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TUCSON YOUTH FOOTBALL &
SPIRIT FEDERATION
2014 RULE BOOK AND
ADMINISTRATION MANUAL
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Contents
CONTACT INFORMATION ...........................................................................................................................................3
....................................................................................................................................................................................4
2014 POINTS OF EMPHASIS ........................................................................................................................................4
GUIDELINES ON HANDLING CONTESTS DURING LIGHTNING DISTURBANCES...........................................................5
ADMINISTRATORS, COACHES AND VOLUNTEER CODE OF CONDUCT .......................................................................6
PERSON NOT IN GOOD STANDING .............................................................................................................................7
DEFINITIONS ...............................................................................................................................................................7
INTRODUCTION TO THE RULES...................................................................................................................................7
REGULATIONS .............................................................................................................................................................8
TACKLE RULES .......................................................................................................................................................... 17
TYFSF FLAG PROGRAM ............................................................................................................................................ 25
FLAG FOOTBALL RULES ............................................................................................................................................ 25
SPRING PASSING LEAGUE RULES ............................................................................................................................. 33
SPIRIT RULES ............................................................................................................................................................ 34
TEAM ASSIGNMENT/CERTIFICATION ...................................................................................................................... 53
ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL ..................................................................................................................................... 59
SCHOLAR AWARDS .................................................................................................................................................. 65
ASSOCIATION JUDICAL COMMITTEES AND FEDERATION HEARING TRIBUNAL ...................................................... 67
BOUNDARIES AND ASSOCIATION COLORS .............................................................................................................. 74
POLICY AGAINST DISCRIMINATION ......................................................................................................................... 76
TUCSON YOUTH FOOTBALL & SPIRIT POLICY ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT ............................................................... 78
SEXUAL ABUSE AND MOLESTATION PREVENTION POLICY ..................................................................................... 80
BULLYING ................................................................................................................................................................. 87
TYFSF BOUNDARY MAP ........................................................................................................................................... 88
TYFSF WEIGHTCHART .............................................................................................................................................. 89
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CONTACT INFORMATION
TUCSON YOUTH FOOTBALL AND SPIRIT FEDERATION
P.O. BOX 30236 TUCSON, AZ, 85751
(520) 322-9779
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President
Executive Vice President
Executive Secretary
Treasurer
Executive Business Manager
Certification Commissioner
Tackle Commissioner
Flag Commissioner
Cheer Commissioner
Scholarship Commissioner
Referee Commissioner
Xavier Smith
Mirum Washington-White
Michelle Chavez
Melissa Green
Sergio Rodriguez
Margie Nelson
Julius Holt
Jay Junsay
Don Carbiener
Sally Polanco
Don Riley
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2014 POINTS OF EMPHASIS
The definition of targeting and its related penalty were two of 10 rules changes approved by the rules
committee at its January 24-26 meeting in Indianapolis.
All rules changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors. Effective with the 2014 high
school season, new Rule 2-43 will read as follows:
“Targeting is an act of taking aim and initiating contact to an opponent above the shoulders with the helmet,
forearm, hand, fist, elbow or shoulders.”
In its continued effort to minimize risk of injury in high school football – that it was important to separate and
draw specific attention to this illegal act.
“Taking aim with the helmet, forearm, hand, fist, elbow or shoulders to initiate contact above the shoulders,
which goes beyond making a legal tackle, a legal block or playing the ball, will be prohibited,”
“A defenseless player is a player who, because of his physical position and focus of concentration, is especially
vulnerable to injury.”
In an effort to reduce the risk of injury on kickoffs, the rules committee approved two new requirements in Rule
6-1-3 for the kicking team. First, at least four members of the kicking team must be on each side of the kicker,
and, second, other than the kicker, no members of the kicking team may be more than five yards behind the
kicking team’s free-kick line.
Rule 6-1-3 also notes that if one player is more than five yards behind the restraining line and any other player
kicks the ball, it is a foul. In addition to balancing the kicking team’s formation, the change limits the maximum
distance of the run-up for the kicking team.
In other changes, new language was added to Rule 8-5-1 and states that “the accidental touching of a loose ball
by a player who was blocked into the ball is ignored and does not constitute a new force.”
In addition, roughing the passer fouls now include all illegal personal contact fouls listed in Rule 9-4-3, which
result in automatic first down in addition to a 15- yard penalty.
Rule 2-24-9: The intent of an illegal kick was clarified. Now, when an illegal kick occurs, the loose ball retains the
same status that it had prior to the illegal kick.
Rules 3-3-3 and 3-3-4: With this change, in order to extend or not extend a period with an untimed down, time
must expire during the down.
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GUIDELINES ON HANDLING CONTESTS DURING LIGHTNING
DISTURBANCES
Adopted from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS)
The purpose of these guidelines is to provide a default policy to those responsible for making decisions
concerning the suspension and restarting of contests based on the presence of lightning. Game Officials in
consultation with the Field Marshall (if present Association President and TYFSF Officer) will make the
determination.
Proactive Planning
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Assign staff to monitor local weather conditions before and during events.
Develop an evacuation plan, including identification of appropriate nearby shelters.
Develop criteria for suspension and resumption of play:
When thunder is heard, or a cloud-to-ground lightning bolt is seen, the thunderstorm is close enough to
strike your location with lightning. Suspend play and take shelter immediately.
Thirty-minute rule. Once play has been suspended, wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder is
heard or flash of lightning is witnessed prior to resuming play.
Any subsequent thunder or lightning after the beginning of the 30 minute count, reset the clock and
another 30 minute count should begin.
Suspended games will be considered official if they are stopped at halftime or later and cannot be
resumed.
Hold periodic reviews for appropriate personnel.
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ADMINISTRATORS, COACHES AND VOLUNTEER CODE OF
CONDUCT
All Administrators, Coaches and Volunteers will abide by a Code of Conduct, which includes the provisions listed below. If
any of these provisions are violated in a practice, game, championship, Regional or National event, the
Association/Federation shall have the authority to impose any penalty they see fit with no right to appeal. By accepting an
active participant, shall follow the intent of this code of conduct and shall inclusively and/or additionally agree to:
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Respect players, spirit leaders, officials, parents, other coaches and staff.
Respect the integrity and judgment of game/competition officials before, during and after the game/competition.
To be a model for fair play, sportsmanship and proper conduct.
To make player/spirit leaders safety and welfare the high priority.
To provide proper instruction and supervision of player/spirit leaders at all times.
To use discretion when providing constructive criticism or reprimanding player/spirit leaders in accordance with
established rules.
To instruct and adhere to established rules and standards for the sport I am involved with including the rules and
standards set forth in:
A. Complete set of official rules of Tucson Youth Football and Spirit Federation.
B. AIA Rule Book
C. NFHS Spirit Rule Book
D. Any other applicable and published rule book and/or manual.
To respect all equipment and uniforms and to properly instruct in the use and safety of all equipment used.
While engaged in a TYFSF scheduled meeting, practice, game, competition or celebration to refrain from personally
and/or encourage any individual or participant to consume or use non-prescription drugs, steroids, tobacco,
alcohol and/or any other controlled or illegal substances on the field or in front of participants at any time..
To be responsible for controlling the behavior and/or maintain crowd control to the best of my ability.
To refrain from the use of profanity, vulgarity and other offensive language.
The act of spreading rumors, which is general talk not based on fact, will not be tolerated in Tucson Youth Football
and Spirit Federation. It not only hurts your creditability, but affects your team/squad/association, the other
team/squad/association or conference that may become involved in the rumor.
Not permit or encourage, “extreme dieting” or “sweating down” tactics of any kind for any reason. Must report
any instance witnessed or suspected to the Association/Federation.
A coach must discourage the wearing of gang colors or any gang symbol and the use of any gang related forms of
communication during any and all team/squad, association, conference related activities including but not limited
to team/squad.
TO WIN WITH CHARACTER AND LOSE WITH DIGNITY
I acknowledge that a violation of any of the above is immediate justification and grounds for removal from the program,
subject to due process procedures.
RULE: Any coach/staff member ejected from game shall be suspended for the remainder of that game and the
next week’s practices, and game, as per AIA rules (Bye weeks do not count). Physical violence or threat of same,
racial slurs or comments of a sexual nature will still carry a 1 year minimum suspension. All ejections maybe
appealed to the TYFSF Board by the association President.
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PERSON NOT IN GOOD STANDING
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Individual who does not turn in or misappropriates equipment, printed material, records of any kind.
Stealing and or misappropriation of funds.
Individual who owes money to the association or Federation.
Individual who has violated association or Federation By-laws.
Individual who has violated the Coaches’ Code of Conduct
An individual not in good standing with any association or the Federation will not be able to coach with any
association or be an association or federation board or advisory board member until released by the aggrieved
association or federation.
Place of an individual on the Not in Good Standing Association or Federation list:
Must submit in writing to the Federation Executive Secretary the individual’s name, the reason for placement on
the list and the facts supporting the action and the date the alleged incident(s) occurred.
Removal of an individual from the association or Federation Not in Good Standing List:
Federation president or designee will investigate the allegation(s) and recommend to the association or
Federation Board of Directors what the investigation revealed and whether or not the individual has remedied
the alleged action and should be removed from the list.
DEFINITIONS
ASSOCIATION
Association are organizations that sponsor and administer a minimum of two (2) tackle football teams and a
minimum of one (1) cheer squad. They raise money, buy equipment, recruit coaches, etc. Associations are
characterized by a specific geographical area.
TEAM
A team is the basic unit of the organization. At minimum, a team consists of a group of participants organized
under the direction of a coaching staff in a given Age/Weight division. Each football team may have a spirit squad
or dance squad.
DIVISION
Division has several meanings, the most common of which refers to one of six (6) Age/Weight classifications:
Mitey-Mite (MM), Cadet (CDT), Junior Peewee (JPW), Peewee (PW), Junior Midget (JM) and Sr. Midget/Unlimited
(SM or UNL). The basic ages and weights for each division of play are listed in Attachment I to this rulebook.
INTRODUCTION TO THE RULES
The rules contained herein WILL BE ENFORCED by the Federation
The TYFSF regular playing season shall be defined by the Federation Board of Directors through December 31 st.
All Federation administrative personnel, coaches, players and spirit participants are subject to disciplinary action
for violations of TYFSF rules and regulations at any time during a stated playing season.
NO RULES WILL BE ADDED AFTER MAY 1ST UNLESS NEEDED TO ADDRESS A SAFETY ISSUE.
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REGULATIONS
1. POWERS/AUTHORITY OF THE FEDERATION
The Federation has, among its powers, the obligation and authority to make and enforce conduct and playing
rules.
2. BOUNDARIES
The existing boundary chart shall only be used as a guideline. It will be used to limit where association(s) can
hold fundraisers, registrations, and or advertisements. Adjacent, association(s) may not be allowed to perform
any of the above unless granted approval of the residing association.
3. COACHES REQUIREMENTS:
Tucson Youth Football and Spirit Federation Coaches Standard Application and Test. The Application and test
will be maintained at the Federation level for the current season only. All coaches will be tested by Federation. All
Head and Assistant coaches MUST attend a Federation sponsored coach’s clinic. HOWEVER, a coach may attend
an alternative clinic sanctioned by the Federation, even those who attend an alternative clinic must attend the
portion of the Federation clinic note: dealing with Rules and Practices and review of risk management and pass a
written examination. NO ONE WILL BE PLACED IN A COACHING POSITION AFTER THE DATE OF THE LAST
SCHEDULED FEDERATION CLINIC.
A team’s or squad’s coaching staff is in complete charge of the team or squad whenever it is together on the
practice or playing field, traveling as a group to and from practice sessions and games, or together for any team
function, such as a banquet. A mandatory team meeting requiring the attendance of at least one (1)
parent/guardian will be held by all Flag/Tackle/Spirit team/squad prior to the end of August to explain TYFSF
Policies. (NOTE: NON-ATTENDANCE BY AT LEAST ONE (1) PARENT/GUARDIAN WILL RESULT IN THE CHILD BEING
UNABLE TO PARTICIPATE FURTHER UNTIL COMPLIANCE IS ACHIEVED). The coach’s staff is under the direction of
the Head Coach; other coaches are called Assistant Coaches.
The following applies to all coaches:
1. A Head Coach must be at least 21 years of age.
2. An Assistant Coach must be at least 18 years of age or a high school graduate. A team/squad may have a
maximum of four (4) assistant coaches, plus a maximum of one (1) Coach Trainee.
3. Teams/squads are permitted to carry a Coach Trainee/Student Demonstrator, who must have a 70% or
better grade point average and be 15 to 17 years of age or a first time coach.
4. The Head Coach will determine the assignments of the Assistant Coaches.
5. The Head Coach and an Assistant Coach on the staff MUST be the carrier of a current community first aid
and CPR certificate or its equivalent. A copy of such shall be presented at time of certification.
6. Coaches are to be selected by methods approved by Federation, Association rules and/or by-laws.
7. Once approved for coaching, a coach is automatically terminated at the close of each season. To coach
the following year, the same Association approval is required. Any violation of the rules committed by a
coach during the season, even though the hearing is not held until after the close of the season, is still
under the jurisdiction of the sponsoring association and/or Federation.
8. Coaches do not make team or Federation policy. Rather, they carry it out. However, on the playing and
practice fields, the coaching staff is in complete charge and shall not be interfered with except in cases of
rules violations and any other conduct deemed by higher authority to be contrary to the welfare of youth.
9. The Head Football Coach has final responsibility for his/her actions, those of his/her assistant coaches,
staff, players and parents.
10. The Head Spirit Coach has final responsibility for his/her actions, those of his/her assistant coaches, staff,
spirit participants and parents.
11. The Federation will establish its own rules regarding the placing of coaches with sons, daughters or siblings
within its own boundaries.
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12. Associations will establish procedures for selection of coaches. Any coach dismissed by one association
will not be approved for coaching by another association until an investigation is performed by the Athletic
Director to determine the facts of the case. Cases that cannot be determined or resolved at the association
level will be elevated to Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation level for action.
13. All TYFSF coaches must attend the Federation sponsored coaches clinic.
14. Any coach/staff member ejected from a game shall be suspended for the remainder of that game and
the next week’s practices and game, as per AIA rules (Bye weeks do not count). Physical violence or
threat of same, racial slurs or comments of a sexual nature will still carry a 1 year minimum suspension.
All ejections maybe appealed to the TYFSF board by the association President.
15. No coach/staff member can be simultaneously put on to two (2) different rosters per season unless an
emergency arises.
NOTE: NO ONE WILL BE PLACED IN A COACHING POSITION AFTER THE DATE OF THE LAST SCHEDULED
FEDERATON CLINIC.
4. REGISTRATION
A participant cannot begin practice with a team or squad until he/she has registered. To register, the
parent/guardian must sign a locally supplied form approved by the Federation. The sign-up fee, if any, may be
collected at this time. All coach trainees and teen demonstrators under the age of 18 must be registered or
certified in the same manner as all other minors participating in TYFSF Football, Spirit and Dance. All candidates
must furnish the following:
5. PARENTAL CONSENT
A written statement from either parent or legal guardian, stating the child has his/her permission to participate.
The Federation will supply a standard form for this.
6. MEDICAL EXAMINATION
A physical form provided by TYFSF, by a doctor/clinic or school will be excepted if dated after January 1 of the
current year, stating that the participant is physically fit to participate in football, cheer and dance. The doctor’s
signature must be legible, stamped with his name and/or his name printed on the physical form with phone
number.
The Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation will develop and publish a form for the recording of medical
examinations by physicians. School medical examinations are acceptable and will be attached to the TYFSF
registration form. (Water persons, coach trainees and student demonstrators must meet this requirement also).
SPECIAL NOTE: A person with a loss of limb may participate provided that the individual has a signed statement
of approval from an examining physician and that the use of the limb is no more dangerous to players than the
corresponding human limb, and does not place an opponent at a disadvantage.
7. PROOF OF AGE
A certified copy of birth certificate bearing the seal of the issuing office of the state of birth is the best guarantee
of reliability of claimed birth date (a copy is acceptable). Passports, Military ID cards and certified wallet-sized
certificates issued by as state of commonwealth are acceptable. Hospital certificates and baptismal certificates
are not acceptable.
8. SCHOLASTIC FITNESS
Proof of satisfactory progress in school is required. A 2.0/70% or the equivalent shall be the minimum grade point
average acceptable to participate. In cases of doubt or conflict of opinion, a written statement by the school
administration shall be deemed final. No local team/squad may be eligible to participate in any
playoffs/championships, bowl games or other competition, if it has not met the Federation published scholastic
requirements. Home school – need a copy of the Affidavit from the State stating that the participant is home
schooled.
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9. FORMATION OF TEAMS AND SQUADS
Tryouts of any kind are prohibited in TYFSF. Tryouts are defined as any means used to ascertain the level whereby
a participant is placed on a team/squad., including assessments, evaluations, or any other method used to place
a participant in TYFSF. Not more than 35 players shall be assigned to a football team or spirit squad at the start of
preconditioning on the starting date of the Federation or association, whichever comes first. Splitting of teams
will only be done when a roster of 25 participants per team is reached for tackle and 15 participants per team is
reached for flag.
10. MANDATORY CUTS
Any participate must be cut who:
1. Is found to have signed up as a result of parental pressure or tells team management he/she does not
want to participate.
2. Refuses to or cannot furnish the 4 required items, Parental Consent, Medical Examination, Proof of Age
and Scholastic Fitness.
3. Is found to be simultaneously trying out for a school tackle football team, or who, once the season starts
are found to be participating on a school tackle football team or spirit squad. However, participation in a
school flag football program, if required by the curriculum of the school PE program or participation in
non TYFSF spirit squad tryouts, only, during the TYFSF season, is allowed.
4. If a member of any other organized TYFSF football/spirit team/squad or non-TYFSF football/spirit
team/squad.
5. Attempts to intimidate fellow participants in practice by word and/or physical deed. No refunding of fees
shall be required.
6. Is an extreme discipline problem (and then, only with the concurrence of the Federation).
11. VOLUNTARY CUTS
A participant shall be considered a voluntary or “self-cut” participant when he/she simply no longer shows up at
practice or games of his/her own free will.
While voluntary cuts are not charged to any team for the purpose of these regulations, a coaching staff may
attempt to disguise its cutting pattern by arranging practices in such a way as to discourage participants of lesser
ability into quitting on their own. While these practices are not common, they have been known to occur and are
considered intentional avoidance of the rules and regulations and are, therefore, punishable as a result of a
hearing.
If a team or spirit squad loses 20% or more of its assigned participants prior to certification, it is mandatory that
the association investigates the causes for the participants voluntarily leaving the team or spirit squad, and take
whatever appropriate action may be needed. The results of this investigation shall be reported to the Federation
and the Federation shall have final authority as to whether appropriate actions are taken.
12. RETENTION OF ELIGIBILITY
Once certified, a participant must meet the following requirements to retain eligibility:
1. Transfer policy in case of change of residence will be decided by Federation.
2. Retain parental consent.
3. Maintain sound physical condition.
4. Continue to maintain sound scholastic standards. In cases of doubt, the Federation shall have the right to
require a written statement by the school administration, which shall be deemed final.
13. DROPS AND ADDS
1. A team or squad may add participants to its certified roster as long as said roster was certified below the
maximum number permitted, or to replace those originally certified and no longer on the team or squad
for any valid reason
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2. The last date for Drops and Adds will be determined by the Federation.
14. ALL STARS
All-Star teams or squads are permitted. Approval must come from the TYFSF Board of Directors only. It shall not
impact any association team or squad participation in regular or post season. A participant can only compete in
one (1) All-Star team or squad per season. No simultaneous practice or play is permitted on a weekly basis.
1. Head Coach Selection: To be considered for the position of Head Coach, one must submit a completed
application, by a date approved by the Federation. Each applicant shall be interviewed at a designated
time, prior to beginning of the season.
2. The Head Coach shall choose their staff. The coaching staff shall be approved by the Federation.
Football All-Star Head Coach shall be selected by the TYFSF President, Executive Vice President and Tackle Football
Commissioner.*
Cheer All-Star Head Coach shall be selected by the TYFSF Cheer Commissioner and approved by the TYFSF
President.*
*Recommendations from Association Presidents are strongly considered.
Traveling All-Star teams or squads that are representing TYFSF will have tryouts involving all associations which
have that level of play. Since minimum weight is not a factor, a player from one division lower and age appropriate
shall be allowed to tryout.
15. AWARDS
1. In compliance with the “team” concept and in view of the ages of TYFSF participants, no participant will
be singled out as a “best lineman,” “best offensive back,” “most valuable player/spirit participant,” etc.,
for the presentation of a special award. Individual awards may be presented, but must be given to all team
or squad members.
2. SPECIAL NOTE FOR PLAYERS: Awards for individuals performances displayed on the helmets are
prohibited (i.e., no stars, hatchets, footballs, etc.). The only decal allowed is the team logo and/or TYFSF
logo. Individual trophies presented by an association to its participants shall not exceed $15.00.
a) The Tucson Federation shall be responsible for and will provide and pay for the following
awards:
b) A participation award such as a medallion shall be presented to all participants’ football
and spirit in the Flag division.
c) Tackle Football, playoffs and championships. The Federation will supply and pay for the
following: first place, second place and third place trophies – for Mitey-Mites through Sr.
Midgets/Unlimited.
d) Spirit (cheer and dance, large and small squad), Mitey-Mite through Sr. Midget/Unlimited.
The Federation will supply and pay for first, second and third place trophies with a
maximum of forty-eight (48) per team.
3. GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP AWARDS
In the Flag and Tackle football program, at the conclusion of the regular season including Fiesta games,
playoffs and championships, recognition will be awarded, paid for by the Federation, to a Flag thru Sr.
Midget/Unlimited Weight team that best exemplified the spirit of sportsmanship from players, parents,
coaches and staff.
In the Spirit program, cheer and dance, Flag and all competitive divisions, small and large and at the
conclusion of the season which includes championships, a recognition of good sportsmanship will be
presented to the squads that best exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship form spirit leaders, parents,
coaches and staff. Award winners will be selected from observation by a panel of executive board
members, appointed by the President which will remain anonymous.
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4. HALL OF FAME
The Federation Board of Directors (through the Ex. Secretary) will accept nominations on an official
application (available on line) of qualified candidates by the August Board meeting of each year. The
selection will be of one (1) male and one (1) female recipient. Each Association and each Ex. Federation
Board member will have one (1) vote.
The Association or nominating person will be responsible for an official application with an attached
resume and photo of candidate, with copies for each board of director. The selected member of the TYFSF
HALL OF FAME will receive an award from the Federation, Community Recognition at the TYFSF
Scholarship Award Ceremony, as well as acknowledgement on the TYFSF web site. Awards are not to
exceed $50.00 per.
A letter of nomination on official form (typed or clearly printed) should be presented, listing a minimum
of the following requirement: (1) 15 years involvement in TYFSF programs since its inception in 1969; (2)
what the nominee has done for and contributed to the TYFSF program in the past and/or current year; (3)
demonstrate the nominee’s commitment to the TYFSF program; (4) how the nominee has demonstrated
his/her sportsmanship; (5) the nominees’ good standing in TYFSF and the community, and (6) the
nominee’s good standing in TYFSF and the community during active participation in the program.
5. VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
The Federation Board of Directors (through the Ex. Secretary) will accept nominations on an official
application (available on line) of qualified candidates by the August Board meeting of each year. The
selection will be for one (1) special volunteer. Each Association and each Ex. Federation Board member
will have one (1) vote.
The Association or nominating person will be responsible for an official application with an attached
resume and photo of candidate, with copies for each board of director. The selected member of the TYFSF
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR will receive an award from the Federation, Community Recognition at the TYFSF
Scholarship Award Ceremony, as well as acknowledgement on the TYFSF web site. Awards are not to
exceed $50.00.
Volunteer of the Year Requirements: Nominees to have a minimum of seven (7) consecutive, or ten (10)
non-consecutive year involvement in TYFSF through or by a combination of service on an association
team/squad staff, Association Executive Board of Directors/Federation Executive Board or Federation
Board of Directors.
16. PRACTICE
1.
DEFINITION: To prevent possible bending of the rules and as a protection for children, practices are
defined as a gathering of players or spirit participants, without minimum number, in the presence of at least one
(1) coach, where one or more of the following activities take place.
A. Chalk talk/skull session
B. Viewing of fundamentals film
C. Group conditioning
D. Individual skills session (QB, receiving, blocking, tackling, kicking, etc.)
E. Group skills sessions
F. Dummies and other inanimate contact
G. Running plays through without pads (shorts & t-shirts)
H. Running plays through with equipment, but without contact
I. Intro-squad scrimmages with full pads and equipment
As can be seen, a so-called “party” at a coach’s home, where films are shown, or where football or spirit teams
are talked about, can be deemed a practice session, as can a “party” at a parent’s home where one or more
coaches are present. Use of a football field is not required to satisfy the definition of a “practice session”.
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2.
Pre-season practice: The actual date will be determined in accordance with climate and other factors
determined by the Federation in establishing a common starting date for all teams within the Federation. The first
week of practice shall be devoted entirely and exclusively to conditioning, not wearing pads; however, helmets
shall be permitted. More time may be added beyond this required first week for the conditioning period.
3.
All practices must be attended by two rostered adults holding a current Red Cross Community CPR and
First Aid Certification, or its equivalent, if not by an EMT or volunteer physician. All practices must be open to
the entire rostered team and cannot exceed past the maximum scheduled allowed hours per week (6 hours once
games begin). The only exception to hold a special practice is in the event the team would have to forfeit the
game due to lack of 16 eligible players. This practice must be approved by the association President. Special
practices to allow individual players to be eligible to play are NOT ALLOWED if 6 hours of practice was offered
that week already. Transportation of children in the backend of open bed vehicle is PROHIBITED.
1. BEFORE LABOR DAY: No team or squad may schedule more than 10 hours of practice per week before
Labor Day. A week is defined as seven (7) consecutive calendar days. No more than 2 hours and 15 minutes
(mandatory break) of practice may be scheduled on any one day.
2. AFTER LABOR DAY: Practices after Labor Day weekend are limited to 6 hours per week. A week is defined
as seven (7) consecutive calendar days. Practices after Labor Day weekend are not to exceed 2 hours and
15 minutes (mandatory break) per day.
3. BREAKS: Break time is not counted against the ten (10) or six (6) hours per week or 2-1/2 or 2 hours of
allowed practice time.
A mandatory 15 minutes break after each hour of practice shall be required. Break time is not counted against the
hours per week or per day allowed for practice time.
FULL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
At all practices, pre-season or in-season, where person to person or person to dummy contact takes place, each
player must be dressed in the full complement of protective equipment described in “Required Equipment”, page
15.
4. CONTROLLED INTER-SQUAD SCRIMMAGE: After the first week of practice (10 hours) for conditioning,
and after the second week of practice (10 hours) in pads in which contact has occurred, teams may engage
in a joint practice session with other team(s) in which are called controlled inter-squad scrimmages. So as
to avoid any misinterpretation, 20 hours of practice is required before inter-squad scrimmages may occur.
Any player added after a team has formed and/or after the season has started, must be subject to the same 20
hours of conditioning as mentioned in 7 above.
In a controlled inter-squad scrimmage, there is prior agreement between coaching staffs that:
1. Coaches will be permitted on the field.
2. Long time-outs are taken between plays so that coaching staffs can instruct and critique their players.
3. Coaching staffs may inform each other of the plays they are going to run so one team can concentrate on
its offense sets while the other improves its defenses and vice-versa.
4. Officials can be present during scrimmages.
5. Game score is not kept; scoring is not the primary goal.
6. No official time is kept other than to assure the practice maximum is not violated. A mandatory 15 minute
breaks at the end of one (1) hour, said break not to be counted against the allowed practice time.
7. No player or team is permitted at any time to engage in controlled scrimmage or any form of contact drills
involving a player, players, or team from a different Age/Weight division of play.
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No scrimmage of any kind between teams will be allowed prior to a date to be designated by Tucson Youth
Football & Spirit Federation Board. A maximum of three (3) scrimmages shall be allowed per tackle team, with the
exception of the Mitey Mite Division whose maximum shall be one (1).Flag teams will also be allowed a maximum
of one (1) scrimmage. A scrimmage is treated as a regular practice and counts toward weekly practice time
maximum. For tackle teams to scrimmage: both teams must have minimum of sixteen (16) registered and
conditioned players on the roster. Flag teams to scrimmage: both teams must have a minimum of ten (10)
registered and conditioned players on their roster. Only one (1) scrimmage per day shall be allowed per team.
Round robin type scrimmages shall be permitted but, not including breaks in the schedule, must not exceed two
(2) hours and shall not exceed more than three (3) total hours form beginning of warm-up until completion of
each team’s final scrimmage. Should either the two (2) or three (3) hour time be reached for any reason, the
scrimmage will immediately cease for that team.
8. The following exercises and drills are banned from all practices and pre-game warm-ups; leg lifts, neck
bridges (sometimes referred to as neck rolls) and bull in the ring. Leg lifts with knees bent are acceptable.
9. For a participant to be eligible for participation in a pre-season scrimmage, season or post season game,
it is necessary that he/she complete the required 10/10 conditioning and contact practice, and to be
eligible to participate in the weekly season or post-season game, it is necessary that he/she complete and
actively participate in a minimum of three (3) hours of practice during the week preceding the scheduled
game.
As to Spirit/Dance Squad Participants, to be eligible to participate in a pre-season scrimmage, exhibition or a
season/post-season game/event or competition and stunting, he/she must complete twenty (20) hours of
conditioning and actively participate in a minimum of three (3) hours of practice during the week preceding the
scheduled scrimmage, exhibition, game, event or competition.
RELEASE
Any participant in tackle, spirit/dance or flag who receives care or treatment from a medical professional including
(M.D., D.O., Chiropractor, Hospital E.R., Urgent Care Facility, Medical Clinic) must provide a signed release form
authorizing the resumption of practice and game/event participation. Further, any participant in tackle,
spirit/dance or flag who is absent from five (5) consecutive practices due to injury, sickness, vacation must
complete ten (10) hours of reconditioning and practice prior to participating in a game or performance.
SCOUTING
Coaches are not allowed to scout another team’s practice, scouting another teams/squads’ practice is defined as
cheating. Punishment for (infraction) Cheating: suspension for one (1) year, permanent suspension upon the
second offense.
IINCLEMENT WEATHER
A practice may be canceled or called prior to completion because of the proximity of lightning or inclement
weather by the Association President or General Manager. In case of emergency, the team Head Coach, Business
Manager or registered adult participant may call the practice. In the event a two (2) hour practice session is called
because of inclement weather prior to completion of one-half (1/2) of the practice time, based on the time
practice is scheduled and players are told to report to the field, the remaining time may be rescheduled with
approval of the association’s President or General Manager. If more than one-half (1/2) of the time has elapsed,
practice shall not be rescheduled.
WARM WEATHER PRECAUTIONS
Team must guard against serious heat problems, which in extreme high school and college cases have occasionally
resulted in death. The training regimen of any team practicing under high heat and/or humidity conditions must:
A. Limit or eliminate laps entirely. Do not assign laps for disciplinary reasons.
B. Schedule practice for early evening, after sun is low in sky.
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C. Give players all the water they want to drink, when they want it. Do not substitute soft drinks or sports
drinks for water.
D. Each coach must keep an eye on all players and his fellow coaches for the slightest sign of HEAT
EXHAUSTION OR FATIGUE.
E. A fifteen minute break is mandatory in the middle of each practice; this is not counted against practice
time.
F. Water is the responsibility of the head coach of any team. All head coaches shall be required to provide
water to participants during any and all practices and games. Water shall be provided to any participate
on request.
WARNING OF HEATSTROKE
The American Medical Association and the National Federation of State High School Associations joined recently
in warning against heavy football workouts during HOT WEATHER. Early practice sessions frequently are
conducted in very warm and highly humid weather in many parts of the nation. The two groups said in a special
report, “Under such conditions,” the report said, “special precautions should be observed. Otherwise the athlete
is subject to HEAT FATIGUE (depletion of salt and water due to excessive sweating), heat exhaustion (depletion
of salt and water) and heatstroke (overheating due to breakdown of sweating mechanism). Heat fatigue dulls the
athlete’s skillful alertness and makes him vulnerable to injury. These two illnesses can result in serious harm
physically and even death. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are preventable only by careful control of factors in
the conditioning program of the athlete…the old idea that water should be withheld from athletes during workout
has absolutely no scientific foundation.” “During exercise in the heat,” the report continued, “it is essential to
replace, at least hourly, the lost water by perspiration….”
Injured Player Claim procedures will be set up by the Federation and adhered to by all Associations to handle
insurance claims for injuries.
17. CAMPS
1. The Federation, association or any personnel associated within shall not require or mandate that a TYFSF
football team or spirit squad, in part or in whole with or without coach(s) attend a football or spirit camp.
However, a TYFSF football or spirit team/squad, in part or in whole MAY attend a camp if they so choose
to, providing the following conditions are met:
A. Coach or other team affiliated personnel cannot make it MANDATORY
B. Camps will provide as part of its services an accident insurance plan for camp participants.
2. Any camp, whether it for players or spirit participants, shall not be endorsed or sponsored by TYFSF,
Association or Team, which does not provide as part of its services, an accident insurance plan for the
camp participants.
18. IMPORTANT POINT MEDICAL
Each team/squad shall have a minimum of one member that is currently certified in Red Cross Community, First
Aid and Safety or its equivalent.
Establish an emergency plan that fits your specific needs. Your emergency plan should include, but not be limited
to, the following:
A. Introduces or identifies trainer/health care provided to visiting coach.
B. Home team/host association review emergency plan with visiting team;
C. Designated duties for coaching staff and or athletes;
D. “how to call EMS” next to phone;
E. Specific direction to your facility for emergency medical services (EMS);
F. Emergency numbers
G. Injury report forms
H. Treatment authorization card
I. List of administrators that the coach is required to contact
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Practice your emergency plan early in the season, and repeat often throughout the season. A similar plan should
be in place for teams traveling to away games.
A staff member (Business Manager) must carry the entire team’s medical release forms and emergency numbers
for all players and spirit participants in case of emergency their parent(s) or guardian must be reached. Having the
family physician’s number opposite the participants name is also recommended.
19. CHARGING ADMISSION
Admission to Playoffs and Championship Games:
An admission fee to be set by the Federation Board of Directors shall be charged for all football playoffs and
championship games to all those age sixteen (16) and over (exception: there will be no charge to any staff member
as shown on the certified roster and wearing the accepted ID badge of those teams participating in the playoffs
or championship game(s). All net proceeds will be used to offset Federation Operating Budget in the future year
to cover expenses.
Admission to City Spirit Championships:
An admission fee to be set by the Federation Board of Directors shall be charged for the City Spirit and Dance
Championships to all those attending, sixteen (16) and over (exception: there will be no charge to any staff
member as shown on the certified roster and wearing the accepted Federation ID badge of those squads
participating in the championship event). All net proceeds will be used to offset Federation Operating Budget in
the future year to cover expenses.
20. PROTESTS
1. Only protests involving the eligibility of a player or spirit participant shall be considered.
2. Protests are decided in accordance with the administration procedures of the Federation.
3. Teams, Associations and the Federation have the responsibility to communicate protests as soon as they
are known to exist. Lack of prompt notification may result in denial of the protest.
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TACKLE RULES
All tackle football games are played under the Arizona Interscholastic Association Rule Book except where
specifically modified by the TYFSF Board of Directors.
1. Tackle Program
July 31 CUT-OFF LEAGUE AGE: the player’s age on July 31st (midnight) of the current year shall be the player’s age
for the coming season.
AGES AND WEIGHTS: The Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc. Age and Weight Chart will be adhered
to and is ATTACHMENT I to this rulebook.
SPECIAL NOTE FOR MITEY MITES
1. Coaches in the Mitey Mite Division may use pre-drawn visual aids on the field during the game.
2. It will be permissible for one coach from each team to be on the field at all times during a Mitey Mite
game. The coach will be permitted in the offensive and defensive huddles. However, once the huddle
breaks, the coaches must not interfere with play and must remain 15 yards of the line of scrimmage.
3. Mitey Mite Division will participate in a City Championship at a venue chosen based on availability and
scheduling restraints of the current Championships.
4. One preseason exhibition game.
5. Blitzing will not be allowed and there will not be a rush of punts, field goals or point after touchdown by
kick.
RULE 1: INITIAL WEIGH-IN; FIRST PRACTICE
Until the first practice session, no convenient means will exist for the team to conduct this weigh-in. Its purpose
is to serve as one final check of qualification and to screen out for special attention each player whose weight will
bear watching by the team staff, the players and parents throughout the practice period, because the player is
slightly above the maximum weight for that particular division. Those failing the initial weigh-in will not continue
as eligible candidates for the team (See Cutting of Players, page 13). The initial weigh-in is not the certified weighin and may be conducted on a less than a medical quality scale.
See the Federation’s Assignment and Certification rules.
If any Association tackle team is found to have violated the maximum-minimum initial practice weight rule, the
following sanctions shall be applied.
1. The Association will be expelled for the balance of the season, its charter revoked. (May re-apply the
following season.)
2. The Head Coach of the team involved will be suspended for two (2) years.
3. The Association’s General Manager and Team Business Manager will be suspended for two (2) years.
RULE 2: IN-SEASON DETERMINATION OF WEIGHT
Each team will have its players checked PRIOR TO EACH GAME during the season to assure that the weight
standards are being maintained. Equipment worn at weigh in shall include: the girdle with all pads, game pants
with all pads, shoes and the game jersey. SOCKS (PREFERABLY THOSE THAT COME UP TO CALF) AND A
PROCTECTIVE CUP (HARD FOR BOYS, SOFT FOR GIRLS) MUST BE WORN AT WEIGH IN.
The players will tuck their jerseys in for weigh in and games. Helmets with proper mouthpiece attached. The shoes
a player wears at weigh in must be those they will play in. Once a weigh-in has been conducted, no equipment
shall be exchanged.
The following allowances are allowed for equipment: All weights include all equipment except for shoulder pads
and helmet.
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





**
Mitey Mite – 5 lbs.
Cadet – 5 lbs.
Jr. Peewee – 5 lbs.
Peewee – 5 lbs.
Jr. Midget – 6 lbs. for weighted ages
Sr. Midget/Unlimited – 6 lbs. for weighted ages
Ages 11, 12, 13, grades 6, 7, 8, if they DO NOT qualify for the Jr. Midget National Weighted Division.
Age 14, grade 8 plays in this division.
Age 15, grade 9 can play in this division if they DO NOT turn 16 prior to December 31st of the current
Calendar year. The 15 year old can have a maximum weight of 154 pounds.
Parents/guardian of those players age 15, who will turn 16 prior to December 31st of the current year,
must sign a waiver stating that their child will be able to play the TYFSF regular season, city playoffs and
championships, but WILL NOT be eligible for AYF regional or national competition as AYF rules DO NOT
allow for 16 year olds to play. This waiver does not restrict those kids who turn age 16 prior to
December 31st of the current year form playing other outside NON AYF affiliated competitions.
RULE 3: IN-SEASON WEIGHT INCREASE
There is not an in-season weight increase allowed.
All Business Managers and Equipment Managers that are authorized in the weigh-in area (NO COACHES IN THE
WEIGH-IN AREA) will police this policy and enforce it. Any problems will be reported to the Association’s Judicial
Committee who in turn will report it to the Federation Problem Resolution Committee.
A digital scale is mandatory for weigh-ins. One scale MANDATORY to check for maximum weight only. Scale will
be secured before and after each weigh-in, and the Field Marshall or designee shall unsecure in the presence of
both Business Managers.
RULE 4: FAILURE TO PASS IN-SEASON WEIGH-IN
1. WEIGH-IN BEFORE EACH GAME: A player failing a weigh-in will be disqualified from participation in that
game only. He/she may sit with the team on the bench after he has removed his/her helmet and
shoulder pads.
2. Determination of Weight Master as to the weight eligibility of a player is final.
RULE 5: CUTTING OF PLAYERS
In addition to those reasons listed in Mandatory Cuts and Voluntary Cuts, any player must be cut who:
A. Weighs 10 or more pounds above the maximum weight for the selected division of play, at the time of
the initial practice session.
RULE 6: CERTIFICATION OF PLAYERS
In addition to the stipulations found in Certification-Administrative Manual, Retention of Eligibility, page 6, and
Drop and Adds, page 6, to be certified onto a team roster, player shall quality under the following:
A. A player shall meet the age requirements as specified on the age/weight attachment.
B. At certification, a player who fails to make weight for the team he has been practicing with, but falls into
the weight bracket of another division will be moved to the other division as part of certification.
RULE 7: ROSTER
MAXIMUM ROSTER SIZE
Not more than 35 players and no less than 20 players shall be certified onto a team roster. A team with less than
20 certifiable players will not be permitted to form and play.
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ROSTER CERTIFICAION
In order for a team roster to be certified for play, a roster must have a Head Coach, an Assistant Coach, Business
Manager, and Equipment Manager. The Head Coach and one Assistant Coach must be CPR/First Aid certified.
MINIMUM ROSTER SIZE FOR GAMES
A minimum of 16 players must be dressed and eligible to play at each game. Also, if you start a game with 16
players, you must maintain 16 eligible players during the game and finish the game with 16 players. Any team
which forfeits two (2) successive games by reason of an insufficient number of players shall be investigated by
the Federation for a determination as to whether to forfeit the balance of the season.
RULE 8: MANDATORY PLAY RULE
The following shall be the mandatory play rule (MPR) for all Tucson Youth Football & Spirit tackle football teams
and shall be followed without exception, based on the number of eligible players at the time of the game
(weigh-in).
16 -25 players = 10 plays
26 – 30 players = 8 plays
31 – 35 players = 7 plays
A. The plays must be from the line of scrimmage.
B. Extra Points shall not be used in fulfilling the MPR requirements.
C. A play shall not count toward fulfillment of the MPR if the play results in a penalty which causes the down
to be replayed.
D. All players shall be provided their mandatory plays by participation in “active plays, without the intent
integrity of the plays. Plays such as, but not limited, to having the center snap the ball to the quarterback,
and then the quarterback falls to the ground, while substitutes are playing the other positions, shall not
be considered as active plays.
E. All players shall receive their mandatory plays by the end of the third quarter, or they shall enter the game
at the start of the fourth quarter, and remain in the game until they have received their required number
of plays.
F. The plays must be recorded only on the Mandatory Play Sheet that is authorized by the Federation. Failure
to comply may result in game forfeiture.
If found in violation of the mandatory play rule, the following penalty will be imposed:
1. FORFEITURE of the game in which the violation occurred.
2. First Offense for Head Coach: Probation, Second Offense for the Head Coach: Suspension for one game
and one week of practice, Third Offense for the Head Coach: Suspension for the remainder of the season.
If the third offense is the last game of the season, suspension for the first half of the following season’s
games.
3. Penalties imposed may be applied by Tackle Football Commissioner or Federation President within 72
hours of the event that led to the imposition of a penalty. Appeal must be in writing and state the reasons
for the appeal and why the penalty should not be imposed. The Tackle Football Commissioner and/or
Federation President will respond by the next regularly scheduled Problem Resolution Committee
Meeting or in any event prior to the next scheduled game.
Each team will supply two (2) adults age 18 or older to monitor the Mandatory Play Rule. Failure of a team to
supply two (2) adults will be deemed a violation of the Mandatory Play Rule and will result in forfeiture of the
Game. Any person assigned as a Mandatory Play Monitor must be instructed to be respectful while on the
Opponent’s sideline and working with the opponent’s volunteer. There is to be no excessive cheering or cell phone
use of any kind. If an opponent asks that the volunteer be replaced, the request must be complied with right away.
Failure to comply may result in game forfeiture.
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RULE 9: FIELDS AND MARKINGS
1.
2. The home team is responsible for the preparation of the playing field and all required accessories for the
game. All fields will be equipped and marked in accordance with high school standards.
3. The bench area is reserved for players, coaches and authorized team personnel only. The sidelines areas
are reserved for the chain crew, with the balance of the sidelines kept clear except for the presence of
medical and law enforcement personnel, and authorized members of the press.
4. FIELDS: The Home Association will provide chains, down markers and ice water for the games at their
home fields, and will also have an Association official as a single point of contact for all teams. This person
may be a Field Marshall, General Manager, Athletic Director, but must be knowledgeable of the Local
Rules.
The Chain Crew will operate on the home team’s side of the field, or as agreed to between the home team and
the officials. Chain crew shall not coach from the sidelines and must remain neutral.
Official game balls will be used, and each team has the option to use their own game ball.
RULE 10: GAME BALL
1. The ball shall be a good grade of leather, rubber or composite material with specifications in the area of:
Manufacturer
Wilson K2
( Jr. Peewee)
MM & CADET
Wilson TDJ (Peewee)
JPW & PW
WILSON TDY ( Youth)
JM & SM/UNLIMITED
2. Colors other than traditional brown are not allowed.
3. Application and use of stick-um on a player’s hands is not allowed.
4. Equivalent balls may be use, but must fall within the above referenced specifications.
RULE 11: PLAYER DESIGNATIONS
1. Each player shall wear a number between 1 and 99 inclusive. Numbers “0” and “00” are illegal and shall
not be worn.
2. During a game in which a PA system is used, the number of any player committing a foul shall not be
publicly announced.
RULE 12: REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
The following items shall be worn by players in all divisions beginning with physical contact in practice session:
A. Helmet: Only helmets bearing the NOCSAE Seal of Certification may be worn. All helmets must bear the
current NOCSAE approved “Warning Label: in a visible position on the outside of the helmet. This
“Warning Label” is the same label that is furnished by all helmet manufactures and quality re-conditioners.
(Note: Regulations regarding chin straps and face guards are to be followed per the National Federation
or NCAA regulations, whichever is applicable).
B. Shoulder pads
C. Pants: One Piece or Shell
D. Hip Pads
E. Tail Pads
F. Thigh Guards
G. Knee Pads
H. Mouth guard (Keeper strap required) MOUTH GUARD MUST BE COLORED, (i.e. Orange, red, etc.) No
clear or white mouth guard.
I. Male Players: Athletic supporter with hard protective cup is required. Female Players: Athletic supporter
with soft protection cup is required.
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J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
O.
Shoes: In all divisions of play: sneakers, molded rubber cleats (soccer style), or detachable rubber (football
style) cleats are permitted. No metal cleats are permitted. Cleats may not exceed ½” in length.
Socks (preferably those that come up to the calf)
Eyeglasses: When worn, shall be athletically approved construction with non-shattering glass (safety glass)
or contact lenses.
Any additional equipment worn by player shall be approved by the Federation.
Jewelry of any type shall be prohibited, except religious or medical medallions, which must be covered by
the player’s uniform.
The wearing of headgear containing knots, including beads and/or decorative hair ornaments are
prohibited as well as skull caps.
RULE 13: BLOCKING AND TACKLING RESTRICTIONS
Both the National federation and NCAA rulebooks contain extremely strong language on blocking and tackling. It
is the responsibility of every TYFSF coach to be fully informed of, and abide by, all such rules of the governing body
(National Federation or NCAA) under whose jurisdiction this state falls, and to review same every year. In addition
to other specific prohibitions in the National Federation or NCAA rulebooks, no butt blocking, chop blocking, face
tackling or spearing techniques shall be permitted. If such techniques or any other forbidden by the National
Federation or NCAA rulebooks are taught by TYFSF coaches, said coaches shall be dismissed from the program,
upon being found guilty following a hearing.
In addition, Tucson Youth Football & Spirit has adopted the following:
Spearing and Butt Blocking WILL NOT BE tolerated.
Spearing is deliberately and maliciously driving the helmet into a player, who is down or who is held so his forward
progress is stopped or who is obviously out of the play.
Butt Blocking is defined as a blow with the face, frontal area of top of the helmet as the primary point of contact,
driven directly into the opponent.
The techniques are dangerous to both blocker and opponent. It shall be a requirement of every Head Coach to
explain to all players, that spearing and butt blocking are illegal and dangerous and will not be tolerated. IF
SPEARING AND/OR BUTT BLOCKING IS CALLED BY A GAME OFFICIAL, THE PLAYER IS AUTOMATICALLY EJECTED
FROM THE GAME.
RULE 14: LENGTH OF PERIODS
Maximum length of periods by division of play is:
Mitey Mite, Cadet, Jr. Peewee, Peewee, Jr. Midget and Sr. Midget/Unlimited: 10 minutes
INTERMISSION LENGTH
Between 1st and 2nd; 3rd and 4th quarters:
Between 2nd and 3rd quarters
2 minutes
15 minutes
RULE 15: TIME CLOCK
The referee shall decide where the clock will be kept if the field is not equipped with a scoreboard timing device.
In an event, the referee has final authority to have the clock kept on the field if, in his judgment, the host
association’s clock operator is not qualified.
RULE 16: TIME OUTS (CHARGED AND OFFICIALS’ TIMEOUTS):
Three (3) charged timeouts may be taken by each team in each half. A charged timeout occurs when requested
by a team captain and approved by an official. Non-chargeable timeouts will be injury of a player, repair of
equipment and an official timeout.
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RULE 17: PLAYERS
1. A free substitution rule is always in effect.
2. It is STRICTLY PROHIBITED for a player or group of players to participate in any practice session
or game with players from another division of play (i.e., Jr. Midget vs. Sr. Midget).
3. Injured player: Once removed by reason of injury, a player shall not re-enter the game without
the approval of a currently certified EMT, paramedic, a person certified in First Aid and Safety, or
available licensed physician.
RULE 18: REGARDING INELIGIBLE PLAYERS
Forfeiture of all games in which the ineligible player was a member of the team shall be the penalty applied to
the team involved. There shall be no exceptions.
There are eight (8) unequivocal definitions of ineligible players, from which there are no appeals:
1. Overweight
2. Overage or underage
3. Participation in school tackle football or any other non-affiliated football program and TYFSF in the season.
4. Failure to document scholastic eligibility.
5. A participant (player/spirit/dance) who has not completed the required conditioning and contact practice,
10/10 A
6. A participant (player/spirit/dance) who has not attended and participated in the required three (3) hours
of weekly practice during the season.
7. In those instances where any association has a sister team in a division and a player is assigned to Team
A and plays for Team B.
PENALTY:
1. Forfeiture of all games in which the ineligible participant was a team/squad member.
2. Any coach who is found guilty of having played or otherwise allowed the participation of an ineligible
player or spirit participant in a pre-season, regular season or post season game or practice will be
suspended for a minimum of two (2) years from the date of determination of guilt and there shall be no
appeal.
RULE 19: SCORING VALUE
Touchdown
Point after TD by run or pass
Point after TD by kick
Safety (awarded to opponent)
Field Goal
Forfeit (offended teams win by)
6 points
1 point
2 points
2 points
3 points
1-0
RULE 20: SCORES
LOPSIDED OR INTENTIONALLY RUN-UP SCORES
Any time Team A is ahead of Team B by 36 points or more, there shall be no further kickoffs, and Team B will be
awarded the ball at the 50 yard line. (This procedure shall continue until such time as the point difference is less
than 36.) As long as the 36 point differential is maintained, TEAM A MUST USE THE BALANCE OF ITS RESERVE
PLAYERS INSTEAD OF FIRST STRING PLAYERS.
Once a point differential of 36 or more points THE OFFICIAL CLOCK WILL BECOME A RUNNING CLOCK AND ONCE
STARTED AS RUNNING CLOCK, it cannot be changed. Team A COACHES MUST ATTEMPT TO USE PLAYS WHICH
MAXIMIZE THE ACTION OF THE GAME, AS LONG AS TEAM B DOES NOT STACK THE MIDDLE WITH 11 PLAYERS. In
an attempt to keep the score down, Team A coach must not run sweeps, attempt forward passes, use misdirection
plays or use reverses.
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When a game ends with a 36 point or more differential, a member of the TYFSF Hearing Tribunal, shall conduct
an investigation by talking to staff and members of both teams. If it is determined that Team A coaches did not
attempt to keep the score down, or conversely, attempted to run the score up, then a formal complaint will be
filed against Team A coaches or coach and a formal hearing will be scheduled.
PENALTY Lopsided or Intentionally Run up scores: (Intentional): A finding of “guilty” shall result in Probation at a
minimum; Suspension if the conduct is found to have been intentional; and Dismissal in the case of a repetitive
pattern (malice).
RULE 21: SIDELINE PERSONNEL
In addition to the coaching staff, a team may have additional support personnel positioned within a team box
during the game. The total number of team support personnel, including coaches, in a team box shall not exceed
10. Head Coach, 4 Assistant Coaches, Certified Trainer, Business Manager, Assistant Business Manager, Equipment
Manager, Coach Trainee.
The Association will issue Federation approved identification cards to sideline personnel. Replacement for lost
cards will be at the expense of the association or person involved.
Only staff and support personnel listed on that team’s Certified Roster and wearing the Federation issued
identification card will be allowed on the sideline during that team’s game.
Children (regardless of age) of the staff, support personnel or friends of the participants will not be allowed on
the sideline during the games. There is no exception to this rule as insurance is not available for these individuals.
No parents, or unauthorized personnel, shall be on the practice/playing field during practice/games. The head
coach or business manager is responsible for ensuring this action. No person meeting all other rules of eligibility
can participate in practice/game activities unless approved/certified by the association.
RULE 22: COACHING COMMUNICATIONS
There will be no electronic devices from the press box, coaching box, sidelines or any other position on the field
that may be used to relay messages to the coaches or players at any time. Electronic devices include, but are not
limited to, the use of cell phone, Blackberry, PDA, Computer, radio or other messaging device. All Bluetooth
earpiece devices are not allowed within the field of play. A coach using a cell phone for emergency purposes must
step outside the coach’s box. Disciplinary action may be taken including removal from the game and permanent
suspension for repeated violations.
RULE 23: NO TAXI SQUADS
No team is permitted to run a “taxi” or “reserve” squad.
RULE 24: SCHEDULED GAMES
A. A maximum of 14 regular season games including Conference championships are allowed
SCHEDULING PROHIBITIONS
Under no circumstances will a team be allowed to play a game, scrimmage, or practice against a team of another
division (i.e., Jr. Midget vs. Peewee, Jr. Peewee vs. Peewee)
COMMON REQUIREMENTS- ALL SCHEDULING
The following requirements apply to all scheduling beginning with practice and end with post-season bowl games:
A. No team, on its own, may arrange a game. All games regardless of type must be arranged through or with
the sanction of the Federation.
B. Prior account will be taken of all local and state laws pertaining to the scheduling of athletic contests.
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C. Football games are to be scheduled no more than one (1) game per week with a minimum of 48 hours (2
days) between games. TYFSF and AYF National office reserves the right to waive this rule when
extenuating circumstances exist or to accommodate a championship tournament.
D. An annual Division Conference selection meeting will be held on a date given to each association a month
in advanced prior to first practice where a representative from each association will attend to witness
random drawing of each division and teams that will be placed in each conference/sub-conference.
RULE 25: POST-SEASON BOWL GAMES
1. For a team to be eligible for BOWL game participation, the following conditions must be met;
A. All participants must submit a report card as prescribed by TYFSF.
B. The team’s association must have paid Federation Assessments by October 15.
C. All bowl game contracts shall require the written approval of the Federation.
2. Strip weights are not required, but there shall always be official weigh-ins.
3. The applicable state standard NCAA or National Federation will be the only rules in effect at all bowl
games.
4. Any team/squad that arranges a bowl game(s) or competition without approval from the Federation
Presiding Bowl Director or designee will be subject to disciplinary action, which could include a fine not to
exceed $500.00.
In addition:
1. Post season contracts must be, whenever possible, used by all association teams participating in a bowl
game, signed by both the Federation President (or his designee) and the Federation Board member in
charge of bowls.
2. A team without a copy of a post season contract signed by both Federation and visiting Conference (if
possible) will not be allowed to participate in a post-season bowl game.
3. Player in season contracts must be presented to the bowl’s weigh master at weigh-in.
RULE 26: TIE BALL GAMES
1. In all divisions, tie games shall stand in all regular season games.
2. Ties shall be broken in Federation playoff/championship games as well as post-season games using the
AIA tie breaker rules.
RULE 27: CONTACT WITH OFFICIALS
If a player or adult should strike (hit) a game official, the offender shall be subject to suspension or to being banned
from Federation activities.
RULE 28: ENFORCEMENT POLICY, POLICE POWERS/HEARING & APPEALS: SEE TYFSF ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL
RULE 29: PARENT/COACH CONFLICTS:
A conflict resulting from coaching practices will be referred first to The Association’s Hearing Tribunal for
resolution. A complaint may be filed with the Federation Hearing Tribunal.
RULE 30: GAME STARTING TIME:
Failure to field a team thirty (30) minutes after the approved scheduled game time will result in automatic
forfeiture of the game to the opposing team. In the event of forfeiture: The team with 16 eligible players has the
OPTION to scrimmage the opposing team or not. This will be a controlled scrimmage, not to exceed the time slot
allotted for the regular scheduled game. The officials, due to their rules and regulations, WILL NOT officiate
scrimmages.
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TYFSF FLAG PROGRAM
INTRODUCTION
Although the following are the TYFSF Flag Rules and Regulations, it is necessary and required that all flag Head
Coaches, Assistant Coaches and other team personnel acquaint and conduct themselves in accordance with the
“Coaches Code of Conduct” and other related rules and regulations as set forth in the Tucson Youth Football &
Spirit,” rule and others as required by the Federation and/or associations.
In addition to the general regulations found in the above sections, the following flag rules govern all participants
playing in TYFSF.
ORGANIZATION: The Federation is the basic unit of organization which consists of a minimum of four (4) teams
in same age division.
DIVISION OF PLAY
League age cut-off date is July 31 of the current year and shall be the participant’s league age for the coming
season. There are no height or weight restrictions on players.
Division Name
Cub
Ages
5-6-7
Cheerleaders shall follow the overall age and division of play referenced above. In addition, all flag spirit squads
must follow TYFSF Spirit Guidelines as outlined in the spirit section of this rulebook.
Ages shall be verified by methods outlined in the TYFSF Administration Manuel.
A player is ineligible if he is a member of a school tackle program or if he is playing TYFSF Tackle football. He is
also ineligible if he is competing in another flag football program (unless as part of school curriculum).
A player shall furnish written consent to play (provided by TYFSF) from either parent or legal guardian.
A signed statement from an examining physician that the candidate is physically fit and there are no observable
conditions which would contra-indicate from him/her playing football or cheering. NOTE: If regular school medical
examination results are releasable to parents, a copy such report, if not older than January 1st of the current year,
may be used in lieu of new examination.
FLAG FOOTBALL RULES
RULE 1: PLAYERS
1. A game is played between two (2) teams consisting of eight (8) players each.
2. Each team roster shall have a maximum of 24 players, and minimum of 10 players. A forfeit will result
when the minimum is not met.
3. Only players appearing on the official team roster form supplied by the Federation are to be counted as
players. The Roster is completed before the first game of the season and verified by the Federation in a
process called “certification”.
Mandatory Play Rule:
10 - 15 players = 10 plays
16 – 18 players = 8 plays
19 – 24 players = 7 plays
NOTE: Teams will complete and follow the Mandatory Play Form. Failure to abide by this rule will result
in forfeiture of that game.
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RULE 2: PLAYING FIELDS
1. The field shall be rectangular with lines and zones and shall conform to either of the two designs
mentioned below:
A. 100 yard field. This field measures one hundred and twenty (120) yards in length, divided into 5
zones.
B. 80 yard field. This field measures eight (80) yards in length, divided into 4 zones of 15 yards and
two 10 yard end zones.
C. Goal posts are unnecessary as points after TD (conversion) are made only passing or running.
D. A conversion line will be marked 3 yards from the goal line and at an equal distance from each
sideline.
2. The following field equipment will be used.
A. Down Marker will be used to indicate the number of the down.
B. A Zone Marker will be used to indicate the distance to go for a first down (placed at the forward zone
line).
C. Corner Flags with flexible staffs will be placed at the four (4) sections of the end zones and the
sidelines, Soft pylons may be used if flags are unavailable.
RULE 3: EQUIPMENT
1. Game Ball
The Federation will use the Peewee size Ball.
2. Flags
A. Each player must wear a belt with the number of flags designated as “standard” by the Federation,
from the game uniform.
B. The flags will be attached to a belt and extend or hang from each side of the player’s body. When
using three (3) flags, the third will hang from the rear of the player’s body.
C. Flags will be 14-20 inches long from the bottom of the plastic holder and a minimum of 1 3/8
inches wide.
D. The belt must be tight to prevent being turned around during a de-flagging.
E. The securing of flags to the body, waist or belt, other than that provided, is illegal.
F. Jersey cannot be worn over flags
G. Players with “NO” flags or with one flag can receive ball, but play will be whistled dead at spot
received or controlled.
H. If a player’s flag inadvertently falls off while he is in possession of the ball, the ball will be dead at
the spot the flag falls off.
NOTE: The flags will be attached to a belt made for that purpose. Such a belt has equal resistance at the point of
attachment of flags, thereby insuring an equal effort necessary to de-flag a player.
3. Game Uniform:
A. All team members must wear the same color jersey.
B. Any type of pants may be worn. However, they must not have pockets or belt loops.
C. Jerseys will be tucked in at all times
D. Sneakers are the preferred shoe; however, non-detachable, rubber cleated shoes are allowed. No
other footwear is acceptable
E. Socks (preferably those that come up to the calf)
F. All male players must wear athletic supporters and hard cups. All female players will wear athletic
supporter and soft cup.
4. Eye Glasses: Eye glasses, when worn, shall be of athletically approved construction with non-shattering
glass (safety glass).
5. Mouth Guard: Mouth guards are mandatory, no keeper strap is necessary. Mouth guards must be colored;
clear and white mouth guards are not permitted.
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RULE 4: PRE-GAME AND AFTER GAME REQUIREMENTS
1. There will be a pre-game inspection no more than 15 minutes prior to the scheduled game. The inspection
will be conducted in a location designated by the Referees. Players will be checked against their team’s
official roster, the proper uniform, shoes, cup, and mouth guard and flag belt. The inspection will be
conducted by each team’s Business Manager and Equipment Manager. Coaches with “NO” identification
card will not be allowed within the “TEAM AREAS”.
2. After the game, each team’s Head Coach and Business Manager must sign their Mandatory Play Forms
and the game Referee signs also. The Mandatory Play Form MUST be turned into their association
president to be passed to the Federation for weekly review.
RULE 5: PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT
1. Spiked or street shoes
2. Padding of any kind, including hard surface padding such as shoulder pads, hip pads, and helmets
3. Hard metal or any other hard substance on a player’s clothing or person
4. Anything that conceals the flags
5. Slick or sticky substances such as grease or glue
6. Any equipment, in the opinion of the referee that will endanger or confuse players
RULE 6: REFEREES
1. There will be at least three (3) referees
2. The Federation may assign more than three (3) referees for a game
3. There shall be at least three (3) referees for a sanctioned playoff or championship game
NOTE: Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation will supply referees for the Flag Program
RULE 7: RULES OF PLAY
1. PLAYERS
Each team will field eight (8) players at a time; offense must have at least five (5) players on the line of
scrimmage
2. TEAM CAPTAINS
Each team can have two (2) captains with a coach for the coin flips, to determine who will choose one of
the following: OFFENSE/DEFENSE or DEFER (have choice for 2nd half). Coaches will address the referees
only on matter of interpretation and to obtain information.
3. TEAM COACHES
One coach for each team will be permitted on the field in the Cub and Bobcat Divisions only. Coaches will
not give any verbal instruction when on the playing field.
4. TIME There will be:
A. Two 22 minute halves. The last two (2) minutes of each half, clock will STOP for “penalties, out of
bounds and incomplete passes”.
B. Two (2) time-outs per half
C. Ten (10) minutes between halves
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Failure to produce the minimum roster within ten (10) minutes of scheduled game will result in time being taken
off for the 1st half of play, according to when team has enough players (10) ready to play. “NO FORFEIT”, FIRST
GAME ONLY.
5. KICKOFFS
Field position at start of the half or after a score: At the beginning of the game, 2 nd half or after every
score, play will begin on the offense’s ten (10) yard line.
6. PUNTING
PUNTER must be five (5) yards from the line of scrimmage/center
A. Punting intentions are announced to the referee by the coach, before official blows the whistle
for play (penalty) 5 yards, delay of game.
B. A punt is always a free kick. Center will hike the ball between legs with the punter at least five (5)
yards from the line of scrimmage. If the ball is short or over the Punter’s head, the punter will be
able to retrieve the ball and punt ball to complete the play. PLAYERS CANNOT cross the line of
scrimmage until the ball has been punted
C. The offensive team may punt at any time. The ball is live when it hits the ground, and as long as
no player has touched the ball the receiver may pick the ball up and run with it. If the punting
team touches the ball before the receiving team touches the ball, it is dead at the spot with the
ball going to the receiving team.
D. Rushing the punter is prohibited. No offensive or defensive player may move across the line of
scrimmage until the kick has been made.
E. Free Catch: There shall be a free catch of a punt. The receiver may call for a free catch of a punt.
The receiver shall signify his intentions for a free catch by waiving his hand clearly over his head.
7. DOWNS (First down and zone to go)
A. Each team will have four (4) consecutive downs to advance the ball into the next zone or to score
a touchdown. The zones are 1) 10yd to 15yd; 2) 15yd to 30; 3) 30yd to 15yd; 4) 15yd to goal.
B. Once a team enters into the next zone, it is a first down and a new series of downs begins.
C. A team failing to move the ball into the next zone will lose possession. The opposing team takes
over at the point where the ball is declared dead and begins its series of first down and zone to
go.
D. The forward part of the ball touching any line will be the determining factor in measuring for a
first down.
E. A down will be replayed if provided for by the rules (See Rule 13)
F. When the offensive team is in the last zone and has a first down, it will be first down and goal to
go.
G. At the conclusion of each down, the referee will place the ball in the center of the field (equal
distance form sidelines-not on a hash mark. A team will have 30 seconds to put the ball in play
after the ready signal.
8. DE-FLAGGING
A. There shall be no tackling of the ball carrier or passer
B. The player carrying or having possession of the ball is down when the flag is removed from his
waist (de-flagging). The defensive player shall hold the flag above his head and return it to ball
carrier.
C. The defensive player cannot hold or push the ball carrier to remove the flag. An accidental touch
of the body or shoulder while reaching for the flag shall not be considered a violation; however,
touching of the head or face shall be considered a violation. Defensive player cannot take the ball
from the carrier.
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D. A defensive player may use his hands to move the blocker’s hands away from him, push the
blocker sideways to get past him. But he cannot push the blocker down. PLAYERS CANNOT use
their hands above any player’s shoulders.
E. A defensive player must go for the passer’s flag. He cannot touch the passer’s arm.
F. If a player’s flag is inadvertently lost before the start of play, he is still eligible to receive the ball.
The ball will be dead at the spot the player controlled the ball.
9. BLOCKING
A. A blocker must be on his/her feet at all times while blocking. All linemen, except the center,
CANNOT assume the three (3/4) point stance or otherwise spring from a coiled or crouching start.
The Center, though crouching if he is to block, must first stand up to block/receive the ball or be
touched by a defensive player.
B. Cross body and roll blocking are not permitted.
C. A blocker may use an open palm, to block below the shoulders of the defensive players. The
Blocker’s arms can be straight or bent when blocking but cannot be used in a pushing (in and out)
manner. Players cannot run over or push any player to the ground.
D. A blocker may block two (2) yards past the line of scrimmage. Beyond two (2) yards, can only
screen or get in the way of the defensive player, players cannot extend arms or attempt to block.
E. A defensive player cannot block or push a ball carrier out of bounds.
F. Butting, elbowing or knee blocking is not permitted.
G. There will be no two on one blocking for the ball carrier beyond/pass the line of scrimmage
H. Blocking a player from behind is not permitted (clipping).
I. There will be no interlocking blocking.
10. BALL CARRIER
A. The ball carrier cannot use his/her hands or arms to protect his flags. The defensive player must
have the opportunity to remove the ball carrier’s flags.
B. The ball carrier cannot lower his/her head or shoulder to run into a defensive player
C. Stiff-arming by the ball carrier is illegal
D. The ball carrier cannot spin or hurdle to prevent a defensive player from removing his/her flags.
11. CENTER (also see 9A)
A. The center must snap the ball between his legs
B. He/she must have both feet behind the forward point of the ball
C. He/she may adjust the long part of the ball at right angles to the scrimmage line.
D. The center cannot block/receive ball, until he/she stands after the snap. Until, the center has
stood up in the blocking position, the defensive player(s) cannot touch him.
12. PASSING
A. All players are eligible to pass
B. A lateral pass is a pass thrown parallel to the line of scrimmage or back toward the passer’s own
goal line. A lateral pass is not considered a forward pass.
C. A forward pass is a pass thrown from behind the line of scrimmage toward the defensive teams’
goal line. Receiver in front of passer. Only two (2) forward passes are allowed per play.
13. RECEIVING
A. All players are eligible to receive forward passes
B. A receiver may catch a ball as long as he comes down with one foot in bounds
C. Two or more receivers may touch a ball in succession resulting in a completed pass
D. If an offense or defensive player catches a pass simultaneously, the offensive team is awarded
possession
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E. An offensive player cannot be out of bounds and return in bounds to catch a pass unless forced
out by a defensive player. This will be ruled an incomplete pass.
14. DEAD BALL
All balls touching the ground are immediately dead (except kickoffs, punts and safety). The ball is declared
dead at the following times:
A. When the ball carrier touches the ground with his body, knee or elbows.
B. When the ball carrier’s flag has been pulled.
C. If a receiver or ball carrier has a missing flag (ball is dead at the spot the ball is controlled).
D. When the ball carrier goes out of bound.
E. If the center snap hits the ground before reaching a backfield player (except on punts).
F. When the ball hits the ground as a result of a fumble or muffed ball. THERE ARE NO FUMBLE
RECOVERIES.
G. If a lateral pass touches the ground (ball is declared dead at that point). If a lateral pass goes out
of bounds, the ball is ruled dead at the point it crosses the boundary line.
H. When a player on the punting team touches the ball before a player on the receiving team touches
ball.
I. A free catch (cannot be advanced).
15. GAME TERMINATION/SLAUGHTER RULE
When one team is 30 or more points ahead at the end of the first half or it takes this lead during the
second half, the game is ended at that point. THIS RULE ALSO APPLIES TO TOURNAMENT PLAY.
RULE 8: SCORING VALUES
Touchdown
Safety
Points after touchdown
Passing
Running
Forfeit (offended team wins by)
6 points
2 points
2 points
1 point
1-0
RULE 9: TIE GAME
1. Tie game will go into the record as such and will not be played off in regular season play.
2. All Tournament Games:
A. Ball will be placed in the center of the field. The referee will toss a coin in the presence of the two
team captains. The winning captain will have the option of putting the ball in play at mid-field.
B. Each team will have four (4) consecutive downs and the winner will be the team gaining the most
points or yardage in its series of downs (penetration).
C. Penalties will count as incomplete passes.
D. Intercepted passes will count as incomplete passes, dead ball.
E. If the yardage is still the same at the end of each team’s four down series, the series will be
repeated.
RULE 10: INJURED PLAYERS
Once removed from a game because of injury, a player must sit out at least one down, and may not re-enter the
game without the approval of attending medical personnel.
RULE 11: PRACTICES
1. Flag practice starting date will be set by the Federation, however, Associations are permitted to start
practice the same date as tackle. Scrimmages will be permitted after two (2) weeks of practice.
2. Practices are limited to three (3) days per week, not to exceed 1 ½ hours each practice, while school is in
session, and when school is not in session, practices are limited to four (4) days per week. Not to exceed
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2 hours duration. At the discretion of the Head Coach and association board, flag teams may change
practice time/days to two (2) days per week, not to exceed 2 hours and 15 minutes (including the
mandatory 15 minute break).
3. Flag players must have ten (10) hours of conditioning before participating in scrimmages/games.
RULE 12: SCHEDULE
The TYFSF season starting date (first game) will be set by the Federation
Maximum number of games per season shall be as follows for each division of play:
Division
Cub
Pre-season
1
Regular Season
8
Tournament
0
TYFSF has adopted an eight (8) game regular season for Flag Football.
RULE 13: FIESTA GAMES
If possible, there will be a Fiesta (round robin) exhibition games to conclude the season.
RULE 14: PENALTIES
Since two football field sizes can be used, penalties are adjusted accordingly. The 100 yard field will be assessed
the standard fifteen (15) and five (5) yard penalties. The 80 yard field will be assessed ten (10) and five (5) yard
penalties. With this in mind, references to penalties will be given as (15-10) and (5-5) in the following listings:
1. Line of Scrimmage –Centering
A. Offside, defensive or offensive (5-5)
B. Illegal snap (5-5)
C. Failure to observe 30 second rule (5-5)
D. Illegal motion-more than one backfield man in motion (5-5)
E. Illegal formation, offense (5-5)
2. Punting
A. Failure to announce to the referee (5-5) and punt is repeated, or the receiving team may take the
ball at the spot where the ball is declared dead.
B. If the kicking or receiving team enters the neutral zone before the punt (5-5) from the spot.
C. Less than five players on the line of scrimmage for the offensive or defensive team (5-5).
D. De-flagging a receiver after a fair catch signal (15-10) from the spot of the foul.
3. Passing
A. If an illegal forward pass is thrown and intercepted, the play will continue until the ball is declared
dead. The intercepting team has the option of possession from that spot or accepting the penalty
(5-5).
B. Passer crosses the line of scrimmage (5-5) and loss of down.
C. Intentional grounding (5-5) and loss of down.
D. Offensive pass interference (15-10) from line of scrimmage and loss of down.
E. Defensive pass interference AUTOMATIC first down from spot of infraction for the offensive team
F. Roughing the passer (15-10) AUTOMATIC FIRST DOWN
4. Delay of Game
A. Continuing to play after the ball is dead (5-5) from spot where the ball is dead.
B. Recovering a fumble or falling on the ball (5-5).
C. Advancing a fair catch (5-5)
D. Unnecessary delay of game – 30 second/ready for play
E. All spectators including Team parents must be 5 yards from sidelines (5-5)
5. Flag Wearing and De-Flagging
A. Tackling (15-10)
B. Wearing the flags illegally (5-5)
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6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
C. Ball carrier using his hands to prevent de-flagging SPINNING/HURDLING (15-10)
D. Holding, pushing or hitting the ball carrier while de-flagging (15-10)
E. Leaving one’s feet while de-flagging, from spot of foul (15-10).
F. Wearing one flag (5-5)
Illegal Hand Off
A. If the ball is handed forward beyond the scrimmage line (5-5) and loss of down.
B. Handing or snapping a ball to a lineman (5-5).
Illegal Substitutions
A. More than eight (8) men on the field (5-5)
B. Substitution(s) while the ball is in play or before it is declared dead (5-5).
C. Disqualified player entering game (15-10)
Blocking
A. Leaving feet to block (15-10)
B. Cross body blocking or roll blocking (15-10)
C. Pushing or knocking down a player by blocker (15-10)
D. Holding a defensive player (15-10)
E. Defensive player blocking or pushing the ball carrier out of bounds (15-10)
F. Butting, elbowing or knee blocking (15-10)
G. Defensive player using hands illegally (15-10)
H. More than two blockers for the ball carrier (on one defensive player) beyond the line of
scrimmage (5-5)
I. Clipping (15-10)
J. Interlock Blocking from spot of foul (15-10)
Ball Carrier
A. Stiff arming from spot of foul (15-10)
B. Lowering head to drive or run into defensive player (15-10)
C. Use of head (15-10)
D. Use of hand or arms to protect flags (15-10)
E. Spinning or hurdling (5-5)
Unnecessary Roughness
A. Offensive and Defensive (15-10)
B. Disqualification of guilty players or players if repeated.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct
A. Fighting (15-10) offenders ejected from game.
B. Defensive player pulling offensive player’s flag to make him ineligible for play (15-10)
C. Insulting and abusive language (15-10)
D. Interference with progress of the game by coaches or any other team personnel (15-10)
E. Illegal play (15-10)
F. Team leaving field before game is completed (15-10). Failure to return- Forfeit. Win for the team
remaining on the field.
G. Failure of home team to control players or fans (15-10)
RULE 15: PROTESTS
1. Only protests involving rules’ interpretations or the eligibility of a player shall be considered. Never the
judgment of an official calling a play.
2. Protests are decided at the local level in accordance with the administrative procedures of the league.
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SPRING PASSING LEAGUE RULES
1. The division and ages shall be:
Bobcat
Wildcat
Panther
8-9-10
11-12-13
14-15
2. Maximum roster is 20 and the minimum is 10. Ten (10) is needed to certify.
3. The registration fee is $15.00
4. The season will commence on a date set by the Federation Board of Directors each year and will end on
July 15 of the current year.
5. Practice will be three (3) days a week and no more than one and one-half (1 1/2) hours each day. Before
games can be played nine (9) hours of practice is required. No more than two (2) games a week after the
first nine (9) hours of practice. If two (2) games are played in one (1) week, than only one (1) practice is
allowed. A week runs Monday – Sunday. There shall be seven (7) players on defense and seven (7) players
on offense.
6. Mandatory play – minimum is ten (10) plays per participant
7. The center is not an eligible receiver
8. All eligible receivers will wear flags. NO TACKLING
9. The flag belt must have two (2) flags
10. Receiver can advance the ball until flag is pulled
11. Five (5) seconds to pass the ball off once the ball is in the quarterback’s hands or the play will be called
dead at that point.
12. No rushing of the quarterback
13. Ball will start on the 5 yard line or according to your field size.
14. Offense will have the ball for ten (10) passes or until a touchdown is made.
15. When a defensive player intercepts the ball it will remain with the offense and the ball will be placed on
the 5 year line. The defensive team cannot advance the ball and the defense will receive one point.
16. All games will be played on a 50 yard field.
17. One (1) hour time limit for the game
18. 7 on 7 with only 5 receivers eligible on offense. The offense can have participants if center is not used.
Hitches and screen are allowed. All other passes must be beyond the line of scrimmage, no laterals or
handoffs.
19. No contact with receiver after 5 yards from the line of scrimmage, downfield.
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SPIRIT RULES
Except as specifically modified for Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, all spirit teams shall follow the
National Federation of State High School Associations Spirit Rules (NFHS). Write to the National Federation at P.O.
Box 690. Indianapolis, IN 46206, web address: www.nfhs.org or call (317) 972-6900 for additional information.
In addition to the general regulations found in this rulebook, the following TYFSF Spirit rules govern all participants
for any TYFSF Spirit Team. The term spirit includes all performing groups (i.e., cheer, dance, drill, pep teams,
majorettes, etc.) TYFSF Spirit Teams provide an opportunity to perform in an organized, supervised, safety
oriented manner, emphasizing fun for all, and encouraging the development of qualities important long after
TYFSF days.
SPIRIT ORGANIZATION
A. The Federation shall have a Cheer/Dance Commissioner duly elected, as a member of the Federation
Executive Board with full voting rights.
B. The Cheer/Dance Commissioner shall chair all Federation Spirit meetings held separately from the
Federation board meeting. He/she shall be a delegate to any outside spirit meetings, or the Federation
shall appoint a qualified alternate in his/her absence.
C. The Federation may offer both the traditional Association directed cheer and dance program as well as
an independent cheer-dance program, under the general supervision of the Federation, but not a specific
association. If this option is later elected, specific rules will be adopted and presented to the Board of
Directors for approval.
II. ASSOCIATION LEVEL
A. Each Association shall have a Cheer/Dance Coordinator, to whom all squad spirit personnel report.
B. The Cheer/Dance Coordinator will be an Association voting board member.
III. SQUAD LEVEL
A. The Head coach of each Cheer Dance squad must be at least 21 years of age.
B. An Assistant Coach must be at least 18 years of age or a high school graduate.
C. Squads are permitted to carry a Student Demonstrator who must be a minimum of 15 years of age.
D. The Head Coach will determine the assignment of the Assistant Coaches
E. In the absence of a specialized, trained person affiliated with medical area (physician, paramedic, specially
trained volunteer), one of the coaches must be the holder of a current Red Cross Certificate in Community
CPR and First Aid or its equivalent.
F. Coaches are to be selected by methods approved by Association rules and/or bylaws.
G. All coaches are automatically terminated at the close of each season. To coach the following year, the
same approval is required. Any violation of the rules committed by a coach during the season, even if the
hearing is not held until after the close of the season, is still under the jurisdiction of the sponsoring
Association and/or Federation.
H. Coaches do not make spirit rules or Federation policy. Rather, they carry out the rules and polices
instituted by their Association and the Federation. However, on the playing and practice fields the
coaching staff is in complete charge and shall not be interfered with except in cases of rules violations and
any other conduct deemed by higher authority to be contrary to the welfare of youth.
I. The Federation shall establish its own rules regarding the placing of coaches with sons, daughters or
siblings within its own boundaries.
J. The Head Spirit Coach has final responsibility for his/her actions, those of his/her assistant coaches, spirit
participants, staff and parents.
K. Each squad is permitted to carry up to two (2) Student Demonstrators. All other current guidelines must
be met.
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1. A Student Demonstrator must be at least 15 years old. However, a 14 year old may be considered
a student demonstrator, subject to an approved administrative waiver if all the following
conditions are met:
a) The Association does not offer a spirit program for that age group
b) The student has at least two (2) years prior cheer/dance experience
c) The student must only work with squads that are younger than his/her current age. The
oldest girl on the squad where the student is assisting must be at least two (2) years
younger.
d) An administrative waiver request for a 14 year old must be submitted in writing to the
Federation Cheer/Dance Coordinator by the 31st of August for submission to the
Federation
Board of Director for approval, otherwise the team may be prohibited from participating
in any competitions.
2. A rostered spirit participant may not also serve as a Student Demonstrator
3. The Student Demonstrator may be used to demonstrate moves, techniques and may teach words
to cheers, chants, etc. He/she is not allowed to coach or conduct a practice.
4. Student Demonstrators must be under the direct supervision of the head spirit coach
5. Student Demonstrators must be rostered as part of the coaching staff of the squad they are
assisting.
L. All spirit coaches are to follow the coaches’ requirements as outlined in Coaches Requirements.
M. All coach trainees and student demonstrators under the age of 18 must be certified in the same manner
as all other minors participating in TYFSF cheer and dance, i.e. parent permission, physical, and proof of
age, scholastic eligibility and photo ID
RULE 1: AGES/DIVISION
1. The ages of all spirit participants in the program shall correspond to the overall ages that the Federation
is permitting for players.
AGE SCHEMATIC
DIVISION NAME
AGES
Flag
5-6-7
Mitey Mite
7-8-9 (Invitational)
Cadet
8-9-10
11 and Under
Minimum 8 years old (Jr. Peewee)
12 and Under
Minimum 9 years old (Peewee)
13 and Under
Minimum 11 years old (Jr. Midget)
15 and Under
Minimum 12 years old (Sr. Midget)
Unlimited Weight
6th, 7th and 8th graders only
2. A squad, regardless of the ages of its spirit participants, must be rostered, certified and registered in the
same division as the football team with which it is associated (e.g., the squad cannot cheer at Sr. Midget
games and compete as a Jr. Midget cheer squad). However, there may be a spirit/dance squad not
affiliated with a football team.
3. The participant’s age on July 31st of the current year shall be the participant’s age for the coming season.
Only a team/association which chooses to match the ages of the spirit squads to the ages of the team
for which they cheer/dance shall be permitted to certify for the Federation Spirit/Dance Championships.
RULE 2: SQUAD SIZE
1. There must be a minimum of four (4) participants per squad to certify.
2. Every squad shall have at least one adult volunteer for every 10 participants
3. Not more than thirty five (35) cheerleaders or dancers may be certified to a squad roster.
Squad sizes for Regional/National Competition: Small: 4 - 16; Large: 17 – 35
4. The use of mascots is not allowed in any division.
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RULE 3: FORMATION OF SQUADS
1. Following are the requirements for forming a squad. Tryouts of any kind are prohibited. Tryouts are
defined as any means used to ascertain the level whereby a participant is placed on a squad, including
assessments, evaluations, or any other method used to place a participant. Not more than 35
participants shall be assigned to a spirit squad at the start of pre-conditioning for the season.
A.
If squads with an Association reach the maximum as outlined in their by-laws (less than the
TYFSF maximum of 35) it is suggested that the Association consider additional numbers for that
season to accommodate any and all spirit participants wishing to participate in the Tucson Youth
Football & Spirit Program as long as they do not exceed the maximum of 35 stated by TYFSF. If
an Association does reach maximum numbers per squad, due to lack of adult supervision, per
their by-laws, or the 35 maximum, the participants are given a one (1) year waiver to go to
another association.
RULE 4: MANDATORY CUTS
Any participant must be cut who:
1. Has signed up as a result of parental pressure or tells squad management he/she does not really want to
cheer/dance.
2. Refuses or cannot furnish the five (5) required items – Parental Consent, Medical Examination, Proof of
Age and Scholastic Fitness and code of conduct.
3. Is found to be participating on a school spirit squad or other non-Federation squad. However,
participation in a school cheer program, if required by the curriculum of the school PE program, or
participation in a spirit tryout only, during the Federation season, is allowed.
4. Is a member of any other organized Federation football/spirit team/squad or non-Federation
football/spirit team/squad.
5. Attempts to intimidate fellow participants in practice by word and/or physical deed
6. Is an extreme discipline problem (but only with the concurrence of the association).
RULE 5: REGARDING INELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS
If any ineligible participant is found to be participating, the Association will be penalized by forfeiting all
games/competitions in which the ineligible participant was a member of the squad there shall be no
exception.
1. An ineligible participant is defined as follows: (There are no appeals to this rule)
A. Overage or underage participant
B. Residing outside of legal boundaries without mutual agreement of appropriate Associations. If
there is such an agreement between the Federation and an Association, it must be in writing
and attached to certified roster. Those participants that play out of boundaries because of their
team within their boundaries is full or has folded, has a one (1) year waiver. The next year they
are to return to the association in whose boundaries they reside.
C. Falsification of data concerning any of the above.
D. Participation in another spirit program and the TYFSF spirit program in the same season.
E. Failure to document scholastic eligibility.
F. A participant who has not completed the required conditioning (20 hours)
G. A participant who has not attended and participated in the required three (3) hours of weekly
practice during the season.
H. Participation in post-season competition may also be prohibited upon recommendation of the
Federation
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PENALTY
1. Forfeiture of all games/competitions in which the ineligible player was a team/squad member
2. Any coach who is found guilty of having allowed an ineligible player or spirit participant to participate in
a pre-season, regular season or post-season game or practice or competition will be suspended for a
minimum of two (2) years from the date that coach was found guilty. There shall be no appeal
RULE 6: DROP AND ADDS
1. A squad may add participants to its certified roster as long as the roster was certified below the
maximum number permitted, or to replace those originally certified and no longer on the squad for any
valid reason.
2. The cutoff date for Drops and Adds will be determined by the Federation.
RULE 7: ALL STARS ***
1. All Star team or squad is permitted. Approval must come from the TYFSF Board of Directors only it shall
not impact any association’s teams or squads participation in regular or post season. A participant can
only compete in one (1) All-star team or squad per season. No simultaneous practice or play is permitted
on a weekly basis.
2. Cheer All-star Head Coach shall be selected by the TYFSF Cheer Commissioner and approved by the
TYFSF President.
Traveling All-star teams or squads that are representing TYFSF will have tryouts involving all Associations which
have that level of participation.
 Recommendations from Association Presidents will be strongly considered.
** Violation of these rules will result in an association’s charter being revoked.
RULE 8: PRACTICE
Pre-season practice shall begin at the same time as for football or later for the Flag Division as determined by
the Association
1. DEFINITION
To prevent possible bending of the rules and as a protection for children, practices are defined as a
gathering of players or spirit participants, without minimum number, in the presence of at least one (1)
coach, where one or more of the following activities take place:
A. Viewing of fundamentals film
B. Group conditioning
C. Individual skills sessions
D. Group skills sessions
E. Cheers, sidelines, chants, dance, music, etc.
F. Stunting, jumps, gymnastics, etc.
G. Camps/Clinics
A so called “party at a coach’s house, where films are shown, or where football or spirit teams/squads are talked
about, can be deemed a practice session, as can a “party” at a parent’s home when one or more coaches are
present. Use of a football field is not required to satisfy the definition of a “practice session”. The Federation will
establish a policy with respect to home videos and/or films of games or competitions and the viewing thereof.
2. Pre-season practice will be determined by the Federation. The actual date will be determined in
accordance with climate and other factors determined by the Federation in establishing a common
starting date for all squads within its jurisdiction.
3. All practices must be attended by one person holding a Red Cross Community CPR and First Aid
Certificate, or its equivalent, if not by a volunteer physician or EMT (such as a parent of one of the
participants).
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4. BEFORE LABOR DAY: No team or squad may schedule more than 10 hours of practice per week before
Labor Day. A week is defined as seven (7) consecutive calendar days. Not more than 2 ½ hours of
practice may be scheduled on any one day.
AFTER LABOR DAY: Practices after Labor Day weekend are limited to 6 hours per week. A week is
defined as seven (7) consecutive calendar days. Practices after Labor Day weekend are not to exceed 2
hours per day. BREAKS: Break time is not counted against the ten (10) or six (6) hours per week of 2 ½
hours of allowed practice time.
5. CONDITIONING
A. After the first week of practice (10 hours) for conditioning, and after the second week of
practice (10 hours) for conditioning, performer readiness evaluation and/or camp/clinic, the
squad may engage in regular practice sessions and/or pre-season games.
B. The first week of practice (10 hours) is restricted to conditioning ONLY. Conditioning includes
warm-ups, stretching. Cardiovascular fitness training and strengthening workouts. Words to
cheers, chants, motion techniques and jumps can be introduced this first week.
C. The second week of practice (10 hours) can include, in addition to continued conditioning,
stunting fundamentals. Stunting fundamentals can be introduced ONLY after each participant
undergoes a fitness evaluation to determine their stunt readiness and skill level. Stunting
fundamentals to be introduced in week 2 are limited to hanging drills, L-stands, thigh-stands,
step-up drills and stunt positions and exercises. Stunt shoulder level or above are PROHIBITED
until 20 hours of conditioning is completed.
D. Once 20 hours of conditioning is complete, participants should advance based on an assessment
of their skill level. (See Rule 11, 5. Partner Stunts & Pyramids, L. Suggested partner stunt
progressions). So as to avoid any misinterpretation, 20 hours of practice is required for all
cheer/dance squads before the squad may engage in regular practice sessions and/or preseason games.
E. Any spirit participant added after a squad has formed and/or after the season has started is
subject to the initial 20 hours of conditioning as outlined in 7 9see above).
F. In addition to the requirements for practice outlined above, the following also apply:
1. At least 10 minutes of warm-up exercises (to stretch and to limber up) shall be included prior to spirit
practice, with a maximum of 30 minute warm-up period prior to games and competitions.
A. Warm-up and stretching should precede and conclude all practices, games, competitions and no
additional practice for post-season play shall be authorized beyond the hours of practice per
week currently authorized by these rules.
2. No practice or participation at games/competitions shall be permitted without the minimum number of
adult as specific in Rule 2.
3. The practice/performing surface should be taken into consideration.
A. Practice session shall be held in a location suitable for the activity and reasonably free of
obstructions and excessive noise, etc.
B. Stunt shall be modified to be appropriate to the performing surface/area. Stunting should be
performed only when there is adequate space and lighting and where surfaces are not wet, icy
or uneven.
C. Mats should be used as often as possible.
D. Basket tosses shall only be practiced on soft surfaces such as mats, grass or rubberized tracks.
E. When it is detected that a participant is bleeding, has an open wound or an excessive amount of
blood on the uniform, the participant shall stop performing to receive proper treatment.
F. When a participant is rendered unconscious or apparently unconscious, that participant shall
not be permitted to resume participation without written authorization from a physician.
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EMERGENCY PLAN:
An emergency plan is a necessary tool in preparing your spirit squads for the upcoming season. All Head Coaches
are required to submit a general emergency plan in writing to their staff and to the Association Cheer Director.
The Head Coach should then discuss and review these procedures with assistant coaches, participants,
volunteers and parents. The following are a few suggestions:
A. An Emergency Medical Authorization Form should be on hand for each participant at all times.
B. Prepare a list of emergency numbers
Rescue Unit/Ambulance
Fire Department
Police Department
Hospital
C. Prepare and appoint specific roles for each staff member or volunteer in case of an emergency. The
following are a few suggestions:
Assess the injury
Remove the remaining squad from the area
Secure the area
Contact emergency numbers
Contact parents
Assist emergency personnel with necessary information from the participant’s emergency
information
Travel to facility with participant if parent is not able or refuses
Prepare an incident report
D. Practice your plan at the beginning of the season and review periodically (i.e., location of exits, location
of readily available emergency phones, directions to the nearest hospital, etc.)
RULE 9: CAMPS
Spirit Participants are allowed to attend camp/clinic pre-season and during season both as an individual and/or
team.
The following shall apply to spirit participants regarding camps:
1. The term “camp” shall be defined as one or more training sessions provided by an outside organization.
2. The term “clinic” shall be defined as one or more training sessions provided by the Federation or as one
or more practice session (see section on practices) for instructional purposes for all spirit participants.
3. In addition, camps/clinics may be held by an Association prior to the start of the season if the following
requirements are fulfilled:
A. The Association must request and receive advance approval in writing to the Federation
Cheer/Dance
B. The event must be open to the entire Federation
C. Coach or other affiliated squad personnel does not make it MANDATORY – except in the case of
additional stunt training for all stunting performers
D. Camp provides as part of its services an accident insurance plan for camp participants.
RULE 10: SAFETY
1. COACH’S RESPONSIBILITY:
A. Spirit squads should be placed under the direction of a knowledgeable coach.
B. The coach should be knowledgeable in first aid techniques and emergency procedures
C. Coaches should develop an emergency plan for dealing with injuries at practice/games.
Participants should be made aware of these procedures.
D. The spirit coach or other knowledgeable, rostered adult representative (21 years or older)
should be in attendance at all practices and functions.
E. All spirit participants should receive prior training before attempting any form of cheerleading
partner stunts or pyramids.
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F. All practice sessions should be held in a location suitable for the activities of spirit
leaders/dancers, i.e. use of tumbling mats is recommended, away from excessive noise and
distractions, free from obstruction, etc.
G. Training in proper spotting techniques should be mandatory for all squads.
H. Accessories, apparel and hairstyle should be conducive to safe practices and performances
I. Warm up and stretching should precede and conclude all practice sessions, pep rallies, games
and competitions.
J. All spirit squads should develop a conditioning and strength-building program.
K. The practice surface, location and weather conditions should be taken into consideration
L. Advisors/coaches must recognize the entire squad’s particular ability and limit the squads
M. Coaches should remain up to date on all new techniques, progressions and safety regulations by
attending conferences, clinics and rule meetings. The staff includes but is not limited to the head
coach, assistant coaches, coach trainee, student demonstrators and designated squad
volunteers
N. Proper progression and spotting techniques shall be used until stunts are mastered.
O. Coaches are required to attend Federation approved stunt certification clinics before teaching
any stunting skills to their team.
P. Coaches are required to attend Federation approved gymnastic certification clinics before
teaching or spotting any tumbling stunts.
Q. The coach should approve all cheers, chants, posters, music and other spirit activities of the
squad and inform squad that all new skills must first be reviewed and approved by the coach
prior to performing them.
R. The coach must establish a line of communication with the Association’s spirit squads, the
football personnel and the Federation Cheer Commissioner. The Head Spirit Coach has final
responsibility for his/her actions, those of his/her assistant coaches, staff, participants and
parents.
2. PARTICIPANT APPAREL:
All uniforms must be approved by the Cheer Commissioner, and the TYFSF Executive Board. Uniforms
cannot show midriff, shells may not be low cut, and shoulders must be two finger widths wide.
A. Jewelry of any kind, including earrings, bracelets, necklaces, rings, body piercing, spacers, etc. will not
be worn at practices, games or competitions, except religious or medical medals, which must be
secured to the body with tape, under the apparel if possible.
B. Bandanas are prohibited.
C. Gloves and other hand/wrist accessories are prohibited during a performance and/or practice for spirit
squads.
D. Glitter is prohibited. No glitter to hair, face, or body due to safety hazards. In addition, tattoos, face
paint, hair mascara, etc. are prohibited.
E. Fingernails, including artificial nails, shall be kept at a length appropriate for safe participation. The
appropriate length for all members of a stunting squad means the nails are not visible beyond the
fingers when viewed from the palm side of the hands.
F. Hair devices shall be safe and secure. The hair shall be worn in a manner to ensure safety while
performing. All members of a stunting squad wear their hair away from the face and off the shoulders.
Note: A coach shall not permit a squad member to participate if in his/her judgment items such as a
participant’s fingernails or hairstyle may constitute a safety concern.
G. MALE CHEERLEADER/DANCEER: Top – sweater, shell, t-shirt, polo, etc. Bottom – short, pant,
H. dance pants, sweat pants, Sneakers, soft-soled shoes, socks: FEMALE CHEERLEADER/DANCER: Top –
sweater, shell, dance wear, t-shirt, polo, etc. Bottom – skirt, short, dance pants, sweat pants, bloomers,
tights, Bow/ribbon.
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I.
J.
K.
L.
M.
N.
Support braces, etc. which are hard and unyielding or have rough edges or surfaces shall be
appropriately covered. A participant wearing a cast (excluding a properly covered air cast) shall not be
involved in a stunt except a legal forward roll.
Loose, baggy clothes, nylon/tights are not appropriate for stunting squads.
Gum, candy or food of any kind is not allowed in participants’ mouths during a practice, game,
performance and competition.
Eyeglasses shall be worn in a manner to ensure safety while performing (i.e. eyeglasses shall be secured
by a sport band).
It is highly recommended that wrist tape, tumbling wrap, wrist supports, etc. should be approved by
and maintained under the direct supervision of a trainer, doctor and/or medical staff. The primary use
of wrist aides is to provide support or assist in the healing process of an injury. A wrist aide is not to be
used as a uniform accessary for effect.
Nail polish is prohibited at practice, games and competitions.
3. SPOTTING
A. Spotters are recommended for all partner stunts. Continuous spotters are required for all stunts which
are a shoulder stand, elevator/extension prep or higher (see also 6. Extended Stunts).
B. A spotter must have hands up and maintain constant visual contact at all times with the top person/flyer
(from shoulder height and above). The spotter should not be looking at the crowd or performing
motions during the performance of the stunt (i.e. the spotter may not be involved in another aspect of
the performance at the time of the stunt that should prohibit him/her from spotting the stunt properly).
C. All spotting must be from ground level. A spotter is one who is in direct contact with the performing
surface and may help control the building of, or dismounting from. A mount. This person(s) shall not
provide the primary support; meaning the mount or pyramid would remain stable without the spotters.
D. The primary responsibility of a spotter is to watch for safety hazards and be in a position to prevent
injuries with special emphasis on the head, neck and shoulder areas.
E. A spotter is required for all stunts in which the base(s) arms are fully extended EXCEPT chair and Triplebased dead man lift.
F. A spotter must be in the proper position to prevent injuries. A spotter’s torso cannot be under a stunt.
G. A person is not considered a spotter if the hand position includes:
1. Grabbing the sole of the foot of the flyer or
2. Grabbing the hand(s) of the base(s) beneath the flyer’s foot.
4. USE OF POMS/PROPS
A. Banners, flags, megaphones, pom poms and signs are the only props allowed. Flags and banners may
not be used in conjunction with stunting or tumbling.
B. The use of poms and/or props is prohibited during tumbling, partner stunt/pyramid building, dismounts
and all stunt transitions which require the use of hands. The flyer may obtain and use poms or props
when secure in a stunt.
C. Mounting and/or dismounting with poms or props in hand is prohibited. A person up in a stunt may be
handed poms or props, but they must be discarded before dismounting.
D. Hiding poms or props anywhere on the body or uniform is a safely issue and therefore is prohibited.
E. The placement of poms and props should be a safe distance away from the performance area to
eliminate a safety hazard. Building or dismounting on poms and/or props will result in a safety
deduction per occurrence.
5. PARTNER STUNTS & PYRAMIDS;
A. Definitions:
Stunt – Any skill in which one or more persons are supported away from the ground by one or more
people (mount, pyramid)
Mount – Any skill in which one or more persons are supported by one or more persons.
Pyramid – Multiple stunts or mounts connected.
41 | P a g e
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
Base – A person who is in direct weight bearing contact with the performing surface and provides
primary support from another person.
Flyer – The person on the top of a stunt, mount or pyramid; also known as a top or partner.
Bracer – A person who provides stability for a stunt by direct, non-weight bearing, contact with a top
person. The stunt would remain stable without the brace.
Two High Pyramid – All individuals in the pyramid/mount who are not in contact with the performing
surface (top) must be primarily supported by one or more individuals who are in direct weight-bearing
contact with the performing surface (base).
All mounts and/or pyramids are limited to two persons high, meaning the top person receives primary
support from the base(s) that is in direct, weight-bearing contact with performing surface.
No spirit participant shall stand, kneel, sit or lie on anyone who does not have at least one foot on the
ground.
Partner stunts and pyramids may not pass over, under or through the other partner stunts and
pyramids.
A participant shall not move under or over a mount or pyramid. In addition, individuals may not pass
over or under other individuals
The top person in a partner stunt may not be in an inverted position (head below the waist) at any time
during the building, transition, execution or dismount.
Use of mini tramps, spring boards or any apparatus used to propel a participant is not permitted
Swing-up to a double based elevator and/or extension prep is prohibited
Single-based split catches are prohibited.
Helicopters (partner in a horizontal position is tossed and rotates in the horizontal plane around the
vertical axis, before being caught by the original base) are prohibited.
Transitional Stunts:
1. In transitional stunts, PHYSICAL CONTACT must be maintained between the top person and the
base(s).
2. When the transitional stunt involves change bases, the new bases must be to the side or in front of
the person moving the stunt except when the top person remains upright (vertical) throughout the
transition to the new bases with the person moving the stunt making no more than a half turn to face
the new bases.
Suggested Partner Stunt Progressions:
1. These progressions are general in nature, and do not attempt to list every skill. All spirit stunts
should be learned according to accepted progressions which means lower to higher and from
more easy to complex.
Step-up Drills
Double Base Thigh Stand
Double Base Shoulder Stand
Single Base Shoulder Stand
Extension Prep, Step off Dismount
Press Extension, Return to Shoulder
Cradle Dismount
Press, Extension, Cradle Dismount
Full Extension, Step-up Liberty
Ground-up Liberty
2. Flag Cheerleaders may learn and perform all stunts variations at shoulder level and lower.
Spotters are suggested for these stunts.
3. Mitey Mite cheerleaders may learn and perform all stunt variations at full extension level and
lower. Spotters are suggested for these stunts. Mitey Mite cheerleaders cannot perform basket
tosses or twisting dismounts.
4. Jr. Peewee and Peewee cheerleaders are required to have spotters for all stunts shoulder level
and higher.
42 | P a g e
M.
N.
O.
P.
Q.
R.
S.
5. Jr. Midget and Sr. Midget cheerleaders are required to have spotters at all extended level stunts
(except those listed earlier). It is suggested to have spotters at stunts at the shoulder level.
Collapsible pyramids are prohibited.
Tension drops are prohibited.
Hanging mounts are prohibited.
Split mounts are prohibited. Thus a spirit participant shall not be held in a split position off the floor by
one or more persons at any time; neither shall a spirit participant in a split position support any additional
weight.
Totem Poles are permitted provided that each person leaning forward is not stabilized/supported by the
stunt directly in front, and that no extended stunt stabilizes/supports another top person.
Back bends which support any additional weight are prohibited.
Sponge tosses, performed at the bases’ waist level, are permitted as a progression to another stunt
extension prep/elevator.
6. EXTENDED STUNTS
A. Definition
1. Extended Stunts: The supporting arm(s) of the base(s) is/are fully extended above the head. Most
extended stunts require a spotter.
2. Extension: A stunt in which the supporting arm(s) of the base(s) is/are fully extended above the
head and the top person is standing in the hand(s) of the base(s).
B. All extensions must have a continuous spotter
The spotter must be positioned behind the stunt, may help support the stunt, but may not be underneath
the stunt or be a primary support for the stunt (i.e. the spotter should not cross the plane of the partner
when viewed from the side. If she/he does, another person must be spotting from behind).
C. No extended stunt may brace another extended stunt(s).
D. If a person in a partner stunt or pyramid is used as a brace for an extended stunt, the brace must not be
supporting a majority of the top person’s weight.
E. A Straddle Sit can be double or triple based. The hands of the bases are fully extended. The flyer is lifted
into a sitting straddle position with legs open in front (knees facing up). A spotter is required on stunts in
which the supporting arms of the bases are fully extended (i.e. double based = 3 bases and one spotter,
triple based = 3 bases and one spotter).
7. PENDULUMS
A. Definition
1. Pendulum – a stunt in which the top person in a layout position falls forward and/or backward
away from the bases to the required number of catchers while maintaining constant hand to
feet/legs contact with the bases. It is not a dismount.
2. Pendulums are permitted, provided:
a) It is performed from shoulder height or below
b) It does not pass through an extended overhead position
c) The top person is caught in a face-up or face-down position
d) There are at least four (4) catchers (on all sides of a full pendulum):
1) The catchers remain in original positions
2) No one is between the bases and the catchers
3) The base(s) have constant visual contact with the catchers. Two bases are
required.
4) The bases remain stationary
5) Only the top person in a pendulum may turn
6) A pendulum may end in an extension
3. Half Pendulum
a) A half pendulum requires a separate spotter opposite the four (4) catchers.
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b) A half pendulum, requires two (2) bases in order to have constant visual contact with the
catchers
4. Backward and cradle dismounts to different bases (fireman’s catches, fallbacks and pendulums
that do not progress to the uprights) are prohibited. As stated, pendulums must progress to the
upright position.
5. The pendulum bases shall have constant visual contact with the catchers. Continuous spotters
are required for all stunts which are a shoulder stand, elevator/extension prep or higher. Also, the
spotter must have hands up and maintain constant visual contact at all times.
8. DISMOUNTS
A. Backward and cradle dismounts to different bases (fireman’s catches, fallbacks and pendulums that do
not progress back to upright) are prohibited.
B. Stunts where two (2) bases are involved, cradle dismounts are allowed only if the original bases, who
initiate the cradle, plus an additional spotter, catch. The only exception to this rule is a cradle dismount
from a transitional stunt.
C. All dismounts from shoulder height or above must have assisted landings. Also, the spotter must have
hands up and maintain constant visual contact at all times.
D. For cradle dismounts, the catchers shall have continuous visual contact with the top person.
E. No skill (toe touch, etc.) without constant hand-to-hand contact shall be performed prior to landing on
the Touch dismount is allowed when performed to a cradle. It may not be performed to a performing
surface.
F. Twist Cradle dismounts are allowed with approved training
G. Free falling flips are swan dives from any type of stunt are prohibited
H. Basket tosses (stunts in which two (2) or more bases form a basket with their arms and throw the partner
into the air, catching the partner in a cradle) are permitted with approved training
I. Sponge tosses performed at the bases’ waist level, are permitted as a progression to another stunt (e.g.
extension prep/elevator). A sponge dip or toss, from below the bases’ shoulder level, is not permitted as
the pop for a cradle.
J. Pop/Sweep/Toss definitions (reference NFHS Definitions):
1. POP – a controlled pushing motion upward by a base(s) to increase the height of the top person
or release the top to a cradle catches.
2. SWEEP – a controlled pushing motion forward by a base(s) to release a top person to a cradle
catch.
3. TOSS – a throwing motion by a base(s) to increase the height of the top person with the top person
with becoming free of contact with the base(s).
K. Cradle-Catch: A cradle-catch occurs when the catcher(s), with palms up, catches the top person in a faceup position, by placing one arm under the back and the other under the thighs of the top person. A cradlecatch is considered the end of a stunt.
9. GYMNASTICS/TUMBLING:
Any cheer coach who plans to coach gymnastics to any cheerleader “must” have “hands-on” gymnastics training.
Internet courses in gymnastics training will not be accepted. A certificate must be presented as proof of “handson” training and training must be renewed every two (2) years.
A. Definitions
1. Tumbling – gymnastic skills, including rolls (forward, backward), inverted skills (i.e. cartwheel,
handstand, walkover, front/back handsprings, etc.)
B. All gymnastic stunts must originate from ground level. The person performing a gymnastic stunt(s) may
rebound (without hip over hand rotation) from his/her feet into a cradle.
C. Participants may not tumble over or under individuals or over, under or through partner stunts or
pyramids.
D. A forward three quarter flip to the seat is prohibited
E. Toe pitches and leg pitches are prohibited
F. The use of mini-tramps is prohibited
G. No more than one completed rotation shall be involved in a flip
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H. No more than one completed rotation shall be involved in a twist
I. Dive rolls are prohibited
J. All gymnastic stunts must originate from ground level
10. INDIVIDUAL STUNTS:
A. Seat drops (dropping to the floor with the seat as the primary point of contact) are prohibited. Drop to
jazz sit is considered a seat drop and is prohibited.
B. Knee drops (dropping to the floor with the knees as the primary point of contact, as opposed to simply
kneeling) are prohibited.
C. Body drops (“dead falls,” or dropping directly onto the floor) are prohibited
D. “Flying” or “suicide” splits (going into a split off the ground and landing in said position with the inner
parts of the upper legs and/or thighs striking the ground first) are prohibited.
E. All of the above mentioned drops are allowed with the assistance of the person’s hands. The hand must
touch the performing surface before the knees, legs, etc.
11. DANCE SPECIFIC:
A. A primary squad may elect in August to be a Dance squad and be rostered as a Dance squad and only
dance during games and halftimes. They shall not perform any stunts or any other activity limited to cheer
squads with the exception of crowd participation sidelines/chants.
12. SPORTSMANSHIP
A. All participants must exhibit good sportsmanship throughout the regular and post season – at all practices,
exhibitions, games and competitions.
13. TUCSON YOUTH FOOTBALL & SPIRIT/ DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS:
TYFSF Competition Code of Conduct:
1. Any questions or concerns that affect a team’s performance must be presented by the coach of
the respective team to an appropriate Federation official.
2. Protests of any kind will only be accepted in writing. A formal protest form will be available.
Resolution from a formal protest will NOT be made at the event.
3. There will be no contact with judges by any competitor, coach or spectator during the competition
4. The judges’ rulings are final on ALL decisions concerning deductions, specific rulings and final
placement.
This code of conduct is to be followed without question. ALL teams, coaches and spectators are expected to
represent themselves and their Associations in a positive way.
Categories
Spirit Small Division – 16 participants or less
Spirit Large Division – 17 to 35 participants
Dance – Maximum of 35 participants
Competition Rules and Regulations
1. Spirit squads participating must have at least four (4) members
2. Squad size status is based on your roster count as of the first Monday in October. Please note the number
of actual spirit participants determines “Large Squad” versus “Small Squad”
3. The Federation championship competition will provide opportunities to advance squads to “regional” or
‘national” events.
4. In the city competition, the top five (5) teams in each small/large category will advance to the Federation
approved Regional. In addition, other teams may be able to qualify for other regional/national events.
Through sportsmanship, participation in camps, and other Federation approved events.
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5. Spirit/cheer – a squad who is certified as a Spirit Squad and will perform, a cheer/dance routine not to
exceed 2 ½ minutes, which may include partner stunts, pyramids, gymnastics and tumbling. Only 75
seconds may be performed to music.
6. Dance – a squad who is certified as a Dance Squad and will perform, a choreographed routine, not to
exceed 2 ½ minutes. The use of partner stunts, pyramids or gymnastics/tumbling is prohibited.
7. Division Eligible for Competition – Flag and Mitey Mites (if they elect to and the Federation Cheer
Commissioner must be notified in writing) Jr. Peewee through Sr. Midget Divisions both cheer and dance.
8. Exhibition Division – Flag and Mitey Mite, if not competing in the championships.
9. All-girl stunt (5 members) division for 12 years old and up at City Competition
10. There will be no flags, banners or mascots to proceed cheer squads to the floor at competition.
ROUTINE TIMING
See Time limits under categories
In addition: Time for all spirit squads will begin with the first movement, sound of music or word by the squad
after its name has been called to perform. If a squad exceeds either time limit (75 seconds for music and 2 ½
minutes overall) a ten point penalty will be assessed for each violation. Squads should time their performance
several times prior to competition and allow AT LEAST FIVE (5) SECONDS of “cushion” to account for variations in
sound equipment.
INTERRUPTION OF PERFORMANCES
1. If the squad’s routine is interrupted because of failure of equipment, facilities, weather, etc. the squad
affected will be allowed to present its routine from the beginning or from the point of interruption as
determined by the Federation Cheer Commissioner.
2. In the event a squad’s routine is interrupted because of failure of the squad’s own equipment, the squad
must either continue or withdraw from the competition.
3. In the event that an injury causes the squad’s routine to be interrupted, the squad may either continue or
perform at the end of the division at the discretion of the Federation Cheer Commissioner. The
competition officials reserve the right to stop the routine due to injury, if it is deemed necessary.
ENTRANCE AND EXITS
1. All introductions (i.e. tumbling, formal entrances, chants, spell-outs, silent building, etc.) are considered
part of the routine and timed as part of the performance. Formal entrances are not recommended,
starting a routine with a mount is permitted, and however, building the mount starts the clock and is
scored.
2. Exits are not included as part of the routine, therefore, there should not be any organized exits or other
activities after the official end of the routine.
3. The captain or designated squad member will give a signal to the timekeeper to signify the end of a
routine. The squad does not have to clear the floor before giving the ending signal. The time will stop
when the signal is given and judges will not consider any material performed after the ending signal.
COACHING
1. Coaching during the performance is prohibited (e.g. yelling instructions or motioning directions to squad
members). Spirited crowd responses, however, is welcomed from any and all fans, including members of
the coaching staffs.
POMS
1. The use of poms is prohibited during tumbling partner stunts/pyramid building, transitions which require
the use of hands, and all dismounting. A partner (flyer) may, however, obtain and use poms when secure
in a stunt. Again the poms must be safely discarded prior to transitions which require the use of hands,
as well as prior to the dismount.
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2. Stepping on poms may interfere with the safety of the performance and therefore is a safety violation. A
participant may kick a pom out of the way or step over a pom as long as they do not step on or slip on
the pom.
3. Hiding poms anywhere on the body or uniform is a violation. The intent of this rule is not to eliminate
poms in cheer competition, but to make coaches aware of the importance of organizing a safe routine.
The placement of pons should be a safe distance away from the performance area to eliminate a safety
hazard.
4. A competition spotter can move poms out of the way if the spotter cannot safely reach/spot a
stunt/pyramid. Prior to competition, the officials must reinforce that pom-poms are the participant’s
responsibility.
5. Standard poms (i.e. plastic, vinyl, metallic, etc.) are an optional item of the basic cheer/dance uniform.
The NFHS states “A prop may be an object that is manipulated (i.e. poms, signs, flags, etc.)” A squad may
use standard poms throughout the competition routine. An example of the traditional use of poms is
when the entire squad uses poms for a cheer/dance segment and then places/tosses aside the poms to
finish the remaining routine. There are many ways to use poms in a competition routine that will not
violate the props rule.
6. While mounting and/or dismounting, poms and/or props on the cheer surface are not allowed within a 3
feet radius of the stunt.
THE USE OF GLITTER, TATOOS, FACE PAINT, HAIR MASCARA, NAIL POLISH, ETC. IS PROHIBITED. (Refer to
Participant Apparel)
PERFORMANCE AND WARM-UP AREA
1. The matted competition area for Federation competition will be 42’ x 42’ deep.
2. A squad may cheer outside of the matted area. However, any forming of stunts, jumping and/or tumbling
off the matted competition area during the routine is a safety violation. It is important to choreograph
your routine for the safety of the participants taking into account over-rotation of tumbling and uneven
surfaces.
3. You may begin your tumbling off of the matted surface; however, the actual tumbling pass must begin
and end on the matted surface.
4. Please review Entrances and Exits section
5. Clarification: A spontaneous/spirited leg lift/kick by an individual while off of the matted surface is not
considered a jump and/or a violation.
6. It is recommended that an auxiliary gym should be in place to serve as the warm-up area just prior to
performance. This area should be secured from non-participants and spectators, and include a matted
surface for tumbling and/or stunt warm-up.
7. Stunting or tumbling on concrete surfaces or in other unsafe environments (poor lighting, obstructions,
etc.) is strictly prohibited.
8. The entire routine must be performed inside the competition are ONLY the members of the squad
performing, judges and chairperson/designee may be in this area. Ten point will be deducted for this
infraction
SPECIFIC DANCE RULE DIFFERENCE
1. Each dance squad will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed 2 ½ minutes.
2. Dance squads shall compete separate from cheer squads.
3. The use of partner stunts, pyramids or gymnastics/tumbling is prohibited
4. Soft-sole shoes and hand held props are permitted
5. Squads participating must have at least six (6) members
6. Costuming and accessories are permitted
7. A violation of a safety rule will result in a ten (10) point per judge deduction. A safety observation report
will be utilized.
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DANCE PROPS
1. Dance squads may use props. Props that are stationary (e.g. scenery) as well as those that may puncture
the performance surface are prohibited (i.e. chairs, ladders, sawhorses, hollow boxes and other similar
props with legs). All props must be pre-approved by the Federation Cheer Commissioner.
2. All props must be utilized during the dance routine.
3. Props may not be used to base a person in a stunt.
4. Tumbling onto, under, over, through or off props is prohibited.
5. Headstands and handstands are not permitted on a prop.
6. Flips and rolls are not permitted as a dismount from a prop.
JUDGING CRITERIA & PROCEDURES
1. The judges will score the spirit squads according to the following criteria:
Projection
10 points
Fundamentals (motion, technique, jumps, tumbling,
Partner stunts/pyramids
40 points
Dance/Choreography
10 points
Team Precision
20 points
Overall Appeal
20 points
2. Judges will score the dance squads according to the following criteria:
Projection
10 points
Dance Technique (motion, technique, style,
Dance technique)
30 points
Dance/Choreography
20 points
Team Precision
20 points
Overall Appeal
20 points
3. The same panel of judges will judge all squads within any particular division. The judges’ score will be
totaled to determine the overall squad score. After penalty points are assessed, the squad’s overall grand
total will be used determine rankings and winners.
4. Judges will be independent outside judges arranged by the Federation Cheer Commissioner using
approved score sheets. In addition three (3) safety judges will make the necessary safety deductions for
any safety violation.
PENALTIES
1. A 10 point deduction per judge will be assessed for each safety rule violation. A 10 point deduction for a
music violation, appropriate music WILL NOT include any reference to sex, drugs, violence, or alcohol, as
well as any profanity or sexual innuendos. A 10 point overall time violation will be assessed for a maximum
of 20 points. A safety observation report will be used. (“Safety violation sheet”)
2. A squad with a violation may advance to the next level of competition. However, the head coach under
the direction of the competition official (Federation Cheer Commissioner) is responsible for removing the
violation prior to the next level of competition. (i.e. illegal stunt, pyramid, tumbling, etc.) after reviewing
the competition’s safety violation sheet.
SCORING
Scoring will be done by independent outside judges to be arranged by the Federation. An approved scoring sheet
will be used based on the criteria listed above:
DISQUALIFICATION
Any squad that does not adhere to the terms and procedures of the Competition’s “Code of Conduct” may be
disqualified from the championship and automatically forfeit any right to any prizes or awards, and may also forfeit
the opportunity to participate in regional and/or national championships.
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FINALITY PROCEDURE QUESTIONS
Any questions concerning the rules or procedures of the championship will be handled by the head coach of the
squad and will be directed to the competition coordinator. This also includes scoring. If the question is answered
unsatisfactorily, the spirit coach of the squad must file a protest to the Federation Cheer Commissioner. The
protest must be presented in writing no later than five (5) days after the cheer championship performance.
All decisions as rendered by the judges concerning scores will be accepted as final.
Any other situation requiring interpretation of the rules or a decision involving any aspect of the spirit
championships, not clearly specified in the rules of the spirit championships, shall be presented in writing to the
Federation Cheer Commissioner at least one (1) week prior to the date of the spirit championships.
The Federation Cheer Commissioner and championship officials will render a decision and strive to ensure that
the spirit championships proceed in a fair and equitable manner and are consistent with the rules and goals of the
spirit championships.
SPECIAL NOTES FOR ALL PARTICIPATING SQUADS
1. See section on Lifts
2. Type of routine – see categories
3. All routines must be within the set time limit
4. All squads must check in 45 minutes prior to division performance time
COMPETTION ELIGIBILITY
1. TYFSF certified spirit squads may enter other competitions ONLY as follows:
A. A competition or event sponsored by the TYFSF, which occurs during the accepted TYFSF season
and follows accepted safety rules.
B. A competition or event sponsored by a non-TYFSF organization if, that organization advance by
the Federation Cheer Commissioner.
C. All TYFSF competitive teams are expected to participate in the TYFSF city competition. Any team
that does not participate in the TYFSF City Championship shall not be eligible to compete in any
other TYFSF or non-TYFSF Competition during the current approved season.
2. There shall be no individual competitions.
3. Competition among squads shall be limited to squads from the same division of play competing against
one another.
4. There shall be no cutting of participants from the regular season roster for competition, unless there is a
written medical reason, nor shall substitutions be permitted.
5. No squad shall engage in more than one (1) competition per week; the competition shall count as one
practice or as the game for the week.
6. TYFSF squads may accept a squad award for their achievement in a competition.
7. When competing, a squad may not use the name of another squad’s town any time during the routine.
Squads may use generic mascot names (i.e. nicknames: Tigers, Rams, Bears, etc.)
8. A squad’s performance at competition shall be an extension of what the squad does at games, supporting
its teams. Words in the routine shall not be aimed at other squads, but an example of what gets positive
crowd response at games.
VI. CHEERLEADING TERMS
1. STUNTS
Arabesque – A stunt in which the working leg is extended behind (close to 90°) while the supporting leg
is the hands of the bases.
Awesome – A stunt in which the flyer has both feet tightly together in the base(s) hand(s). Single base
provides a solid platform for partner by grabbing for partner by grabbing the heel and middle of foot,
allowing the fingers to grab the sides and back of the feet. Proper spotting techniques are required.
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Ball-UPS – A stunt when the flyer starts on the opposite leg and then switches on the way up to the main
leg. Also, in co-ed stunting, the flyer tucks the legs on the way up to the stunt.
Basket Toss – A toss initiated by two or more people who have their hands interlocked with one or two
additional people who assist with the toss.
Bear Hug Dismount – The spotter stands to the side and slightly in front of the person dismounting with
their arms up in the air. As the person dismounts the spotter makes contact above his/her head and places
the outside arm and shoulder in front of the person dismounting and the head, other arm and shoulder
behind the person dismounting. The spotter’s arms wrap around the person like a bear hug so as to
cushion the impact of the person dismounting. The flyer/person dismounting must keep her arms up at
all times.
Bow and Arrow – A heel stretch which is executed while the flyer holds the extended foot with the
opposite hand. The extended knee/leg usually touches the ear. Proper spotting techniques are required.
Chair – A single based stunt in which the base places the right hand in the center of the partner’s seat
with arm locked. The base’s left hand holds the flyer’s left ankle and pushes upward for support. The flyer
is in a sitting position on the hand of the base.
Chorus Line Flip – A stunt where the spirit leader back flips between two other spirit leaders with arms
locked around the waist.
Cradling Dismount Position – Position-Bases reach up with straight arms. One base’s arms are narrow
and the other base’s arms are wide. The bases wrap their arms around the flyers upper back and legs. The
flyer wraps her arms around the bases’ shoulders.
Double Based Thigh Stand – A stunt involving two bases in a lunge. The flyer stands in the pocket of the
lunge. The bases start in a lunge position with the bent knee directly over the ankle and the back leg are
straight. The bases’ outside hand should grab the flyer’s toes with one hand and the inside arm wraps
above the flyer’s knee with a fist. The flyer starts with each on the bases’ shoulders and steps up in the
pockets of the lunged bases. Dismount: The flyer takes the outside hands of each base while the bases
place their hands underneath the flyer’s armpit to control the step down landing. A spotter is always
recommended for safety purposes.
Dead Man Lift – An extended stunt above the head. The flyer is in a layout position, supported by the
bases away from the cheering surface. Double Based Dead Man Lift requires a spotter. A Triple Based
Dead Man Lift does not require a spotter.
Extended/Extension – A stunt in which the flyer is standing with both feet in the hands of the bases. The
bases have their arms in an extended position over the head. Each foot of the flyer must be supported by
at least one hand that is not supporting the other foot. The bases each grab the heel and the toe of the
flyer’s feet. The spotter grabs the wrist of the bases or the ankles of the flyer and pulls in. Dismounts from
multi-base stunts to a cradle shall have at least two (2) catchers and a separate head-and-shoulders
spotter.
Flat Body Position – The flyer is in a horizontal position (face up or face down).
Hand Shake Grip – The partner and the base interlock hands as if they were shaking hands.
Hands/Half Extension – A non-extended stunt position where the flyer is standing in the hands of the
bases at shoulder level. The bases each grab the heel and the toe of the flyer’s feet and hold at chest level.
The spotter grabs the wrists of the bases or the ankles of the flyer and pulls in.
Heel stretch – Similar to the liberty, a stunt where the flyer holds the leg in an extended position while
the other leg remains in the hands of the base(s). Proper spotting is required.
Inverted Stunt – A stunt where the person’s head is below his/her waist.
Liberty – Stunt where the flyer stands on one leg while the other leg is lifted and bent at all times. The
main base should have a firm grip on the toe covering as much of the foot as possible while controlling
the front to back motion of the partner’s foot. The side base should gab underneath the foot with the
right hand on top of foot with the other hand and control the side-to-side motion of the partner’s foot.
The back spotter needs to hold the partner’s ankle and seat with the other hand while pushing up the
bases. The flyer should push off the bases’ shoulders and step up into a liberty position while locking her
leg and lifting to a high V.
Pyramid – A pyramid is multiple connected stunts.
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Reload – A stunt that reloads from a cradle position to another stunt while maintaining constant contact
with the bases.
Rocket/Kick Out – A double based stunt where the flyer lifts one leg straight up in a kick position while
the other foot remains in constant contact with the bases. The proper spotting techniques for shoulder
height and above must be followed. A spotter is required on stunts in which the supporting arms of the
bases are fully extended.
Sailor – A sailor roll is legal and requires a head spotter.
Sassy – From a liberty position, the flyer crosses the opposite leg over the leg in the bases’ hands. Flyer
places hands on hips. Proper spotting is required.
Scorpion – From the liberty position, reach back and grab your toe and pull it up behind your head. It
should be in line with the rest of your body.
Shoulder Sit – A stunt in which the partner sits on the shoulders of a base. All dismounts from shoulder
height or above shall have assisted landings. No skill without constant hand-to-hand contact shall be
performed prior to the landing on the performing surface.
Shoulder Stand – A stunt in which the partner stands on the shoulders of a base. The base holds under
the flyer’s calves just below the knee, pulling down and pulling elbow’s forward. Dismounts from a single
based stunt to a single based cradle shall have a separate hand-and-shoulder spotter. All dismounts from
shoulder height or above shall have assisted landings. No skill without constant hand-to-hand contact
shall be performed prior to the landing on the performing surface.
Smush/Sponge – A stunt from an elevator and/or extension where the bases bring the flyer back down
to the hips so that they are in the starting position.
Split Drop – The spirit participant drops forcefully to the surface from a jump or a stand, landing with legs
extended at right angles to the tuck in a split position without first bearing most of the weight on the
hands to break the impact of the drop. A split drop is prohibited.
Straddle Sit – A straddle sit can be double or triple based. The hands of the bases are fully extended. The
flyer is lifted into a sitting straddle position with legs opened in front (knees facing up). A spotter is
required on stunts in which the supporting arms of the bases are fully extended.
Torch – A stunt in which the flyer is standing on one foot with the lower part of her body turned to one
side while the upper part of the flyer’s body remains turned to the front. A spotter is required.
2. JUMPS
Banana – A jump in which you arch your back and reach upwards.
Double Nine – A jump where the arms and legs are in the same nine positions. Bring legs to arms and
keep your head up.
Herkie – A jump where one knee is bent facing down and the other leg is straight facing forward.
Hurdler – A jump where the bent knee faces the crowd and you sit in a hurdler position.
Pike – A jump where you bring the legs to the arms in a pike position while keeping the head up.
Spread Eagle – This jump is a straddle in the air but you do not need to rotate your hips. Keep the knees
forward and a straight body in the air without piking.
Toe Touch – A jump where you keep the head and chest up, pull legs to arms and reach for the arch of
the foot.
3. DANCE STYLES
Hip Hop/Funk – A dance while utilizes intricate rhythms and latest in progressive, street dance styles.
Emphasis on execution, style, control, creativity, body isolation and rhythm patterns. Additional focus on
athletic technical skills as jumps: jumps with variations in focus, arm/leg placements, and landings; combo
jumps and other athletic inspired tricks.
Jazz – Combination of movements with an emphasis on body placement/alignment, style, control and
extension/tension through hands and feet. Incorporates technical/studio dance.
Military – Formation changes are the key. Marching with crisp pivots, head snaps and flanks are combined
with razor sharp arm motions. Continually changing spatial designs add to the military style. Better suited
for football field or other larger arenas, as the formation changes and visual effects are more successful
when the audience is distant and elevated.
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Novelty – Acts out the music style. Creative movement can be reinforced with props and especially
costumes. Works well when using a theme of several songs.
Pom – Hand poms are visually effective in a routine that includes quick part work, use of tricks or pom
passes, level and group work. The focus is the pom and the chorography should be crated with the prop
being the main focus. Visual pictures are created using opposing motions and contagions. It is important
that the pom be the focus of the choreography and always has a purpose.
Prop – uses a hand-held accessory to enhance motions. Sometimes combined with novelty, but can be its
own style depending on music selection.
4. DANCE TERMS
Arabesque – A position in which the supporting leg maintains the balance and weight while the working
leg is extended and straight and behind the individual. An arabesque can be done with the supporting leg
either being straight or bent Attitude – A position in which the working leg is extended in front, to the
side, or behind with a bent knee while balancing on the supporting leg; can be executed as a turn.
Axle – A turn in which the working leg fond do jambs to passé as the supporting leg lifts off the ground
and tucks under the body after rotation in the air. The landing takes place on the original supporting leg.
Ball Change – A ball change is a shirting of weight from the ball of one foot to the flat of the other (side
to side or front to back).
Battement – A battement is a kick. It is the result of the working leg being brushed/raised with a straight
knee, into the air and brought down again. This can be done to the front, side or back.
Chain – A chain or a series of linked turns. Step right, together with the left, step right and then together
with the left. The turn is complete as the left pulls in.
Chasse – Chasse means to chase or called step-together-step.
Contagion/Ripple – the repetition of a movement from one person to the next.
Demi Point – A dance position commonly called tippy toes. This is where one stands on the balls of the
feet with the heels held off the floor as far as one can manage.
Developpe – (to develope) A skill that draws the working leg up to the supporting leg to posse, then
extending the working leg to an open position.
Fouette Saute – The term means whipping jump. A jump where you lift the working leg front and keep
the supporting leg straight as lighting off the ground. The next step is to flip the hips over the air towards
the direction of the supporting leg so that when landing on the supporting leg. The working leg is now in
back.
Grand Jete – A split leap where you brush the right leg front as you push off with the left leg. The landing
is on the right leg in a plié.
Leap – a leap is a movement in dance when taking off from one foot and landing on the other foot. The
use of a plié when leaping will achieve height and emphasis is on proper form (i.e. upper body lifted, arm
placement, extension, height, tight legs, pointed toes).
Pas De Bouree – A step back-side-front (also called back ball change). It is three steps executed in releve,
releve and plié.
Passe – Means to pass. This is the rising of the foot of the working leg touches, the knee of the supporting
leg, toe to knee. This can be executed either turnout, out or parallel.
Pique – Is a step directly on the releve. Children often step on a bended knee then straighten their knee.
This is sloppy and incorrect. Emphasize the pushing onto the releve instead of stepping.
Pique Turn – Again stepping directly on the releve and not bending the knee of the supporting leg. This
turn often occurs in passé turning over the shoulder of the supporting. (Often confused with pirouette).
Pirouette – is pretty much the opposite of the pique turn. Prepping back one bends both knees making
sure that their center is still equal over both legs. The back leg then lifts to passé pulling the turn over the
shoulder of the working leg and not supporting leg.
Plié – A plié is a bending of both knees or of the supporting leg, opening of the knees.
Releve – A releve is raised on the balls of the feet.
Rond De Jambe – is a movement of the leg (either on the ground or in the air) of forward side back or
reversed.
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Russian – A leap to the side, looking much like a toe touch in mid-air; it beings by brushing one leg up and
lifting the other. Landing occurs on the leg than began the jump crossing the other leg either in front or
back of the supporting landing leg.
Saute De Chat – Saute de Chat is also termed a cat’s jump. This is performed similarly to the grand jete
except only the leg is bent instead of straight when brushed up and straightened when loading.
Saute – A dance term that swings one leg forward and then back, lifting into a split leap.
Tendu – (to stretch) used to describe the straightened working leg. The working leg is stretch, pushing the
foot away from the supporting leg while keeping the toe on the floor.
Three Step Turn/Grapevine – This is a turn performed with three steps; step to right side, cross over the
left as body faces the back wall, and step back around to the front with the right.
Tombe – Tombe means to fall or step down. The working leg falls into plié, usually used to being a pas de
bouree.
TEAM ASSIGNMENT/CERTIFICATION
ROSTERS CERTIFIED WITH TUCSON YOUTH FOOTBALL & SPIRIT FEDERATION INC.
It shall be responsibility of the General Manager to prepare one (1) copy of the team roster form (player and spirit)
from the computer as instructed by Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation. The team roster shall include the
following in league age starting with the oldest age, players’ address, players’ telephone numbers, players’ birth
date (league age) and players’ certified weight. The team roster shall also include names of all coaches, staffs,
coach trainee and water person along with their address, phone number also indicate who has the Community
CPR and First Aid Card.
ROSTER SIZE
Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc. requires the following for team numerical size. Each team may
have a maximum of thirty-five (35) players in each tackle division and twenty-four (24) players in flag. Each team
must have at least twenty (20) players for tackle divisions and twelve (12) players for flag registered and certified
as final day of certification, a date to be established by TYFSF. A team which certifies the minimum number of
players, but less than the maximum may add players until the maximum number of players is reached. If after the
certification date, a team who has certified the maximum players, losses players may make an application to add
players in compliance with this rule. The Certification Commissioner has the authority to approve or disapprove
this application. Full substantiation must be furnished in the cases, before consideration will be given.
All paperwork (rosters, registration forms, physicals) for participants must be completed and submitted by the
date selected by the Certification Commissioner. NO ADD ONS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE. Any
exceptions will be reviewed and approved or disapproved by the Federation Certification Commissioner.
Players Certification and Documents. Each player and spirit member is required to submit to association officials
the following forms and data:
A. Birth Certificate: Proof of Age: A certified copy of the birth certificate on file bearing the seal of the issuing
office of the state of birth is the best guarantee or reliability of claimed birth date. Passports, Military ID
cards and certified wallet size certificates issued by the state or commonwealth are acceptable. Any other
alleged “proof of birth date,” including photo copies of originals” are to be accepted only upon the
willingness of the team administration to have its games/championships forfeited should fraudulent
application later be determined. Once the player/spirit age has been verified, a copy of said document
will be retained by the Federation. Said copy to be attached to the application that goes to the Certification
Committee. BAPTISMAL & HOSPITAL CERTIFICATES ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE.
B. When the name of the participant on the team roster is other than that listed on a birth Certificate a copy
of a court order/document changing the name, copy of the marriage certificate in the case of the mother
remarrying, affidavit certifying that the participant is the one and the same or any other legal document
which associates the participant in question as one and the same.
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C. Participant Contract: The participants application must be in the teams’ business manager’s or staff
member’s possession at all times during any type of TYFSF function, practice/games, fundraisers,
banquets, competition, etc.
D. Verification of Forms: The General Manager and/or Business manager shall have the responsibility to
check all forms for completion. The General Manager and the Business Manager or two (2) association
officials (members of the association’s Executive Board or TYFSF representative) shall have the
responsibility of verifying (signing of the contract to designate such verification) the proper age of each
participant.
E. Picture ID: A picture ID (photo) is required for all participants in all divisions. Flag through Sr.
Midget/Unlimited. Each team is to have a photo ID card in the order of the roster for weigh in and it is to
be presented at weigh ins at all games. (season and post season)
F. Picture ID Coaches/Volunteer Staff: I picture ID (Photo) is required of all Coaches and Volunteer Staff for
the purposes of creating a Sideline Badge. The wearing of Hats and sun glasses are prohibited when taking
the photo.
G. Scholastic Fitness: A copy of the report card for the entire previous year in school is required. In cases of
doubt or conflict of opinion, a written statement by the school administration shall be deemed final.
NOTE: This rule as it relates to scholastic grades may not be made more stringent by a team or
association.
H. Weight Certification: Each association’s General Manager and a Certification Committee Member shall
conduct the certified weigh in and shall verify such weight by their signatures on the appropriate form as
provided by the Federation. Such certified weigh in shall be conducted on a date established by TYFSF. No
Executive Board Member or Certification Committee Member shall weigh in his/her own association.
The certified weigh in will be done in t-shirt and athletic shorts only. The Association’s President or
General Manager with the consent of the parent/guardian will take action to place the players in the
proper division. Players not present at certified weigh in or late players shall be weighed on a date set by
the Federation Certification Commissioner.
I.
Association’s General Manager’s Responsibilities: Each Association’s General Manager shall be
responsible for conducting all TYFSF designated registrations and all additional registrations by the
association. After each TYFSF or Association registration, weekly after the first day of practice, each
Association’s General Manager will submit a fully completed Registration Roster (Registration sign-up
sheet) to the Certification Commissioner. It shall be the responsibility of the Association’s General
Manager to review all documents with each Business Manager to ensure completeness and that all rules
are satisfied. These documents include:
1. Team Roster and Team Assignment Roster
2. Registration Form
3. Physical Form (must have doctor’s name and stamped and/or printed on the physical form)
4. Waiver of Liability
5. Proof of Scholastic Fitness
6. Birth Certificate (copy)
7. Any other documents that may be required.
The Association’s General Manager shall initial each Team Roster and shall submit all rosters on the date
established by the Certification Commissioner along with one (1) copy of the registration form, physical,
Waiver of Liability, report card and birth certificate and retain for his/her records a copy of the same. Each
General Manager will retain possession of all registration forms until the team assignment is completed,
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and until those players registering after completion of the team assignment are placed on the appropriate
teams according to rules herein.
Those teams that fail to certify on the date established by TYFSF Certification Commissioner shall not
be certified until after the first (1st) game of the season.
J.
Certification Committee’s Responsibility: The Certification Committee shall have responsibility to review
submitted team documents for completion and accuracy to assure that all rules are met. Once the
Committee is satisfied all information is complete and meets all rules and regulations, the Certification
Commissioner will sign the copy of each team roster and said signature shall signify a team as certified.
The Certification Committee is responsible for certification of all initial rosters and all late certification.
Certification forms of players certified after the team roster is certified may be signed may be signed by a
member of the Certification Committee. Copies will be made and distributed with a complete set of the
Association’s certified rosters to the Association’s General Manager. Each team’s business manager will
receive a copy of their roster for their team to be used for purposes of weigh in.
K. Certification Procedures:
1) Association certification dates will be determined by the Federation Certification Commissioner.
2) Certification will take place at a location selected by Federation where a laptop and records can
be brought.
3) A member of the Certification Committee will be present to monitor association certification,
check paperwork, explain requirements, etc.
4) A copy of the computer program used by TYFSF will be provided to each association. The
association will input roster data into the program which will check accuracy and proper
placement.
5) The Federation will input association data into the master program, which will again check for
accuracy.
6) Certified rosters will be provided by and signed off by the Certification Commissioner.
7) Incomplete association rosters will be returned to the association for action
8) Associations will need access to a laptop and printer to be able to run the program. If you do not
have access to a laptop and printer, then you can do it manually and submit to the Federation for
processing (doing the rosters on the computer) for which you will be charged.
L. Player Records: Copies of all applications and team rosters shall be in the possession of the business
manager or designee during all activities involving the team/squad.
M. Late Certification: If a player is certified late, copies of the approved documents will be forwarded to the
Certification Committee. A certified weigh in of a late player will be conducted by a member of the
certification committee after the first day the player reports to practice. Certification of a late player may
be performed by a member of the certification committee.
Player Assignment
A. Brother and Sisters: May or may not be able to play on the same team depending upon parental request,
age/weight compatibility.
B. Exempt Players from team Assignment
1) Once a player has exercised his/her option for exempt status, this player will not be eligible for
further exemption until he/she moves to another division. The only exception to this rule would
be the case of an Assistant coach moving to a Head Coach position.
2) All exempt players will be listed as an exempt player on the Initial Team Assignment Roster.
3) A player may not be listed as an exempt player on more than one Initial Team Assignment Roster.
4) An explanation of exemption will be included on the Initial Team Assignment Roster, including a
copy of the request for exemption.
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5) Inappropriate use of the exemption status will result in a reassignment with those wrongly
exempted players placed in the open selection/assignment. No additional exemptions may be
taken to replace those disallowed in any reassignment.
6) When two (2) teams existed in a division during the past season and are moving up to a division
that only had one (1) team the past season, the teams moving up will go to their respective teams
in the new division. Returning players to the division that only had one (1) team the past season
will go through the team selection process as will all new players.
As to exemptions: Since both teams had the benefit of exemptions when first selected to the teams the previous
year and to allow five (5) more exemptions would in effect by “TEAM STACKING” so to be fair, only those many
exemptions, maximum five (5) as each team has lost from last year’s exemptions, will be allowed: If Team “A”
loses three (3) of the five (5) than it can have three (3), if Team “B” lost one (1), then it can have one (1). If neither
has lost any, then they will have none.
C. Initial Assignment Roster (IAR): This roster is required for all teams. This roster will be the basic
instrument in determining how many players from each age group will be assigned to a given team in
order to ensure that each team has equal strength numbers by age group, at the end each business
manager will submit a roster of his team’s returning players and exempt players to the Association’s
general manager a minimum of forty eight (48) hours prior to the day of the assignment unless otherwise
directed by the Certification Commissioner the night of the assignment. In case of dispute, the
Certification Commissioner copies of records will be the governing documentation.
D. Returning Player. Every effort possible will be made by the Association (team) to contact any player who
is eligible to be classified as a returning player, and has re-registered.
1. It is understood that it is the players’ parents, the Association’s and the team’s responsibility to prepare
as accurately as possible an Initial Assignment Roster.
2. Explanation of failure to return must be included on the IAR for each player eligible who does not appear
on the IAR. (If there were two (2) teams the prior year).
E. Actual or Original Assignment Steps: Expansion teams before initial assignment. When an Association
expands for more than one team in a division, each team will be allowed five (5) exemptions, and these
must appear on the IAR.
F. Time of Initial Assignment. The initial assignment for the player season will be determined by the
Certification Commissioner
G. Responsibility. The Association’s General Manager and/or the Association’s Athletic Director along with
the Business Manager from each team will be responsible for that teams’ assignment under the direction
of the TYFSF Certification Commissioner. ONLY NON-COACHING INDIVIDUALS WILL BE ALLOWED TO
PARTICIPATE IN THE TEAM ASSIGNMENT FOR THEIR ASSOCIATION. If necessary, the Association General
Manager and/or President may designate a non-coaching member to participate in this procedure for a
specific team should such a team not have a Business Manager at the time of the assignment. An
Association General Manager and/or President may also elect to have the General Manager handle the
entire procedure with the assistance of the TYFSF Certification Commissioner.
H. Assignment Procedure. As follows:
1) Each team will be assigned a precedence order (who goes first) according to the IAR. The team
with the least amount of returning players will be first. In case of a tie, a coin flip will decide who
goes first. The precedence order will be used whenever equal numbers within a particular age
group occurs. This precedence will apply to all subsequent and follow-up assignment.
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2) All assignments are blind draws. Contracts will be shuffled by the Commissioner by age group.
Contracts will be placed face down in a single pile, according to the age to be assigned. The
General Manager will be told when to take a contract and mark the order at that time. This
method is used in all assignments.
3) During the initial assignment, the experienced players are selected first. This separation of players
is only used in the initial assignment; all other assignments are by age only. (Experienced means
that a player participated in TYFSF the previous season).
a) Assign oldest age experience player first.
b) Add the number of players in the oldest age to the number of players in the next age.
Assign the second age group of experience players.
c) Total the first two age groups, add players in the third age group, assign the experienced
players in the third age group. Repeat steps for the fourth age group.
d) After all the experienced players have been assigned, do the same procedure with the
inexperienced players.
e) Once a player has been through the open selection/assignment, and the Association
continues to consecutively expand, the player will remain on the IAR of the players’
previous open selection/assignment. This regardless of returning to the same division or
advancing in a division. This is an attempt to make every effort possible to keep
teammates together who have already undergone the blind draw.
NOTE: After the assignment, the General Manager will do a Post Assignment Roster; listing the assigned players
in the order they were assigned. This form with the IAR is a team.
I.
Post Assignment Roster. A copy of the Post Assignment Roster will be provided to the Association’s
General Manager after the initial assignment.
1) This roster will list each player in order of assignment, beginning with the oldest. This roster will
list the date that each player was assigned.
2) Post assignment rosters to be presented at the time of certification.
J.
Expansion Team Formed After Initial Assignment. An expansion team formed after the initial assignment
will be formed at the time of the subsequent assignment.
1) All players in the assignment pool of the highest age group for that division will be assigned to the
expansion team until it is equal in number of the other team.
2) Should there not be enough players to bring equalization; the last players assigned in the
particular age group on the existing team will be removed from the existing team’s roster until
equalization is reached. An expansion team may not form after the third (3) day of contact.
K. Subsequent Assignment. Players to be assigned in the subsequent assignment. All players not signed in
the initial assignment will be distributed in the subsequent assignment. Any player in the next oldest age
category would go to the team with the lowest cumulative total in the highest two (2) age categories, etc.
At no time however, shall a team be allowed to have over two (2) players more than a sister team in the
same division.
1) Responsibility for Subsequent Assignment. The TYFSF Certification Commissioner will be
responsible for conducting the subsequent assignment. TYFSF will decide when the subsequent
assignment will be.
2) Division Changes: Any player found to be eligible for a different division after the initial
selection/assignment will be moved, and assigned as a new player following the guidelines as
previously stated. However, there will be no transfer between sister teams in a division.
3) Follow-up Assignment: All assignments after the subsequent assignment will be conducted by
the Association’s General Manager under the direction of the TYFSF Certification Commissioner.
4) Follow-up Rosters: Following the subsequent assignment and all assignment, a roster will be
made in accordance with TYFSF procedures as previously stated.
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5) Late Registration-Certified Weight. Any player reporting after the certified weigh-in or reporting
for his/her first practice session after certified weigh-in will be weighed at the first practice session
attended, and must have weight certified before placed in the selection/assignment.
L. Administration. The Association’s General Manager and Athletic Director will be responsible for policing
the assignment, under guidance of the TYFSF Certification Commissioner.
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ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL
CLINICS:
The Federation will facilitate mandated coach’s clinics. The following are the minimum criteria to be covered at
coaches clinic: (1) AIA/NFHS rules; (2) Local rules; (3) conditioning and sports injury; (4) sports psychology; (5) risk
management; (6) sexual harassment; (7) coaching skills and (8) other items determined necessary by the
Federation.
EQUIPMENT AND STAFF CERTIFICATION
Association presidents will provide the Federation the following written Certification:
1) That the Association’s equipment has been inspected and meets National/AIA requirements for use in the
TYFSF football program. Such certification to be provided the Federation no later than August 1st.
2) That the Association’s Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Business Manager and Team Equipment Manager
have been trained and meet Federation requirements to be a part of a team’s staff in the TYFSF program.
Such certification to be provided to the Federation at the time of the association’s team certification. The
Head Coach and 1st Assistant Coach must be CPR/First Aid Certified.
3) HELMET CERTIFICATION: Commencing with the 1997 season, it shall be mandatory that all helmets are
inspected, by an authorized NOCSAE Inspection Company. Commencing in 2003 it is recommended by all
helmet manufactures that helmets be inspected every two (2) years. The following policy applies:
a) Each association is to inspect each helmet in use and storage annually, but for purpose of this rule
no later than May 1 of the current calendar year for date of certification and/or purchase date.
b) Each helmet needs to be inspected using the suggested inspection check list or an equivalent
check list from the helmet manufacturer or authorized certification company. ANY HELMET THAT
IS SUSPECT IS TO IMMEDIATELY BE REMOVED FROM INVENTORY.
c) Any helmet that is out of date but still serviceable may be used, but must be recertified prior to
use.
FIELD MARSHAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Check the authorized personnel on the field (must have an identification badge).
2. Monitor weigh-ins.
3. Make sure there is plenty of ice water for each team.
4. Watch for unauthorized substances on the school premises and/or in the parks.
5. Make sure home teams have chain crews.
6. Make sure teams have necessary emergency information.
7. Make sure teams are ready to go on time so there is not delay of games.
8. Let teams know where they can warm up.
9. Have a stop watch available for officials, if needed.
10. Control the game ball, if provided by the host association.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
The host association will prepare and give out to each visiting team an emergency medical list. The list will contain
the following: (a) street address of school or park where the games are played. (b) location of nearest phone; (c)
phone number of emergency vehicles; (d) 911 emergency number and (e) location of first aid kit.
Each association will maintain a medical kit for practice and games.
PROCEDURE FOR WEIGH-IN
The home team shall weigh-in first or defer to the visiting team (the head coach or team business manager of the
home team makes that decision). Business Managers, Assistant Business Managers or Equipment Managers may
be at the weigh-ins and their names must appear on the team’s certified roster. In case where an individual holds
a team position other than Business Manager and is also an Association General Manager, Association Officer,
Problem Resolution committee member or a Federation Officer, he/she cannot be in attendance at the weigh-in
unless specifically requested to be there.
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The opposing Business Manager must weigh all players at all scheduled games prior to the start of the game. NO
COACHES OR PARENTS WILL BE PERMITTED IN THE WEIGH-IN AREA DURING THE WEIGH-IN. Each team will have
a separate weigh-in without opposing team players in attendance. After each player is weigh-in, he/she will go
directly to the designated area; said designated area shall be specified by the home team and shall be open and
visible.
No player shall be allowed to leave the designated area after weigh-in has been completed without prior approval
of the opposing Business Manager. If a player leaves the designated area without the prior approval as noted, the
player shall not be eligible to play in the first half and shall be treated as a player late for weigh-in. If over the
game weight, he/she becomes ineligible to play in that game.
If a player arrives after the weigh-in, but within ten (10) minutes prior to game time, and both Business Managers
are in agreement, the player may be weighed in with both Business Managers present.
If a player is late for weigh-in, they will remove their shoulder pads and sit on the bench and will not be allowed
to play in the first half. At half time, the Business Manager will weigh the player or players that had missed the
weigh-in and if found eligible, will play their entire mandatory plays in the last half. The Business Managers must
enforce this rule.
Business Managers report must list the name(s) and number(s) who were ineligible to play and reasons.
Weigh-in will consist of “Heavy Weight” (maximum) weight. Players will cross the scales by age; starting with
oldest age group on a team.
The Field Marshall is to be in attendance at the weigh-in, in case any problems or questions should arise The
Business Managers are to conduct the weigh-in itself.
Any Problem Resolution committee member or Federation officer may be in attendance if deemed necessary by
an Association officer, or if requested by either Business manager.
Each player may cross the scale one (1) time in an attempt to make game weight. THE ACTUAL WEIGHT OF ANY
PLAYER INELGIBLE TO PLAY BECAUSE OF WEIGHT MUST BE SHOWN ON THE GAME REPORT, ALONG WITH THE
JERSEY NUMBER.
FOR OVERWEIGHT PLAYERS: A player who fails to make weight during the pre-game weigh-in will not reweigh at
half time. Only those players who fail to arrive at the game field within ten (10) minutes of a game time will be
weighted at half time.
ANY ATTEMPT TO WITHHOLD A PLAYER FROM THE PRE-GAME WEIGH-IN TO ENABLE HIM TO “MAKE WEIGHT” AT
HALF TIME WILL BE CONSIDERED A DIRECT VIOLATION OF FEDERATION RULES (SWEATING DOWN A PLAYERAND
KNOWINGLY PLAYING AN INELIGIBLE PLAYER.)
Jersey numbers must be on rosters and exchanged prior to the actual weigh-in.
Have each player call out their own name to you as they approach the scale. IT IS TO YOUR BENEFIT AND FOR
YOUR PROTECTION TO USE THIS METHOD RATHER THAN HAVING A MANAGER CALL OUT THE PLAYERS NAMES.
CHECK ID PICTURE AT THIS TIME. THERE WILL BE NO TRADE-OFFS AT THE SCALE. REMEMBER: we have the weight
maximum for a reason, and no exceptions are to be made under any circumstances. (For example: 150.3 lbs. is
150 and 150.99 lbs. is 150). Both Business Managers will be held responsible in the event an ineligible player is
allowed to participate and they had this knowledge.
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Injured players and players not playing for disciplinary reasons do not count towards the 16 player minimum
player requirement. IN ORDER TO MEET THIS 16 PLAYER REQUIREMENT, ALL 16 PLAYERS MUST BE ABLE TO
PARTICIPATE IN THE GAME.
SIGNATURES ON BUSINESS MANAGER’S REPORT
It is MANDATORY that the Head Coach’s signature appear on the Business Manager’s Report as well as the
Business Manager’s signature, except for playoffs and championships.
DIVISION PLAYOFFS:
A. One (1) Conference in a Division: The first (1st), second (2nd), third (3rd), fourth (4th), fifth (5th), sixth (6th),
seventh (7th) and eight (8th) place teams will go to the playoffs with No. 1 vs. No. 8, No. 2 vs. No 7. No. 3
vs. No. 6, No. 4 vs. No. 5. Second round would match first game with winner of No.1 vs. No.8 game vs.
winner of No.4 vs. No. 5 and second game with winner of No. 2 vs. No. 7 vs. winner of No.3 vs. No. 6.
Those winners would advance to the championship game. Standings are determined by the number of
points earned during the conference season (win = 2 points, Tie = 1 point, Loss = 0 points). If there is a tie
between first and second; second and third; third and fourth; fourth and fifth; fifth and sixth; sixth and
seventh; seventh and eight; eighth and ninth, in the conference standings will be determined first by the
result of Head-to-head competition between the teams involved. If there is still a tie between the teams,
overall standing points (conference plus non-conference games with TYFSF teams) will be used to break
the tie. If there is still a tie between the teams involved, overall standing points (conference plus nonconference games with TYFSF and PHX AYF teams) will be used to break the tie. If a tie still remains
between the teams involved, there will be a coin toss to break the tie between, 1st and 2nd; 2nd and 3rd; 3rd
and 4th; 4th and 5th; 5th and 6th; 6th and 7th; 7th and 8th. If a tie remains between 8th and 9th place, after head
to head and overall standings (conference plus non-conference, with teams from TYFSF & PHX AYF) have
been used, a mid-week game will be played to determine the 8th place team.
B. Two (2) conferences in a Division: The first (1st), second (2nd), third (3rd) and fourth (4th) place team from
each conference will advance to the first round of playoffs, with Conference “A” team No. 1 vs. Conference
“B” team No. 4 and Conference “B” No. 1 vs. Conference “A” No. 4. Conference “A” team No. 2 vs.
Conference “B” team No. 3 and Conference “B” team No. 2 vs. Conference “A” No. 3. Standings are
determined by the number of points earned during the conference season (Win = 2 points. Tie = 1 point
and a Loss = 0 points). If a tie results between first and second, second and third, third and fourth in
conference play, standings will be determined first by head-to-head competition, second by overall
standing points (conference plus non-conference TYFSF teams) and third by overall standing points
(conference plus non-conference TYFSF teams and PHX AYF teams). If a tie remains between fourth and
fifth place teams after all standings have been considered, a mid-week game will be played to break the
tie. If a tie results between the first and second, second and third, or third and fourth after all standings
have been considered, a coin toss will be used to break the tie. Mitey Mite Division: Allow the top four
teams in their conference to participate in a playoff format as per rule. Division Playoffs Page 58 Section
B with the exception of four conference teams not 2. (LOGGISTICS: Divisions top four to play in playoffs.
Playoffs to start one week prior as other divisions playoffs, teams not involved would be matched as per
record with other sector for final game at start of Mitey Mite playoffs).
C. Two (2) Sub-conferences within a conference in a Division: The first (1st) place teams from each subconference will advance to the first round of playoffs. Then from the teams remaining the teams with the
4 best overall records will advance to the first round of the playoffs. The determination for playoffs for
sub-conference first place is conference standings first, head to head, overall records (conference plus
non-conference TYFSF teams) and last overall records (conference plus non-conference TYFSF and PHX
AYF teams). If a tie remains for first place in sub-conference after all tie breakers either a coin toss will
determine who wins first place, if both teams will go to the playoffs regardless or a med-week game will
be played to determine the sub-conference first place if team that loses will not make the playoff with a
remaining overall record in the top 4 teams remaining. The determination for playoffs for the 4 best
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overall record teams that do not win their sub-conference will be based on overall record to include
(conference plus non-conference TYFSF teams and PHX AYF teams) if a tie exists between fourth and fifth
best overall record team who don’t win their sub-conference, a mid-week game will be played to
determine the fourth place team not a sub-conference winner. The first place teams from a subconference will be ranked in order from 1st to 4th based on overall record (conference plus non-conference
TYFSF and PHX AYF teams) if a tie still remains a coin toss will be used to break the tie. The remaining 4
teams that advance to first round of playoffs by having the 4 best overall records and not a sub-conference
first place team will also be ranked 5th to 8th based on overall record (conference plus non-conference
TYFSF and PHX AYF teams). If a tie remains after all standings have been considered, a coin toss will be
used to break the tie. Per the seeding explained above the following matchups would take place the first
round of the playoffs. No. 1 vs. No. 8, No. 2 vs. No. 7, no.3 vs. No. 6, No. 4 vs. No. 5. Second round would
match first game with winner of No. 1 vs. No. 8th game vs. winner of the No.4 vs. No. 5. And second game
with winner of No. 2 vs. No. 7 vs. No. 3 vs. No. 6. Those winners would advance to the championship game.
If both Playoff and the Championship games should end in a tie at the end of regulation time, the AIA tie breaker
will be used to determine the winner.
Home Team for any playoff and championship games will be the higher seeded team.
TYFSF POLICIES
1. FEDERATION AND/OR ASSOCIATION SPONSORED EVENTS: All sponsored events Federation &
Association MUST BE on file with the Federation including off-season events. A completed registration
form and/or coach’s application must be on file with the Federation and/or Association for a person not
participating the prior year (those participating the prior year would appear on a certified roster). Those
under league age that participate in an Association and/or Federation event must have a signed release
form.
2. Transportation of children in the backend of pickups or trucks by association personal is PROHIBITED.
3. If a visiting team function is planned for a home team’s field on scrimmage and/or game days obtains the
hosting association’s permission prior to doing said function.
4. At all home game field, if the host association uses a locker room for its teams, a locker room must also
be provided for the visiting association’s teams.
5. Failure to attend committee meetings will result in a $100 fine being assessed against offending
association, with said monies to be placed in the scholarship fund. A$200 fine applies to the offending
association if they fail to attend the scholarship meeting.
6. Associations may not hold any registration prior to a date approved by the TYFSF Board of Directors.
7. Any association that does not have 18 players on a team after the second week of practice shall be
required to disband said team and gives the players the opportunity to go to other teams.
8. No team, squad or outside vendor may sell anything for any reason at a Federation sponsored Playoff,
Championship, Special Event or another association’s field without the express written approval of the
Federation.
9. Mandatory Team Meeting: A mandatory team meeting requiring the attendance of at least one (1)
parent/guardian, will be held by all Flag/Tackle football teams and Spirit Squads prior to the end of August
to explain TYFSF Policies as follows: (Note: Non-attendance by at least one (1) parent/guardian will result
in the child being unable to participate further until compliance is achieved):
1) That the risk of injury does exist.
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2) A participant may not participate in a school program and TYFSF at the same time, i.e., middle
school or high school tackle and TYFSF, except as a part of a P.E. Curriculum or for spirit tryout
purposes.
3) Misbehavior by adults will not be tolerated at practices, games or special events. Law
Enforcement will be called.
4) Good sportsmanship is to be exhibited at all times.
5) In the Cadet through Sr. Midget/Unlimited Divisions, since many associations participate in
Regional/National competitions, parents/guardians must be made aware of the competition and
the cost involved.
6) The Policy on missing practice. The policy regarding casts.
7) Other relevant team/squad/association requirements.
8) All coaches, team/squad staff members, football/spirit athletes/parents must sign a code of
conduct form.
10. Participating in football/spirit with a cast. In order to participate in a football/spirit game/Competition,
the following requirements must be met.
1) Tackle/Flag Football: Referees approval: Spirit squad: game Cheer Commissioner and Federation
president approval. Local competition; Judges and Cheer Commissioner, Director;
Regional/National Spirit Director Judges.
2) A valid medical release authorizing participation.
3) A signed written authorizing form from the parent/guardian
4) Cast must be properly wrapped in accordance with AIA/Spirit Federation specifications
5) All conditioning practice rules must be met.
11. The Federation has adopted the policy of zero “0” tolerance.
12. POLICIES ON ETHICHAL BEHAVIOR AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Those who choose to be involved with Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc. (TYFSF) are held to
the highest standards of conduct. As trustees of the principles and image of TYFSF, you assume an
obligation to subordinate individual interests to the interest of the organization.
Those who serve TYFSF must do so without personal gain and behave in such a manner that the
organization’s trust and public confidence are enhanced. It is important to avoid both real and appearance
of a conflict of interest.
Written guidelines cannot guarantee acceptable behavior but you must follow the following principles
disclosure, non-participation in the decision making process where personal or family gain is possible, and
a commitment to honor the confidentiality of TYFSF information. Conduct is ultimately founded on the
individual’s own sense of integrity and he or she must accept the burden of public disclosure and scrutiny.
In our fast paced society, the mixture of volunteer work, business interests and family relationships can
sometimes create conflicting interests. What is required is the disclosure of conflicts when they arise and
non-participation in any evaluation process relating to the matter at hand. The following are guidelines
intended to point us in the right direction.
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

TYFSF Federation and Association business is to be conducted according to all applicable
federation and state laws.
TYFSF and Association property, services, opportunities, authority and influence are not to be
used for private benefit.
TYFSF may lease a commercial property (month to month or yearly agreement) zoned C-2 or C-3
to conduct all Business/administrative for a maximum of three (3) years.
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

Anyone participating with TYFSF is required to make full disclosure of the nature of any actual
potential conflict of interest. In consideration of issues where possible conflicts exist, such
individual will not evaluate or vote on the matter. This includes but is not limited to, contracts,
purchase of goods and services, Rules, Regulations, Policies and Procedures and allocation of
resources.
To the extent that an association adopts policies and procedures in addition to those provided in
the TYFSF Rule Book, a copy of the association’s board approved policy or procedure shall be kept
on file with the Federation Executive Secretary.
13. All federation rules and by-laws, to include any additions and changes of the current year must be kept in
a folder of the present year. It is the responsibility of the President or the Executive Vice President (the
board member who is not on the election ballot for the upcoming year).
14. Federation Executive Board Member and Commissioners shall submit a budget to the Federation
Treasurer in advance of preparation of the Federation Budget, itemizing proposed expenditures for the
fiscal year, (July 1 to June 30) including season operating budget, playoff or championship event and
special events including post season. Proposed budgets are due to the federation treasurer by May 1 of
the current calendar year to allow for presentation to the Board of Directors for review at the May
calendar year Board of Directors meeting and for budget approval at the June 1 Board of Directors meeting
15. All member associations must provide the Federation Treasurer and Executive Secretary with monthly
financial statement showing funds available, income and expenses, a copy of their Form 990 IRS Tax
Return and a copy of their State of Arizona corporation annual filing. Failure to comply will result in loss
of voting rights until compliance is achieved.
Definitions:
a. Association will consist of at least two (2) tackle teams, one (1) spirit squad and apply for membership to
the Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation as specified in the Federation By-laws.
b. Player. Boy or girl eligible to participate in the TYFSF program,
c. Assignment: the term “assignment” will refer to the player selection system, as approved by Tucson Youth
Football & Spirit Federation.
d. New Player. Any player not certified the previous year. Any player moving to a different division and any
player not on the Initial Assignment Roster.
e. Returning Player. Any player previously certified with a particular Tucson Youth Football & Spirit
Association must return to the same team, if he/she qualified for that team and division.
f. Exempt Player. Any player not eligible to be assigned. An exempt player will be defined as the
son/daughter of a Head Coach or Assistant Coach of that particular team or any child whose parents has
signed a request for exemption (one of five exemptions). The exemption request must also be signed by
the Head Coach, General Manager, or Association President.
g. Non-Player. A non-player is a TYFSF member, water person, coach trainee/trainer, spirit student
demonstrator.
h. Head Player/Spirit Coach: A person of 21 years of age or older.
i. Business Manager: A qualified person 18 years of age or older.
j. Assistant Player/Spirit Coach: A qualified person of 18 years of age or older
1) A player team may have a maximum number of four (4) assistant coaches.
k. Player/Spirit Coach Trainee: A qualified person of 15 years of age or older.
1) One (1) per tackle and flag team and spirit squad is allowed.
l. Spirit Squad Member: Girl or boy eligible to participate in the TYFSF program age 5 to 15.
m. Water person – A non-player of age 5 to 15.
n. Equipment Manager: A qualified person of age 18 years of age or older.
o. Suspension. An act to deny a person of any association with TYFSF for violation of rules. The term/time of
suspension will be determined by the TYFSF Hearing Tribunal, and approved by the Federation Board.
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p. Game Weight. Player plus all his equipment except helmet and shoulder pads.
q. Warm Weather Break of 15 minutes. A break in the middle of practice to allow the players a chance to
rest/vent/ cool, etc. The players may drink as much water as desired. The Business Manager may talk to
them about fundraising; safety related topics, school activities and the success of the player’s school
studies, ride sharing and administrative matters. No football topics are to be discussed or chalk talks.
r. Contrasting Uniforms. A team will have as a minimum, different color of jerseys. A color within a color is
allowable providing that the numbers are of a different color for each team.
s. Authorized Personnel. No parents, or unauthorized personnel, shall be on the practice/playing field during
practice or game. The Head Coach or Business Manager is responsible for ensuring this action. No person
meeting all other rules of eligibility can participate in practice/game activities unless approved/certified
by the association.
t. Intoxicating Beverage and Illegal Substances. Any illegal substance or any beverage with alcohol content
may not be consumed. The Possession of or Consumption of alcoholic beverages at any field is
PROHIBITED.
u. Conditioning: That period of time devoted entirely and exclusively to exercise, physical training, active
participation in non-contact practice, not wearing pads; however, helmets shall be permitted.
SUMMARY AUTHORITY
This is authority exercised immediately, without formality, only on occasions when the nature of a violation is too
serve that it cannot be allowed to continue between observation and the time a formal hearing would take place.
It is similar to an arrest based on reasonable belief a crime is or has been committed.
USE OF SUMMARY AUTHORITY
Summary Authority is to be applied in all cases when quick action is needed to stop, alter, change or otherwise
modify a condition which cannot be allowed to continue until a hearing is held. This may involve a threat to the
safety and wellbeing of juveniles (a team holding contact without helmets) an obvious violation of Federation
rules (uses of ringers, or something which adversely affects the image and good name of the Federation in the
community, (two associations fund raising in the same area).
Summary Authority may be exercised only by officers of the Federation and Associations. The power of Summary
Authority includes ordering a game or practice stopped, as well as to suspend, on the spot, any adult or juvenile
judged to be the cause of a problem. Summary Authority is to be used with the utmost of caution. In no case does
it substitute for final action. The Federation and/or Association must schedule a hearing to arrive at a final
disposition of the case.
SCHOLAR AWARDS
Scholar/Athlete Program: The Federation will sponsor an annual scholar awards program to honor eleven (11)
players and eleven (11) spirit members’ scholars from each grade level in school beginning with the 2 nd grade up
to and including the highest grade level represented during that year/season. These scholars shall make up the
grade level scholar/athlete teams.
From these scholar teams two (2) candidates, a player and spirit member, will be selected from each grade level.
These two (2) candidates shall be the scholar athletes. (Player and spirit) From these scholar teams a minimum of
two (2) candidates, a player and a spirit member, from the eighth grade (8th) and higher will be selected. These
two (2) candidates shall be the scholarship awardees.
The duly elected Federation Scholarship Commissioner, will distribute scholar applications to the associations no
later than the second week of practice. The applications and report card from the previously entire school year
(generally August through May), shall be submitted to the Scholarship Commissioner at a Scholarship meeting to
be set at or about the second scheduled game.
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Nominees: Gold Team. 8th Grade or Higher. All participants with a ninety-six percent (96%) or greater grade
average, who have completed the application per Federation I requirements and who have turned in the required
report card form the previous entire school year and meet all other Federation requirements, will be nominees.
All applicants must present proof of activities, honors and extracurricular activities (certificates, letters, etc.) as
indicated on the Scholarship application. A written essay on a subject specified by the TYFSF board is also required.
Home schooled participants with a ninety-six percent (96%) or higher grade average, who have completed the
Scholar Application as required and have submitted four (4) quarters (or equivalent) test grades from the previous
year can be nominated.
Silver Team: All players and spirit members with a ninety percent (90%) or higher grade average and no failing
grades, who have completed the Application per Federation I requirements and have turned in the required
report card from the previous entire school year and meet all other Federation requirements, will be nominees
(Exception, see Awards, Paragraph 1, regarding flag and mitey mite participants and awards. Paragraph 2,
regarding 2nd through 4th graders). Applicants may present proof of activities, honors and extra-curricular activities
(certificates, letters, etc.) as indicated on the Scholarship Application. Lack of said activities shall not constitute a
reason for a excluding a nominee from consideration by committee members. Certificates, letters, etc. may be
used to break a tie between applicants. Scholarship shall be the primary consideration of a child’s nomination.
Home schooled participants with an ninety percent (90%) or higher grade average, who have completed the
Scholar Application as required and have submitted four (4) quarters (or equivalent) test grades from the previous
year can be nominated.
AWARDS: Awards from nominees and team members will be reviewed and determined each year and will be
based on the TYFSF budgeted and/or donation amount.
Award recipients shall be announced to each association by the last week in October.
1. All 2nd graders and up, players and spirit members, who meet the qualifications set above for Nominees
with an ninety percent (90%) or higher grade average but not selected to be on the scholar team, will
receive a certificate. (Consideration will be given to those applicants in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th grade with an
ninety percent (90%) or higher who do not have addendum items).
2. The scholar team, members named to each grade level will be awarded a certificate and either a patch or
medal, to be chosen by the scholarship committee. The scholar athlete, player and spirit (except in
scholarship level) will receive above mentioned awards plus a $50.00 cashier’s check and a plaque (not to
exceed $15.00). The scholarship awardees will receive the same recognition as the scholar team members
plus a plaque and the scholarship award.
Award Ceremony: The Scholarship Commissioner shall arrange an Award Ceremony to honor the scholar team
members, scholar athletes and scholarship awardees, the Hall of Fame Inductees and the TYFSF volunteer(s) of
the year who will be the guest of Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc.
Scholar Athletic/Scholarships:
Procedures: Each year the Federation President and/or the Scholarship Commissioner shall appoint a Scholarship
Selection Committee, who has no affiliation with the Federation and/or a participant. The standard of selection
used by the committee shall be ninety percent (90%) from scholastic grade and ten percent (10%) from activities
outside of TYFSF. Other activities must be verified by an independent letter or certificate stating that the nominee
participated in said activity. The committee may include the following:
1. One or more members from the education field
2. A member of the clergy
3. One or more members of the business community
4. A member of another civic group
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The Scholarship Commissioner with the Selection Committee shall select a minimum of two (2) candidates, a
player and a spirit member, from the eighth grade and higher to receive a scholarship of $500 each (this amount
to be reviewed annually). Those who are awarded scholarships must have been an active participant in the TYFSF
program for an entire season.
Per IRS Regulations, Scholarship monies will be in as segregated account until the participant graduates from high
school and must be used within two (2) years of graduation from high school for expenses directly related to
attendance at a college or university, Jr. College or a trade school (expenses include tuition, books, registration
and activity fees) and will be paid directly to the school. Should the scholarship not be used within two (2) years
of graduation from high school, said monies shall revert back to the Federation scholarship fund.
Funding: The cost of awards and cashier’s check will be borne by the TYFSF general fund. The cost of the ceremony
for those invited guest (scholar team, members, scholar athletes, scholarship awardees and guests) attending the
Scholar Award Ceremony will be borne by the TYFSF general fund.
Commencing in 1995 funding for the annual scholarship shall come from donations by individuals, business,
associations, fund raising, and/or fines assessed to associations. No funds from the annual federation budget will
be used for scholarship unless approved by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the Federation Board of Directors.
Penalties: Failure of an association and head football/spirit coach to provide participants with information and
applications for the scholarship program, or who do not encourage participation in the scholarship program, which
does not nominate names for the “team” awards will result in that association’s president and head coach
appearing before the Federation Hearing Tribunal with an explanation of same. Sanctions can include probation,
suspension and/or fees.
ASSOCIATION JUDICAL COMMITTEES AND FEDERATION HEARING
TRIBUNAL
PURPOSES, FUNCTIONS AND PROCEDURES
I. ASSOCIATION JUDICAL COMMITTEE
A. GENERAL: The Association President in accordance with the Association’s by-laws and, with the
Approval of the Board of Directors, shall annually appoint a Judicial Committee comprised of not
less than three (3) or more than five (5) members. Except in cases involving a conflict of interest,
the president shall be the chairperson,
The Association President shall provide a list of the Judicial Committee members to the Federation
Executive Secretary and the Federation Hearing Tribunal Chairperson.
The Association Judicial Committee shall meet as necessary, weekly during the practice and
playing season, to resolve internal problems and to conduct hearings as needed.
B. PURPOSE: To enforce National, Federation and Association rules, regulations and written policies
in an expeditious and fair manner at the lowest possible level.
C. DUTIES: To act on matters referred to the AJC due to the conduct and/or actions of adults and
juveniles as a result of:
1. A Complaint filed by a party of status
2. Protest filed by a party of status
3. A Petition filed by a party of status
4. The Application of Summary Authority by an officer of an Association or the Federation.
5. To investigate and take appropriate action to deter an action within the Association that
is detrimental to the National and/or local program.
6. And/or as directed by the Federation Hearing Tribunal
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D. PROCEDURES:
1. To review, investigate, take action or conduct hearings as appropriate on all Complaints,
Protests or Petitions.
2. The review and investigation must be conducted within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt
or notice of a member of the Association Judicial Committee or a member of the
association Executive Board.
3. Results of investigations and decisions of hearings are to be reported to the Federation
Hearing Tribunal Chairperson no later than the next regularly scheduled Federation Board
of Director’s Meeting.
4. Hearings shall take place within the time limits proscribed in the Association Judicial
Committee * Federation Hearing Tribunal section of this Administrative Manual. The only
exception is written waiver of notice from the charged party or parties.
5. Hearings shall be conducted according to the procedures described on pages 59 – 62.
6. All Complaints, Protests, Petitions or Applications of Summary Authority, must be
resolved before the team or teams involved will be allowed to participate in any playoff,
championship or post-season game.
7. All Complaints. Protests, Petitions or Applications of Summary Authority involving alleged
participants violations must be resolved before the charged parties will be allowed to
participate or resume duties with the team participants.
E. APPEALS: The decision of the Association Judicial Committee may be appealed to the Federation
stating clearly the reasons for appeal and documentation in support thereof. However, the
Tribunal is not obligated to hear all appeals. The procedures are stated in the Administration
Manual. Appeals must be filed in writing, in letter form, stating clearly the reasons for appeal and
documentation in support thereof.
F. ADULT, JUVENILLE AND TEAM OR ASSOCIATION OFFENCES: Adult, juvenile and team offenses
are those set forth in this manual.
G. PENALTIES FOR ADULT, JUVENILLE AND TEAM OR ASSOCIATION OFFENSES:
Penalties shall be as set forth in the Federation Rules and Regulations, Federation Administrative
Manual and Association Rules and Regulations in written form in compliance with the above.
Suspension of a minimum mandated penalty by an Association Judicial Committee shall require a
written explanation with reasons stated to the Federation Hearing Tribunal.
The ruling of the Association Judicial Committee is absolute except in a manner involving
permanent Suspension for ninety (90) days or more. Suspension of ninety (90) days or more shall
be referred to the Association Board of Directors at its next regularly scheduled meeting for a vote
of support by a majority of the Directors.
II. FEDERATION HEARING TRIBUNAL:
A. GENERAL: The Federation President shall annually appoint a Federation Hearing Tribunal
comprised of three (3) members of the Executive Board and approved by the Federation Board of
Directors. The Chairperson shall be the President, or in cases of conflict of interest, his/her
designee. In cases of conflict of interest involving a Tribunal member or members, another
member of the Federation Executive Board shall be appointed.
B. PURPOSE AND POWERS: The Federation Hearing Tribunal shall have the authority and duty to
enforce all rules, regulations and written policies of the Federation regarding the Associations,
the adults and the juveniles involved in the program. Thus, the Federation Hearing Tribunal has
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authority over member Associations, teams, subsidiary groups and all adults and juveniles
officially connected with them.
The Federation Hearing Tribunal may and will intervene in the affairs of an Association, when in
the sole opinion of the Federation Hearing Tribunal and Association is not discharging its
responsibilities or duties.
The Federation Hearing Tribunal will receive and review all Complaints, Petitions, Protests and
Applications of Summary Authority and determine within seventy-two (72) hours if the matter is
to be referred to an Association Judicial Committee or to be handled by the Tribunal.
C. DUTIES: To act on matters referred to the Federation Hearing Tribunal which includes, but is not
limited to the following:
1. Settle unresolved disputes between member Associations.
2. Receive and review all Complaints, Protests, Petitions and Applications of Summary
Authority, and at the discretion of the Federation Hearing Tribunal refer same to the AJC
for handling at the lowest possible level, except the following which will be handled by
the Federation Hearing Tribunal:
a. Protests involving non-judgmental calls of TYFSF and/or AIA rule interpretations
by a game official. (NOTE: Protest on judgment calls by a game official WILL NOT
BE CONSIDERED).
b. Petitions of the Application of Summary Authority initiated by a member of the
Federation Executive Board or member of the Federation Board of Directors.
c. A second Complaint, Protest, Petition or Application of Summary Authority
against an individual team or Association, when in the opinion of the Federation
Hearing Tribunal, the charges are similar nature.
d. A Complaint, Protest, Petition or Application of Summary Authority against an
individual, team, or Association already on “probation status” as a result of a prior
offense.
e. And/or as directed by the Federation President and/or the Federation Board of
Directors.
3. Review all Association Judicial Committee results/decisions
4. Review/Hear appeals
D. HEARINGS AND PROCEDURES
Formal hearing beings with the basics of due process which are as follows:
NOTICE: Written notice of the hearing must be delivered to each charged party. The notice must
include the date, place and time of hearing and a list of specific charges. It must also advise the
parties of their right to be represented at the hearing by a person of their choice. If the term
“counsel” is used, it does not mean the representative must be an attorney.
TIME TO PERPARE: At least seven (7) days must pass between the dates the charged parties
receive written notice and the hearing itself.
The only exceptions are:
a. Written waiver of notice from the charged party or parties.
b. All Complaints, Petitions, Protests or Application of Summary Authority must be resolved
before the team or teams involved will be allowed to participate in any playoff,
championships or pre-season bowl games.
c. All Complaints, Petitions, Protest and Applications of Summary Authority alleging harm to
or safety of participants must be resolved before the charged party or parties will be
allowed to participate or resume duties with the teams.
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RIGHTS: Charged parties may introduce witnesses and/or bring documents to support a defense, cross examined
witness or witnesses, and inspect any item introduced as evidence at the time it is presented.
AFTER THE HEARING: A written statement and decision, including penalties imposed must be delivered to each
party within fourteen (14) days of the hearing.
CONDUCTING A HEARING:
1. A hearing panel shall consist of not less than three (3) persons, and may consist of more, provided it shall
always be an odd number to prevent tie votes. The panel is called a Tribunal. One person shall act as
Chairman. At the Association and Federation level, the President should be the Chairperson of the Hearing
Tribunal.
2. Hearings are private and, therefore, not open to the general public or the media.
3. The hearing room should, to the greatest extent possible, exclude outside noises and or disturbances.
4. Witnesses must be kept outside of the hearing room until the time of their testimony. This is called
“sequestering witnesses”.
5. The hearing must be recorded (cassette recorder) for the official record. The Federation/Association shall
maintain the official record. No other recording(s) shall be allowed. Set up of the recording device should
take into account microphone placement, background noise, recording level, and location of individuals
giving testimony.
6. Breaks are required on a periodic basis -10 minutes per each hour of proceedings.
PROCEDURAL ORDER OF HEARINGS:
1. The charging parting (plaintiff) is heard first. His/her witnesses and documents are presented. Then crossexamination of each witness may be conducted by the opposing side (defendant). Redirect examination
by the plaintiff follows immediately after cross, if desired. If the defendant then wishes to cross-examine
(after redirect): questions must be limited to testimony covered on redirect.
2. The defendant is heard second. Procedures of cross-examination, redirect, etc. apply as in “1” above.
3. When all parties have been heard, the plaintiff gives a summation, followed by the summation of the
Defendant.
4. Copies of documents (as opposed to originals) may be introduced as evidence at the discretion of the
Hearing Tribunal. However, certain cases may require introduction of an original document. The Tribunal’s
decision on such matter is final.
5. Members of the Tribunal have the right to ask questions of witnesses and inspect evidence at any time,
and may temporarily excuse, but later call back, any witness.
A Tribunal may allow limited hearsay testimony. As long as the Tribunal follows the due process procedures
outlined above there is no need to become entangled in legal rules of evidence or courtroom maneuvers.
At the conclusion of a hearing, the Tribunal may deliberate and reach a decision if it is prepared to do so.
Deliberations must take place privately. Although formal written notice must follow, a Tribunal decision takes
effect upon verbal notice.
WHEN TO DEFER TO CIVIL AUTHORITY
If something happens for which criminal charges could result upon learning of the incident, an association or
Federation must contact the appropriate authorities and turn over any evidence it may hold. Full cooperation with
the appropriate civil authority is mandatory.
Any person subject to criminal proceedings shall be temporarily suspended from all Federation activities pending
a resolution of the matter. A finding of “not guilty” in a court of law shall result in reinstatements if there are no
“open” or “pending” team, association, or Federation charges against the individual.
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E. APPEALS: The decision of the Federation Hearing Tribunal may be appealed to the Tribunal. The
Tribunal is not obligated to hear all appeals. Appeals and Exceptions to Decision must be filed in
writing in letter form, stating the reason and documentation in support thereof.
F. ADULT OFFENSES:
RUN-UP SCORE (Intentional): A finding of “guilty” shall result in PROBATION at a minimum
SUSPENSION if the conduct is found to have been intentional; and DISMISSAL in the case of
repetitive pattern (malice).
ENDANGERMENT OF JUVENILES: Defined as any practice placing the health, welfare and safety
of a juvenile in jeopardy, including “sweating down”. Sweating down applies in the broadest sense
of inducing weight loss by any artificial means, including but not limited to use of steam room or
cabinets, rubber sweat suits, weight reducing or appetite-killing drugs, and/or diuretics (water
pills).
Minimum Penalty: Suspension for 1 year, to permanent suspension upon repeated offenses.
TEACHING PROHIBITED OFFENSE & DEFENSE TECHNIQUES: Teaching such techniques to players
and/or encouraging or teaching players to physically hurt opponents.
Minimum Penalty: Suspension for 1 year, to permanent suspension upon repeated offenses.
FIGHTING: Fighting among same team or opponent team adults or fans.
Minimum Penalty: Suspension for 1 year, to permanent upon repeated offenses.
CHEATING: Cheating of any type, include but not limited to forging of birth certifications,
falsification of roster data, etc.
Minimum Penalty: Suspension for 1 year; permanent suspension upon second offense or
forfeiture of the game or games.
THREATS: Threats of a physical nature or otherwise, against team/association or Federation
authorities.
Minimum Penalty: Suspension for 1 year, permanent suspension upon second offense.
GAMBLING ON GAME OUTCOME: Self-descriptive
Minimum Penalty: Suspension for 1 year.
LACK OF COOPERATION/OBSTRUCTION: lack of cooperation with team/association or Federation
authorities and/or obstruction of an official team or Federation investigation into and hearing of
cases of a disciplinary or dispute/conflict nature.
Minimum Penalty: Suspension until compliance is achieved.
SPECIAL NOTE: For any of the above offenses, the minimum mandated penalty may be suspended and the accused
place upon probation instead. However, suspension of the minimum mandated penalty is not recommended
unless there are substantial mitigating circumstances and malice was not evidenced.
VIOLATIONS OF MANDATORY PLAY RULE
IF A VIOLATION OF THE MANDATORY PLAY RULE OCCURS, THE FOLLOWING PENALTIES WILL APPLY:
1. Forfeiture of the game in which the violation occurred.
2. First Offense for Head Coach: Probation
Second Offense for the head coach: suspension for one game and one week of practice.
Third offense for each coach: suspension for the remainder of the season. If the third offense is the last
game of the season, suspension for the first half of the following season’s games.
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Each team will supply two (2) adults age 18 or over to monitor the Mandatory Play Rule (MPR). Failure of a team
to supply two (2) adults will be deemed a violation of the MPR and will result in forfeiture of the game. Any person
assigned as a MPR monitor must be instructed to be respectful while on the opponent’s sideline and working with
the opponent’s volunteer. There is to be not excessive cheering, cell phone use or coaching of any kind. If an
opponent asks that the volunteer be replaced the request must be complied with right away. Failure to comply
may result in game forfeiture. Upon suspension of any penalty provided herein, an accused shall be placed on
probation, among the general conditions of which shall be:
1. That the accused be and remain of good behavior and that he strictly enforce all rules and regulations of
the Federation.
2. That the accused prepare and submit to the Federation his written plan to supervise implementation of
the Mandatory Play Rule (MPR).
Each team will use the Mandatory Play Sheet authorized by the Federation. Failure to comply may result
in game forfeiture.
A suspension shall last seven (7) days for the first violation of a season, and shall continue for the remainder of
the season for a second violation in the same season.
A coach found guilty of a MPR violation during a playoff, championship or bowl game shall first be required to
obtain concurrence of the Federation Board of Directors before his reappointment as a coach in a subsequent
season by his association.
In addition, a player denied his required number of plays will start the next game and receive double the
number of mandatory plays in that game. The failure of a convicted coach to comply with this provision will be
deemed a second violation.
JUVENILE OFFENSES:
FIGHTING: Any act of fighting or while down during the course of a play, or after a play, the act of hitting,
kicking, striking or otherwise abusing opponents.
Minimum Penalty: Removal from game for first offense; thereafter Arizona Interscholastic Association Rules
apply.
INTIMIDATION: Verbal or physical intimidation of opponents outside of the normal talk across the line. (of a
non-profane nature)
Minimum Penalty: Removal from game for first offense; thereafter the AIA rule apply.
DISRESPECT FOR AUTHORITY: Any act of disrespect for team/association/Federation authorities or game
officials.
Minimum Penalty: Removal from game for first offense; thereafter AIA rules apply.
TEAM & ASSOCIATION OFFENSES:
FAILURE TO KEEP FAITH WITH JUVENILES & PARENTS: This charge covers any deliberate practice of a team or
association which places the health, welfare and safety of juveniles in jeopardy, or exploits or treats them in
such a manner that the juvenile becomes a “tool” of the team.
To file this charge, the violation must result from team or association policy, and not be an aberration of one
individual. This implies that the practice is carried out by order of or with the knowledge of the officership and
no steps is taken to end it.
The charge can also cover failure to supervise implementation of the MPR rule and the intentional running up of
scores.
Minimum Penalty: Probation of the organization coupled with permanent suspension of its president and all
others who participated in the practice. Upon a second offense, suspension of the organization until all officers
has been removed.
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FIGHTING/RIOTING/INCITEMENT TO RIOT: At games or scrimmages between different teams, any fight or riot
between team members, as opposed to one-on-one altercations, will be deemed a team offense rather than an
individual offense. An incitement to riot is defined as team heckling or “egging-on” of an opponent in a manner
which may result in a fight or riot.
Minimum Penalty:
1. Game related: Forfeiture of the game for first offense; forfeiture of the season for second offense with
the same season.
2. Scrimmage related: At the discretion of the Federation.
INELIGIBLE PLAYERS: Forfeiture of all games in which the ineligible player was a member of the team (whether
or not he played in a particular game) shall be the standard penalty applied to the offending team.
Teams guilty of using an ineligible player any time during the season shall forfeit all rights to be named
Federation Champion and shall be banned from participation in any playoff or championship game. Participation
in bowl games may also be prohibited upon recommendation of the Federation.
G. PENALTIES FOR ADULT, JUVENILE AND TEAM OR ASSOCIATION OFFENSES:
1. Suspension of the minimum mandated penalty by the Federation Hearing Tribunal shall
require a written explanation with reasons stated to the Federation Board of Directors.
2. The ruling of the Federation Hearing Tribunal shall be absolute, except in cases,
involving a suspension of more than ninety (90) days shall require confirmation by a
majority of the Federation Board of Directors at its next regularly scheduled meeting.
H. DEFINITIONS: However, the following shall apply:
1. A complaint requires the review and investigation by the Hearing Tribunal, but not
necessarily a Hearing.
2. A Petition requires a hearing.
3. A Protest states a violation of a rule, regulation or written policy and involves the
outcome of a game. It requires the Tribunal to review and investigate, but not
necessarily a hearing.
4. Suspension: An act to deny a person of any association with TYFSF for violation of rules
III. FEDERATION PROBLEM RESOLUTION COMMITTEE:
A. GENERAL: Annually the President of each Association will submit to the Federation President or
Executive Secretary a proposed committee member and one (1) alternate. The President will
submit the names to the Federation Board of Directors for approval and when so approved will
constitute the Federation Problem Resolution Committee.
B. PURPOSE: To submit all weekly reports such as, Mandatory play sheets, running-up the score,
injury reports, unsportsmanlike behavior from adults or juveniles to bring to the federations
attention any violation of rules and or any other duty deemed necessary by the federation
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BOUNDARIES AND ASSOCIATION COLORS
Note: “FL” - Federation Limit
BRONCOS: (ORANGE, WHITE)
North: FL, East to Shannon Rd., West to FL.
South: Ina Road, East to Shannon Rd., West to FL.
East: Shannon Rd., North to FL, South to Ina Rd.
West: FL, North to FL, South to Ina Rd.
CARDINALS: (CARDINAL RED, WHITE)
North: North Tubac city (town) limits
South: Federation limit
East: Federation limit
West: Federation Limit
CHARGERS: (NAVY, GOLD)
North: FL.
South: 4800 North (Snyder Rd.), East to Catalina Hwy., West to 1st Ave.
East: 8700 East at 4800 North (Northern extension of Camino Seco Rd.).
West: 4800 North at 1st Ave., North to Orange Grove Rd. and Christie, Christie North to FL.
COWBOYS: (NAVY, GRAY)
North: FL, West to Sabino Canyon Rd., East to FL.
South: Speedway Blvd., East to FL, West to Pantano Wash.
East: FL, South to Speedway Blvd., North to FL.
West: Sabino Canyon Rd., North to Snyder Rd., South to Speedway Blvd., at Pantano Wash.
DOLPHINS: (MIAMI GREEN, ORANGE, WHITE, BLACK)
North: FL, Shannon Rd., East to Coronado National Forest.
South: Orange Grove/Shannon East to 1st Ave.
East: Orange Grove, 1st Ave., North to Christie Drive/Coronado Forest.
West: Shannon/Orange Grove, North to FL.
FALCONS: (RED, BLACK, WHITE)
North: 4800 North Snyder Rd., West to 1st Ave., East to Sabino Canyon Rd.
South: Speedway Blvd., East to Pantano Wash, West to 1st Ave.
East: Sabino Canyon Rd., South to Speedway Blvd., North to Snyder Rd.
West: Tucson Blvd., North to River Rd., River Rd. to 1st Ave., South to Speedway Blvd.
49ER’s: (RED, GOLD)
North: Pima Mine Rd., West FL., East to Wilmot Rd., North to I-10, I10 East to Wentworth Rd.
South: Sandario Road, I-10, FL
East: Wentworth Rd, North to I-10, South to FL.
West: FL, North to Pima Mine Rd., South to FL.
JAGUARS: (TEAL, BLACK)
North: Ajo Way/I-10, East to South Alvernon Way, North to DM boundary, East to Kolb.
South: Pima Mine Rd., East to Wilmot Rd., West to I-19.
East: Wilmot Rd., South to Pima Mine Rd., North to I-10, East I10, to Kolb Rd., North to outer DM
boundary.
West: I-19, South to Pima Mine Rd., North to Valencia, East to South Campbell Ave., North to I-10.
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RAIDERS: (WHITE, SILVER, BLACK)
North: West Speedway Blvd., East to Columbus, North to Tucson Mountain Park.
South: 22nd St., West to Tucson Mountain Park, East to I-10, East to Alvernon Way.
East: Columbus, North to Speedway Blvd., South to Golf Links Rd., South Golf Link Rd./Alvernon Way,
West: Tucson Mountain Park, South to 22nd St., North to Speedway Blvd.
RAMS: (NAVY, VEGAS GOLD, WHITE)
North: I-10, East to Campbell/Ajo Way, West to I-19.
South: Los Reales Rd., East to South Campbell Ave., West to I-19.
East: South Campbell Ave., North to I-10, South to Los Reales Rd.
West: I-19, North to I-10, South to Los Reales Rd.
REDSKINS: (GRAY, MAROON)
North: I-10 at West 22nd St./Star Pass Blvd., West to FL.
South: Pima Mine Rd, West to FL, East to I-19.
East: I-19, South to Pima Mine Rd., North to I-10, I-10 West to 22nd St./Star Pass Blvd.
West: FL, South to Pima Mine Rd., North to 22nd St./Star Pass Blvd.
SCORPIONS: (GREEN, VEGAS GOLD)
North: Speedway Blvd, East to Pantano Wash, West to Columbus Blvd.
South: Davis Monthan Air Force Base fenced area, east to Harrison Rd., West to South Golf Links Rd.
East: Pantano Wash South to Golf Links Rd., West to Pantano Rd., South to Irvington Rd., East to
Harrison Rd.
West: Columbus Blvd., North to Speedway Blvd., South to Golf Links Rd., West to S. Golf Links Rd.,
including DM
STEELERS: (BLACK, GOLD)
North: Ina Rd., West to FL., East to Shannon Rd., South to Orange Grove Rd., East to 1st Ave.
South: West Speedway Blvd., to Tucson Mountain Park, FL, Speedway Blvd.
East: Tucson Blvd., South to West Speedway Blvd., North to River Rd., 1st Ave., to Orange Grove Rd.
West: FL, North to Ina Rd., South to 22nd St.
VIKINGS: (PURPLE, GOLD, BLACK, WHITE)
North: Valencia Rd., East to FL, West to Kolb Rd., following DM boundary.
South: I-10 East to Wentworth Rd., South to FL, West to Kolb Rd.
East: FL.
West: Kolb Rd., North to DM boundary, South to I-10.
WILDCATS: (RED, WHITE, BLUE)
North: Speedway Blvd., East to FL, West to Pantano Wash.
South: Valencia, East to FL, West to Harrison Rd.
East: FL
West: Pantano Wash S. to Golf Links Rd., W. to Pantano Rd., S. to Irvington Rd., E. to Harrison Rd., S. to
Valencia.
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POLICY AGAINST DISCRIMINATION
Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc. (“Federation”) is proud of its tradition of offering programs
providing activities in which all individuals are treated equally. To ensure the continuation of this tradition, the
Federation has established a written policy prohibiting discrimination in and guaranteeing access to all programs
and activities run, offered or supported by the Federation with regard to any individual’s race, color, religion, sex,
national origin or handicap. *In order to facilitate a clearer understanding of this policy, the Federation has
established the following principles:
Non-Discrimination Policy
1. Neither the Federation nor any person acting on its behalf or in its name will directly or indirectly deny
any individual the opportunity to participate in any program or activity run, offered or supported by the
Federation because of that individual’s race, color, religion, sex, national origin or handicap.*
2. Neither the Federation nor any person acting on its behalf or in its name will directly or indirectly refuse
or deny any individual any benefit, advantage, facility **or privilege involved in any program or activity
run, offered or supported by the Federation because of any individual’s race, color, religion, sex, national
origin or handicap.*
3. The Federation will make all readily achievable efforts to remove barriers which deny. Limit or
disadvantage individuals with disabilities from full participation in and enjoyment of programs run,
offered or supported by the Federation. *For purpose of this provision, the tern “barriers” includes
communication barriers which limit the opportunities of individuals with sensory disabilities from fully
participating in and enjoying the Federation program and activities. For purposes of this provision, the
term ‘disability” includes any physical or mental disability which substantially limits one or more major
like activities; a record of having such an impairment; or being regarded as having such an impairment.*
Responsibility for Implementing Policy
Every agent, coach or other individual with authority for supervising participants or otherwise providing services
for participants in Federation activities and programs will be considered responsible for fully implementing this
policy, and failure to comply with this policy will be grounds for removing such individual from any Federation
programs***
Notification Required
Any individual who believes he/she requires an accommodation or removal of a barrier because of the individual’s
disability may request such accommodation or barrier removal by notifying the Federation President in writing of
the need for such accommodation or barrier removal and the kind of accommodation and barrier removal
required to permit the individual to fully participate in and enjoy the program, activities, facilities** or privileges
of the Federation.
Complaints for Violation Policy
Any individual who believes that he/she has been discriminated against in violation of this policy may make a
complaint by contacting:
President
Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc.
P.O. Box 30236
Tucson, Arizona 85751
520.322.9779
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Individuals may file a complaint with the Civil Rights Division of the Arizona Attorney General’s Office by contacting
the office at either of the following addresses:
Arizona Civil Right Division
1775 West Washington
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
602.542.5236
Arizona Civil Right Division
402 West Congress, Suite 215
Tucson, Arizona 85701
520.688.6500
*Compliance is based on Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc. Rules and Regulations, 2003 edition,
including that each participant (flag/tackle player, spirit member, water person) have a physical examination, to
be signed by a physician stating that the participant is physically fit and there are not observable conditions which
contra-indicate the participant from participating in athletics (flag/tackle football, spirit, water person). Regarding
the tackle football program, for safety, accident insurance and liability insurance consideration, ages and weights
are carefully correlated and there are no exceptions.
**The Federation and its associations use City and County parks and public and private schools over the
Federation and its associations have no control as to access to said facilities or to the facilities themselves for
people with physical handicaps.
***As to responsibility for implementing policy (removal), this is subject to Federation/ Association Hearing
Tribunal and due process provisions.
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TUCSON YOUTH FOOTBALL & SPIRIT POLICY ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexual harassment is a form of prohibited sex discrimination under Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972
and is a growing source of legal concern. Therefore, under no circumstances will sexual harassment be tolerated
with the Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc.
Two types of Conduct Constitute Sexual Harassment
1. Quid Pro Quo Harassment: Occurs when an administrator or coach causes a student-athlete or adult to
believe that he/she must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct in order to participate in the program or
activity, regardless of whether the student-athlete or adult submits to the demands
2. Hostile Environment Harassment: Occurs when the unwelcome sexual conduct is so severe, persistent or
pervasive that it affects the student-athlete or adult’s ability to participate in the program or activity.
WHAT CONSTITUTES SEXUAL HARASSMENT
1. Sexual advances or explicative language.
2. Touching of a sexual nature
3. Graffiti of a sexual nature
4. Displaying or distributing sexually explicit drawings, pictures and written material
5. Sexual gestures
6. Sexual or dirty jokes
7. Pressure for sexual favors
8. Touching oneself sexually or engaging in sexual activity in front of others
9. Spreading rumors about or rating student-athletes or adult regarding sexual activity or performance.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT CAN HAPPEN AT ALL LEVELS OF RELATIONSHIP
 COACH STUDENT-ATHLETE
 ADMINISTRATIOR AND ATHLETES
 COACHES AND ASSISTANT COACHES
 ADMINISTRATORS AND COACHES
 STUDENT-ATHLETIC AND STUDENT-ATHLETE
 HOW TO DEAL WITH SEXUAL HARASSMENT
 STUDENT-ATHLETES AND ADULTS
If you believe you are being sexually harassed.
1. Tell someone – parents, league official, friend, and police.
2. Keep records- keep a diary of what happened and when with the names, dates, time and what happened.
3. Say “NO” to the harasser. Tell the harasser verbally and non-verbally that his or her behavior is
unwelcomed and you want it to stop.
4. Take personal action- report the harassment to the Association and Federation. File a complaint with the
police.
COACHES
1. Use discretion when alone with an athlete and when coaching, try to have another coach present.
2. Do not touch an athlete outside of a necessary touch to teach a skill.
3. Do not drive alone with an athlete
4. Stay in separate sleeping quarters when traveling for athlete events.
5. Educate your athlete about sexual harassment.
6. Document any behaviors by athletes directed to you which are sexual in nature.
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ADMINISTRATORS
1. Notify student-athletes, parents and coaches of sex discrimination grievance procedures, including where
and to whom complaints may be addressed.
2. Conduct thorough and impartial investigations
3. Assure your coaches, parents and athlete’s sexual harassment will not be tolerated.
4. Use discretion in the investigation because peoples’ lives are at stake. If necessary, contact the police sex
crime unit.
5. Conduct hearings at either the association or federation level in a prompt and impartial manner.
HOW TO FILE A COMPLAINT FOR VIOLATION OF THIS POLICY
1. Call the Federation President at 520.322.9779
2. Write the Federation President at the following address:
President
Tucson Youth Football & Spirit Federation, Inc.
P.O. Box 30236
Tucson, AZ 85751
3. Contact or write your association president
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SEXUAL ABUSE AND MOLESTATION PREVENTION POLICY
I. BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Tucson Youth Football and Spirit Federation (“TYFSF”) is committed to providing a safe and healthy
environment for participants to grow and mature as athletes. In recent memory, incidents of child abuse and
child sexual abuse have been reported or uncovered at an alarming rate. Child abuse and child sexual abuse
inflict incalculable harm on victimized young persons. In addition, organizations that sponsor events that result
in some form of child abuse or child sexual abuse are often subject to litigation and massive, crippling liability.
TYFSF seeks to prevent the occurrence of child abuse and/or child sexual abuse; primarily, to protect the wellbeing of minors in its care and, secondarily, to continue to provide young athletes with a venue in which they
can excel.
The main purpose of this policy is to protect young persons from any form of abuse and prevent harm.
Additionally, the purpose of this policy is to reduce the liability risk, related negative publicity, expense, and
trauma that TYFSF and its participants could experience in the event of an incident of abuse.
This policy highlights the essentials of education, prevention, and volunteer screening. The intent of this
policy is not to be all-encompassing, but, instead, to provide a framework that TYFSF can effectively implement
with its limited resources and time. This policy does not address all possibilities or contingencies. If you have
questions or concerns that are not addressed herein, please contact the Conduct Officer.
II. DEFINITIONS
Abuse: Arizona law defines abuse as the infliction or allowing of physical injury, impairment of bodily
function or disfigurement or the infliction of allowing another person to cause serious emotional damage as
evidenced by severe anxiety, depression, withdrawal or untoward aggressive behavior and which emotional
damage is diagnosed by a medical doctor or psychologist and is cause by the acts or omissions of any individual
having care, custody, and control of a child. Abuse also includes, among other things, inflicting or allowing
sexual abuse, sexual conduct with a minor, sexual assault, molestation, incest, or child prostitution,
unreasonable confinement. A.R.S. § 8-201(2).
Physical Abuse: Physical abuse includes the infliction or allowing the infliction of a physical injury to a
child. Further, physical injury is the impairment of a physical condition and includes, without limitation, skin
bruises, non-accidental cuts or abrasions, pressure sores, bleeding, burns (including water, rope or rug burn),
soft tissue swelling, bald patches where hair has been pulled out, bite demarcations, and welts. Physical abuse
also includes inflicting or allowing the impairment of bodily function (e.g. prohibiting a child from using a
restroom).
Sexual Abuse: The National Center for Child Abuse and Child Neglect defines sexual abuse as the
involvement of dependent, developmentally immature children, and/or adolescents in sexual activities that they
do not fully comprehend, to which they are unable to give informed consent, or that violate the social taboos of
family roles. Further, sexual abuse is any act intended to stimulate a child sexually, or to use a child for the
sexual stimulation either of the perpetrator or another person.
Arizona law provides the following definitions for sexual offenses against children:
Sexual abuse: “A person commits sexual abuse by intentionally or knowingly engaging in sexual contact
with any person fifteen or more years of age without consent of that person or with any person who is under
fifteen years of age if the sexual contact involves only the female breast.” A.R.S. § 13-1404.
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Sexual conduct with a minor: “A person commits sexual conduct with a minor by intentionally or
knowingly engaging in sexual intercourse or oral sexual contact with any person who is under eighteen years of
age.” A.R.S. § 13-1405.
Sexual assault: “A person commits sexual assault by intentionally or knowingly engaging in sexual
intercourse or oral sexual contact with any person without consent of such person. A.R.S. § 13-1406.
Molestation of a child: “A person commits molestation of a child by intentionally or knowingly engaging
in or causing a person to engage in sexual contact, except sexual contact with the female breast, with a child
under fifteen years of age.” A.R.S. § 13-1410.
Conduct Official: The person at TYFSF who is appointed by the Executive Board to administer this policy.
The Conduct Official is primarily responsible for education, reviewing Volunteer Applications, checking
references, if any, conducting criminal background checks, conducting investigations on allegations of abuse,
acting as liaison to local law enforcement, etc.
Volunteer: Individuals who perform the various functions entailed in the running of TYFSF without pay
including officers and directors, committee personnel, coaches, managers, umpires, scorekeepers, concession
workers, etc.
Criminal Background Check (CBC): CBCs provide, among other things, misdemeanor and felony
information (including sex offenses) that TYFSF may want to take into account in the volunteer screening
process.
III. PROHIBITIONS/DUTIES RELATING TO THE PREVENTION OF CHILD ABUSE
Limit One-On-One Contact: No activities shall take place involving one-on-one contact between one
minor and one non-related volunteer. Instead, a "buddy system" is required, where one minor, one adult, and
one other person (minor or adult) should always be present during practices, games, carpooling, special events,
or any other function sponsored by or related to the operations of TYFSF.
Limitation on Sleepovers: Any sleepover involving TYFSF participants or volunteers that relates to or is
connected in any way to a TYFSF sponsored activity may occur only if at least one responsible, supervising adult
is present in the dwelling. Additionally, sleep overs involving only one minor and one non-related adult are
strictly prohibited.
Touch: Touch is acceptable only if it is “respectful and appropriate.” All touch that is of a sexual nature
or otherwise inappropriate or taboo is strictly prohibited. Use common sense when applying this prohibition.
Verbal Conduct Policy: Inappropriate comments of a sexual nature and/or suggestive jokes are
prohibited. Additionally, comments that are abusive are strictly prohibited.
Take Home/Pick-Up: Take home/pick-up of minors by volunteers is discouraged due to the difficulty in
limiting one-on-one contact (remember the “buddy system”) and the potential liability relating to injuries while
in transport. Parent(s)/legal guardian(s) should provide transportation for their own children to and from
scheduled events. TYFSF will clearly outline the expected start and end times for all events and communicate
this to all parent(s)/legal guardian(s). Parent(s)/legal guardian(s) must be instructed to make back-up plans in
the event they cannot provide transportation. If parent(s)/legal guardian(s) cannot provide transportation, they
must communicate to TYFSF the name of the person(s) who are authorized to pick up the child.
Abuse Prohibition: All forms of sexual, physical, verbal, and emotional abuse, whether or not explicitly
defined herein, are strictly prohibited. Further, any interactions with minors that are prohibited by law are
strictly prohibited hereunder.
Name Distribution: The distribution of directories/rosters with names, phone numbers, addresses,
and pictures of minors or volunteers is limited to persons who “need to know” only.
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Duty to Report: Arizona law requires that any TYFSF volunteer who reasonably believes that a minor is
or has been the victim of physical injury, abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, other harmful circumstance that appears
to have been inflicted on the minor by other than accidental means or that is not explained by the available
medical history, if any, as being accidental in nature, or who reasonably believes that there has been a denial or
deprivation or necessary medical treatment or nourishment, must immediately report or cause a report to be
made to law enforcement officers (the police and Child Protective Services), except if the report concerns a
person who does not have care, custody, or control of the minor, the report shall be made to a peace officer
(police) only. See e.g. A.R.S. § 13-3620.
A person who makes or causes a report to be made has no duty to prove the suspected harm. Once a
person reasonably believes that abuse has occurred, s/he must report it immediately. Do not conduct your own
investigation beyond that which is necessary to obtain a reasonable belief of abuse. You may reach the police
may by dialing 911. You may reach Child Protective Services by dialing 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445).
A person who, in good faith, makes a report or provides information relating to the well-being of a child
is immune from civil or criminal liability, unless such person has been charged with, or is suspected of, the abuse
or neglect in question. A.R.S. § 13-3620(J).
A person acting with malice, who either knowingly or intentionally makes a false report of child abuse
and neglect or who coerces another person to make a false report may be guilty of a crime. A person who
knowingly or intentionally falsely accuses another of maliciously making a false report of child abuse and neglect
may also be guilty of a crime.
IV. EXAMPLES OF ABUSE/MOLESTATION
Emotional Abuse: examples include yelling or making the following statements or similar:
•
You’re stupid;
•
You’re an idiot;
•
You’re an embarrassment; and
•
You’re not worth the uniform you play in; etc.
Physical Abuse: besides the obvious examples of a coach hitting, kicking, throwing equipment, or
shaking a player, watch out for the following:
•
Behaviors seem violent versus disciplinary;
•
Training practices become abusive;
•
Fighting is encouraged or ignored;
•
Illegal moves, often associated with injuries are encouraged;
•
Coaches teach improper techniques or encourage conduct which violates safety
rules;
•
Coaches allow participants to become physically or verbally abusive; and
•
Behaviors result in injuries to participants; etc.
Sexual Abuse: an adult may not improperly sexualize touch by, for example, fondling instead of
hugging (where appropriate and with permission), kissing, or seductive stroking of various body parts. On the
other hand, touching is permitted when a participant needs comfort, reassurance, or support – e.g., an
encouraging pat on the back or arm on the shoulder of a participant (vice-versa) conveying camaraderie are
acceptable. Appropriate touch is respectful of a person’s personal boundaries and comfort level, public (done in
front of others and not secretly), and nurturing/encouraging (not sexualized). Be alert for the following, which
may be indicative of sexual abuse:
•
Misuse of power and authority;
•
Misuse of love and affection;
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•
Manipulation or tricks:
* This is love;
* This is what you need to be a part of the team; or
* This is what we do for initiation.
•
Grooming: desensitization that begins with appropriate touch, then the touch changes.
Examples:
* You liked the touch before;
* What's wrong? Don't you trust me? or
* courting (gifts, time, inordinate attention);
* romancing (talking of love or attraction);
* Line (you're special, I don't usually do this sort of thing, you're so mature, you're so
attractive); or
* Secrets (this is our special secret, others wouldn’t understand, you or I would get in
trouble)
V.
WARNING SIGNS OF ABUSE/MOLESTATION
With some forms of abuse, there may be physical indicators (e.g., bruises, welts, broken bones, burns, )
or with sexual abuse (e.g., venereal diseases, genital swelling/soreness, difficulty sitting or walking, pain or
itching when urinating or defecating, stomach aches, pain/itching in genital area, and frequent unexplained sore
throats). But, often, the effects of sexual abuse are less obvious. For example, sudden shifts in behavior or
attitudes when an outgoing child suddenly builds a protected, closed wall, a generally happy child becomes
aggressive and angry, or a trusting child becomes fearful. In sports, this abuse can manifest itself through loss of
interest, the participant wanting to drop out of sports, or a sudden decline in ability or functions.
Please note that no indicators or symptoms are absolute. Many of these could be indicators of
problems other than abuse. However, if signs are apparent, consider them to be a red flag and remember that
some signs are ambiguous. Children may respond in different ways and some may show no signs at all. Some
indicators include:
•
Disclosure by child. Most children will not simply say they have been abused,
but instead, may hint at it;
•
Observations, complaints, concerns, or allegations about volunteers;
•
Attitudes/behaviors expressed on the part of an adult that may be associated
with inappropriate or abusive behavior (racist, poor sense of athlete
development, raging temper, extremely controlling, jealous, hypersensitive,
poor sexual boundaries, bullying, intimidating manner, unrealistic or
inappropriate training practices and risks, etc.)
•
Unexplained/unlikely explanation of injuries;
•
Extreme fear of a volunteer;
•
Extreme low self-esteem, self-worth;
•
A participant’s attachment to a coach/staff to the point of isolation from others;
•
A coach/staff with an interest beyond what is usual, special interest in a child
(time, gifts, attention, obsession, unrealistic expectations, etc.)
•
A child’s desire to drop out without a clear explanation or without one that
makes sense;
•
A child that misses a lot of practices or games with suspicious explanations or
excuses, etc.
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Despite increased sensitivity to abuse, there is still a tendency to blame the victims instead of holding the
person(s) accountable who:
•
lost his/her temper;
•
got a little out of control;
•
were just having a dispute;
•
misinterpreted the touch;
•
is really a “wonderful” person;
•
an important or well-respect person; etc.
Listen to what the minor is saying. The safety of minors is TYFSF’s primary concern.
VI.
ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE/MOLESTATION AND OTHER POLICY VIOLATIONS
Point of Contact: The Conduct Official is the appropriate person to whom all reports of child
abuse/molestation must be reported. In the event that the Conduct Official is the alleged abuser/molester, the
report should be made to the President of his/her member organization and to the President of TYFSF.
Assessing the Seriousness of the Situation: It is useful to differentiate between:
Concern: When the person just needs to be heard and have some information clarified.
Complaint: When the person needs you to listen and may or may not want action taken if they feel you listened.
Allegation:
Clarify if the allegation is:
•
Appropriate, but unappreciated act;
•
Inappropriate act, but not illegal act;
•
Illegal act that needs to be reported to law enforcement.
Disclosure: When the person tells you that abuse occurred or based on their actions gives you reason to believe
abuse has occurred.
The Conduct Official must take the appropriate action depending on where the situation falls in the above
mentioned categories.
Information Gathering: Upon receipt of information of child/sexual abuse or of a policy violation, the
Conduct Official must gather all pertinent facts in a fair, respectful, and confidential manner and review the
same with both the accuser and accused (at this stage, the identity of an accuser should not be disclosed to the
accused). All such reports must be brought to the attention of the Executive Board.
If the Conduct Official reasonably believes that abuse or some other illegal act has occurred s/he must
immediately report it to law enforcement. Once reported, the Conduct Official should not investigate further, as
this is the sole duty of law enforcement authorities and further investigation could result in liability for TYFSF.
Suspension/Termination: The findings of the Conduct Official must be reported to the Executive Board
and all proceedings relating to such a report must be confidential. If the alleged abuser or policy violator admits
to the conduct, the Board may impose whatever consequences it deems appropriate in its sole and absolute
discretion. If the alleged abuser or policy violator denies the conduct, the Board can conduct further
investigation as it deems necessary, except when reasonable cause of abuse exists and there is a report to law
enforcement.
Remember, alleged abuse or violations may range from inappropriate, but not illegal behavior, to clear
cut abuse.
Suspension: Less egregious inappropriate conduct on the part of the volunteer will result in a written
reprimand. If more than two written reprimands are received by a volunteer in a three year period, this will
result in the permanent disqualification of the volunteer. Slightly more egregious conduct, which is determined
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in the sole and absolute discretion of the Board, will result in both a written reprimand and suspension. Upon
the second suspension in a three year time, the volunteer is disqualified.
Disqualification: All volunteers are subject to immediate termination based on the disqualification
criteria outlined below.
VII.
VOLUNTEER SCREENING
Volunteer Application and Consent/Release Form: The attached document entitled “Volunteer
Application” must be completed, signed, and submitted before a person may be considered for volunteering
with TYFSF.
All TYFSF volunteers must complete the “Volunteer Application,” which includes a release/authorization
that permits TYFSF to conduct CBCs as necessary. Refusal to provide a completed “Volunteer Application”
(together with the CBC release/authorization and Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card) will result in immediate
dismissal/disqualification from TYFSF, even if the person has been allowed to volunteer in the past without
providing this information. The Conduct Official will review all such applications, will order CBCs, may conduct a
follow-up interview to clarify questions, and will decide whether or not the candidate is suited for interaction
with minors based on this and any other relevant information.
Criteria for Exclusion: TYFSF, in its sole and absolute discretion, may disqualify any volunteer or
applicant for any reason not illegal. A person is automatically disqualified and prohibited from serving as a
volunteer if s/he has been found guilty of any of the crimes listed below (or substantially similar) or is facing
charges for the crimes listed below (or substantially similar). “Guilty” as used herein means that individual was
found guilty following a trial, entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere, entered a no contest plea accompanied
by a court’s finding of guilt, regardless of whether there was an adjudication of guilt (conviction), or a
withholding of guilt, or the record has been expunged.
Offenses Requiring Automatic, Permanent Disqualification
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Violent Crimes & Serious Crimes Against A Person
Aggravated Robbery with Firearm
Armed Robbery
Arson
Attempted Murder
Blackmail
Child Abandonment
Child Abduction
Child Pornography
Cruelty to Animals
Endangering the Life of Health of a Child
Exploitation of a Child
Extortion
Harboring a Runaway
Hate Crime
Home Invasion
Hit and Run Causing Injury or Death
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
Kidnapping
Murder (in any degree)
Possession of Explosives
Preventing a 911 Call
Terrorism
Reckless Homicide
Stalking
Solicitation for Murder
Tampering with Food or Drugs
Threatening Public Officials
Treason
Unlawful Restraint
Vehicular Carjacking
Vehicular Endangerment
Violation of Order of Protection/Restraining Order
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1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Sex Offenses
Bigamy
Bestiality
Child Pornography
Sexual Abuse
Sexual Assault
Criminal Transmission of HIV
Distribution/Sale of Pornography to a Minor
Incest
Indecent Solicitation of a Child
Substance Abuse Crimes
1. Criminal Drug Conspiracy
2. Distribution of Alcohol to Minors
3. Possession of Illegal Substances
Miscellaneous Crimes
1. Concealing or Aiding a Fugitive
2. Identity Theft
3. Impersonating a Law Enforcement Officer
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
Keeping a Place of Prostitution
Lewd and Lascivious Behavior
Pandering
Pimping
Prostitution
Public Indecency
Sex with a Minor
Sexual Exploitation of a Child
Solicitation of a Sexual Act
4. Sale or Manufacture of Illegal Substances
5. Sale of Alcohol to a Minor
4.
Perjury
For more information on the screening process, see the TYFSF Volunteer Screening Policy, which is incorporated
herein by this reference. The criteria set forth above are not exhaustive. TYFSF may deem a person unsuited to
volunteer for any reason not illegal. Other crimes, charges, or activities that may indicate that a person is
unqualified to work with minors may be taken into account.
Appeals: Persons who are deemed unsuited for interaction with minors will be notified in writing. Such persons
will be provided information relating to the possibility of appeal or reconsideration.
Acknowledgment of Training: All volunteers must read this TYFSF Sexual Abuse and Molestation Prevention
Policy and must agree to abide by its rules, regulations, and prohibitions
VIII. CONCLUSION
This policy is intended to protect minors and protect the ability of TYFSF to operate without incident.
Remember, if you suspect inappropriate or illegal conduct is occurring, report it immediately, and err on the side
of being overly cautious. Should you have any questions or concerns relating to this policy, please contact the
Conduct Officer.
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BULLYING
No one has the right to bully, as no one deserves to be bullied.
A Bully is someone who purposely and repeatedly, overtime, irritates hurts or harms, threatens,
harasses or intimidates another person. Bullying can be either physical or mental aggression.
WHAT DOES BULLYING LOOK LIKE?







Name calling
Punching, shoving, and other acts that physically hurt someone.
Spreading bad rumors about people
Teasing in a mean way.
Getting people to “GANG UP” on others
Intentional humiliation of another
Other behaviors that make you feel “PICKED ON”
YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE THE VICTIM OF BULLING. WE ARE HERE TO HELP!
BULLYING WILL NOT BE TOLERATED IN TUCSON YOUTH FOOTBALL & SPIRIT FEDERATION.
IMMEDIATELY SEE A COACH OR ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER. KEEP TALKING UNTIL SOMEONE
LISTENS AND/OR THE BULLYING STOPS. ALL REPORTS OF BULLYING WILL BE HELD INSTRICT CONFIDENCE.
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TYFSF BOUNDARY MAP
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TYFSF WEIGHTCHART
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