Plainsmen Junior Football League Rules- There have been changes to the rules mentioned below, stay tuned for the updates!

1.0 PURPOSE

The purposes of the Plainsmen Junior Football League are to:

• · Stress the best values derived from athletic competition (sportsmanship, teamwork, integrity, respect, leadership, commitment, perseverance, fairness)
• · Promote the physical, mental, moral, social and emotional well-being of each player
• · Encourage continued athletic participation
• · Teach Football
• · Have Fun

2.0 RULES

2.1 Participation

2.1.1 Players must attend at least (approx.11 Practices) before they can actively participate in a game, unless otherwise determined by the Executive Board. Each non-contact practice will count as one half of a practice. In the event players do not participate in scheduled practices following the commencement of games, player eligibility will be determined by a member of the Executive Board in consultation with the Head Coach. Decisions are made on a case by case basis. Factors affecting eligibility decisions include past practice attendance, player physical readiness and reason for absence. Decisions to limit playing time for any reason must be approved by a member of the Executive Board.

2.1.2 The “Tackle” Football program is divided into two divisions: Junior (Fourth-Fifth Grade) and Senior (Sixth-Seventh Grade) Divisions. In some cases it may be appropriate for a player to participate either with an older or younger grade level as approved by the Executive Board. Decisions are made on a case by case basis. Safety to the player (or other players) and the player’s physical readiness are key factors in any decision. Parents will be consulted prior to any change in division. Advancing a younger player to the Senior Division is generally discouraged.

2.1.3 Junior Division – Prior to player selection, typically the 48 heaviest players (8 players per team…8x6teams=48) will be designated as interior lineman, (weight to be set after weigh-ins are complete). Players less than the set weight limit for lineman are to be designated as offensive or defensive backfield or end positions. Players less than the set lineman weight may play an interior line positions, but if practical should play a backfield or end position.

2.1.4 Senior Division – Prior to player selection, typically the 48 heaviest players (8 players per team…8x6teams=48) will be designated as interior lineman, (weight to be set after weigh-ins are complete). Players less than the set weight limit for lineman are to be designated as offensive or defensive backfield or end positions. Players less than the set lineman weight may play an interior line positions, but if practical should play a backfield or end position.

2.2 Player Selections, Alignment, and Replacement

2.2.1 Coaches will evaluate each player during the evaluation week prior to player selection. Players are rated on a scale from 1 to 7 (highest ranking). Absent players are given an estimated ranking based on familiarity of the coaches with the player.

2.2.2 The draft order is established by drawing numbers (1-6) from a hat. The team that drafts 1st will also draft 12th, 2nd will also draft 11th, 3rd will also draft 10th , 4th will also draft 9th, 5th will also go 8th and 6th will go 7th. The draft will be continue with the Team originally drafting first, drafting second and seventh, the Team originally drafting second, drafting third and sixth, the Team originally drafting third-drafting fourth and fifth and the Team originally drafting fourth-drafting first and eighth. The draft will continue with the order rotating as described earlier.

2.2.3 A maximum of 3 Coaches children will be protected in the draft. (1 Head Coach, 2 Assistant Coaches)

(Example: A coaches child is rated as a “5”. The player must be the first player selected by the Team, when no players of a higher rating (6 or 7) are availableor if the coach decides they do not want to draft the higher rated players. The Team may not pick any player (lower or the same ratings) until the higher ranked player or Coaches children are no longer available. In the above example, the Team could select the higher rated player(s) or his child before he could draft a player with the same or lower rating.

2.2.4 Each team will be divided into 2 equally talented platoons. Each squad will play one-half the game on both offense and defense. Teams with greater than 22 players (or more than 10 interior offensive linemen or 12 backs/ends) should platoon players. No more than 2 (two) players may platoon at any one position. This means that if you have 25 kids on your team you must choose different positions for the excess player to platoon at and the excess players must be split between both squads. (You may not have 11 players on squad A and 14 players on squad B platooning all of them at split end and safety. You must, for example, have 13 players on one squad and 12 players on the other. On squad A you can platoon one player at split end and the other player at full back. This addition is not intended to be used as a tool to get your star runningback on more than one squad. The object is to give all players as much playing time as possible and not take your three weakest players and rotate them all at one position which minimizes playing time.) Coaches are encouraged to keep platoons roughly equal in capabilities. Loading up one squad may discourage members of the other squad. The goal remains for each player to participate in at least one half of the game and no more than three quarters of the game.

2.2.5Visiting Teams will change platoons from offense to defense (and defense to offense) each quarter. Home Teams will change on the half. Offensive and defensive personnel will change from the field at any turnover, which would determine that team alternating from offense to defense or vice-versa. The rule allows each offensive and defensive platoon on the opposing teams to play each other over the course of the game.

2.2.6 Stronger interior linemen will line up on the offensive right (defensive left). The player whose offensive position is Center will be played by a back weight player because there is no defensive line position to cover the center. All discussions of strong or weak side designations of a player should be discussed during coaches’ meetings prior to the game. There is a wide range of experience level, size and physical readiness among the linemen. Player designations are not based solely on size. Proper designation of the players minimizes physical mismatches. This rule applies to interior linemen only.

2.2.7 If an injury occurs during the game, a replacement player should be selected from the other platoon. Offensive backfield and end positions should be replaced position for position (QB for QB, TB for TB, etc.). Defensive backfield-end positions do not carry a strong or weak-side designation. A DE can substitute for either DE, a LB for either LB or any defensive back (safety or cornerbacks) can substitute for another. Strong-side linemen should substitute for strong-side linemen, weak-side for weak-side. A single player should not substitute for a player both offensively and defensively. Teams with player overages should adjust their line up to insert the platooned player. Special situations should be reviewed with a member of the Executive Board.

2.2.8 Players that are absent for 1 game (illness, injury, other commitment, etc.) may be replaced as discussed in 2.2.7. An offensive backfield absence extending more than 1 game requires that a new player be trained for that position. Typically an End or platooned back will be trained for a backfield position. For example: The QB sprains his ankle and will be out 2 weeks. The injury occurred the week prior to the first game. The first game the other platoon’s QB can play for both squads. For the second game, an End is converted to PB; the original PB is trained for QB. The QB’s defensive position is filled as discussed in 2.2.7. The intent of this rule is to ensure each team has two separate sets of backfields for each game (Quarterback, Powerback, Fullback, Tailback).

2.2.9 The Head Coaches, or designated alternate, will meet, every Saturday, prior to game day, at the shed (time to be determined before the start of the year). Exchanging rosters on-line either through the internet or our website will be considered. This meeting will include a discussion of issues that came up during the previous week and the roster exchange (required form provided by the league) which will include player numbers, squads, offensive and defensive positions. Players are not allowed to switch positions during the game, unless a physical mismatch is apparent. Coaches should review the player match-ups. Squads may be adjusted at this time to minimize mismatches. This may entail some minor adjusting of the line, not moving strong-side players to the weak-side or vice-versa. A member of the Executive Board (or his designate) should concur with switching players during the course of the game. Players do not change positions to run a “special play” or boost the defense.

2.3 Rule Enhancements

2.3.1 Football cleats should be molded rubber soles. No screw-on cleats. Sneakers are not prohibited, but are discouraged.

2.3.2 Each quarter will last 10 minutes. Each quarter will be regular football time, complete with stopped clock for incomplete pass, out-of-bounds, penalties, etc.

2.3.3 Extra-points may be kicked (2 points), carried or received (1 point) across the goal line. Line of scrimmage is the 3 yard line

2.3.4 Ball size: A junior size ball will be used for the Junior Division. An intermediate size ball will be used for the Senior Division. The ball will be inflated in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance. The League provides Footballs, no personal footballs will be used in the game.

2.3.5 Following a safety, the defensive team will get the ball on the 50-yard line.

2.3.6 One coach may go downfield beyond the 35-yard line. All players not on the field and all other coaches must stay within the 35-yard lines.

2.3.7 One coach is permitted on the field during a time-out. In the event of an injury time-out, coaches are allowed on the field to check on the injured player, but are not permitted in the huddle or to give non-injury related instructions.

2.3.8 Teams are allowed 3 timeouts per half.

2.3.9 Teams are allowed 30 seconds from the time the ball is spotted: to run a play.

2.3.10 Any player may advance a fumble. Plays shall not be designed for an interior lineman to carry or receive the football-No fumble-rooskies.

2.3.11 In the Junior Division, In the event that a team is ahead by 3 touchdowns, there shall be a brief time-out by the head coaches to discuss a strategy for keeping the game in hand. Coaches that run up the score will be subject to review as determined by the Executive Board.

2.3.12 Excessive victory/touchdown/sack celebrations etc. are prohibited. Examples of excessive celebrations include, but are not limited to, victory laps, sack/touchdown dances, etc.

2.3.13 Prior to the start of the game there will be 3 coin flips

• · The first flip determines which team has choice of offense/defense or deferring the choice to the second half.
• · The second and third flips determine which platoons each team starts. (For example: The Warriors are the home team and have won the first toss, opting to begin the game on offense. Prior to the second coin toss, the Warrior’s captain chooses that “Heads” to represent the “A” platoon (“Tails” represents the “B” platoon). The toss comes up “Tails”; the “B” platoon will play offense the first half. The “A” platoon will play defense the first half. The process will be repeated with the opposing team with the third toss.)

 

2.4 Offensive Rules

2.4.1 The offense is limited to the “I” formation. The Fullback (FB) and Tailback (TB) must lineup directly behind the Quarterback (QB).

2.4.2 The Powerback (PB) may be lined up directly behind either Guard (Power I formation), up to one yard to the outside of either End and behind the line (Wing formation), or up to one yard to the outside of either Tackle and behind the line (Slot formation). The power back may be split out (behind the line) in a Flanker formation in both divisions. Only 1 receiver, End or Flanker, may be in the split formation per play.

2.4.3 There shall be no more than 1-yard between each lineman from End-to-End. One end may be split (in both divisions). Only 1 receiver (End or Flanker) may be in the split formation. Splitting an end on one side and having a wing or slot formation on the other side is an allowed formation. Lining the Powerback in the Slot position (See 2.4.2) with a split end on the same side is also allowable.

2.4.4 There are no man-in-motion plays. Players cannot shift into position. The no-huddle offense is not allowed.

2.4.5 No blocking below the waist outside the free blocking zone. The free blocking zone is defined as an area within 3 yards (either side) of the line of scrimmage and within 6 yards of either side of ball placement. Initiating a block below the waist is prohibited. A below the waist block may result from a block initiated above the waist. Cut-blocks (or any block initiated below the waist) are not allowed and should not be taught.

2.4.6 Coaches are encouraged to include plays for each running back and end to carry or receive the ball. Coaches should call plays that position their team to win the game, but a goal of the league is to teach the game and encourage further participation. Coaches are encouraged to spread the ball carrying/receiving opportunities over the course of the game. A player may not carry the ball 3 times in a row.

2.4.7 Using a “Hard Count”, head bob or other technique to intentionally draw the defense offside is prohibited. The purpose of this rule is not to discourage the offensive team from going on a long count. This is strictly a judgment call by the officials. In the Sr. Tackle Division play can not start until after the first sound. For example: Quarterback must say Ready and can go on any subsequent count including a silent count. In the Jr. Tackle Division play can not start until after the second sound. For example: Quarterback must say Ready, Set. Then play can start. (You may use any terminology you wish but it must be distinct and not intended to deceive.)

2.4.8 When the offense is in a wing or slot formation (powerback lined up outside the offensive tackle), the fullback is allowed to offset behind either guard, but must remain at his normal depth of at least one yard.

 

2.5 Defensive Rules

2.5.1 All teams will play a 6-2-2-1 defense.

2.5.2 The defensive linemen (DE to DE) must be within 1 yard of the line of scrimmage until the ball is snapped.

2.5.3 Defensive Guards must line-up head-to-head with the Offensive Guard. Defensive Tackles may line-up head-to-head or on the Offensive Tackles outside shoulder (i.e., DT’s head lined up with OT outside shoulder). The Defensive Ends may line up as wide as desired.

2.5.4 The linebackers must line up 1-3 yards directly behind the Defensive Tackles.

2.5.5 Both Cornerbacks must line up at least 3 yards behind the Linebacker on their side. The Safety must be at least 1 yard behind the deepest Cornerback. The Cornerbacks may play as wide as desired. The Safety should be inside the Tackles.

2.5.6 Line stunts and blitzing are allowed on the snap of the ball. (For example: Defensive linemen can drop-off into the secondary on the snap of the ball.)

2.5.7 The defense linemen and linebackers are required to remain set for 1 second prior to the snap of the ball. Defensive linemen may reset prior to the snap, provided they don’t enter the neutral zone. Linebackers are not allowed to cheat-up to the line. The defense is not allowed to draw the offense off-sides, or call a “snap count”.

2.5.8 Goal Line Defense. When the offense has possession of the ball inside but not including, the opponents 10 yard line, the defense may make the following adjustments; The cornerbacks and the safety may move up to a depth of 1 yard behind the linebackers.

2.6 Kicking/Punting Rules

2.6.1 There are no kick-offs, play starts at the 35-yard line.

2.6.2 Extra points and field goals may be kicked. Both are “free” plays (although the clocks does run) – the defensive squad is not allowed to rush and cannot return missed attempts. The ball must be placed at least 5-yards behind the line of scrimmage (which is the 3 yard line), directly behind the center. Upon notification that the offensive team will attempt a field goal, the referee shall center the ball in the middle of the field prior to the snap. Defensive players are allowed to jump at the line of scrimmage to block kicks. Kicking plays (extra points and punts) are dead-ball plays and the clock is stopped for the duration of the play.

2.6.3 The kicking/punting squad should be aligned in a standard kicking/punting formation. Both ends should be split when punting. The football should be long snapped to the punter or holder.

2.6.4 In the Junior Division, the kicker may use either a holder with or without a flat kicking tee or a “kick-off” tee without a holder. Senior Division kickers should use a holder with or without a flat kicking tee. The holder’s toe shall not be used as a tee.

2.6.5 The punting squad is not allowed downfield following a punt. The receiving team takes over where the punted ball is controlled. Punts that are touched by the receiving team, but continue downfield, are not under control. Punts deflected towards the line of scrimmage are placed where first touched.

2.6.6 The receiving team should line up in a normal punt receiving formation. This is a dead play but both kicking team and receiving team should align as if it were a REAL punting situation. For the receiving team the lineman and linebackers must stay in their designated positions. You may NOT drop your conrners and safety prior to the snap of the ball to simulate a punt return.

2.6.7 Since all kicks are free plays. The kicker/punter may be any player, regardless of weight.

Coaches Code of Conduct

Coaches are key to the establishment of ethics in football. Their concept of ethics and their attitude directly affects the behavior of players under their supervision. Coaches are, therefore, expected to pay particular care to the moral aspect of their conduct. Coaches have to be aware that almost all of their everyday decisions and choices of actions, as well as strategic targets, have ethical implications. It is natural that winning constitutes a basic concern for coaches. However, the code calls for coaches to disassociate themselves from a “win-at-all-costs” attitude. Increased responsibility is requested from coaches involved in coaching young people. The health, safety, welfare and moral education of each young person in the league are a first priority, before the achievement or the reputation of the individual team, coach or parent.

1. Coaches must respect the rights, dignity and worth of each and every person and treat each equally within the context of the sport.
2. Coaches must place the well-being and safety of each player above all other considerations, including the development of performance.
3. Coaches must adhere to all guidelines laid down by the governing bodies, whether they agree with them or not.
4. Coaches must develop an appropriate working relationship with each player based on mutual trust and respect.
5. Coaches must not exert undue influence to obtain personal or team benefit or reward.
6. Coaches must encourage and guide all players to accept responsibility for their own behavior and performance.
7. Coaches must ensure that the activities they direct or advocate are appropriate for the age, maturity, experience and abilities of the players.
8. Coaches should, at the outset, clarify with the players (and, where appropriate, parent) exactly what is expected of them and also what they are entitled to expect from their coach.
9. Coaches must co-operate fully with other specialists (i.e. other coaches, officials, league representatives, medical professionals) in the best interest of the player.
10. Coaches must always promote the positive aspects of the sport (i.e. fair play) and never condone violations of the laws of the game, behavior contrary to the spirit of the Laws of the Game or the relevant rules and regulations of the league.
11. Coaches must consistently display high standards or behavior and appearance.
12. Coaches must not use, or tolerate from their players or staff, inappropriate language.
13. Remember we are dealing with YOUNG PEOPLE and not high schoolers.
14. Decisions of the executive board, whether made at a meeting or on the filed are binding at the time they are made.
15. There is a fine line between emotion/animation and yelling at a player, please know the difference.

 

Players Code of Conduct

Players are the most important people in the sport. Playing for the team, and for the team to win, is the most fundamental part of the game. However, this does not mean winning at any cost – fair play and respect for all others in the game is fundamentally important.

Obligations towards the game

A player should

1. Make every effort to develop their own sporting abilities, in terms of skill, technique, tactics and stamina.
2. Give maximum effort and strive for the best possible performance during a game, even if your team is in a position where the desired result has already been achieved.
3. Set a positive example for others, particularly younger players and supporters.
4. Avoid all forms of taunting and trash-talk.
5. Not use inappropriate language.

Obligations towards your own team

A player should

1. Make every effort consistent with fair play and the laws of the game to help your own team win.
2. Resist any influence which might, or might be seen to, bring into question your commitment to the team doing their best.
3. Make every effort to attend all practices and be on-time

Respect the Laws of the game and competition rules

A player should

1. Know and follow the laws, rules and spirit of the game.
2. Accept success and failure, victory and defeat, equally with sportsmanship and respect.
3. Resist any temptation to use banned techniques or illegal moves\plays.

Respect towards Opponents

A player should

1. Treat opponents with respect at all times, regardless of the result of the game.
2. Safeguard the physical fitness of opponents, avoid violence and rough play, and help injured opponents.

Respect towards the Coaches\Officials

A player should

1. Accept the decision of the Official without comment.
2. Avoid words or actions which may mislead an Official.
3. Show respect to Officials at all times.
4. Show respect to your coach at all times.

Spectators & Parents Requested Code of Conduct

Parents\Spectators have a great influence on children’s enjoyment and success in football. All children play football because they first and foremost love the game – its fun! However good a child becomes at football, we think it is important to reinforce the message to parents\spectators that positive encouragement will contribute to:

1. Children enjoying football
2. A sense of personal achievement
3. Improving the child’ skills and techniques

A parent’s\spectator’s expectations and attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:

1. Other players
2. Officials
3. Coaches
4. Other parents
5. Spectators

We seek to ensure that parents\spectators within our league are always positive and encouraging towards all of the children. Not just their own or their own teams children.

We encourage parents\spectators to:

1. Applaud the opposition as well as your own team
2. Avoid coaching your child during the game
3. Refrain from shouting and screaming (over and above normal cheering)
4. Respect the referee’s decision, whether agreed with or not, and refrain from all comments made directly to or about the referee’s
5. Respect the opposing teams coaches and refrain from all comments made directly to or about the opposing coaches
6. Give encouragement to everyone participating in the game whether or not they are on your child’s team
7. Remember we are watching youth football and not the NFL