocking pads of any kind.

1. For purposes of this section, the term “contact” shall mean “touching”.

G. Permitted Equipment: During Required Conditioning, helmets, football shoes, and footballs

are the only equipment that may be used.

1. Footballs shall only be used for passing drills, handoff drills, kicking or techniques in the use of the football.

2. Footballs may be used only during the second hour of conditioning, but at no time when more than two (2) players are participating in the conditioning.

H. Prohibited Equipment: No team may use football equipment such as blocking sleds, tackling

dummies, blocking pads, or any other contact oriented practice equipment, except that approved by U.S.A. Heads Up Football, and used in accordance with U.S.A. Heads Up Football instruction and guidelines.

1. Tackling dummies and blocking pads may, if placed horizontal on the ground, be used

during Required Physical Conditioning sessions as “obstacles” in exercise or agility drills.

I. Issuance of Equipment (Pads): No Eligible Participant who has not completed six (6) hours of Required Physical Conditioning may be permitted to participate in any contact drills.

J. Must Meet Weight Requirements: At the Conclusion of Required Physical Conditioning the participant may practice in pads. If they do not meet the Division weight requirements, they are limited to non-skilled positions on the field during all practices or scrimmages.

K. No Jewelry: No jewelry is to be worn during Required Physical Conditioning, Football Practices, Scrimmages, or Games. All jewelry should be left at home.

Article XXVIII

Football Practice Section 1: Football Practice: After the conclusion of Required Physical Conditioning described in Article XXVII, all Teams and Eligible Participant may commence Football Practice sessions with the full use of football uniforms, pads, and blocking equipment.

A. Time Limitations: Football Practice sessions shall be limited to two (2) hours per day. Full contact practice is limited to 3 days a week with a total of 90-minute total.

B. Curfew: No Football Practice session shall extend beyond 9:00 p.m.

C. Sunday’s: No Team may ever practice on a Sunday. A scrimmage may be held on a Sunday with the Franchise Presidents approval.

D. Lighting Requirements: If any Team practices after sundown adequate lighting must be provided. All lighting shall be at least 20 ft. above the ground.

E. Practice/Scrimmage Limitations Before Certification: No Team may participate in more than five (5) scheduled Football Practices plus one (1) Scrimmage per week for a total of six (6) sessions.

1. A Team may have more than one (1) Scrimmage per week, but the additional

Scrimmage(s) counts as a Football Practice session.

F. No Practice on Game Days: No Team may conduct a football practice on a day scheduled for a Game or a Playoff Game.

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G. Contact Limitations: Pursuant to the guidelines of U.S.A. Heads Up Football, and in

conformity with the laws of the State of California governing contact football full contact shall be limited as follows:

1. Prior to Certification: Full Contact shall be limited to no more than 90 minutes per week.

2. Following Certification: Full contact shall be limited to no more than 60 minutes per

week.

3. For purposes of this rule, the term “full contact” shall mean any drill conducted in game-like, competitive conditions in which there is no pre-determined winner and contact may include “to the ground tackling” – defined as “Thud” or “Live” in U.S.A. Football’s Levels of Contact.

H. Practice Limitations After Certification: Each Year the Conference Board of Directors will

set a date when Football Practice sessions will be reduced to three (3) days per week plus one (1) Scrimmage for a total of four (4) sessions. If a Team does not have a scheduled Scrimmage during the week, it may only conduct three (3) Football Practice sessions.

1. In 2019, all Football sessions will be reduced to three (3) days per week beginning August

12, 2019.

2. After August 12, 2019, a Team may have more than one Scrimmage scheduled in any week, but any additional Scrimmage is considered a Football Practice Session.

Section 2: Who May Participate in Football Practice: Only those Eligible Participants who meet the requirements set forth below may participate in Football Practice sessions.

A. Physical Conditioning Completed: After an Eligible Participant successfully completes Required Physical Condition, that person may participate in Football Practice sessions.

1. Under no circumstances may an Eligible Participant who has not successfully completed

Required Physical Conditioning participate in Football Practice until that person has completed all Required Physical Conditioning.

B. Weight Requirements: All players will be classified as skilled (within) or non-skilled

(outside) the weight requirements of the respective Division. Participants who exceed the maximum weight requirements of the Division must practice in non-skilled (interior line) positions. Non-skilled players may not participate in any positions during practice sessions or scrimmages that fall under the maximum weight requirement of the Division.

C. Post Certification Weight Requirements: Following Team Certification all participants may continue to participate on Football Practice sessions. Players who exceed the maximum weight will remain limited to non-skilled positions on the field based on their Certification Weight.

Section 3: Required Equipment Supplied by the Franchise: At any Football Practice where body contact occurs among Eligible Participants all those participating must wear full safety equipment such as would be worn in a regular Game or Scrimmage. Each Franchise must supply each Eligible Participant with safety first equipment consisting of a minimum of the following:

A. Helmet: Helmet that is National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) approved with exterior warning label.

1. The only decals allowed are one (1) team insignia on each side of the helmet. Any

other decal or logo may not be used without the prior approval of Conference.

2. Clear NOCSAE helmet eye shields which are rigid, molded, and provide 100% allowable light are permitted but are not supplied by the Franchise.

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3. Bandannas worn on the head under the helmet are not allowed, nor can they be worn in any other fashion during any game, practice, scrimmage or other team functions Any head covering other than the helmet is only acceptable if it is for medical reasons, and a written statement from the Eligible Participant’s physician stating that additional head covering is required shall be attached to the Eligible Participant's Contract and a copy o f t h e wr i t t en s t a t em en t sent to the Conference President.

a. Exception: Only a Jimi Cap may be worn under the helmet, and must be of the

same primary color of the city’s uniform, with or without logo. All such caps must be the same for entire team.

4. Nylon face guard, double bar minimum.

B. Shoulder pads.

C. Thigh pads or thick padded pants.

D. Knee pads (must cover entire knee).

E. Hip or kidney pads.

Section 4: Required Equipment Supplied by Franchise or by the Eligible Participant: The following personal items are mandatory and may or may not be supplied by the Franchise. If not supplied by the Franchise it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian of the Eligible Participant to obtain the following:

A. Athletic Supporter/Girdle. A soft cup is recommended.

B. Mouth Piece. It is recommended that molded mouthpieces be used. Mouth pieces must be a solid color base; logos and markings are permitted as long as they are not deemed offensive by any member of SGVJAA or its officials. Clear or white mouth pieces are not allowed.

C. Shoes - Soccer-type molded rubber shoes, with non-detachable pliable cleats. Rubber sole athletic or tennis shoes are acceptable.

D. Long Hair - Any participant whose hair extends beyond the back of the helmet will be

considered part of the uniform. Restraining the hair is strongly recommended and tucked into the jersey when possible. Any hair that extends onto the uniform will be considered part of the uniform and can be inadvertently grabbed or pulled during play.

Section 5: Other Equipment: It is permissible to wear approved protective equipment on the forearms, elbows, hands, and rib cage. In the event there are some questions as to whether equipment is approved, the Head Coach or Team Athletic Director should contact the Division President. Section 6: Jewelry: No jewelry is to be worn during Required Physical Conditioning, Football Practice, Scrimmages, or Games. All jewelry should be left at home. Section 7: Limitations on Practice Drills: Safety in practice is of paramount importance. No practice drills may be conducted at any time where contact involves any more than two (2) on one (1). Such drills and practices as “Bull in the Ring”, “Rabbit Drill”, etc. are inherently unsafe and expressly prohibited. Violation of this rule will result in the automatic suspension of the Head Coach for the remainder of the season. Section 8: Sensitivity toward Head Injuries – Concussion Protocol: Football, at any level, is primarily a contact and collision sport. Coaches must be extremely aware of any potential injury to an Eligible Participant, and even more so when the injury is to an Eligible Participant’s head. In the event of a head injury, the following protocol shall be followed:

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A. Suspected Head Injury: Any Eligible Participant in football or cheer who is suspected of

sustaining a concussion or similar head injury during any Football Practice session, Game or Playoff Game shall be immediately removed from that activity, and shall not be permitted to return to either flag football, tackle football, or cheerleading until the Eligible Participant is evaluated by a licensed health care provider, trained in the management of concussions, acting within the scope of his or her practice. No Eligible Participant shall be permitted to return and participate in any physical activity with the Franchise until that person receives written clearance to return to the activity from a licensed physician.

1. Written Clearance for Tackle Football: In order to constitute “acceptable written

clearance”, the licensed health physician shall include the following language in any note, letter or memo purportedly clearing the Eligible Participant to return to tackle football: “[Full Name of Eligible Participant is cleared to participate in full contact tackle football”. Any note, letter or memo purportedly clearing the Eligible Participant to return to tackle football that does not contain this language is unacceptable and does not constitute written clearance sufficient to allow the Eligible Participant to return to play tackle football.

2. Written Clearance for Flag Football and Cheer: In order to constitute “acceptable written clearance”, the licensed physician shall include the following language in any note, letter or memo purportedly clearing the Eligible Participant to return to flag football or cheer: “[Full Name of Eligible Participant is] cleared to participate in [flag football or cheerleading] ”. Any note, letter or memo purportedly clearing the Eligible Participant to return to flag football or cheerleading that does not contain this language is unacceptable and does not constitute written clearance sufficient to allow the Eligible Participant to return to play flag football or to return to participate in cheerleading.

3. Upon receipt of acceptable written clearance the Team or Cheer Athletic Director shall maintain custody of the written note, letter or memo and shall keep it at all times with that Eligible Participant’s Player or Cheer Contract.

Article XXIX Scrimmages

Section 1: Scrimmages Defined: A Scrimmage is a unique form of practice where Teams from the same Division practice under something approaching game conditions. All rules in Article XXVIII governing Football Practice sessions apply to Scrimmages unless indicated otherwise.

A. Who May Participate: Only Eligible Participants who have successfully completed Required

Physical Conditioning and at least ten (10) hours of Football Practice sessions may participate in a Scrimmage.

B. Scrimmage is “Practice”: Each Scrimmage constitutes a Football Practice session.

C. No Inter-Division Scrimmages: No Team may scrimmage a Team from a different Division. Section 2: Scheduling Scrimmages: The scheduling of scrimmages is an informal process between two Team Athletic Directors with the knowledge and consent of the Division President.

A. Scrimmage Limits: Each Team Athletic Director may schedule no more than three (3) Scrimmages per season.

B. Scrimmage Approval: All Scrimmages must be scheduled and pre-approved by the Division President.

C. Cancelling/Rescheduling: A Scrimmage that has been scheduled and approved may, with consent of both Team Athletic Directors and the Division President be rescheduled to another date or cancelled.

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D. Penalties/Fines: Any Team that fails to play or unilaterally cancels a previously scheduled Scrimmage will be subject to a fine of $100, and that fine will be credited to the non-canceling Team’s September fee.

E. Unscheduled Scrimmage: If a Scrimmage is played without being scheduled with the approval of the Division President both teams will be fined $100 and the fine will be paid directly to Conference.

Section 3: Scrimmage Requirements Prior to Team Certification:

A. Time Limits: A Scrimmage is a form of Football Practice and may be no longer than two (2) hours.

1. For purposes of this rule, a Scrimmage commences and the two hour period begins to run

when the Eligible Participants begin to warm up or weigh-in, whichever occurs first.

2. The Team Athletic Director for the hosting Franchise is responsible for keeping track of the time and ensuring that the Scrimmage runs no longer than two (2) hours.

B. ID Cards: Player Identification Cards are not required.

C. Eligible Participants: Only Eligible Participants who have completed the Required Physical

Conditioning (Article XXVII) plus an additional ten (10) hours at a Football Practice session in pads (Article XXVIII) may participate in a Scrimmage.

D. Minimum Players Required: No Team may participate in a Scrimmage with less than eighteen (18) Eligible Participants, unless approved by the Division President.

E. Weigh-In Required: Immediately prior to the Scrimmage every Eligible Participants must weigh-in on a scale certified that year by Conference.

F. Safety Barriers: The Franchise hosting the Scrimmage must provide a safety barrier to

separate the eligible participants and Members, on the one hand, from parents and spectators, on the other hand.

1. The barrier should be at least three (3) feet off the ground, extending the full length of the

field on both sides (unless the parents and fans are only limited to one side of the field, in which case the barrier need only be on that side).

2. The barrier should if possible be at least ten (10) yards from the sidelines, but in no event should the barrier be less than five (5) yards from the sidelines.

G. Hosting Board Member Present: The Franchise hosting the Scrimmage must have at least

two (2) Members of the Franchise Board of Directors present for purposes of managing the Scrimmage in case of injury and/or to control the Teams playing the scrimmage.

H. Medic Requirements: The Franchise hosting the scrimmage is required to provide a Medic. The visiting Franchise may provide a medic if, for whatever reason, the hosting Franchise has no Medic available. No scrimmage may be conducted without a Medic present at all times. If the hosting Franchise fails to provide a Medic and there is no qualified Medic present from the visiting team the scrimmage must be cancelled and the hosting Franchise is considered to have “cancelled” and shall be subject to fine pursuant to section 2(D) of this Article.

Section 4: Scrimmage Requirements Following Team Certification:

A. Post Certification Changes: Following Team Certification, the Scrimmage requirements set forth in this Article, Section 3, still apply except as follow:

1. ID Cards: Player Identification Cards are required. No Eligible Participant may engage

in a Scrimmage following Team Certification without possessing a valid Player Identification Card for that season. This supersedes Article XXIX, Section 3(B).

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2. Weigh-In process: Immediately prior to the Scrimmage every Eligible Participants must

weigh-in on a scale certified that year by Conference.

3. Team Certification: Following Team Certification, all Teams must follow the Weighing-In Procedures set forth in Article XXXI.

Section 5: Unique Rules Applicable Only to Scrimmages: The Conference Board of Directors understands that Scrimmages contain some aspects of game-play especially in so far as the Scrimmages are between Teams from different Franchises. Nevertheless, in order to ensure that Scrimmages are conducted in a manner more appropriate to a Football Practice session, and to reduce the possibility of any injuries, the following rules shall be observed at all times.

A. Pre-Scrimmage Coaches Meeting: Prior to the commencement of the Scrimmage the Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors shall confer and decide:

1. Which Team will first be on Offense and which Team on Defense. In the absence of

consensus, the hosting Franchise will first be on Offense.

2. How many plays each Team will have on Offense before switching sides. No Team may possess the ball for more than ten (10) consecutive plays.

a. In applying this rule, a “play” occurs every time that the ball is put into play except

when a dead ball penalty is assessed.

B. Non-Movement of Ball: After a play from scrimmage, and regardless of whether the play resulted in a gain or loss of yardage, the ball shall be returned to the same spot on the field where is was originally snapped.

1. The purpose of this rule is to prevent, either intentionally or unintentionally, a Scrimmage

from assuming aspects of a game. It is not intended to freeze Teams to a certain spot on the field. Both Head Coaches with the consent of the Team Athletic Directors may agree to move the ball to another spot on the field to simulate other game conditions for the purpose of practice, such as practicing goal-line Defense or short yardage Offense.

2. If the Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors agree to move the ball to another part of the field to simulate game conditions, the ball must remain in the agreed spot for the entire number of plays in which that Team has possession of the ball as set forth in this Section (A)(2).

3. Regardless of where the ball is placed, however, after a play is completed the ball must be returned to the same spot where it was snapped.

C. Coaches on Field: Coaches are encouraged to be on the field and in the huddle instructing

Eligible Participants at all times, and all coaches shall cooperate with coaches from the other Team in doing the same.

D. Appropriate Breaks: Team Athletic Directors shall ensure that the Eligible Participants have appropriate breaks, sufficient liquids, and that the Scrimmage, at all times, maintains the characteristics of a Football Practice session and not a game.

E. Coach as Official: At least one (1) coach from each Team shall assume the role of officials for the purpose of stopping play. As this is not a game, coaches shall stop play immediately after initial contact by a defender so as to minimize the possibility of injury. Coaches are encouraged to use a “quick whistle”, especially on passing plays, to protect all persons from injury. a. The two (2) Members of the Franchise Board of Directors of the hosting Team may also

assume the role of officials for this purpose.

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F. Suspending Play: If in the opinion of either Head Coach, either Team Athletic Director, or The Members of the Franchise Board of Directors of the hosting Team, the Scrimmage is no longer serving the purpose of “practice” for which it was intended they are to immediately suspend play and terminate the Scrimmage.

Section 6: Scrimmage Minimum Play Rule: Every Eligible Participants who qualifies to play in the Scrimmage and who weighs-in prior to the Scrimmage is required to have a minimum of five (5) plays during that Scrimmage.

A. Failure to Comply: Failure to comply with the minimum play requirements set forth in this Section will result in a ten (10) day suspension of the Head Coach. The suspension period will commence from the date Conference verifies the violation of this Section.

a. If the same Head Coach in a subsequent Scrimmage again violates this Section it will

result in a thirty (30) day suspension. The suspension period will commence from the date Conference verifies the violation of this Section.

B. Withholding Players: In the judgment of the Team Athletic Director if an otherwise Eligible

Participant should not participate due to physically incapability, illness, injury, or disciplinary action that person shall not weigh-in and shall wear his jersey inside out for the remainder of the Scrimmage.

C. Must Play Form: At the conclusion of the Scrimmage the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director will sign and submit to the appropriate Division President verification that all Eligible Participants who qualified to play in the Scrimmage and who weighed-in prior to the Scrimmage played a minimum of five (5) plays during that Scrimmage.

Article XXX

Team Certification

Section 1: Defined: Team Certification is the process by which the Conference Board of Directors ensures compliance with all age, scholastic, weight and other necessary requirements. If a Team successfully certifies under this Article, the Team Athletic Director will be provided an Original Stamped Team Certified Roster and Certified Player Identification Cards.

A. ID Card Required: Following Certification day, only those Eligible Participants who are included on the Original Stamped Team Certified Roster and who possess valid Certified Player Identification Cards may participate in Football Practice sessions, Scrimmages, or Games.

B. Non-certified Players: Eligible Participants who are not on the Original Stamped Team Certified Roster or who do not possess Certified Player Identification Cards may participate only in Required Physical Conditioning activities. (Article XXVII.)

C. No Division Movement: Eligible Participants in football may not be moved between Divisions on or after Certification day.

D. Cut Contracts Post Certification: No Franchise may issue a valid Cut Contract after Certification day.

Section 2: Process: Each calendar year, the Conference Board of Directors shall set a date on which Team Certification shall take place. The date set for Certification may be no sooner than (3) weeks following the commencement of practice for that calendar year. All Franchises shall be notified of this date no later than the February Conference Board of Directors Meeting. There shall be only one (1) Team Certification day. If an Eligible Participant, for whatever reason, fails to attend Team Certification day, that person may no longer wear football equipment or pads, may not participate in any Football Practice sessions and may only participate in Required Physical Conditioning.

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A. Make Up Certification: Division Presidents, in their sole discretion, may set one or more dates convenient to them for purposes of certifying Eligible Participants who either fail to attend Team Certification day or who attend Team Certification day but fail, for whatever reason, to Certify.

B. Importance of Attendance: It is incumbent on each Franchise to emphasize the importance of attending Team Certification day as failure to do so could potentially render an otherwise Eligible Participant ineligible for the remainder of the season.

Section 3: Certification Committee: The President of the Conference shall appoint a committee to certify the eligibility of players. The Committee shall consist, at a minimum, of the Conference Executive Board, all Franchise Presidents, all Franchise Conference Representatives, and such other Members that the President of Conference deems necessary to include for the purpose of completing Team Certification. Section 4: Franchise Materials: Each team shall supply the information and documentations to the Certification Committee. This information may vary from year to year, and to the extent required documentation is not listed below the Conference Board of Directors will provide notice to each Franchise of the additional documents required no later than the May meeting of the Conference Board of Directors. The following information shall be provided to the Certification Committee:

A. Verification of Age: Legal Documentation verifying the Eligible Participants’ age.

1. Acceptable Documentation includes: 2. A certified copy of each Eligible Participant’s Birth Certificate. 3. A “Green Card” 4. A Valid Passport. 5. Conference verified player/cheerleader Photo Identification Card. 6. The conference verified player/cheerleader Photo Identification Card must be

updated with a current photo, and re-certified by a Member of the Conference Executive Board member every three (3) years.

B. Complete Fully Executed Contract: A complete and fully executed Player/Cheer Contract

signed by the Eligible Participant and the Eligible Participant’s parent(s) or guardian.

1. Section V of the Conference’s copy of the Eligible Participant’s Player/Cheer Contract shall be marked “residence verified” by the Team Athletic Director certifying that the Eligible Participant resides in that Franchise’s exclusive or shared territory. Otherwise, Section V is to be marked “Free Agent”. This is not applicable to cut contracts.

2. Any Team Athletic Director who submits a false certification of residence or free agency may be suspended.

C. Physical Fitness: Proof of compliance concerning Physical Fitness.

D. Complete and Signed Forms: All Eligible Participants must sign and date their respective

Cheer/Player Contracts.

E. Academic Compliance: Records of each participant’s academic grades from the previous semester with at least five subjects, including physical education must be supplied. Students must have a grade point average of at least 2.0.

F. Other Documentation: Such other documentation as the Conference Board of Directors deems appropriate.

G. Roster Limitation: An Eligible Participant may be certified on only one Conference Team roster as a football player or cheerleader, but not both.

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Section 5: Certification Weight for flag and tackle Eligible Participants: At Team Certification all flag and tackle Eligible Participants will be weighed by Members of the Certification Committee appointed by the Conference President.

A. Weigh-In Attire: Each Eligible Participant for flag or tackle football player will be weighed wearing only shorts or swim suit, and be certified as to exact weight.

Section 6: Certification Weight Chart: To remain an Eligible Participant all persons must meet the following Age and Weight requirements on Team Certification Day:

A G E

FLAG

JR. GREMLIN

GREMLIN

JR. PEE-WEE

PEE-WEE

JR. MIDGET

5 - 6 UL

8U 100*

10U

120*

11U 130*

12U 140*

14U UL *= Maximum Weight for Skilled Positions.

All players exceeding this weight will be deemed an ‘X’ Player and limited to Non-Skilled positions

UL= Unlimited Weight Division. Equipment Checks are required.

A. Limited to Physical Conditioning: If the participant misses the mandatory Certification

date, the participant may continue to participate in Required Physical Conditioning only until such time as that person is certified by the appropriate Division President. (Article XXVII.)

B. Final Weigh-In: Final weigh-in for players is 2 weeks after the posted Certification

Day.

C. Reclassification: A player who Certified at a non-skilled weight may attempt to get reclassified as a skilled position player through the Thursday of Week #2 of the regular season. Failure to meet the skilled position weight will keep the player classified as a non-skilled ‘X’ player for the duration of the season.

D. Game Day Maximum Weights: During game day weigh-ins, a previous certified skilled

player not meeting the maximum player weight must be issued an ‘X’ player sticker for that game and they will be limited to the non-skilled positions. That player in subsequent weeks can attempt to make the Certified skilled player weight requirements. This does not apply to player who was originally certified as an ‘X’ player.

Section 7: Flag and Tackle Team Certification Requirements: In order to certify each Team must meet the following requirements:

A. Flag Division: No Flag Team may certify with fewer than sixteen (16) Eligible Participants.

B. All Tackle Divisions:

1. Teams in any of the tackle Divisions may not certify with fewer than twenty-two (22) Eligible Participants listed on the roster and at least eighteen (18) must be fully certified on Team Certification day.

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a. Any Tackle Division failing to comply with this rule shall not be certified and all Eligible Participants shall become Free Agents. (Article XXI, Section 1, subdivision (A)(3).)

2. If a Tackle Team certifies on Certification Day with fewer that twenty-four (24) Eligible

Participants on the roster, that Team shall have twenty-four (24) Eligible Participants on the roster no later than the first regularly scheduled game of the football season or the Team will be folded by the Division President and all Eligible Participants shall become Free Agents. (Article XXI, Section 1, subdivision (A)(3).)

3. Division Presidents may, for good cause, modify Team roster requirements.

C. Possible Exceptions: It is possible that in any given calendar year factors including, but not

limited to, demographics or declining enrollment, could limit the number of participants. If such factors exist, and with the approval of the Conference Board of Directors, Conference may amend or modify the required number of Eligible Participants required on any Division roster. Such modification shall be temporary and shall be effective only for that particular season.

Article XXXI

Weigh-In Process During the Football Season Section 1: Procedure for Weight Calculation for Post-Certification Day Scrimmages and Games: Following Certification day all Eligible Participants who Certify shall be weighed-in using the procedures set forth in this Article. Any Eligible Participant whose weight exceeds that permitted pursuant to the Certification Weight Chart set forth in Article XXX, Section 6, is eligible to participate in the Scrimmage, Game, or Playoff Game as an ‘X’ player (non-skilled) interior lineman position. The participant must be issued an ‘X’ sticker which is to be affixed to the helmet by a team representative.

A. Failure to Make Weight: If an Eligible Participant fails to make weight during the initial Team Weigh-in process that person may neither weigh-in again during the Team Weigh-in process for the purpose of participating in that Scrimmage, Game or Playoff Game as a “skilled’ position player. Nor may that person weigh-in at half time.

Section 2: Those Present during the Weigh-in Process:

A. Who May be Present: Teams shall weigh-in prior to Scrimmages and Games as a Team in the presence of the Team Athletic Director and assistant team directors, and the Franchise Athletic Director, if present. Coaches, including the Head Coach, shall not be present or permitted at weigh-ins. 1. Franchise Executive Board Members (FEBM) may be present at Team weigh-in for

oversight purposes only. The ‘FEBM’ may not interfere in the weigh-in process unless the weigh-in procedures as set forth by SGVJAAFC are not being adhered to.

Section 3: Time: All Eligible Participants on both Teams must complete the weigh-in process no later than thirty (30) minutes prior to the scheduled Game. This Section does not apply to Scrimmages. Section 4: Withholding Players from the Weigh-in Process: An otherwise Eligible Participant who is present at the appropriate time and ready to be weighed-in with the rest of the Team, must be permitted to weigh in unless:

A. AD Discretion to Withhold Player: If, in the exclusive judgment of the Team Athletic Director an otherwise Eligible Participant is too physically impaired to participate in the Game or Scrimmage, is ill, or is subject to discipline, that Eligible Player shall not participate in the weigh-in process. The Division President must be notified prior to game day of disciplinary actions/withholding of participants from a scheduled game. Once an Eligible Participant is weighed that person must play the required number of plays in the Scrimmage or Game. (See Article XXIX, Section 6 and Article XXXV, Section 2.)

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B. Player Must Weigh-In: If Section 4, subdivision A of this Article is inapplicable, the

Eligible Participant must be weighed-in. No Eligible participant who is present during the initial Team weigh-in process may be withheld and weighed at half time for the purpose of participating in the second half. This subdivision does not apply to Scrimmages.

Section 5: Team Athletic Directors Exchange of information: At the weigh in process the Athletic Directors for both Teams shall exchange the Original Stamped Team Certified Roster and the Certified Player Identification Cards.

A. Verification of Information: This exchange allows each Team Athletic Director an opportunity to accurately verify the other Team’s information.

1. If a Team fails to provide the Original Stamped Team Certified Roster and the Certified

Player Identification Cards, that Team may not play and forfeits the Game or Playoff Game.

B. Use of Rosters: Following the completion of the Team Weigh-in process, the exchanged

Original Stamped Team Certified Roster and the Certified Player Identification Cards shall be returned to the respective Team Athletic Directors and a photocopy of the Original Stamped Team Certified Roster can thereafter be used in lieu of the original.

Section 6: Proof of Medical Attendant: During the Weigh-in Process the visiting Team Athletic Director shall demand and receive proof that a Medical Attendant is present for the scheduled game. (This does not apply to Scrimmages.)

A. Mandatory Medic: No scheduled game may be played without the presence of a Medical Attendant. (See Article XVI, Section 1(E).) If no Medical Attendant is present the game may not be played and the Team responsible for supplying the Medical Attendant forfeits.

B. Visit Team Medic: If there is a Medical Attendant present with the Visiting Team, and there is no Medical Attendant present with the Home Team, the Visiting Medical Attendant may act as the Medical Attendant for the Game. If the Visiting Medical Attendant agrees to do so, the Visiting Medical Attendant must comply with all criteria of Game Day Medic for both the Home and Visiting Teams.

Section 7: Equipment and Clothes worn during Weigh-in Process: Eligible Participants shall be weighed wearing the following equipment only:

A. The shoes/cleats and socks the participant intends to wear in the Game, Playoff Game or Scrimmage.

B. Football pants with knee and thigh pads.

C. Girdle with hip and posterior pad.

D. Athletic cup.

E. Game Jersey.

F. The Conference Board of Directors is aware of a variety of football equipment and products, such as Under Armor, that are intended to be used in lieu of traditional pads. So long as this equipment contains the minimum amount of pads required, as identified above in Article XXVIII, Sections 4 and 5 such equipment is acceptable. If an Eligible Participant intends to wear such equipment, it must be worn at the time the Eligible Participant is weighed.

G. Eligible Participants shall not be weighed wearing a helmet, shoulder pads, arm pads, elbow pads, hand pads, and/or rib cage protective harness.

H. The Team Athletic Directors should inspect the equipment worn by the Eligible Participants during the weigh-in process to ensure the equipment complies with these rules.

I. Once weighed, an Eligible Participant may not change any of the equipment, including shoes or cleats, that were worn at the time that person weighed-in.

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1. This does not prohibit a coach or athletic director from later replacing equipment that is damaged during the game. Such equipment replacement may only be made with the permission of the Head Official and the knowledge of the opposing Team Athletic Director.

Section 8: Exclusive Use of Certified Scales and Certification Weight Chart: Only scales previously certified by the Conference Executive Board may be used for the weigh-in process. Section 9: Additional Weight for Equipment & During Season: Eligible Participants shall meet the weight requirements set forth in the Certification Weight Chart in Article XXX, Section 6 with the following additions to account for uniform weight:

A. Flag Uniform Allowance: Unlimited weight Division, no additional weight allowance for equipment required.

B. Jr Gremlin, Gremlin, Jr. Pee-Wee, & Pee-Wee Uniform Allowance: Eligible Participants

shall receive an additional weight allowance of five (5) pounds to account for uniform weight.

C. Jr Midget Uniform Allowance: Unlimited weight Division, no additional weight allowance for equipment required.

D. Additional Weight Added During the Season: Beginning September 1st of the current season all Eligible Participants will be permitted to add one (1) pound to the maximum weight allowance on the Monday of each week. This allowance continues through December 31st of the current calendar year.

Section 10: Late Arrival of Eligible Participant: If an otherwise Eligible Participant arrives late after the conclusion of the initial Team weigh-in process that person may not participate in the first half of any scheduled Game or Playoff Game. That Eligible Participant may participate in the second half of any scheduled Game or Playoff Game so long as the following rules are observed:

A. Advise Head Official and Opposing AD: The Team Athletic Director shall advise the Head Official and the opposing Team Athletic Director of the late Participant’s arrival and intent to play in the second half. Both Athletic Directors shall agree on a time during the Halftime break to weigh the late Eligible Participant.

B. Halftime Weigh-In: At halftime of the scheduled Game or Playoff Game, the Athletic Directors of both Teams shall jointly weigh the Eligible Participant using the same scale on which the Teams weighed in prior to the scheduled Game or Playoff Game and shall follow the rules in this Article, Section 7.

C. Minimum Plays Requirements Still Enforced: Any Eligible Participate who participates in the second half of any scheduled Game or Playoff Game as a result of this Section must also receive the minimum number of plays as set forth in Article XXXV.

D. Withheld Player Cannot Weigh-In at Halftime: No Eligible Participant who is present at the time of weigh-in may be intentionally withheld from weigh-in and then weighed at half-time for the purpose of participating in the second half.

E. Late Player Must Weigh-In: No Coach or AD, including opposing Coach and AD, may

refuse to weigh in a late arrival player at half-time without the approval of the Division President.

F. No Re-Weigh of Over Weight Player: No Eligible Participant who failed to make weight at the initial weigh-in may be weighed at half time.

Section 11: Assembly: Following the conclusion of the Weigh-in Process the Teams shall assemble in or near their designated end zones and remain there until commencement of pre-game warm-ups.

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Section 12: Allowing an Ineligible person to participate: No Franchise shall allow an ineligible participant to play flag or tackle football, or to cheer.

A. If an ineligible participant, certified or not certified, participates in a Game as a player or a cheerleader in that Game then that Game, and all previous Games in which the player participated will be forfeited.

B. If a Team permits a person who failed to make weight during the initial weigh-in process or at half time to participate in that Game then that Team shall forfeit the game.

C. Any Member who knows a player is ineligible and nevertheless allows the ineligible player to participate is subject to fine and/or suspension.

D. Any Team that knowingly plays an ineligible player will be ineligible for Playoffs.

Article XXXII Scouting Opponents & Spotting During Scrimmages or

Games Section 1: Defined: “Scouting” is the activity by which Members or persons associated with one Franchise survey, observe and report on the techniques, players, and skill of another Franchise’s Team in order to better prepare for a future Game. “Spotting” is that process by which Members or persons associated with one Franchise observe a game in progress in which that Franchise is currently participating. Section 2: Scouting Rules: Conference permits the scouting of another Franchise under the following circumstances:

A. Limitations: No person may scout, videotape or film another Franchise’s Required Physical Conditioning, Football Practice session or Scrimmages.

1. A Scrimmage may only be filmed or videotaped by a person affiliated with one of the

Team’s participating in that Scrimmage.

2. A tape of a Scrimmage may later be used by the participating Teams for purposes of coaching. It may not be provided to any other Franchise for any purpose, including scouting.

B. Scouting Limited to Games: The only acceptable scouting venue is a regularly scheduled

Game.

1. A member or person affiliated with one Franchise may film or videotape a Game involving two Teams of different Franchises for the purpose of scouting one or both of those teams.

2. The film or videotape may be used by other Franchises who are scouting one of both of the Teams. Franchises are encouraged to exchange films for the purpose of scouting.

3. Any person filming or videotaping a Game must comply with the following:

a. No scouting, filming or videotaping is allowed from either end zone or from insider

the Team “box” on the field.

C. Penalty for Violation: Any person, whether a Member of a Franchise or one merely affiliated with a Franchise, who violates these rules subjects that Franchise to sanctions including fine and suspension.

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Section 3: Spotting Rules: Conference permits coaches of their designees from spotting during Games or Playoff Games under the following restrictions:

A. Position of Spotters: All spotting on the sidelines shall be from the stands or within the team box on the field.

1. If the person spotting is above the playing field that person must be located between the

end zones.

B. Limitations: Use of electronic audio or audio-visual spotting equipment is prohibited.

Article XXXIII Season Play, Friendship Bowls, Bowl Games & Forfeits

Section 1: Defined: Each year the Conference Board of Directors shall designate a weekend in September as the dates for the initial games of the football season. This date may vary from year to year. All Franchises will be notified of this date no later than the February Board of Directors Meeting. Section 2: Length of Season: The regular football season shall consist of eight (8) games for all tackle Divisions. The regular football season for the flag Division shall also consist of eight (8) games. Following the last regular season Game those Teams qualifying shall advance to Playoffs. For all tackle Divisions except Midget, there will be three rounds of playoffs that will occur from the ninth week to the eleventh week of the season. For the Midget Division week nine shall consist of a bye for the entire Division, and there will follow two rounds of playoffs in the tenth and eleventh weeks of the season.

A. Byes: It is possible that a Team may have one or more “byes” during the regular season in the event there are insufficient Teams in the respective Division for each Team to have a game every weekend of the regular season.

B. Notification of Score: It is the responsibility of the Team Athletic Director of any winning team to notify by telephone the Division President or Division Vice President of the score within 24 hours of the conclusion of the Game or Playoff Game. In the event of a tie it is the responsibility of the Team Athletic Director of the home team to also notify the Division President or Division Vice President of the score within 24 hours of the conclusion of the Game or Playoff Game. Notification may be by telephone, email, or other electronic communication depending on the preference of the Division President. Failure to comply will result in a $100.00 fine

C. Eleven Game Limit: No team may play more than eleven (11) games during the season, including Bowl Games, without prior approval of the Conference Executive Board. 1. No Team may play more than one Bowl Game without prior approval of the Conference

Executive Board. Section 3: Schedules & Game Time: At least two (2) weeks prior to the commencement of the regular season, the Conference Executive Board will provide all Franchises with the schedule of Games for the regular season.

A. Content of Schedule: The Schedule of games will include the date of each game, the location

of each game, and the start time of each game. A Team’s “Home Field” is that which has been designated on that Franchise’s Home Field Availability Form.

1. In the event a Home Field becomes unavailable for any reason during the week prior to

a scheduled Game or Playoff Game, a Member of the home Franchise Executive Board must immediately notify:

a. The Conference President and the Division President of every Division that was

scheduled to play a Game at that field;

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b. The President of the visiting Franchise and each Team Athletic Director of the

visiting Teams scheduled to play at that field.

2. It is the duty of the home Franchise to locate and obtain a suitable replacement field acceptable to the Conference President and to notify the Franchise President and Franchise Athletic Director of the new location.

3. If a home team is unable to locate a suitable replacement field, the visiting Team may, if it has an acceptable alternative Field available, host the Game(s).

a. In the event the visiting Team(s) is able to host the Game(s), for the purposes of

these rules, the Franchise whose Home Field was unavailable is still considered the home or host Team and must comply with all host team obligations for purposes of these rules.

4. If no suitable field is available, all Game(s) are considered forfeited by the Home

Team(s)

B. Forfeit: Failure to field a complete Team after the scheduled start time will result in an automatic forfeit of that Game or Playoff Game.

1. The head Game Official shall declare the Game or Playoff Game a forfeit and shall

report the forfeit to the Division President. The Division President will notify the Conference President.

C. Limitation of Pre-Game Warm-Up: Prior to any Game or Playoff Game a Team may warm

up for no more than (one) 1 hour immediately before the Game or Playoff Game is scheduled to commence.

Section 4: Team Athletic Directors’ Responsibilities: For each Franchise home Game or Playoff Game it is the duty of the home Team Athletic Director to contact the Team Athletic Director of the visiting Team at least five (5) days in advance of the Game or Playoff Game and advise and confirm the date, location, and time of the Game or Playoff Game, as well as the color of uniforms to be worn by the home Team. Failure of the home Team to notify the visiting Team will result in a $100 fine for the home team.

A. Contrasting Jersey’s: In the event both the visiting Teams jersey colors conflict with that of the home Team, it is the responsibility of the home Team to wear contrasting jerseys.

1. In the event that the Team Athletic Directors are unsure whether the jerseys conflict or

contracts, they should jointly contact the Division President for the determination of this issue.

Section 5: Post Season Bowl Games: The Conference Board of Directors permits each Franchise to schedule no more than one (1) post-Season Bowl Game so long as it complies with the following:

A. President Must Schedule: Only Franchise Presidents may schedule Bowl Games. No Bowl Game scheduled by any Member other than the Franchise President will be approved by Conference.

B. Cheerleader Attendance: Cheerleaders are required to attend Bowl Games, unless it conflicts with a prior scheduled cheer event or travel outside of the local area is required.

C. Bylaws Enforced: All Teams participating in Bowl Games must comply with all the rules and Articles in these Bylaws, including, but not limited to, the presence of a Medical Attendant, compliance with weigh-in requirements, the use of a Conference certified scale, and compliance with minimum play rules for all Eligible Participants.

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D. Conference Executive Presence: The Franchises must arrange for the presence of at least one (1) Conference Executive Board Member to be present at the Bowl Game to ensure compliance with all rules.

Section 6: Game Limits:

A. Eleven Game Limit: No Team may participate in more than eleven (11) Games, including Playoff Games and Bowl Games without the approval of the Conference Executive Board.

B. Time Between Games: A period of at least ninety-six (96) hours must elapse from the conclusion of a Game prior to a Team or any Eligible Participant on that Team from participating in another Game.

1. The Conference President may waive this rule only for any previously postponed Game

or Playoff Game that affects a League Championship of Conference Championship Playoff.

Section 7: Forfeits: If fifteen (15) minutes prior to a scheduled Game or Playoff Game a Team has less than eighteen (18) Eligible Participants, the Game is forfeit. A forfeited Game is considered a win for the non-forfeiting Team and a loss for the forfeiting Team for purposes of determining Team records for League Champion and Playoff purposes. **Exception** Refer to Article IXX, Section 4, Item D should a modification to the minimum number of participants have been modified during a particular season.

A. Conditions Under Which Forfeited Games Can be Played: If the forfeiting Team has more than thirteen Eligible Participants who meet the age and weight requirements the two Teams may still play the Game if both the coaches and Ad’s agree, In order to play a Game following a forfeit, both Team Athletic Directors and both Head Coaches must consent to play the game. If all agree, the Game will be played with the score remaining 1-0 in favor of the team with a full roster. However, the score is not recorded. The consent of the Officials is not necessary

1. Any Game that is played following a forfeit must comply with the rules and Bylaws

contained in these Articles, including the Must Play Rules.

2. Any team that fails to appear at a conference scheduled game will be fined $200 plus the cost of the officials

Article XXXIV

Determining League Champions & Playoffs: Jr. Gremlins, Gremlins, Jr. Pee Wee, Pee Wee

& Jr. Midget Section 1: Determining League Champion and Wild Card Teams:

A. League Champion: The team with the best win-loss record in each League will be designated “League Champion”. The League Champion will advance to Playoffs.

B. League Wild Card: The Team with the second best record in each League will be designated the “League Wild Card”. The League Wild Card will advance to Playoffs. If there are less than 4 leagues during the season, the remaining playoffs spots will be determined by the best records remaining, regardless of league.

C. Method of Determining League Champion: The Division President is responsible for determining which Teams in the various Leagues under the Division President’s jurisdiction will advance to Playoffs as the League Champion and the Wild Card.

Section 2: Calculation of Points for Wins, Losses, Ties, and Byes: In determining win-loss record, each Team will receive 1 point for a win (including a win by forfeit), 1 point for a “bye”, ½ point for a tie, and no point for a loss. There is no procedure for overtime play during the regular season.

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A. Example: Team A played seven (7) games. It won four (4), lost two (2), and tied one (1).

Team A would have 4 ½ points. Team B played six (6) games and had one (1) bye. It won three (3) games, lost two (2) games, and tied one (1) game. Team B would also have 4 ½ points.

Section 3: Sportsmanship: The Conference Board of Directors places a great emphasis on the value of academics and good sportsmanship. All Teams, Coaches, and Fans are scored by the Game Officials at every regular season Game as to how they behave towards opponents, the Officials and each other. The specific method for determining Sportsmanship varies and is determined by the Conference Board of Directors and the Officials. Conference recognizes that that there is a certain degree of subjectivity involved.

A. April Date for Sportsmanship Rule Modification: The Conference Board of Directors shall

advise all Franchises no later than the April Board of Directors Meeting of the rules governing Sportsmanship for the season. These rules may not be changed between April and January of any season.

B. Executive Board to Gather Info from Officials: The Conference Executive Board shall designate at least one (1) member who shall be responsible for gathering the information from the Officials. The Member so designated shall be the contact person for all Franchises regarding issues related to Sportsmanship.

C. Posting of Scores: Conference shall post on its website the Sportsmanship score of all participating Teams within ten (10) days of the completion of any Game in which such scores were recorded and reported by an official.

D. Games Used to Calculate Sportsmanship Scores: For purposes of calculation, all scores recorded in the first seven (7) Games of the regular season are used to determine any Team’s cumulative Sportsmanship score.

Section 4: Determining League Champion Between Two Teams: In the event of a tie in points between two (2) Teams in any League, the following factors are used by the Division President, in order of priority, to determine League Champion for purposes of Playoffs:

A. Co-Champions: Both Teams are designated “Co-League Champions” and shall receive Championship Patches.

B. Sportsmanship Primary Tie-Breaker: The Team with the highest cumulative Sportsmanship score (coaches and players) will advance to Playoffs as the number one seed. The other Team will advance to Playoffs as the number two seed.

C. Head-to-Head if Sportsmanship Tied: If the Teams are tied in Sportsmanship and they participated in head-to-head competition during the regular season, the Team that prevailed in that game will advance as the number one seed. The other Team will advance to Playoffs as the number two seed.

D. Division President: If the Teams are tied in Sportsmanship and did not participate in head-to-head competition during the regular season, the tie will be broken with a coin toss conducted by the Division President to determine which Co-Champion is the number one seed.

Section 5: Determining League Champion Among Three Teams: In the event of a tie in points among three (3) Teams in any League, the following factors are used, in order of priority, to determine the League Champion and placement for purposes of Playoffs:

A. Co-Champions: All Teams are designated “Co-League Champions” and receive Championship patches.

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B. Lowest Sportsmanship Score: The Team with the lowest cumulative Sportsmanship score

(coaches and players) is eliminated from Playoffs.

C. Sportsmanship Primary Tie-Breaker: The Team with the highest cumulative Sportsmanship score (coaches and players) will advance to Playoffs as the League Champion and the other Team will advance to Playoffs as the League Wild Card. If, after eliminating the Team with the lowest cumulative Sportsmanship scores, the two remaining Teams are still tied with the same cumulative Sportsmanship score (coaches and players), then the Division President shall determine the League Champion using the factors set forth in this Article, Section 4(B)-(C).

Section 6: Method for Determining Wild Card Teams: The Division President is responsible for determining which Teams in the various Leagues under the Division President’s jurisdiction will advance to Playoffs as the League Champion and the Wild Card

A. Tie Between Two Teams: If there is a tie between two (2) Teams for the Wild Card berth in any League, the Division President will apply the rules in this Article, Section 4(A)-(C) to determine which of the Team advances to Playoffs as the League Wild Card. The other Team is eliminated from Playoffs.

B. Tie Between Three Teams: If there is a tie between three (3) Teams for the Wild Card berth in any League, the Division President will apply the rules in this Article, Section 4(B)-(C) to determine which of the Team advances to Playoffs as the League Wild Card. The other two (2) Teams are eliminated from Playoffs.

Section 7: Playoffs: After the selection of the League Champion and the League Wild Card Teams, the Division Presidents will seed all teams for Playoffs. Each Division President is responsible for establishing a method of seeding and notifying the Team Athletic Directors no later than the Tuesday before any scheduled Playoff Game of the Team’s opponent, Game location, and Game time.

A. Quarterfinal Round: The first round of Playoffs shall begin on the eighth weekend of the season. Winning Teams will advance to the Semi-Final Round. Losing Teams are eliminated. If two Teams are tied at the end of regulation play in the Quarterfinal round, the game will be resolved in accordance with the 10-yard line Overtime Procedure as set forth in the High School Football Rule Book for that current year.

B. Semi-Final Round: The second round of Playoffs shall be played during the ninth week of the season. Winning Teams will advance to the Championship Round. Losing Teams are eliminated. If two Teams are tied at the end of regulation play in the Semi-final round, the game will be resolved in accordance with the 10-yard line Overtime Procedure as set forth in the High School Football Rule Book for that current year.

C. Championship Game: The final round of Playoffs shall be played during the eleventh week of the season. The winning Teams shall be designated the Conference Champions for that Division. If two Teams are tied at the end of regulation play the game will be resolved in accordance with the 10-yard line Overtime Procedure as set forth in the High School Football Rule Book for the current year. If at the conclusion of the third (3rd) Overtime Procedure the two Teams remain tied to both Teams shall be designated League Champions.

Article XXXV

Must Play Rule for Tackle Games and Playoffs Section 1: Defined: Having all Eligible Participants play a minimum number of plays in a Game or a Playoff Game is of significant importance to the principles underlying our Conference as set forth above in Article III. The Conference Board of Directors desires to emphasize the importance of this rule and to maintain strict compliance by all Franchises.

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Section 2: Eligible Participant Must Play Rule: All Eligible Participants who successfully complete the weigh-in process prior to, or during halftime of, a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game must play a minimum of ten (10) plays during that Game. Each participant who successfully completes the weigh-in process prior to the Game or Playoff Game must play at least five (5) plays in the first half. (See Article XXXI.) EXCEPTION: Jr. Gremlin Division – must have a minimum of five (5) plays per half.

A. Play Defined: A “Play” for purposes of this rule occurs when the ball is put into play and not stopped for a dead ball foul. A penalty called does not negate the “play” for purposes of this rule so long as the Game Officials did not halt the play to enforce it.

1. Examples: On first down, the ball is snapped and handed off to a runner, but the official

stops play due to an illegal procedure call. This would not count toward any players’ ten (10) play minimum.

2. Example: On first down the ball is snapped and handed to the runner who gains five yards before he is tackled. On that play, the official called the offense for holding. This would count as a play toward the players’ ten (10) play minimum because play was not prematurely halted for the penalty.

B. All Types of Plays Count: For purposes of this rule any Play “counts” toward the ten (10)

play minimum so long as it is not halted for a dead ball penalty. This includes any down from scrimmage whether on offense or defense, a kick-off or kick return, a punt or punt return, and a try after touchdown (whether kicked or not).

C. Injured Player: During a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game if an Eligible Participant is injured and does not play any further in the Game or Playoff Game, this does not violate this rule even if the injured Eligible Participant had not, at the time of the injury, played ten (10) plays. The Eligible Participant’s injury should be noted on the Must Play Record. (See this Article, Section 3(B)(2).)

D. Shortened Game: There are certain rules that may shorten or alter the dynamics of a Game. These include the “18 point Rule,” the “Mercy Rule,” and the “30 Point Rule - Running Clock”. (See Article XXXVIII, Sections 7-9.) The enforcement of any of these rules does not relieve the Head Coach or Team Athletic Director from ensuring that all Eligible Participants receive the minimum number of plays.

Section 3: Must Play Record: It is the joint responsibility of the Team Head Coach and Team Athletic Director to ensure that all Eligible Participants who have weighed-in prior to a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game receive ten (10) plays. At the conclusion of a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game both the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director must sign the “Must Play Record”.

A. Must Play Record: This is a form provided by Conference on which the names of all Eligible Participants who successfully weigh-in prior to, or during halftime of, a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game are recorded. Next to each name is a series of ten boxes. Each time an Eligible Participant successfully completes a “Play” as defined in this Article a “check” should be placed next to the Eligible Participant’s name. Once every box next to an Eligible Participant’s name has been checked that person has been verified as receiving the minimum number of required plays for that Game or Playoff Game.

B. Tracking Plays: Prior to the start of a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director should designate a minimum of one, and preferably two, Members of the coaching staff to keep track of Eligible Participants as they play in the game. At least once during the first half of play, at halftime, and again at least once during the second half, the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director should refer to the Must Play Record to ensure that all Eligible Participants are playing.

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1. It is highly recommended that Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors liberally

substitute Eligible Participants throughout the Game or Playoff Game so as to avoid problems in the latter part of the Game or Playoff Game. As set forth below, Games and Playoff Games are not long and there are a variety of rules that sometimes serve to significantly shorten them. As such Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors should be cautious about waiting until the final minutes to satisfy the minimum play rule.

2. During the Game or Playoff Game if an Eligible Participant is injured and does not play

any further in the Game or Playoff Game this must be noted next to that person’s name or, if there is insufficient room, elsewhere on the Must Play Record.

3. During the Semifinal and Championship rounds of Playoffs, the Must Play Record will be also supervised by Members of the Conference Executive Board, Division Presidents, or their respective designees. This does not relieve the Teams from complying with the rules in this Section.

C. Custody of Must Play Record: Custody of the Must Play Records: At the end of any regularly

scheduled Game or Playoff Game, both the Team Head Coach and Team Athletic Director must sign and date the Must Play Record.

1. The Team Athletic Director must keep the completed Must Play Record with the Player

Contracts on the field unless the Must Play Records are requested by the Division President or any Member of the Conference Executive Board. The Must Play Records must be maintained until the end of the season following the Championship Games.

Section 4: Falsification of the Must Play Records: Any falsification of the Must Play Record will result in suspensions for both the Team Head Coach and the Team Athletic Director regardless of whether neither, one, or both were responsible for the falsification.

A. “Falsification” Defined: For purposes of this rule, “falsification” means intentionally or recklessly misrepresenting the number of minimum plays for any Eligible Participant so as to indicate that person received a minimum of ten (10) plays when, in fact, that person had less than ten (10) plays during a Game or Playoff.

1. Team Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors are responsible for the selection and

supervision of the Coaching Staff Members who are appointed to keep track of all Eligible Participants’ plays. They are, therefore, directly responsible for the falsifications of those Coaching Staff Members. It is critical that the Team Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors select them wisely and supervise them to ensure errors do not occur.

B. Mistakes: The Conference Board of Directors is well aware that in the heat of any Game

mistakes can be made. It is far better to acknowledge and admit mistakes than to submit a Falsified Must Play Record.

C. Submission of False Record/Suspension- Season Games: If any Team submits a falsified Must Play Record during the Regular Season, the Head Coach and the Team Athletic Director will be suspended for seven (7) days and the Franchise will be fined up to $100 for each falsification contained in the Must Play Record. If a Team has a second violation of this rule during the same season both the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director will be suspended for thirty (30) days and the city will be fined up to $100 for each falsification contained in the Must Play Record.

1. The suspension(s) will commence the day following the date Conference verifies the

falsification.

D. Submission of False Record/Suspension- Playoff Games: If any Team submits a falsified Must Play Record during the Playoffs, the Head Coach and the Team Athletic Director will be suspended from participating as a Member for up to three (3) years depending on the severity of the offense.

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1. The suspension will commence the day following the date Conference verifies the

falsification.

Section 5: Failure to Comply with Must Play Rule: Any Coach and/or AD who knowing fails to comply with the must play rule for all participants will be suspended for a period of 10 days. Any additional violations will result in the Coach and/or AD being suspended for the remainder of the season. The team, at the discretion of the Conference President, may be automatically disqualified for any regular season game in which the infraction occurred resulting in a forfeit. Failure to meet the must play requirements during a “Playoff” game, will result in an automatic forfeit and the team being disqualified from advancing.

Article XXXVI

Game Ball & Jersey Regulations

Section 1: Game Balls: Each Division shall use the following size footballs during all games:

A. Flag: Pee Wee Ball Size 6

B. Jr. Gremlin & Gremlin: Length: Pee Wee Ball Size 6

C. Jr. Pee Wee & Pee Wee: Length: 10¼" - 10½"; Small Axis Circumference: 18¼" - 18½" Long Axis Circumference: 25" - 25 1/8” Weight: 13 - 15 oz.

D. Junior Midget: intermediate size ball. Length: 10 5/8” - 10¾"; Small Axis Circumference: 19" - 20 1/8”" Long Axis Circumference: 26¼" - 26¾" Weight: 13 - 15 oz.

E. Use During Games: Official Balls made of rubber or leather may be used interchangeably during the Game if previously agreed upon before the start of the Game and the Head Official has been notified in advance of the start of the Game.

F. Ball Use During Games: Each Team may use its own ball during any Game so long as that Game Ball meets the requirements of this Section is available as determined by the Head Official. If only one ball is used for a Game it is the responsibility of the Home Team to provide the Game Ball that meets the requirements of this Section. 1. In the event of a dispute over the Game Ball used by either Team, the Head Official shall

determine which Game Ball shall be used. The Head Official’s determination shall be binding on both Teams.

Section 2: Game Jerseys: In order to better regulate the Game and to assist the Officials, all Eligible Participants’ Game jerseys shall be numbered using the following system:

A. Number Restrictions: In order to better regulate the Game and to assist the Officials, all Eligible Participants’ Game jerseys shall be numbered using the following system

1. Offensive Ends, Wide Receivers, Tight Ends: 80-89.

2. Offensive Tackles, Guards and Centers: 50-79.

a. It is required that there be five (5) Eligible Participants on the interior line of

scrimmage. These players must wear numbers 50-79 and these numbers cannot be worn by any other offensive player.

3. Offensive Backs: 1-49.

4. Quarterbacks: 1-19.

B. Personalized Jerseys: Personalized jerseys may be worn as long as Franchises do not charge

for jerseys or make personalized jerseys mandatory to purchase.

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1. Franchises may sell Team jerseys to Eligible Participants, but may not sell them for an

amount over original cost of purchase. This rule does not prohibit Franchises from purchasing and selling additional jerseys to parents or fans for profit.

C. Team Sponsors: If a Team is sponsored by a person or business the Team may have a sponsor’s

patch on the jersey so long as that patch is no larger than three inches, whether round or square. The sponsor patch must be worn on the left shoulder of the Game jersey.

D. Changing Jerseys: After an Eligible Participant is weighed in, that person may not change the Game jersey. If the jersey is torn or damaged during the game, the Team Athletic Director must advise the Head Official and the opposing Team Athletic Director of the damaged jersey. If approved by the Head Official, that Eligible Participant may then use a replacement jersey, but CIF rules, and Section 2(A) of this Article still apply.

Article XXXVII

Game Field Regulations & Rules Section 1: Game Field Availability Forms: Each year the Conference President shall set a date by which all Franchises must submit the required Home Field Availability Form to Conference. If approved, the field(s) shall be the home playing field for that Franchise’s home games. If a Franchise fails to must submit the required Home Field Availability Form to Conference by the date required, that Franchise may not have any home games scheduled for that season.

A. Lighting: Franchises shall insure that all game fields submitted shall have adequate lighting, or access to lighting.

B. Restrooms: Franchises shall insure that all game fields submitted have adequate toilet facilities for both sexes.

C. Alcohol: City and County ordinances strictly prohibit the consumption of alcoholic beverages on the premises, parking lots, and adjacent surrounding areas next to public and private schools, and city and County parks, which are accessible to the public.

1. Any field that is approved for game play must have a sign at each entrance stating that

Alcoholic beverages are forbidden.

2. The consumption of alcoholic beverages at Football Practice sessions, Games, or at Playoff Games is strictly prohibited.

3. Any Member consuming alcoholic beverages in violation of this rule shall be suspended.

4. Spectators consuming alcoholic beverages in violation of this rule shall be asked to leave and, if they fail to do so, they will be removed by local law enforcement. Franchises are encouraged to notify local law enforcement if this rule is violated.

5. Failure to enforce this rule could result in the scheduling of all remaining games to another venue or the forfeiture of all remaining games.

Section 2: Field Dimensions:

A. Flag: The regulation dimensions for the flag Division’s field shall be 80 yards by 40 yards including the 10-yard end zones. The field shall be divided into three (3)-playing zones of 20 yards each.

B. Tackle: The regular dimension for the tackle Divisions’ field shall be 120 yards, including the 10-yard end zones, by 53 1/3 yards wide.

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C. Exceptions: Exceptions to either the flag or tackle Divisions’ field requirements must be pre-approved by Conference.

D. Properly Marked: All fields will be properly marked to include yard markers.

E. Goal Posts for Tackle: All tackle Division fields must have permanent or portable goal posts conforming to C.I.F. standards. Goal Posts used must be ten (10) yards from the goal line with a regulation ten (10) foot high crossbar measuring twenty-three feet and four (4) inches in width.

Section 3: Safety Barrier: Any field on which tackle Division Games or Playoff Games are played must have a safety barrier.

A. Hosting Franchise Requirements: The Franchise hosting the Game or Playoff Game must provide a safety barrier to separate the eligible participants and Members from parents and spectators. 1. The barrier should be at least three (3) feet off the ground, extending the full length of the

field on both sides (unless the parents and fans are only limited to one side of the field, in which case the barrier need only be on that side).

2. The barrier should if possible be at least ten (10) yards from the sidelines, but in no event should the barrier be less than five (5) yards from the sidelines.

3. No person not a Member shall be permitted to stand in front or behind the Cheerleaders between the twenty-five (25) yard lines.

4. Most high school and other stadiums contain some form of permanent barrier between the fans and the field. This usually takes the form of a metal, plastic or wood fence. If such a barrier exists, and if all spectators are seated in the stands behind the barrier, then no additional barrier is required under these rules.

Section 4: Chain Crew: No tackle Division Game or Playoff Game may be played without a chain crew.

A. Markers: The Home Team shall furnish a down marker with letters at least six (6) inches high

and a ten (10) yard chain. One person shall operate the down marker and two persons shall operate the chain. These three persons shall constitute the chain crew. No chain crew may consist of more than three persons. No member of the chain crew, or any member thereof, may have an assistant.

B. Age Requirement: Members of the chain crew must be at least eighteen (18) years old.

C. Affiliation: All members of the chain crew must be affiliated with either the home or visiting Teams.

D. Non Members: The members of the chain crew need not be Members of Conference.

E. Proper Attire & Vests: All members of the chain crew must be appropriately vested and designated as the chain crew.

F. No Phones or Electronic Devices: No member of the chain crew may use their cell phone or other communication device during the game.

G. Officials Control: Members of the chain crew shall take their directions only from the Officials during game play.

H. Behavior: Members of the chain crew should behave at all times as if they were game officials and shall not display any partisan behavior.

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Section 5: Timekeeper: The Home Team must provide a minimum of one (1) timepiece for timekeeping. That timepiece must be adequate to keep track of game time. The Home Team shall have one person designated as Timekeeper. The Timekeeper need not be a Member of Conference but must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age. If the timepiece on which game time is maintained is not readily visible from the field, the visiting Team may have a person near or next to the Timekeeper to observe.

A. Quarters: The Game clock running time shall be ten (10) minutes per quarter.

B. Halftime Intermission: There shall be a fifteen (15) minute intermission (halftime) between

the second and third quarters.

C. 5 Minute Warm-Up Warning: Five minutes before the beginning of the third quarter the Officials shall warn each Team ensuring that the coaches have sufficient time for a warm-up period prior to the start of the third quarter.

Section 6: Game Announcers: Game announcers are permitted but are not mandatory. Any game announcer must maintain an attitude of neutrality concerning game play.

A. Age: Game announcer(s) must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age.

B. Announcing Limitations: During game play the Game announcers are limited to identifying players; stating the down; stating the time left in the quarter; or stating the score. They are not permitted to comment or remark on the officiating. They are not permitted to comment, negatively or otherwise on the play of any Team or player.

1. This rule is not intended to preclude announcers from commenting on items available for

sale at the snack bar, on fund raising activities (such as a 50-50 raffle), or items available for sale supporting the Franchise.

C. Violations: Any announcer who violates these guidelines shall be immediately removed during

the Game. Any person so removed is prohibited from announcing any Games or Playoff Games for the remainder of the season. Any Member of the Home Team Franchise Board of Directors or a Member of the Conference Board of Directors is authorized and encouraged to immediately remove an announcer who violates these rules.

Section 7: Medical Attendant: The Home Team must provide at least one (1) qualified Medical Attendant must be available during the entire game and visible to both the visiting team and Game Officials. For purposes of this rule the term “qualified medical attendant” refers to any physician, nurse, certified or accredited athletic trainer, or any person who has completed the necessary classes and is certified by the State of California as an EMT-1 (or EMT-B)

A. Medic Info Exchange: The name, identification, and credentials of the Medical Attendant shall be exchanged during the Weigh-In process prior to the commencement of any Game or Playoff Game. (See Article XXXI, Section 5.)

Section 8: Field Restrictions - No Unauthorized Person on Field: Only Members who are displaying a Membership Identification Card may be near the playing field during a Game. Only Eligible Participants and Game Officials may be on the field during a Game. The Franchise President may be on or near the field, but not in the Team area on bench.

A. Game Halted: If there are unauthorized persons on the field, the Officials are authorized to halt the Game until they are removed and Game play resumes.

B. Injury: In the event of an injury, Officials may authorize a parent or guardian of the injured player onto the field.

C. Coaching Staff on Field: No Member of the Coaching Staff is allowed on the playing field during a Game.

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D. Medic in Charge During Injury: In the event of an injury, only the Medic and the Medic’s staff are allowed on the field.

1. If the Medic requests assistance from the Coaching staff or others, only those so

requested are allowed on the field.

2. No Game Official may permit a coach or any other person on the field without the permission of the Medic.

E. Bench Area: Only coaches, trainers, athletic directors who are Members of the Teams

currently playing are allowed on the bench or in the box between the 25 yard lines.

Article XXXVIII

Game Officials, Rulebook & General Rules Section 1: General Rule: The Conference President and Executive Board, with the consent of the Conference Board of Directors shall select, contract, and maintain jurisdiction over all Game Officials, including the payment of fees. Section 2: Timeliness: Game Officials shall report to the field at least thirty (30) minutes prior to kick-off. Upon arrival, officials shall be directed towards a Member of the Home Team’s Franchise Board of Directors.

A. Late Officials: In the event an Official has not arrived at least fifteen minutes prior to the scheduled start of any Game or Playoff Game, a Member of the Home Team’s Franchise Board of Directors shall immediately notify the Conference President.

Section 3: Game Officials Necessary: No tackle football Game may be played without at least two (2) qualified Conference-contracted CIF Officials. Section 4: Official Rulebook: The official game rulebook shall be the Official Football Rules as adopted by the National Federation of State High School Athletic Associations and is published by the National Federation of High School Athletic Association.

A. Conference Amended Game Rules: Conference reserves the right to amend the NFHS game rules from season to season or during a season should it be determined this is in the best interest of the players safety and well-being:

1. Kickoffs and Punts: For kick-offs regardless of Division, all players, except the

kicker, must start from the line in a set position. The kicking team must be balanced with equal numbers on both sides of the kicker. The kicker must attempt to kick the ball between the hashes, unless it travels more than 30 yards in the air, only exception is for on-side kicks. No on-side kicks may be attempted by a team who is ahead in the game. • Gremlin & Jr Pee-Wee Division: Ball must travel a minimum of 15 yards • Pee-Wee & Jr. Midget Division: Ball must travel a minimum of 20 yards No pop-up or pooch kicks are permitted in any Division. Any ball that lands outside the hashes within the distance noted above will be an illegal kick and result in a dead ball at the spot. The receiving team may not form Wedge Blocks or Double Teams on a single player. The receiving team must have a minimum of 8 players within 15 yards of the point of the kick. No contact can be made with any player in that 15 yards, unless the attempt was an onside kick.

a. Jr Gremlin Division: This Division will not have kick-offs. The ball will be

placed on the 35-yard line at the start of each half and after each score.

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i. All punts will be a dead ball play. No rushing the kicker or advancing the ball

is permitted. The ball must be snapped, and the kicker must kick the ball. The point of the catch or where the ball hits the ground shall be the new line of scrimmage. If the kicker drops the ball, the play is whistled dead at the spot of the dropped ball resulting in a turnover on downs.

b. Gremlin Division: This Division will not have kick-offs during the first three (3)

quarters of the game. Kick-offs, including on-side attempts, may occur in the fourth (4th) quarter only if the point deficit is 14 points or less.

c. Jr-Pee-Wee through Jr Midget Divisions: No on-side kicks may be attempted

during Quarter’s 1 through 3. On-side kicks may only be attempted during the 4th Quarter only.

2. Rules Specific to the Jr. Gremlin Division: These rules apply to this Division only

a. Minimum Plays: Each player must player must play a minimum of five (5) plays

per half, and a minimum 10 total plays for the game.

b. On the Field Coach: Both the Offensive and Defensive Teams are allowed 1 coach on the field during play. The coach may give instruction until the center places his hand on the ball, at which time all instruction must cease. The coaches must be a minimum of 10 yards behind the furthest player on their side of the field before the ball snaps. 1. Any coach violating and providing instruction after the center controls the

ball will result in a penalty. a. 1st Violation = Side Line Warning, b. 2nd Violation = 15yd Penalty c. 3rd Violation = Coach is ejected for remainder of the game, including

the next scheduled game

c. Play Clock: This Division will utilize a normal game clock four (4) ten (10) minute quarters, including the forty (40) second play clock. During Week #1 and #2, the official at their discretion may allow extra time. A normal delay of game penalty will result for any violations.

d. Extra Points: Following a touchdown, the ball will be placed on the three (3) yard line. The team has two (2) extra point options. A team may elect to go for one (1) point by running the ball or elect to go for two (2) points by throwing the ball.

Section 5: Official Discipline: Game Officials shall be subject to disciplinary action by the Conference President for infractions of rules, discourteous behavior or conduct, tardiness, and neatness of appearance.

A. Franchise Written Report: In the event of perceived or actual misbehavior by an Official, the Franchise shall submit to the Conference President a brief written statement of what transpired. The report must be submitted within forty-eight (48) hours of the event. No Franchise may “discipline” an Official regardless of that Official’s conduct.

B. No Contact With Officials: No Member, parent, Eligible Participant or fan may, either during or after the conclusion of a Game or Playoff Game approach an official for the purpose of discussing the contest, any call by that or another Official, or any aspect of the Game or Playoff Game. Violations will result in disciplinary actions.

Section 6: Conference Bylaws: The Rules contained in these bylaws shall apply where applicable and in the event of a conflict between Conference Bylaws and the Official Football Rules as adopted by the National Federation of State High School Athletic Associations, the Conference Bylaws shall apply.

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A. Penalties in all Divisions: Will be five (5) yards for minor infractions and fifteen (15)

yards for major infractions. Teams will play 10 yards per first down. Divisions will be penalized in accordance with regulation C.I.F. Rules.

1. After a penalty of any kind is called the Officials will inform both coaches of the penalty,

the yards for the infraction, and will identify the offending Eligible Participant by number.

B. Injury Time Outs: Non-chargeable time-outs will be for the injury of a player, repair of equipment and an official's time-out. An injured player for whom the clock is stopped, or for whom the ready-for-play signal is delayed, shall be replaced for at least one (1) play. Player's team shall not be charged with a time-out.

1. An Official will not charge a time-out to a team when the captain calls for a time-out

and there is cause for the official to have an official's time-out for any reason including an injury. The Official will inform the captain that the Official was already calling a time-out, which is not chargeable, and that the team's request will not be honored unless the team captain desires to have the additional time-out taken and charged after the Official has explained the situation.

2. During charged time-outs, C.I.F rules apply.

Section 7: 18 Point Rule: In order to maintain a scoring balance and to try and keep Games or Playoff Games close the following shall apply:

A. During Game: After either Team scores the Team then behind by eighteen (18) points or more, even if it was the Team that scored, will be given the choice of receiving the kickoff or taking possession of the ball on the fifty (50) yard line.

B. Start of Second Half: At the beginning of the second half of play if either Team is then behind by eighteen (18) points or more, that Team will be given the choice of receiving the kickoff or taking possession of the ball on the fifty (50) yard line.

Section 8: 30 Point Rule: Any time a Team leads by thirty (30) or more points the Officials must go to a running clock at which time the clock is only stopped for time-outs. In the event the Team that was behind by thirty (30) or more points reduces the deficit to twenty-nine (29) of less, the running clock shall cease. Section 9: 48 Point Rule: If a Team gets a forty-eight (48) point lead over another Team the Officials must end the Game or Playoff Game. Section 10: Ejection of an Eligible Participant: Any Eligible Participant who is ejected from a Game or Playoff Game for any reason is ineligible to participate in the following Game or Playoff Game provided that Eligible Participant’s name or jersey number is included on the Official’s report to Conference. An Eligible Participant ejected for a second time from a Game or Playoff Game for any reason will be suspended from participating for the remainder of the season provided that Eligible Participant’s name is included on the Official’s report to Conference.

A. Officials Report: The Head Official shall notify the Conference President with the name and number of the Eligible Participant ejected.

B. Executive Board Notice: During the week prior to the next game a Member of the Conference

Executive Board shall advise the opposing Team of the ejection.

C. Penalty for Playing Suspended Player: If any Team allows a suspended player to play in the game in which he was suspended or the following week in the Game or Playoff Game in which the player is ineligible to participate the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director shall be suspended for the remainder of the season and the Team will forfeit the Game or Playoff Game in which the suspended player participated.

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Section 11: Ejection of Member of the Coaching Staff: In the event an Official ejects a coach, including the Head Coach, a Student Coach, the Team Athletic Director or any member of a Coaching Staff the following protocol must be observed:

A. Officials Report: The Official shall make a full and detailed report to the Conference President within twenty-four (24) hours of the action. Should the twenty-four (24) hour period fall on a holiday then the report is due the first business day following the holiday.

B. Franchise President’s Response: The President of the Franchise to which the ejected Member belongs must submit a written report to the President of Conference understanding of the circumstances surrounding the ejection. The President’s report is due within three (3) days of being notified that any Member of a Coaching Staff had been ejected by an Official. Should the three (3) day period fall on a holiday then the report is due the first business day following the holiday.

C. Suspension: Any Member so ejected shall be automatically suspended for ten (10) days, and if the Member’s conduct is deemed to warrant further discipline that Member and the Member’s Franchise will be so advised by the Conference President. The suspension will commence from the date the Member is notified of the suspension by the Conference President or Conference Executive Board.

Section 12: Fighting: In the event the Officials stop play and a game is called before it is completed during regulation play for fighting the Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors of both Teams shall be suspended for the remainder of the season.

A. Official’s Report: In the event the Official’s report indicates that only one (1) Team was responsible for the fight than the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director of the other Team shall not be suspended.

Section 13: Notification of Winning Team: Within twenty-four (24) hours of the conclusion of any Game or Playoff the Team Athletic Director of the winning Team must notify the Division President of the score of the Game. Notification may be by telephone, text or email depending on the preference of the Division President. A. Ties: In the event of a tie game, both Team Athletic Directors must notify the appropriate

Division President. Section 14: No Noisemakers: Spectators may not use noisemakers of any kind during Games, Playoff Games, or Cheer Competitions including, but not limited to, horns, bells, whistles, victory bells, sirens, fireworks, chimes or musical instruments of any kind. Megaphones shall be used only by uniformed cheerleaders for the purpose of directing and controlling rooting sections. Any spectator found in continued violation of this rule could cause the possible forfeiture of the game by its respective Team. Violations will result in a $200 fine for each incident for the city responsible. Section 15: Shelter: During adverse weather conditions, such as high temperature or rain, Teams can go to sheltered areas close to the playing field. Both Teams shall be provided similar shelter. Both Team Athletic Directors must agree as to the sheltered area before the start of the scheduled Game or at half time if weather conditions warrant the need for shelter.

A. Similar Shelters at Halftime: During Halftime, both Teams must have similarly situated areas for rest. If one Team has a shaded area, the other Team must likewise be provided a shaded area. If no such similar areas exist, then both Teams must proceed to their respective end zones and remain there until 5 minutes before the beginning of the third quarter when they must warm up for the second half.

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Part II - Flag

Article I Flag Division – General

Section 1: Preliminary Statement: The rules contained in Part II apply exclusively to the Flag Division. This Part is intended to address the unique nature of flag football. To the extent any rules in Part I directly conflict with these rules in Part II the rules in Part II shall apply. Otherwise, all rules contained in Part I of these Bylaws also apply to this Division. Section 2: Flag Purpose: The purpose of this division is to expose younger players to the enjoyment of playing football without the full body contact associated with playing tackle football. It is designed as a program to teach the fundamental elements of the game such as stance, timing, teamwork, and discipline and to properly prepare them for play in the upper divisions as the player advances in age. It is structured to allow all players an opportunity to have fun while playing in a supervised and controlled condition.

A. Score: Scores will be recorded for each game played.

B. Notification of Winning Team: Within twenty-four (24) hours of the conclusion of any Game or Playoff the Team Athletic Director of the winning Team must notify the Division President of the score of the Game. Notification may be by telephone, text or email depending on the preference of the Division President.

1. Ties: In the event of a tie game, both Team Athletic Directors must notify the appropriate Division President.

C. Playoffs: A playoff system will be implemented at the conclusion of the regular season. (See Article IX)

Section 3: Minimum Number of Players: No Team may have more than twenty (20) Eligible Participants or less than sixteen (16) Eligible Participants to certify as a Team. No Team may play a Game with less than twelve (12) Eligible Participants. Section 4: Game Officials: Two (2) Officials will officiate the game. The Division President will furnish details prior to the season.

A. Absent Officials: A flag Division Game may be played without officials. Section 5: Start Time: The games shall start at game time listed on the league schedule. No team can cancel a game for any reason. Section 6: Game Playing Time & Timeouts: The game shall consist of four (4) quarters of twelve (12) minutes each with a ten (10) minute break between the second and third quarters, and a one (1) minute break between the first and second and the third and fourth quarters.

A. Clock Stoppage: The game clock shall not stop for any reason except for injuries, time-outs, touchdowns and safeties.

B. Timeouts: There will be only three (3) time-outs per half per Team.

C. Coaches & Players on Field: Coaches and players must stay between the mid-field 20-yard lines when on the sidelines. One coach, other than the official, may be on the field at their team's huddle but must be at least 10 yards behind the player when the ball is snapped. Players may go to the sidelines between quarters, but must remain on the playing field.

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Article II Player & Team Equipment

Section 1: Equipment: Each player must be provided with the following equipment:

A . Franchise Provided Equipment: Equipment provided by the Franchise shall include a game jersey and a Velcro-type belt to secure flags.

1 . Conference recommends that the Team jerseys be numbered 1-20.

B . Equipment Parents must provide:

1 . Soccer type molded rubber soled shoes with non-detachable pliable cleats. Rubber

soled athletic shoes are acceptable. No other footwear (or bare feet) is acceptable.

2 . Kneepads.

3 . Solid color (not clear or white) mouth pieces are required. Molded mouth pieces are recommended.

4 . Eligible Participants may wear football pants, shorts, or long pants. Sliding pads are acceptable in addition to other pants. Sliding pants must be completely covered or concealed.

5 . Socks. Must wear same color of designated team socks.

C. Equipment Limitations: Eligible Participants may not wear hand pads, arm bands or shoulder

pads. Hip, thigh, and tailbone pads are permitted as part of a pre-sewn girdle or football pants. Soft shell helmets are permitted (entire team must wear)

D. Gloves: Eligible Participants may wear gloves in the Flag Division

E. No Spatting: No tape is allowed on the outside of the players cleats

Section 2: Home Team: must provide footballs, flags, down markers, and two (2) cones for marking the “neutral zone”. Section 3: Flags: The following rules govern the use of and types of flags.

A. Color: The color of the flags must contrast with the color of the Eligible Participant’s pants.

B. Length Limitation: Flags must be at least fifteen (15) inches long, but flag length may not exceed twenty (20) inches.

C. Approved Flag Types: Flags must be the official friction-type that adheres with Velcro to the belt, or Sonic flags that clip to the belt. In either case, a Team must all wear the same type flags and belts.

D. No Tampering or Modifying Flags: Flags may not be clipped, rolled, or otherwise tampered with in order to give one Team an advantage.

Section 4: Game Balls: The Flag Division shall use the following size football during all games:

A. Size: Pee Wee Ball Size 6

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Article III Field Rules

Section 1: Field Specifications: The field for this Division shall be as follows: The regulation dimensions for the field shall be 80 yards by 40 yards including the 10-yard end zones. The field shall be divided into three (3)-playing zones of 20 yards each.

<-------- 40 YARDS--------->

END ZONE

20 YD

S-

1st Down Line

20 YD

S-

20 YD

S-

20 YD

S-

20 YD

S- 1st Down Line 20 Y

DS-

END ZONE

<------- 40 YARDS---------->

Section 2: Safety Barrier: Any field on which flag Division Game is played must have a safety barrier.

A. Hosting Franchise to Provide: The Franchise hosting the Game or Playoff Game must provide a safety barrier to separate the eligible participants and Members, on the one hand, from parents and spectators, on the other hand.

1. The barrier should be at least three (3) feet off the ground, extending the full length of the

field on both sides (unless the parents and fans are only limited to one side of the field, in which case the barrier need only be on that side).

2. The barrier should if possible be at least ten (10) yards from the sidelines, but in no event should the barrier be less than five (5) yards from the sidelines.

3. No person not a Member shall be permitted to stand in front or behind the Cheerleaders between the twenty-five (25) yard lines.

4. Most high school and other stadiums contain some form of permanent barrier between the fans and the field. This usually takes the form of a metal, plastic or wood fence. If such a barrier exists, and if all spectators are seated in the stands behind the barrier, then no additional barrier is required under these rules.

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Section 3: Shelter: During adverse weather conditions, such as high temperature or rain, Teams can go to sheltered areas close to the playing field or may use tents so long as both Teams shall be provided similar shelter. Both Team Athletic Directors must agree as to the sheltered area before the start of the scheduled Game or at half time if weather conditions warrant the need for shelter.

A. Similar Shelters at Halftime: During Halftime, both Teams must have similarly situated areas for rest. If one Team has a shaded area, the other Team must likewise be provided a shaded area. If no such similar areas exist, then both Teams must proceed to their respective end zones and remain there until 5 minutes before the beginning of the third quarter when they must warm up for the second half.

Section 4: Positioning of Coaches & Eligible Participants: During the Game Coaches and players must stay between the mid-field 25-yard lines when on the sidelines.

A. Coach on Field During Game: One coach, other than the official, may be on the field at their team's huddle but must be at least 10 yards behind the player when the ball is snapped. Players may go to the sidelines between quarters, but must remain on the playing field.

Article IV

Weigh-In Process Following Certification Section 1: Procedure for Weight Calculation for Post-Certification Day Scrimmages and Games: Following Certification day all Eligible Participants who Certify shall be weighed-in using the procedures set forth in this Article. Any Eligible Participant whose weight, if applicable, exceeds that permitted is ineligible to participate in the Scrimmage, Game, or Playoff Game.

A. No Re-Weighing of Players: If an Eligible Participant fails to make weight during the initial Team Weigh-in process that person may neither weigh-in again during the Team Weigh-in process, or at halftime, for the purpose of participating in that Scrimmage or Game.

Section 2: Those Present during the Weigh-in Process:

A. Who May be Present: Teams shall weigh-in prior to Scrimmages and Games as a Team in the presence of the Team Athletic Director and assistant team directors, and the Franchise Athletic Director, if present. Coaches, including the Head Coach, shall not be present or permitted at weigh-ins.

1. Franchise Executive Board Members may be present at Team Weigh-in Process. (In an

emergency basis only in order to assist during weigh in.) Section 3: Time: All Eligible Participants on both Teams must complete the weigh-in process no later than thirty (30) minutes prior to the scheduled Game. This Section does not apply to Scrimmages. Section 4: Withholding Players from the Weigh-in Process: An otherwise Eligible Participant who is present at the appropriate time and ready to be weighed-in with the rest of the Team, must be permitted to weigh in unless:

A. AD Discretion to Withhold Player: If, in the exclusive judgment of the Team Athletic Director an otherwise Eligible Participant is too physically impaired to participate in the Game or Scrimmage, is ill, or is subject to discipline, that Eligible Player shall not participate in the weigh-in process. Once an Eligible Participant is weighed that person must play the required number of plays in the Scrimmage or Game. (See Article V.)

B. Player Must Weigh-In: If Section 4, subdivision A of this Article is inapplicable, the Eligible Participant must be weighed-in. No Eligible participant who is present during the initial Team weigh-in process may be withheld and weighed at half time for the purpose of participating in the second half. This subdivision does not apply to Scrimmages.

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Section 5: Team Athletic Directors Exchange of information: At the weigh in process the Athletic Directors for both Teams shall exchange the Original Stamped Team Certified Roster and the Certified Player Identification Cards.

A. Verification of Information: This exchange allows each Team Athletic Director an opportunity to accurately verify the other Team’s information.

1. If a Team fails to provide the Original Stamped Team Certified Roster and the Certified

Player Identification Cards, that Team may not play and forfeits the Game or Playoff Game.

B. Use of Rosters: Following the completion of the Team Weigh-in process, the exchanged

Original Stamped Team Certified Roster and the Certified Player Identification Cards shall be returned to the respective Team Athletic Directors and a photocopy of the Original Stamped Team Certified Roster can thereafter be used in lieu of the original.

Section 6: Proof of Medical Attendant: During the Weigh-in Process the visiting Team Athletic Director shall demand and receive proof that a Medical Attendant is present for the scheduled Game or Scrimmage.

A. Medic Mandatory for Games: No scheduled game may be played without the presence of a Medical Attendant. (See Part I, Article XXXVII, Section 7.) If no Medical Attendant is present the game may not be played and the Team responsible for supplying the Medical Attendant forfeits.

B. Visiting Team Medic: If there is a Medical Attendant present with the Visiting Team, and

there is no Medical Attendant present with the Home Team, the Visiting Medical Attendant may act as the Medical Attendant for the Game. If the Visiting Medical Attendant agrees to do so, the Visiting Medical Attendant must comply with all criteria of Game Day Medic for both the Home and Visiting Teams.

Section 7: Equipment and Clothes worn during Weigh-in Process: Eligible Participants shall be weighed wearing the following equipment only:

A. Shoes/Socks: The shoes/cleats and socks the participant intends to wear in the Game or Scrimmage.

B. Pants: The pants, including Sliding Pants if intended to be worn during the Game or Scrimmage.

C. Knee pads.

D. Athletic cup. (soft cup recommended)

E. Tee shirt and/or Game Jersey.

F. Flags & Mouth Pieces.

G. Equipment Inspection: The Team Athletic Directors should inspect the equipment worn by the Eligible Participants during the weigh-in process to ensure the equipment complies with these rules.

H. No Changing Equipment After Weigh-In: Once weighed, an Eligible Participant may not change any of the equipment, including shoes or cleats, that were worn at the time that person weighed-in.

1. This does not prohibit a coach or athletic director from later replacing equipment that

is damaged during the game. Such equipment replacement may only be made with the permission of the Head Official and the knowledge of the opposing Team Athletic Director.

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Section 8: Exclusive Use of Certified Scales and Certification Weight Chart: Only scales previously certified by the Conference Executive Board may be used for the weigh-in process. Section 9: Scrimmages Following Certification Day and Games: Following Certification day all Eligible Participants must be weighed wearing the equipment identified in Section 7 of this Article. To be eligible to participate in a Scrimmage following Certification day or a Game the person must meet the weight requirements of the Division.

A. Addition Weight for Equipment: Eligible Participants in this Division shall receive an additional weight allowance of three (3) pounds to account for uniform equipment weight.

B. Additional Weight Added During the Season: Beginning September 1st of the current season all Eligible Participants will be permitted to add one (1) pound to the maximum weight allowance on the Monday of each week. This allowance continues through December 31st of the current calendar year.

1. This additional weight allowance applies both to Scrimmages and Games.

Section 10: Late Arrival of Eligible Participant: If an otherwise Eligible Participant arrives late after the conclusion of the initial Team weigh-in process that person may not participate in the first half of any scheduled Game or Playoff Game. That Eligible Participant may participate in the second half of any scheduled Game or Playoff Game so long as the follow rules are observed:

A. Procedure: The Team Athletic Director shall advise the Head Official and the opposing Team Athletic Director of the late Participant’s arrival and intent to play in the second half.

B. Halftime Procedures: At halftime of the scheduled Game the Athletic Directors of both Teams shall jointly weigh the Eligible Participant using the same scale on which the Teams weighed in prior to the scheduled Game or Playoff Game and shall follow the rules in this Article.

C. Minimum Plays: Any Eligible Participant who participates in the second half of any

scheduled Game or Playoff Game as a result of this Section must receive a minimum number of plays ten (10) in the second half.

D. Late Player Must Weigh-In: No Coach or AD, including opposing Coach and AD, may

refuse to weigh in a late arrival player at half-time without the approval of the Division President.

Section 11: Assembly: Following the conclusion of the Weigh-in Process the Teams shall assemble in or near their designated end zones and remain there until commencement of pre-game warm-ups. Section 12: Allowing an Ineligible person to participate: No Franchise shall allow an ineligible participant to play or cheer.

Article V Must Play Rule & Must Play Record

Section 1: Eligible Participant Must Play Rule: All Eligible Participants who successfully complete the weigh-in process prior to a regularly scheduled Scrimmage, Game or Playoff Game must play a minimum of five (5) plays per half for a total of ten (10) plays during that Game. Scrimmage games must play (5) play during the scrimmage.

A. Play Defined: A “Play” for purposes of this rule occurs when the ball is put into play and not stopped for a dead ball foul. A penalty called does not negate the “play” for purposes of this rule so long as the Game Officials did not stop the play to enforce it.

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1. Examples: On first down, the ball is snapped and handed off to a runner, but the official stops play due to an illegal procedure call. This would not count toward any players’ ten (10) play minimum.

2. Example: On first down the ball is snapped and handed to the runner who gains five yards before flag is pulled by a defender. On that play, the official called the offense for holding. This would count as a play toward the players’ ten (10) play minimum because play was not prematurely halted for the penalty.

B. All Types of Plays Count: For purposes of this rule any Play “counts” toward the ten (10)

play minimum so long as it is not halted for a dead ball penalty. This includes any down from scrimmage, whether on offense or defense. In this Division a punt does not count as a minimum play due to the players taking a knee.

C. Injured Player: During a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game if an Eligible Participant is injured and does not play any further in the Game or Playoff Game, this does not violate this rule even if the injured Eligible Participant had not, at the time of the injury, played ten (10) plays. If a player is bleeding the player may not return to the Game or Scrimmage until the bleeding has stopped. An Eligible Participant’s injury should be noted on the Must Play Record.

D. Late Arrival: If an otherwise Eligible Participant fails to timely make the initial Weigh-In and weighs-in at halftime that person must have a minimum of ten (10) plays in the second half. Scrimmages must have a minimum of 5 plays in the second half.

Section 2: Must Play Record: It is the joint responsibility of the Team Head Coach and Team Athletic Director to ensure that all Eligible Participants who have weighed-in prior to a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game receive ten (10) plays (five plays each half). At the conclusion of a regularly scheduled Game both the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director must sign the “Must Play Record”.

A. Must Play Record: This is a form provided by Conference on which the names of all Eligible

Participants who successfully weigh-in prior to a regularly scheduled Game or Playoff Game are recorded. Next to each name is a series of ten boxes. Each time an Eligible Participant successfully complete a “Play” as defined in this Article a “check” will be placed next to the Eligible Participant’s name. Once every box next to an Eligible Participant’s name has been checked that person has been verified as receiving the minimum number of required plays for that Game or Playoff Game.

B. Tracking Plays: Prior to the start of a regularly scheduled Game the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director should designate a minimum of one and preferably two Members of the coaching staff to keep track of Eligible Participants as they play in the game. At least once during the first half of play, at halftime, and again at least once during the second half, the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director should refer to the Must Play Record to ensure that all Eligible Participants are playing.

1. It is highly recommended that Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors liberally

substitute Eligible Participants throughout the Game so as to avoid problems in the latter part of the Game. Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors should be cautious about waiting until the final minutes to satisfy the minimum play rule.

2. During the Game if an Eligible Participant is injured and does not play any further in the Game or Playoff Game this must be noted next to that person’s name or, if there is insufficient room, elsewhere on the Must Play Record.

C. Custody of the Must Play Records: At the end of any regularly scheduled Game, both the

Team Head Coach and Team Athletic Director must sign and date the Must Play Record.

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1. The Team Athletic Director must keep the completed Must Play Record with the Player Contracts on the field unless the Must Play Records are requested by the Division President or any Member of the Conference Executive Board. Must Play Records must be maintained until the end of the season.

Section 3: Falsification of the Must Play Records: Any falsification of the Must Play Record will result in suspensions for both the Team Head Coach and the Team Athletic Director regardless of whether neither, one, or both were responsible for the falsification.

A. “Falsification” Defines: For purposes of this rule, “falsification” means intentionally or

recklessly misrepresenting the number of minimum plays for any Eligible Participant so as to indicate that person received a minimum of ten (10) plays when, in fact, that person had less than ten (10) plays during a Game.

1. Team Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors are responsible for the selection and

supervision of the Coaching Staff Members who are appointed to keep track of all Eligible Participants’ plays. They are, therefore, directly responsible for the falsifications of those Coaching Staff Members. It is critical that the Team Head Coaches and Team Athletic Directors select them wisely and supervise them to ensure errors do not occur.

B. Submission of Falsified Report- Fine & Suspension: If any Team submits a falsified Must

Play Record during the Regular Season, the Head Coach and the Team Athletic Director will be suspended for seven (7) days and the Franchise will be fined up to $100 for each falsification contained in the Must Play Record. If a Team has a second violation of this rule during the same season both the Head Coach and Team Athletic Director will be suspended for thirty (30) days and the city will be fined up to $100 for each falsification contained in the Must Play Record.

1. The suspension will commence the day following the date Conference verifies the

falsification.

Section 4: Failure to Comply with Must Play Rule: Any Coach and/or AD who knowing fails to comply with the must play rule for all participants will be suspended for a period of 10 days. Any additional violations will result in the Coach and/or AD being suspended for the remainder of the season. The team, at the discretion of the Conference President, may be automatically disqualified for any regular season game in which the infraction occurred resulting in a forfeit. Failure to meet the must play requirements during a “Playoff” game, will result in an automatic forfeit and the team being disqualified from advancing.

Article VI

Players – Offense & Defense Section 1: Players: Each Team will consist of eight (8) players. All players must wear belt and flags in the proper position at the waist. All players must have their Game jerseys tucked into their pants or shorts at all times so as to not obstruct the flags.

A. Properly Fitting Equipment: Each player is responsible not to have loose clothing and equipment (shirts, jerseys, flags, belts etc.). All clothing must be tucked inside the trousers or shorts so that the belt and flags will be visible, tight and worn at waist level on each side. Infractions of this rule will be enforced as follows:

1. Between downs: If noticed between downs the official shall give warning to the Team

Coach to remedy the problem. After initial warning, each infraction shall be ten (10) yard penalty and loss of down.

2. Down in progress: If faulty clothing or equipment occurs during a down and for any reason it becomes difficult or impossible to pull flags from the ball carrier, penalty will be enforced from the line of scrimmage.

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B. Inadvertently Losing Flag: Each player is responsible for his own equipment, if a ball carrier should drop or lose a flag, the ball will be declared dead when the ball carrier is touched by a defensive player.

Section 2: Formations: Any offensive formation is permissible. The defensive formation is also unrestricted. Section 3: Substitutions: Substitutions are unlimited and may be made at any time other than when the ball is in play:

A. Huddles: All players must come from the huddle if there is one. All Players must be at least

five (5) yards in bounds at the snap of the ball. (No hideouts).

1. The penalty for the failure to comply with this rule is five (5) yards. Section 4: Neutral Zone Defined: During any down from scrimmage, the area one (1) yard on either side of the ball is the Neutral Zone. No ball carrier may run through the Neutral Zone.

A. Placement of Cones: Prior to each play, the Official shall place one (1) cone one yard to the left of the ball and a second cone one (1) yard to the right of the ball.

Section 5: Passing Rules:

A. Offensive Eligible Players: All offensive players, including the center, are eligible receivers.

B. Forward Pass Limit: Only one (1) forward pass may be thrown per down.

C. Incomplete Lateral Pass – Dead Ball: An incomplete lateral pass is a dead ball at the point of contact with the ground.

D. Interception in Endzone – Touchback: A pass intercepted in the end zone is an automatic touchback.

E. Premature Flag Pulled During Pass: Where an intended pass receiver has a flag pulled by a defender while the pass is in flight and the receiver catches the pass, the ball is ruled dead at that point where the pass is caught and defensive pass interference will be called by the Official. If the pass is incomplete, defensive pass interference will be called by the Official.

Section 6: Offensive Rules Regarding Running Plays:

A. Avoiding Tackle: The ball carrier shall strive to avoid having his flag pulled by agility rather than by power. He may not run through a defensive player, but must attempt to evade the defensive player. Any attempt by the ball carrier to hurdle, run over, charge or straight arm a defender shall be illegal. The penalty for a violation of this rule is ten (10) yards and possible disqualification from game.

B. Limitation on Lead Blocking: A running play through the line of scrimmage with a lead blocker is not allowed.

C. Neutral Zone Restriction: No ball carrier may run through the Neutral Zone.

D. Limitation on Center as a Runner: The offensive center cannot take a handoff from the quarterback, nor may the center advance the ball unless the center catches a forward pass in which case the center is treated like any other offensive player.

E. Limitation on Quarterback: The quarterback may not run the ball. If the quarterback runs the ball past the line of scrimmage a penalty will result, but the play will not be stopped. The quarterback must hand the ball off to another player to advance the ball beyond the line of scrimmage

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F. Protecting/Block Flags: The person with the ball cannot touch or otherwise protect the flag

by guarding, hacking, or holding the flag. The penalty for protecting the flag shall be ten (10) yards.

Section 7: Defensive Rules Regarding Running Plays & Treatment of the Ball Carrier: This is not tackle football and ball carriers are stopped by pulling flags, not by tackling. Defenders should play the flag not the man. Should a defender tackle, hold, block, trip, push (including attempting to push a ball carrier out of bounds), charge or bump the ball carrier the defending team will be assessed a ten (10) yard penalty. In the event the penalty is flagrant the defender may be ejected or disqualified from further play at the discretion of the Official. Section 8: Stopping the Ball Carrier: In order to down a ball carrier, a defender must pull either flag from the belt of the ball carrier. Once pulled, a defender should raise the pulled flag over the head as an aid to the Officials. Section 9: Blocking & Use of Hands: The purpose of blocking at this Division is to delay an opponent’s progress and provide a shield for runners. It is not intended to knock down or shove aside opponents. This is not tackle football.

A. Limitation on Blocking: An offensive player may only use a standing block with the forearms and hands folded to the body. No part of the blocker’s body may be in contact with the ground except the feet during the period of the block.

B. Limitation on Defender: A defensive player may only use hands to push the shoulders or upper body of offensive blockers. Slapping and/or striking are not permitted.

C. Limitation on Blocking Center: “Canning” or pushing the center immediately after the ball is snapped is prohibited.

Section 10: Scoring Plays:

A. Touchdown: when a Team scores a touchdown the Team kicks off to the opposing Team. There are no conversion attempts at this Division level.

B. Safety: In the event of a safety, the offensive Team gets a free kick from its twenty (20) yard line. A safety occurs under the following circumstances:

1. An offensive player causes the ball to cross the offensive Team’s goal line and the play

is stopped with the ball in the offensive Team’s possession.

2. The ball carrier’s flag is pulled when in the offensive Team’s end zone.

3. A punt is downed by the kicking Team when the ball is in the offensive Team’s end zone.

4. A lateral pass into the end zone that is dropped or falls incomplete. Section 11: Touchback: A touchback occurs when during a play where possession of the ball changes from one Team to the other Team, including a kick-off, punt, or interception, and the Team receives or intercepts the ball in its own end zone. Following a touchback the Team gets the ball on its own twenty (20) yard line. Section 12: Kick-Off and Punts:

A. Game will begin with the receiving team taking the ball on the twenty (20) yard line.

B. Only the receiving team may recover a punted ball.

C. The ball shall not be placed on the foot of any player and kicked.

D. The receiving team must place a minimum of three (3) players on a punt.

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E. The kicking team cannot recover the ball.

F. A kick or punt into the end zone shall be declared dead and an automatic touchback, whether

touched or not. The ball will be put in play on the 20-yard line.

1. The ball can never be recovered in the end zone by the kicking team.

G. Once the receiving team receives the ball, play begins at place where the ball is received.

H. A punt can be dropped kicked or thrown.

I. Coach must inform official if Team is punting prior to the punt.

Article VII Penalties

Section 1: Location & Enforcement of Penalties:

A. No single penalty shall be assessed that will move the ball more than half the distance to the goal line, whether the penalty be against the offensive or defensive team.

B. Any penalty occurring between downs will be enforced from the spot where the ball was put

into play.

C. For penalties occurring during a down the following enforcement principles apply:

1. For defensive penalties during loose ball play behind the line of scrimmage (i.e., free kick, pass, kick, fumble behind the line of scrimmage or a run which precedes a pass, kick or fumble behind the line of scrimmage) the penalty is enforced from the line of scrimmage.

2. For offensive penalties during loose ball play behind the line of scrimmage (i.e., free

kick, pass, kick, fumble behind the line of scrimmage or a run which precedes a pass, kick or fumble behind the line of scrimmage) the penalty is enforced from the spot of the infraction.

3. If defensive penalty occurs during a running play the penalty is enforced from the end of the run. a. A running play is any run not followed by a pass, kick or fumble behind the line of

scrimmage.

4. If offensive penalty occurs during a running play the penalty is enforced from the spot of the infraction.

D. If the last defensive player between the ball carrier and the goal line commits an infraction on

the ball carrier a touchdown is awarded to the offensive team.

E. Any penalty which involves a loss of down on fourth (4th) down, or which occurs during a play following change of possession, the penalty shall be enforced from spot of the infraction. The team obtaining possession will have first (1st) down after the penalty is enforced.

Section 2: Inadvertent Whistle: If an Official inadvertently blows a whistle before the play is completed the ball is “dead” and the play has ended..

A. No Penalty Involved: If no penalties are involved in the play, the offensive team has the following options:

1. If the play was whistled dead during a legal snap, pass in flight or during a kick, the ball

is dead and the down is replayed from the spot where the ball was placed in play at the beginning of the down.

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2. If the play was inadvertently whistled dead while a player is in possession of the ball, the team may choose to accept the play at the point where blown dead or replay the down.

B. Penalty Involved: If an offensive penalty is involved in the play, the defensive team has the

option of accepting or declining the penalty. If a defensive penalty is involved in the play, the offensive team has the option of accepting or declining the penalty.

1. If the penalty is accepted, the inadvertent whistle rule is not in effect.

2. If the penalty is declined, Section 2(A) of this Article is in effect.

Section 3: Violations & Penalties:

PENALTY DOWN FROM A. Dead Ball Violations:

1. Encroachment 5 yard same L.O.S.

2. Delay of game (30 sec.) 5 yard same L.O.S.

B. Offensive Violations:

3. Illegal procedure 5 yard same L.O.S.

4. Intentionally grounded pass 5 yard L.O.D. S.O.F

5. Illegal arrangement of flag 10 yard L.O.D. S.O.F. (“Tucking”)

6. Illegal pass 5 yard L.O.D. L.O.S.

7. Direct run by quarterback 5 yard L.O.D. L.O.S.

8. Illegal blocks 10 yard L.O.D. S.O.F.

9. Illegal use of hands-Offensive 10 yard same S.O.F.

10. Stiff arming, hacking, 10 yard L.O.D. S.O.F. (Guarding the flag by the ball carrier)

11. Clipping 10 yard same S.O.F.

12. Offensive pass interference 10 yard L.O.D. L.O.S.

13. Diving or hurling to advance the ball 10 yard same S.O.F.

14. Illegal kick or punt 5 yard L.O.D L.O.S.

15. Shirt not tucked in or loose equipment 10 yard L.O.D. S.O.F.

C. Defensive Violations:

16. Defensive holding or illegal use of hands 10 yards same S.O.F.

17. Roughing kicker or passer 10 yards 1st down L.O.S.

18. Defensive pass interference 10 yards 1st down L.O.S.

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D. General Violations:

19. Unnecessary roughness 10 yard same S.O.F.

(Playing the man and not the ball)

2. Unsportsmanlike conduct 10 yard same L.O.S.

3. Tripping 10 yard same S.O.F.

4. Intentionally kicking a free ball 10 yard same S.O.F. NOTE: L.O.S. = Line of scrimmage S.O.F. = Spot of foul L.O.D. = Loss of down same = same down If the spot of foul occurs behind the line of scrimmage, the yardage will be accessed from the line of scrimmage.

Article VIII

Determining League Champions & Playoffs Flag Section 1: Determining League Champion and Wild Card Teams:

A. League Champion: The team with the best win-loss record in each League will be designated “League Champion”. The League Champion will advance to Playoffs.

B. Wild Card Teams: If there are 4 or less leagues during the regular season, the second-best record from each league will advance as the “wild card” team. Any remaining spots will be determined by the best overall record, regardless of League. If there are more than 4 leagues during the regular season, the “wild card” will be determined by the best records remaining, regardless of league.

C. Method of Determining League Champion: The Division President is responsible for determining which Teams in the various Leagues under the Division President’s jurisdiction will advance to Playoffs as the League Champion and the Wild Card.

Section 2: Calculation of Points for Wins, Losses, Ties, and Byes: In determining win-loss record, each Team will receive 1 point for a win (including a win by forfeit), 1 point for a “bye”, ½ point for a tie, and no point for a loss. There is no procedure for overtime play during the regular season. A. Example: Team A played seven (7) games. It won four (4), lost two (2), and tied one (1).

Team A would have 4 ½ points. Team B played six (6) games and had one (1) bye. It won three (3) games, lost two (2) games, and tied one (1) game. Team B would also have 4 ½ points.

Section 3: Sportsmanship: The Conference Board of Directors places a great emphasis on the value of academics and good sportsmanship. All Teams, Coaches, and Fans are scored by the Game Officials at every regular season Game as to how they behave towards opponents, the Officials and each other. The specific method for determining Sportsmanship varies and is determined by the Conference Board of Directors and the Officials. Conference recognizes that that there is a certain degree of subjectivity involved.

A. April Date for Sportsmanship Rule Modification: The Conference Board of Directors shall

advise all Franchises no later than the April Board of Directors Meeting of the rules governing Sportsmanship for the season. These rules may not be changed between April and January of any season.

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B. Executive Board to Gather Info from Officials: The Conference Executive Board shall designate at least one (1) member who shall be responsible for gathering the information from the Officials. The Member so designated shall be the contact person for all Franchises regarding issues related to Sportsmanship.

C. Posting of Scores: Conference shall post on its website the Sportsmanship score of all participating Teams within ten (10) days of the completion of any Game in which such scores were recorded and reported by an official.

D. Games Used to Calculate Sportsmanship Scores: For purposes of calculation, all scores recorded in the first seven (7) Games of the regular season are used to determine any Team’s cumulative Sportsmanship score.

Section 4: Determining League Champion Between Two Teams: In the event of a tie in points between two (2) Teams in any League, the following factors are used by the Division President, in order of priority, to determine League Champion for purposes of Playoffs:

A. Co-Champions: Both Teams are designated “Co-League Champions” and shall receive Championship Patches.

B. Sportsmanship Primary Tie-Breaker: The Team with the highest cumulative Sportsmanship score (coaches and players) will advance to Playoffs as the number one seed. The other Team will advance to Playoffs as the number two seed.

C. Head-to-Head if Sportsmanship Tied: If the Teams are tied in Sportsmanship and they participated in head-to-head competition during the regular season, the Team that prevailed in that game will advance as the number one seed. The other Team will advance to Playoffs as the number two seed.

D. Division President: If the Teams are tied in Sportsmanship and did not participate in head-to-head competition during the regular season, the tie will be broken with a coin toss conducted by the Division President to determine which Co-Champion is the number one seed.

Section 5: Determining League Champion Among Three Teams: In the event of a tie in points among three (3) Teams in any League, the following factors are used, in order of priority, to determine the League Champion and placement for purposes of Playoffs:

A. Co-Champions: All Teams are designated “Co-League Champions” and receive Championship patches.

B. Lowest Sportsmanship Score: The Team with the lowest cumulative Sportsmanship score (coaches and players) is eliminated from Playoffs.

C. Sportsmanship Primary Tie-Breaker: The Team with the highest cumulative Sportsmanship score (coaches and players) will advance to Playoffs as the League Champion and the other Team will advance to Playoffs as the League Wild Card. If, after eliminating the Team with the lowest cumulative Sportsmanship scores, the two remaining Teams are still tied with the same cumulative Sportsmanship score (coaches and players), then the Division President shall determine the League Champion using the factors set forth in this Article, Section 4(B)-(C).

Section 6: Method for Determining Wild Card Teams: The Division President is responsible for determining which Teams in the various Leagues under the Division President’s jurisdiction will advance to Playoffs as the League Champion and the Wild Card

A. Tie Between Two Teams: If there is a tie between two (2) Teams for the Wild Card berth in any League, the Division President will apply the rules in this Article, Section 4(A)-(C) to determine which of the Team advances to Playoffs as the League Wild Card. The other Team is eliminated from Playoffs.

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B. Tie Between Three Teams: If there is a tie between three (3) Teams for the Wild Card berth

in any League, the Division President will apply the rules in this Article, Section 4(B)-(C) to determine which of the Team advances to Playoffs as the League Wild Card. The other two (2) Teams are eliminated from Playoffs.

Section 7: Playoffs: After the selection of the League Champion and the Wild Card Teams, the Division Presidents will seed all teams for Playoffs. Each Division President is responsible for establishing a method of seeding and notifying the Team Athletic Directors no later than the Tuesday before any scheduled Playoff Game of the Team’s opponent, Game location, and Game time.

A. Quarterfinal Round: The first round of Playoffs shall begin on the eighth weekend of the season. Winning Teams will advance to the Semi-Final Round. Losing Teams are eliminated. If two Teams are tied at the end of regulation play in the Quarterfinal round, the game will be resolved in accordance with the 10-yard line Overtime Procedure as set forth in the High School Football Rule Book for that current year.

B. Semi-Final Round: The second round of Playoffs shall be played during the ninth week of the season. Winning Teams will advance to the Championship Round. Losing Teams are eliminated. If two Teams are tied at the end of regulation play in the Semi-final round, the game will be resolved in accordance with the 10-yard line Overtime Procedure as set forth in the High School Football Rule Book for that current year.

C. Championship Game: The final round of Playoffs shall be played during the eleventh week of the season. The winning Teams shall be designated the Conference Champions for that Division. If two Teams are tied at the end of regulation play the game will be resolved in accordance with the 10-yard line Overtime Procedure as set forth in the High School Football Rule Book for the current year. If at the conclusion of the third (3rd) Overtime Procedure the two Teams remain tied to both Teams shall be designated League Champions.

Part III - Cheer Rules

Article I General Rules

Section 1: Preliminary Statement: The rules contained in Part III apply exclusively to Cheer. To the extent any rules in Part I of these Bylaws directly conflict with these rules in Part III, the rules in Part III shall apply. Otherwise, all rules contained in Part I of these Bylaws also apply to Cheer. Section 2: Franchise Organization of Cheer Squads: Each Franchise may organize cheer squads providing:

A. Organization: Each Franchise may organize cheer squads providing they are under the supervision of a minimum of two (2) adults and a maximum of thirteen (13) Members. For purposes of calculating Cheer Staffs, Cheer Trainers are counted for determining the maximum number of coaches, but are not considered for determining the minimum number of required coaches. (All Cheer coaches and Athletic Directors must be Members and comply with the requirements set forth in Part I, Article XVIII and XXIV.)

B. Head Coach: Each team must have one person designated as the Head Cheer Coach. All other adult coaches are considered Assistant Coaches. No Student Coach may be a Head Cheer Coach. (See Part I, Article XXIV.)

C. Cheer Team Athletic Director: Each Team must have one person designated as the Cheer Team Athletic Director. All other adult athletic directors are Assistant Athletic Directors. (See Part I, Article XXIV.)

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D. Clinics: Cheer Coaches, including the Head Cheer Coach, must attend a Conference Approved Cheer Coaching Clinic as required by the Conference Cheer Coordinator.

E. Number of Coaches Required: Cheer squads in the Pee Wee and Jr. Midget Divisions must have one (1) coach present for every eight (8) girls at all practices, Games, and Cheer Competitions. For purposes of this rule, Cheer Trainers do not count toward the required number of coaches required.

1. Example: Franchise Jr. Midget Cheer squad has 24 Eligible Participants. That squad

requires a minimum of three (3) adult coaches present at all practices, Games, and Cheer Competitions.

2. Example: Franchise Jr. Midget Cheer squad has 22 Eligible Participants. That squad also requires a minimum of three (3) adult coaches present at all practices, Games, and Cheer Competitions.

F. City Cheer Coordinator: Each city must have a Franchise Cheer Coordinator who is in

charge of all its cheer squads. The Franchise Cheer Coordinator cannot be a Team head coach or Athletic Director. The Franchise Cheer Coordinator is an advisor to cheer coaches. (See Part I, Article XVII, Section 3,A1,h.)

G. Cheer Team Applications: Cheer Team applications must be filed by the Franchise Cheer Coordinator with Conference for each C h e e r Team no later than the May Conference Board of Directors meeting. No Cheer Team applications will be accepted after the July Conference Board of Directors meeting.

Section 3: Eligibility: All Cheer Eligible Participants must meet the requirements set forth in Part I, Article XX. Section 4: Recruiting: All Franchises must comply with the Recruiting requirements set forth in Part I, Article XXII. Section 5: Residence Requirements: All Franchises must comply with the residency requirements set forth in Part I, Article XX, unless the potential Eligible Participant is a Free Agent or possesses a Cut Contract as set forth in Part I, Article XXI. Section 6: Certification: All Eligible Applicants must comply with Certification requirements set forth in Part I, Article XXXI, except all Cheer Eligible Participants are exempt from weight requirements. Prior to Certification the Conference Cheer Director will direct and appoint Members to participate in the Certification process. Section 7: Cheer Staff: All Members, including Cheer Trainers, must comply with the provisions contained in Part I, Article XXIV except they need not obtain certification through USA Football. All Cheer staff must attend a Conference approved cheer clinic prior to obtaining a Membership Identification Card. Section 8: Fee Limitation: No Franchise may charge more than one hundred dollars ($150) to participate in a cheer program. Cheerleaders are responsible for purchasing their uniforms. Section 9: No Payment: No cheer coach, cheer squad, or any person affiliated with any Franchise shall pay or otherwise engage a professional to coach or choreograph a cheer squad unless it is at a Conference approved cheer clinic or approved by the Conference Cheer Coordinator. Section 10: Complaints regarding Violations: All complaints and/or protests must be submitted by the city cheer coordinator to the conference cheer coordinator in writing within seventy-two (72) hours of said complaint or protest.

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Section 11: Movement Among Divisions: If a city does not have a football team for any division, girls may be certified onto another division for football Games and Cheer Competition. A certified competition roster for each team must be submitted to the conference cheer coordinator on certification day.

Article II General Safety Guidelines

Section 1: Applicability: The rules in this Article apply to all Divisions. The rules in this Article apply during practice, Games, Playoff Games, and all Cheer Competitions. Section 2: Training: All cheerleaders should receive proper training before attempting any form of cheerleading/gymnastics (tumbling, stunts, pyramids and jumps). Section 3: Tumbling & Stunts: Tumbling, partner stunting, pyramids and jumps should be performed and practiced on appropriate surfaces. Section 4: Proper Footwear: Squad members must wear athletic shoes (no gymnastic slippers or bulky shoes). Section 5: No jewelry: All jewelry is prohibited while participating at practice, Games, Playoffs, or Cheer Competitions.

Article III Practice

Section 1: Cheer Practice: All cheer Teams and Eligible Participant may commence Cheer Practice sessions beginning on a date specified by Conference. In 2019, Cheer Practice may begin on July 22, 2019.

A. Time Limit: Cheer Practice sessions shall be limited to two (2) hours per day.

B. Curfew: No Cheer Practice session shall extend beyond 9:00 p.m.

C. Sunday’s: No Cheer Team may ever practice on a Sunday.

D. Lighting Requirements: If any Cheer Team practices after sundown adequate lighting must be provided. All lighting shall be at least 20 ft. above the ground.

E. Practice Limit Before Certification: No Cheer Team may participate in more than six (6) scheduled Cheer Practices per week.

F. Practice Limit After Certification: Each Year the Conference Board of Directors will set a date when Cheer Practice sessions will be reduced to three (3) days per week. 1. In 2019, all Cheer Practice sessions will be reduced to three (3) days per week beginning

August 12, 2019.

G. Paperwork at Practices: The Cheer Athletic Director, or acting Cheer Athletic Director, must have the certified cheer roster, cheer contracts, and conference photo identity cards at all practices.

Section 2: No Additional Practices for Competitions: There shall be no additional practices allowed for Cheer Competitions. Section 3: Necessary Members Present: The Cheer Athletic Director, Head Coach and/or assistant coach listed on the team’s certified roster must be present at all practices. Two (2) adult Members must be with the Team at all times.

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Article IV Game and Playoff Rules

Section 1: Games & Playoffs: The following Rules apply to cheerleaders during regularly scheduled Games and Playoff Games:

A. Attendance at Games: It is mandatory that all cheer squads cheer at all conference scheduled Games and Playoff Games regardless of inclement weather. Teams missing games for any reason shall be subject to fine and be eliminated from competition.

1. The Conference Cheer Coordinator may exempt squads from Post Season Games. The

Franchise Cheer Coordinator must contact the Conference Cheer Coordinator at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the post season event to request exemption from participating.

B. Academics: Eligible Participants at all games and competitions must be only those on the

certified roster and must still be academically eligible. The Cheer Athletic Director, or acting Cheer Athletic Director, must have the certified cheer roster, cheer contracts, and conference photo identity cards at all Games, Playoffs, and competitions. If requested, the Cheer Athletic Director must provide a certified copy of the cheer roster to the Cheer Athletic Director of the opposing Franchise. Failure to provide a roster precludes the cheer squad from participating in that Game or Playoff Game.

C. No Cheerleader Pre-Game Field Access: There are to be no cheerleaders on the field during

the players’ handshake line prior to the beginning of any Game or Playoff Game.

D. Halftime: At halftime, cheer coaches need to spot for both Franchises during each Franchise’s halftime performance.

E. Derogatory/Negative Cheers: No cheers derogatory to the opposing Team or Franchise may be used.

F. Profanity or Offensive Language Prohibited: No cheers may be used that includes any profanity or other language that reflects negatively on the opposing Franchise or Team, or that reflects unfavorably on the stated objectives of the conference as forth above in Part I, Article III.

1. Any Cheer Team that uses cheers that are obscene or engages in unsportsmanlike conduct

by word, action, or gesture will be disbanded and the Franchise subject to fine.

G. Designated Cheer Area During Games: During the Game or Playoff Game Cheerleaders must remain in the designated area for cheering.

1. When both cheer squads are on the same side of the field the designated area shall be

between the forty (40) yard line and the goal line. If spectators are seated only on one side of the field, then cheer teams cannot perform between the forty (40) yard lines.

2. When the Teams are on opposite sides of the field, the designated area shall be between

the forty (40) yard lines.

H. Halftime Cheer Performance Time Limit: No single cheer shall exceed three (3) minutes in duration. When both Teams are cheering on the same side of field cheerleaders will alternate their cheers.

I. No Food on Field: Food shall not be allowed on the field during Games or Playoff Games. At halftime, drinks and a small snack are permitted off to the side of the stands. Squads should be back on the field at the beginning of the third (3rd) quarter ready to cheer.

J. Limitations: Sitting, standing on, or jumping off ladders, boxes, stools, or buckets are not

allowed.

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Section 2: Necessary Members Present: The Cheer Athletic Director, Head Coach and/or assistant coach listed on the team’s certified roster must be present and on the field with cheerleaders at all Games and Playoffs. Two (2) adult Members must be with the Team at all times.

Article V

Cheer Competitions Section 1: Defined: A Cheer Competition is any event sponsored or endorsed by the Conference Board of Directors in which Cheer Teams compete against one another. Competition shall be conducted at a facility approved by the Conference Executive Board. No Cheer Competitions are permitted on the weekend of semi-finals and conference championship finals Section 2: Competitions are Voluntary: Participation in any competition by each Franchise is voluntary. Teams participating in any competition must have a certified roster on file with Conference. A. Franchise Competitions: Any Franchise that competes in a Competition outside Conference

and which intends to use those on its Conference roster as participants in that Competition must first compete in all Conference hosted Competitions. All teams must submit an “Application to Travel” to the Conference Cheer Coordinator for approval prior to enrolling in any non-SGVJAAFC (outside) event.

B. Competing at Unapproved Event: If an Eligible Participant or Cheer Team competes in

any competition not approved by the Conference Board of Directors that Team may no longer compete within Conference for the remainder of the season and must forego any further Games, Playoff Games, or Competitions. The team will also forfeit all Conference provided insurance coverage for the remainder of the season.

Section 3: Make-up of Teams & Staffs: Cheer Teams may only compete in the exact Division and classifications as stated on that Team’s certified roster. It is mandatory that the required number of adult staff members on the roster check-in with the squad or the squad will not be allowed to check-in or participate. Section 4: Restrictions on Members in Competition Area: In order to maintain the proper decorum and to maximize safety the following restrictions apply during Competitions: A. Franchise President or Designee: Only the Franchise President will be permitted in the

Cheerleader/Competition area. No other Franchise Members are permitted. If the Franchise President cannot attend the Competition, the Conference Executive Board will allow an alternative Franchise Member in the Cheerleader/Competition area. The Franchise should advise Conference prior to the Competition that the President of the Franchise will be absent and identify the alternate Franchise Member who will be present.

B. No Other Members: No Cheer Coordinator, Athletic Director, Coach, Student Coach, Trainer or other Member will be allowed in the Competition area, or in front or back of the judges’ table. Failure to comply with this rule could result in the disqualification of the Franchise Team in violation of this restriction.

C. No Fans: No children, parents or fans will be allowed in the Cheerleader/Competition area. Only those Cheerleaders that are on a certified roster will be allowed in the Competition area.

D. Viewing Area: A viewing area will be available for the Cheer Staff to watch their respective team.

Section 5: Warm Ups: Common courtesy should be given to the Team performing. Therefore, only one Division is permitted to warm up prior to their squads’ performance time. All warm-ups should be in designated areas. Ten (10) points will be deducted for a violation of this rule.

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Section 6: Judges: Competition judges and/or line judges will be selected by the Conference Cheer Coordinator. If judges disqualify a Team for the violation of any rule(s), the decision will stand and be noted on the team’s score sheet. The judge’s decision regarding disqualification will not be overturned by the Conference Cheer Coordinator. A. Scoresheets: Score Sheets are to be picked up and signed for by the Franchise Cheer

Coordinator. The score sheets are to be in a sealed envelope that may not be opened until the Franchise leaves the Competition premises. Any Member who violates this rule will be subject to fine and/or suspension.

Section 7: Sportsmanship: The Conference Board of Directors places a great emphasis on the value of academics and good sportsmanship. Any unsportsmanlike conduct including, but not limited to, unsportsmanlike conduct directed at the host Franchise, judges, Conference, or other Franchise Teams will constitute grounds for suspension of the Members or Teams involved.

A. Artificial Noisemakers Prohibited: For purposes of this rule, use of any noisemaker during a Cheer Competition constitutes unsportsmanlike conduct and may result in the disqualification of a Franchise Team whose Members or fans use noisemakers.

Section 8: Cheer Competition Squads: All Cheer Teams that compete in any Competition must be the same Team cheering at the games. Section 9: Conference Board Approval: The Conference Executive Board must approve Cheer Competition rules each year. The Conference Cheer Coordinator shall provide copies of the approved rules to each city cheer coordinator for them to distribute to their Franchise staff members. It is the Franchise Cheer Coordinators’ responsibility to make sure these rules are understood and followed. Failure to conform to these rules can cause teams to be disqualified at cheer competitions. Section 10: Participation: All Eligible Participants listed on the certified cheer roster must participate in invitational competitions unless prevented by illness, as attested by sworn parental statement or member disqualified for grades, for missing practices, or for disciplinary action. Section 11: Awards: Conference rules apply to all aspects of invitational competitions, including the cost of trophies and rules regarding awards. Spirit awards are permitted. Only cheerleaders are to be judged.

Section 12: Facilities: Invitational competitions may have as many paid cities competing in any one Division providing that the Conference Cheer Coordinator approves the facility. Competitions must be held on Saturdays, unless approved by the conference executive board. The event must be completed by 9:00 p.m.

Article VI

Division Limitations

Section 1: Purpose: Conference recognizes that stunting, tumbling and other cheer activities involve the possibility of injury. So as to minimize possible injury, Divisions are limited as to the activities and cheers that Division may perform. Section 2: Rules and Guidelines: Conference will follow the rules and guidelines established by YCADA for purposes of safety and routine limitations. These may vary from year-to-year and will be provided by the Conference Cheer Coordinator to the various Franchises before the start of practice in any given calendar year.

Section 3: Tumbling and Jumping Restrictions: The following rules apply to all tumbling and jumping stunts and routines. (See Article VI in Section #2) Section 4: Partner Stunts, Pyramids, and Toss Rules: The following rules apply to all partner stunts, pyramids, and tosses. (see Article VI in Section #2)

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A. Flyers must be 10 yrs. for Pee Wee level, 11-12 yrs. for Jr. Midget level

Section 5: Routine Rules: The following rules and restrictions apply to all Cheer Team routines in all Divisions:

A. Routine: Show Cheer & Music must be incorporated into all performances.

B. Music: Routines are predominately music. The remaining balance of the time should consist of a cheer with no music in background. This can be performed in any order.

C. Time Limits: The routine total should not be less than two (2) minutes fifteen (15) seconds, or exceed three (2) minutes and thirty (30) seconds maximum. Any routine over or under the limit will receive a point five (.5) deduction per second.

D. Recorded Music Requirement: Music needs to be recorded correctly (with no static and set to correct volume level) so that it could be heard over any sound system.

E. Music Cued: Music needs to be cued and ready for performance. Coaches are responsible for starting and stopping of music.

F. Backup Music Required: Backup music is mandatory and must be present at the time of performance. If music malfunctions and backup music is not present five (5) points will be deducted. A repeat of any performance impacted by this rule will be determined by the Conference Cheer Coordinator.

G. Music Editing Required: Music must be edited appropriately with no profanity or sexual lyrics. The Franchise Cheer Coordinator must approve all performance music. Any violation of this rule may be grounds for Team or Franchise disqualification.

H. Limitation of Props: Pompoms, signs, gloves and flags will be allowed. All other props are prohibited unless part of uniform.

I. Safety With Props: When discarding of props (signs, flags etc.) that are made of solid material or have sharp edges/corners, team members must gently toss or place the props so that they are under control.

J. Removal of Uniform Prohibited: At no time may participants remove any portion of their uniform. What we wear on to the competition area must be worn off.

Part IV – Awards

Article I General Rules

Section 1: Purpose: Awards and Limitations on Awards are intended to promote the goals and objective of our Conference as set forth in Part I, Article III. To that end, Conference Awards are intended to emphasize academics and good sportsmanship and not to highlight or endorse individual physical achievements. Section 2: Conference Awards: Conference Awards shall be as follows in order of importance:

A. Scholarship Patches: Scholarship Patches will be awarded to any player with a 3.3 or better GPA on the Conference Grade Report Card. A 3.25 GPA can be “rolled up” for a Scholarship Patch Award only. To be eligible to receive a Scholarship Patch the Eligible Participant must have participated in no less than six (6) games during the season, unless prevented by injury or sickness.

B. Scholarship Team Trophy: a Scholarship Team Trophy will be awarded to the Football Team and Cheer Team in each Division with the highest overall combined GPA.

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C. Team Sportsmanship Patches: Sportsmanship Patches will be awarded to the Football Team

in each Division with the highest overall sportsmanship score. For purposes of this rule, sportsmanship scores are tallied through the eighth Game of the regular season.

D. Coaching Sportsmanship Patches: Sportsmanship Patches will be awarded to the Coaching Staff in each Division with the highest overall sportsmanship score. For purposes of this rule, sportsmanship scores are tallied through the eighth Game of the regular season.

E. Championship Team Trophy: A Team Trophy will be awarded to the Conference Champion Team in each tackle Division. Every Eligible Participant on a Champion Team will also receive an individual trophy. In the event of a tie both teams will be awarded a Team Trophy and every Eligible Participant on both teams will be awarded an individual trophy.

F. Championship Patches: Championship Patches will be awarded in the tackle Divisions Only.

A Blue Championship Patch shall designate Lead Champion. A White Championship Patch shall designate Conference runner-up (finalist). A Red Championship Patch shall designate Conference Champion.

G. Teams Present for Awards: Teams must be present at the Conference Championship Games and should be attired in game jerseys to receive team awards. Teams not present shall forfeit their awards. Every effort should be made to ensure that individual scholarship winners are also present to receive recognition.

Section 3: Individual Team Awards and Limitations: Franchises may award general participation trophies to their individual teams and cheerleaders. No trophy awarded shall exceed $35.00 each. No Franchise may award individual player or cheerleader awards, except for recognition of scholarships. No awards or gifts may be made to any Member, including cheer and football coaches exceeding $35.00 in total value. Section 4: Junior Gremlin Division: Since this Division is designed to encourage and train young players no Championship or other Conference Awards shall apply with the exception of scholarship and sportsmanship awards. Franchises may give participation trophies only. No trophy awarded shall exceed $35.00 each. Section 5: Scholarship Committee: The Scholarship Committee shall consist of the Division Presidents and the Conference Cheer Coordinator. The Scholarship Committee will resolve any and all disputes regarding any Eligible Participant’s academic eligibility and scholarship status. The Division President will have final determination of any Eligible Participant’s academic eligibility and scholarship status within the President’s respective Division. The Conference Cheer Coordinator will have final determination of any Eligible Participant’s academic eligibility and scholarship status with respect to all cheerleaders in any Division.

Part V – Violations of Bylaws & Rules

Article I

General Rules

Section 1: General Principles: The purpose of this section is to ensure compliance with the Bylaws and Rules of Junior All-American Football. While all the Bylaws and Rules are important to the proper functioning of the organization, Conference recognizes that violations that undermine the integrity and/or the general purposes of this Corporation as set forth in Part I, Article III, are more serious than other violations and will be treated as such. Section 2: Violations of Franchise Bylaws and Rules: Violations of Franchise Bylaws and Rules by any person or Member of that Franchise shall be resolved within the confines of that Franchise and Conference shall not become involved in any such dispute. Conference may, at the discretion of the Conference Executive Board, become involved if the Conference Executive Board determines that the violation in question also violates Conference Bylaws. Each Franchise is expected to enforce its own Bylaws and Rules without Conference interference or participation.

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Article II Monetary Fines

Section 1: Fines: The Conference President, any Division President, or any Member of the Conference Executive Board may impose monetary fines on any Franchise, Team, or Member of any Franchise who violates any Conference Bylaw or Rule. Monetary fines shall not be less than $25.00 or more than $500.00. Any Franchise, Team, or any Member of any Franchise who is fined by Conference in an amount less than $150.00 shall be orally advised of the basis for the fine. Any Franchise, Team, or any Member of any Franchise who is fined by Conference in an amount more than $150.00 shall be advised in writing of the basis for the fine.

Section 2: Factors to be Considered: When imposing any monetary fine the following factors shall be taken into consideration in determining the amount of the fine:

A. Violation Intentional: Whether the violation was intentional.

1. For purposes of this Section an act or conduct is considered “intentional” if the person intended the consequences of the act of conduct. For conduct to be deemed “intentional” the person need not be subjectively aware that the conduct or act is prohibited by a specific Bylaw or Rule.

2. For purposes of this Section, if it is established that the person was aware of the existence of a Bylaw or Rule prohibiting the act or conduct and, nevertheless, engaged in such conduct, the act or conduct is intentional.

3. For purposes of this Section a person’s subjective intent may be considered as a mitigating factor only with respect to the imposition of a suspension.

B. Prior Violation: Whether the Franchise, Team, or Member of any Franchise previously

violated the same Bylaw or Rule during the same season.

1. For purposes of this Section the term “the same season” shall refer to period between the date when Required Physical Conditioning commences and the date of Championship weekend, inclusive.

C. Nature of Offense: Whether the violation is deemed by Conference to undermine the integrity

and/or general purposes of this Corporation.

1. For purposes of this Section, violations of any Bylaw or Rule relating to academics; sportsmanship; the general purposes of this Corporation as set forth in Part I, Article III, Section 3; that involve acts of moral turpitude (such as the misrepresentation of any information either orally or on any forms submitted to Conference); that involve any acts of physical or emotional abuse toward any parent, Member, or Eligible Participant; or which violate the Member or Coaches Code of Ethics are considered a violation of this Section.

D. No Factors Present: If none of the factors set forth in subsections (A)-(C) of this Section are

present, the Franchise, Team, or any Member of any Franchise shall only be subject to a monetary fine of $50.00 or less. If one of the factors set forth in subsections (A)-(C) of this section are present, the Franchise, Team, or any Member of any Franchise may be subject to fine up to $500.00 based on the severity of the offense. If more than one of the factors set forth in subsections (A)-(C) of this section are present, the Franchise, Team, or any Member of any Franchise may be subject to fine up to $500.00 and possible suspension based on the severity of the offense. (See Article III.)

Section 3: Payment of Fines: Fines of less than $150.00 shall be paid within five calendar days of oral notification of the Bylaw or Rule violation. Fines of $150.00 or more shall be paid within five calendar days of written notification of the Bylaw or Rule violation.

A. Oral Notification: For purposes of this rule a Franchise, Team, or Member of any Franchise is deemed “notified” when any Member of that Franchise Executive Board is advised orally by the Conference President, the Division President, or the Member of the Conference Executive Board imposing the fine.

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B. Written Notification: For purposes of this rule a Franchise, Team, or Member of any Franchise

is deemed “notified” when any Member of that Franchise Executive Board is advised in writing by the Conference President, the Division President, or the Member of the Conference Executive Board imposing the fine. If written notice is provided by regular mail, the postage date on the letter shall be considered the date of notification for purposes of this rule. If written notice is provided by email, the date of the email shall be considered the date of notification.

Section 4: Timeliness of Notification: Notification of the fine, either orally or in writing, must be made no later than five (5) days after the purported violation has occurred. If notification is made after five (5) days has elapsed since the purported violation no fine may be imposed. If the fine exceeds $150.00 the Conference President, the Division President, or the Member of the Conference Executive Board imposing the fine shall identify the basis of the fine, including reference to Section 2(A)-(C) of this Article, that justify the imposition of the fine in the written notification. Section 5: Limitation on Activities Until Fine is Paid: If a fine is assessed against a Franchise that fine must be paid before the Franchise conducts any further activity occurs, including playing any Games or Playoff Games, with any other Franchise or with Conference. If a fine is assessed against a Team that fine must be paid before the Team conducts any further activity occurs, including playing any Games or Playoff Games, with any other Team or with Conference. If a fine is assessed against a Member of any Franchise that fine must be paid before the Member conducts any further activity occurs, including playing any Games or Playoff Games, with any other Franchise or with Conference.

A. Franchise Outstanding Fines: In the event that a Franchise has outstanding fines at the end

of the season, that Franchise shall not be permitted to enroll the following year until all such fines have been paid or otherwise resolved.

B. Team Outstanding Fines: In the event a Team has outstanding fines at the end of the season, that Franchise may not enroll any Eligible Participants for that Division until all such fines have been paid or otherwise resolved.

C. Member Outstanding Fines: In the event a Member has outstanding fines at the end of the season, that Member may not obtain a Membership Identification Card for the following season until all such fines have been paid or otherwise resolved.

Section 6: Conference General Operating Account: Unless otherwise specified, all monetary fines shall be deposited into the Conference general operating account. Section 7: No Appeal or Review: Fines are not subject to review. No Member who has been fined may request a Hearing. Whether to impose, reduce, amend, or eliminate a fine is within the sole discretion of the Conference President, the Division President, or that Member of the Conference Executive Board who imposed the fine. If, however, the fine is imposed in conjunction with a suspension or disbarment the Member may request a Hearing pursuant to Article VI.

Article III Acts of Suspension and Disbarment

Section 1: Defined: Certain acts of misconduct are such that by their very nature the acts undermines the integrity of the organization and/or the general purposes of this Corporation as set forth in Part I, Article III. Such misconduct may result in suspension or disbarment.

Section 2: Suspension and Disbarment: A Member may be suspended for misconduct for a period of days, weeks, months or one or more seasons depending on the severity of the offence. While suspended, the Member may not participate, in any way, with any Team or Franchise affiliated with Conference. Any Member who is permanently suspended is considered Disbarred. Section 3: Conduct Meriting Suspension: In order to impose a suspension on any Franchise, Team, or Member of any Franchise, at least two of the following factors must have been involved with the alleged Bylaw of Rule violation:

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A. Violation Intentional: The violation must have been intentional.

1. For purposes of this Section an act or conduct is considered “intentional” if the person intended the consequences of the act or conduct. For conduct to be deemed “intentional” the person need not be subjectively aware that the conduct or act is prohibited by a specific Bylaw or Rule.

2. For purposes of this Section, if it is established that the person was aware of the existence of a Bylaw or Rule prohibiting the act or conduct and, nevertheless, engaged in such conduct, the act or conduct is intentional.

3. For purposes of this Section a person’s subjective intent may be considered as a mitigating factor only with respect to the imposition of a suspension.

B. Prior Violation of Same Rule: The Franchise, Team, or Member of any Franchise must have violated the same Bylaw or Rule during the same season.

1. For purposes of this Section the term “the same season” shall refer to period between the

date when Required Physical Conditioning commences and the date of Championship weekend, inclusive.

C. Nature of Offense: The violation must undermine the integrity and/or general purposes of this

Corporation.

1. For purposes of this Section, violations of any Bylaw or Rule relating to academics; sportsmanship; the general purposes of this Corporation as set forth in Part I, Article II, Section 3; that involve acts of moral turpitude (such as the misrepresentation of any information either orally or on any forms submitted to Conference); that involve any acts of physical or emotional abuse toward any parent, Member, or Eligible Participant; or that violate the Member or Coaches Code of Ethics are considered a violation of this Section.

Section 4: Length of Suspension: Unless stated otherwise in these Bylaws, the length of any suspension imposed on a Franchise, Team, or Member of any Franchise shall be at the discretion of Conference Executive Board. Section 5: Approved by Board of Directors: All suspensions must be approved by a majority vote of the Board of Directors. Section 6: Presidential Prerogative: Nothing in this Article is intended to restrict or impinge the Conference President’s authority to suspend as set forth in Part I, Article V, Section 5. Section 7: Disbarment: This Section applies only to individuals. No Franchise or Team may be disbarred. Conference recognizes that disbarment is a severe penalty. Therefore, disbarment shall be imposed only under the following circumstances:

A. Fraud: By participating in any Game, Playoff Game, or Cheer Competition under an assumed name.

B. Paid coaching: By receiving any portion of his or her annual income for services as a manager or coach.

C. Competing for money: By directly or indirectly receiving pay or financial benefits for participating in any Game, Playoff Game, or Cheer Competition.

D. Violence: Any Member who strikes another Member.

E. Multiple Suspensions: Any Member who is suspended a second time for the violation of these Bylaws or Rules.

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Section 8: Hearing Required: No Member may be suspended or disbarred without a Hearing if the Member submits a timely request. (See Article VI.)

Article IV Eligibility Protests

Section 1: Protest Defined: A Franchise or Member of any Franchise may object and protest only with respect to the eligibility of any purported Eligible Participant. No other protests or objections will be considered. Section 2: Pre-Game Protests: If an objection relates to an issue arising before start of the Game or Playoff Game begins, the objecting Franchise must inform the head Official prior to the start of the Game or Playoff Game and brought the attention of the head Official and, if the head Official refuses to act upon the protest or objection, inform the head Official that the game is being played “under protest”. Failure to raise a pre-Game or pre-Playoff Game objection to the attention of the head Official prior to the start of that Game or Playoff game waives any right of the Franchise or Member of any Franchise to later protest the rule violation to Conference.

A. Example: Prior or the commencement of a game, and after both Teams have weighed in, the Athletic Director of Team “A” observes members of Team “B” changing jerseys in violation of these Bylaws. The Athletic Director informs the head Official prior to kick-off of what was observed. Even if the head Official does nothing about the alleged rule violation, the Athletic Director or the Franchise may later raise this as an official protest to Conference. If the Athletic Director does not inform the head Official prior to kick-off of what was observed any potential protest of the rule violation by Team “B” has been waived and will not be considered by Conference.

Section 3: Issues Arising During the Game: If an objection relates to an issue arising during a Game or Playoff Game, the objecting Franchise must inform the head Official of the violation and, if the head Official refuses to act upon the protest or objection, inform the head Official that the game is being played “under protest”.

Section 4: No Other Remedy Available: Informing the head Official of the perceived violation and playing the Game or Playoff Game “under protest” are the only available remedies to any Franchise, Team, or Member of Any Franchise. Any other action, such as confronting the other Team or refusing to participate in the Game or Playoff Game, is not permitted. Section 5: Protest Procedure: In order to submit a valid eligibility protest following a Game or Playoff Game the Member must:

A. Must be Written: Prepare a written protest of the proposed Rule or Bylaw violation. The protest shall, at a minimum, contain the following information:

1. Name and Franchise office of the Member making the protest;

2. A brief statement of what the Member observed;

3. A specific reference to what Rule or Bylaw was violated; and

4. An affirmative statement that the Member asserting the protest complied with either

Section 2 or 3 of this Article, and this statement shall include the name of the head Official to whom the protest was made.

B. Transmission Timeframe: Transmit the protest report within twenty-four (24) hours to:

1. The appropriate Division President; and

2. The President of the Franchise against which the protest is being lodged.

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C. Deposit Required with Protest: Within three (3) calendar days the Franchise making the

protest must also deposit $100.00 with the Conference Treasurer.

D. Non-Compliance Results in Denial: The failure to comply with subdivisions A through C of this Section will result in an automatic denial without review of the protest.

Section 6: Review Committee: Upon the receipt of a properly submitted protest report and following the deposit of $100.00, the Division President shall review the information submitted by the Member and obtain whatever other information the Division President believes may be relevant or necessary to the resolution of the protest. The Division President shall next:

A. Appointment of Committee: Appoint a Review Committee consisting of the Division President and two other Members of the Conference Executive Board selected by the Division President. The Review Committee will then jointly review the information obtained by the Division President.

B. Decision Based on Reports: The Review Committee will issue a decision based on the written report(s) and other information obtained by the Division President.

Section 7: Decision by the Review Committee: The decision by the Review Committee must be made no later than five (5) days after receipt of the written protest submitted pursuant to Section 5 of this Article. The decision will be submitted in writing and transmitted to the Franchise Presidents of all the Franchises involved with the protest. The decision by the Review Committee is a final determination of the protest.

A. Limitation of Decision: The decision by the Review Committee shall be limited to a determination of the player eligibility issue only. If it concludes that a violation occurred, the Review Committee may determine that the violating Team forfeited the game in which the offense occurred. If the person who was deemed ineligible had previously been certified by Conference, the Review Committee may not issue any ruling that results in the forfeiture of any game(s) prior to that in which the protest was made. If the person who was deemed ineligible had not previously been certified by Conference, the Review Committee may issue a ruling that results in the forfeiture of any prior game(s) in which the ineligible person participated.

B. Other Proceedings: If the Review Committee determines that one or more Members involved

with the circumstances surrounding the protest may have violated the Bylaws or Rules, the Review Committee shall inform the Conference President. If the Conference President concurs with the findings, he may issue a fine, suspension, or disbarment and proceedings shall proceed pursuant to Article II or III against that Member. If proceedings are instituted as a result of the Review Committee’s finding, the perceived violation shall be deemed to have occurred as of the date the Review Committee issued its decision for purposes of determining Notification of the violation.

C. No Violation Deposit forfeited: If the Review Committee determines that no violation

occurred or otherwise does not uphold the protest, the Franchise making the protest forfeits the $100.00 deposit referred to in Section 5(C) of this Article. If the Review Committee determines that a violation occurred it shall instruct the Conference Treasurer to refund the $100.00 deposit referred to in Section 5(C) of this Article.

Article V Accusations of Misconduct Against Members

Section 1: General: Any Member may formally charge another Member of a different Franchise with violations of the Bylaws and Rules of Conference. Disputes regarding violations between Members of the same Franchise shall be resolved by the Executive Board of that Franchise.

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Section 2: Procedure: In order to submit a valid charge against a Member of a different Franchise with violations of the Bylaws and Rules of Conference the Member must:

A. Must be in Writing: Prepare a written statement of the Rule or Bylaw violation. The statement shall, at a minimum, contain the following information:

1. Name and Franchise office of the Member making the accusation;

2. A brief statement of what the Member observed;

3. A specific reference to what Rule or Bylaw was violated; and

B. Transmission Timeframe: Transmit the protest report within three (3) days to:

1. The appropriate Division President;

2. The Conference President; and

3. The President of the Franchise of which the accused person is a Member.

C. Deposit Required: Within three (3) calendar days the Member or Franchise making the

accusation must also deposit $100.00 with the Conference Treasurer. If the accusation is not sustained, the deposit is forfeit to Conference. If the accusation is sustained, the Conference President shall direct the Conference Treasurer to refund the deposit to the Member or Franchise making the accusation.

D. Non-Compliance Results in Denial: The failure to comply with subdivisions A through C of this Section will result in an automatic rejection of the complaint without review.

Section 3: Hearing: Upon receipt of a properly submitted complaint and the deposit of $100.00, the President of Conference shall, in conjunction with the Conference Executive Board, review the complaint and any other relevant information available. If a majority of the Conference Executive Board determines that a potential violation has occurred the Conference President shall set and conduct a hearing in compliance with Article VI. If a majority of the Conference Executive Board determines that no potential violation has occurred the Conference President shall issue a written statement to the Presidents of both Franchises stating why no violation has occurred.

Article VI Requesting and Conduct of Hearings

Section 1: Defined: A special meeting of the Conference Executive Board that is convened for the purposes of determining whether to impose a suspension or disbarment of any Member. Section 2: Jurisdiction: Any Member who has received a punishment that includes a suspension or disbarment may request a Hearing. No Franchise, Team or Member of a Franchise may request a Hearing regarding the imposition of a monetary fine. If the Member has received a penalty including both a suspension and/or disbarment in conjunction with a monetary fine, the Hearing may only resolve the issue of the suspension and/or disbarment. Section 3: Requesting a Hearing: Any Member who has received a penalty that includes disbarment or suspension may request a Hearing before the Conference Executive Board. To request a Hearing the Member must submit a written request for a Hearing within (3) three calendar days of that Member’s receipt of the Notice of Suspension or a Notice of Disbarment. A request for Hearing may also be made by any Member of a Franchise’s Executive Board on behalf of any of its Members.

A. Email: For purposes of this section, the “date of receipt” shall be the date of the email that was sent to the Franchise, Team or Member of a Franchise containing the penalty of suspension or disbarment. Email is the preferred method of notification.

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B. Regular Mail: For purposes of this section, the “date of receipt” shall be the postage cancellation date on the envelope containing the letter sent to the Franchise, Team or Member of a Franchise containing the penalty of suspension or disbarment. If the notice is sent by regular mail, the time frame in which the Franchise, Team or Member of a Franchise has to request a hearing shall be extended to five (5) days.

C. Personal Service: For purposes of this section, the “date of receipt” shall be the date on which the letter was handed to the Franchise, Team or Member of a Franchise containing the penalty of suspension or disbarment.

D. Service on Franchise President: For purposes of this rule service pursuant to subdivisions (A) through (C) of this section is deemed effective if notice is delivered to the Franchise President.

Section 4: Contents of the Request for Hearing: A request for Hearing need only contain a statement that the Franchise, Team, or Member of any Franchise “requests a hearing to challenge” the suspension or disbarment. The initial request need contain no other information. Section 5: Calendaring of Hearing: Upon receipt of a request for a Hearing, the Conference President shall set a Hearing date no later than fifteen (15) days from the date the request was received. This time frame may be extended only at the request of the Member against whom the penalty of suspension or disbarment has been issued. The Conference President shall send out notice of the hearing date via email to the Franchise President(s) whose Members are involved with the Hearing process. Section 6: Other Information: In conjunction with the notice of Hearing the Conference President may also request other information relevant to the determination of the suspension or disbarment. This may include, but is not limited to:

A. A request for the name(s) and contact information of any potential witnesses whose testimony may be relevant to the Hearing.

B. A request for a written statement concerning the circumstances surrounding the suspension or disbarment.

C. A request for documents if relevant to the Hearing.

Section 7: Compliance with Request: It is incumbent upon those involved with the Hearing to respond to the Conference President’s request for information. If information requested before the hearing is not supplied or is deemed insufficient, the Conference Executive Board may exclude such information, including witnesses at the time of the Hearing. If the information or documents are unavailable, it is incumbent upon the Franchise or Member to advise the Conference President of this fact in a timely manner. Any information requested, or statement that the information is unavailable, must be provided at least five (5) days before the date set for the Hearing. Section 8: Conduct of the Hearing: Hearings are informal. The Conference President shall conduct the Hearing in conjunction with a quorum of the Conference Executive Board and shall afford each person a reasonable time to present evidence or testimony. Only those persons who have information relevant to the determination of the Hearing shall be permitted to attend. Those in attendance shall conduct themselves with proper deference and decorum. The Member against whom a penalty of disbarment or suspension has been issued may represent himself/herself or may be represented by the Member’s Franchise President. Upon the conclusion of the evidentiary portion of the Hearing, the Conference Executive Board shall excuse all persons and shall vote whether to uphold, modify, or reject the proposed suspension or disbarment. This decision shall be final. Section 9: Litigation Waiver: Upon receipt of a notice of suspension or disbarment should the Member or the Member’s Franchise institute, or threaten to institute, formal civil litigation such litigation or threat of litigation shall constitute a complete and total waiver of that Member’s right to any Hearing.

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Section 10: Status of Member Pending Hearing: A Member under penalty of suspension or disbarment shall be deemed suspended or disbarred for purposes of participating in any Conference related activities, including practices, Games, Playoff Games, until after the Hearing is concluded. If any Member under penalty of suspension or disbarment continues to participate in any Conference related activity before the Hearing, that Member’s penalty shall be deemed final and no Hearing will be held.