2023 Girls High School Lacrosse Championship
Lacrosse Tournament - June 29 to June 30, 2023
[Event is Over]
NFL Youth Flag Football Tournament Rules
Approved Football Sizes (we use official league ball distributed by Neighborhood Sports): • 6U - NFL mini
• 7U – 10U - Peewee (Coaches can choose to use their own ball as long as it is Pee Wee) • 11U – 12U - Junior (Coaches can choose to use their own ball as long as it is Junior; e.g. TDJ) • 13U – 14U – Youth (Coaches can choose to use their own ball as long as it is Youth; e.g. TDY)
• 17U – Official High School (e.g. GST)
Rules
I. Game
1. At the start of each game, captains from both teams shall meet at midfield for the coin toss to determine who shall start with the ball. 2. The visiting team shall call the toss.
3. The winner of the coin toss gets first offense possession. The loser of the coin toss chooses the end zone it would prefer to defend. 4. Teams may not choose to defer to second half choice.
5. The offensive team takes possession of the ball at its 5-yard line and has three (3) plays to cross midfield. If the team fails to convert a 1st down after 3 plays the team can decide to attempt to convert a 1st down with a 4th down attempt. If the team goes for a 1st down attempt on 4th down and fails to convert the ball turns over to the opposing team where the ball is spotted upon completion of the 4th down attempt. If the offensive team chooses not to go for a 4th down conversion attempt the opposing team will begin their drive on their 5 yard line (this essentially simulates a punt). Once a team crosses midfield; it has three (3) plays to score a touchdown. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession and the new offensive team takes over on its 5-yard line.
6. All possession changes, except interceptions, start on the offense’s 5- yard line.
7. Teams change sides after the first half. Possession changes to the loser of the coin toss.
8. Referee puts the ball into play each down. On change of possessions Referee will put the ball into play when the defense is set. If the defense is not set within 15 seconds of the offense being set he will issue a 5 yard delay of penalty to the defense.
II. Terminology
• Boundary lines – the outer perimeter lines around the field including the sidelines, and the rear end zone lines.
• Line Of Scrimmage (LOS) – an imaginary line running through point of football and across the width of the field.
• Line-To-Gain – the line the offense must pass to get a first down or score.
• Rush Line – an imaginary line running across the width of the field 7
yards (into the defensive side) from the Line of Scrimmage • Offense – the squad with possession of the ball.
• Defense – the squad opposing the offense to prevent them from advancing the ball.
• Passer – the offensive player that throws the ball and may or may not be the QB.
• Rusher – the defensive player assigned to rush the Quarterback to prevent him/her from passing .by pulling his/her flags or blocking the pass. • Downs (1-2-3) – the offensive squad has three attempts or “Downs” to advance the ball and cross the Line to Gain to get another set of downs or to score.
• Live Ball – the period of time that the play is in action. Generally used regarding penalties, Live Ball Penalties are considered part of the play and must be enforced before the down is considered complete. • Dead Ball – the period of time immediately before or after a play. • Whistle – the sound made by an official using a whistle that signifies the end of the play or a stop in the action for timeout, half time or the end of the game.
• Inadvertent whistle – an official’s whistle that is performed in error. • Charging – the movement of the ball carrier directly at a defensive player who has established position on the field. This includes lowering the head, making contact with the defender with a shoulder, chest or forearm. • Flag Guarding – An act by ball carrier to prevent a defender from pulling ball carrier's flags by stiff arm, lowering elbow, or head and or by blocking access to the runner's flags with hand or arm.
• Shovel Pass – a legal pass attempted behind the line of scrimmage by throwing the ball underhand or pushing it towards a receiver in a shot-put type manner.
• Lateral – a backwards or sideways toss of the ball by the ball carrier. • Unsportsmanlike Conduct – rude, confrontational or offensive behavior or language.
III. Eligibility
1. Neighborhood Sports Co-ed divisions are based on age as of August 1. Age will be verified by each player having an active Zorts card. Players can play up an age division with permission but never down a division. 2. All players must present a waiver that is signed by a legal guardian or parent. All players must be registered for the current season in which they are participating in. If a non-registered player participates, the player is
ineligible and therefore a forfeit will be declared for any games the ineligible player participates in.
IV. Equipment
1. NFL Flags or Sonic Flag-A-Tag Flags are required. All teams are responsible for providing their own flags. If you need to purchase, we will have them for sale for $10 per flag belt. Teams can also provide their own ball for use.
2. Players must wear shoes. Cleats are allowed, however cleats with exposed metal are not allowed and must be removed.
3. Players may tape their forearms, hands and fingers. Players may wear gloves, elbow pads, and kneepads. Braces with exposed metals are not allowed. Players with hard cast cannot play. Players with soft cast can play with a doctor’s release and if padded.
4. Players must remove all watches, earrings and any other jewelry that the officials deem hazardous.
5. Official NFL FLAG jerseys can be worn. All teams must wear the same color shirt and provide an alternative color in case the other team is wearing the same color. This may be decided by a coin toss if the same color is worn and cannot reach an agreement on who will change. 6. Players’ jerseys or shirts must be tucked into the pants if they hang below the belt line. Nothing should obstruct the white plastic portion of the flag belt where the flag attaches to the belt. A play will be called down at the spot a player who is in violation of this rule obtains possession of the ball.
7. Pants or shorts with belt pockets must be duct taped. We prefer everyone to not have pockets for player safety. Flags may not be the same color as shorts.
8. All players MUST wear a mouth guard for practice and games. V. Field
1. The recommended field size is 25 yards by 60 yards with two 5-yard end zones and a midfield line-to-gain. No-Running Zones precede each line-to-gain by 5 yards. However, some league organizers prefer to use smaller fields to run more games per football/soccer field.
2. No Run Zones are in place to prevent teams from conducting power run plays. While in the No Run Zones (a 5-yard imaginary zone before midfield and before the End zone), teams may not run the ball in any fashion. All plays, including those that begin with a handoff, must be pass plays. 3. Stepping on the boundary line is considered out of bounds.
4. Each offensive squad approaches only TWO No Run Zones in each drive (one zone 5 yards from midfield to gain the first down, one zone 5 yards from the goal line to score a TD).
VI. Rosters
1. Teams may not have the same color jersey/shirt when playing against each other.
2. Teams play 5 offensive players verse 5 defensive players 3. Teams must field a minimum of four (4) players at all times. VII. Timing and Overtime
1. Games are played on a 12-minute continuous clock. The clock stops only for timeouts except in the last 1 minute of the game. During the last 1 minute of the game the clock will stop (unless the point difference is more than 14 points) on change of possession, incomplete passes, ball carrier goes out of bounds, the offense gains a first down, and the official signals a penalty by throwing a flag.
2. Halftime is one-minute long.
3. Each time the play is over and even before the ball is spotted, a team has 30 seconds to snap the ball. Teams will receive one warning before a delay-of-game penalty is enforced. The offense is responsible for putting the ball on the line of scrimmage. After a 10 second runoff once a play is complete the game official will start the 30 second play clock (10 seconds
should be enough time for the offense to set the ball and return to huddle). 4. Each team has one – 3 second timeout per half, timeouts do not roll over to second half.
5. Officials can stop the clock at their discretion.
6. In the event of an injury the clock will stop and then restart when the injured player is removed from the field of play.
7. If the score is tied at the end of regulation, the game goes into overtime.
8. In tournament or playoff situations, an Overtime (OT) Period will be used to determine a winner. OT format is as follows:
a. Each team gets one play from the 7 yard line that can be either a pass or run. First possession choice goes to the winner of regulation coin toss.
b. There is no Sudden Death; each team gets a minimum of one possession.
c. First team to score when the opposing team does not score wins the game.
d. All regulation period rules and penalties are in effect.
e. There are no time-outs.
f. In triple overtime the play if from the 10 yard line.
VIII. Scoring
1. Touchdown: 6 points
2. PAT (Point-After Touchdown) 1 point (5-yard line) or 2 points (12-yard line). Note: 1-point PAT is pass only, 2-point PAT can be run or pass. 3. Safety: 2 points
a. The ball is spotted where the runners front foot is when the flag is pulled, not where the ball is.
b. A Safety occurs when the ball carrier is declared down in his/her own end zone. They can be called down when their flags are pulled by a defensive player, their flag falls out, they step out of bounds or they hit the ground with their knee or arm. A Safety also occurs when there is an offensive penalty in end zone.
c. A team that scores a touchdown must declare whether it wishes to attempt a 1-pt. conversion (from the 5-yard line) or a 2-pt. conversion (from the 12-yard line). Any change, once a decision is made to try for the extra point, requires a charged time out.
d. Decision cannot be changed after a penalty. Interceptions on conversions can be returned for 1 point.
Mercy Rule: After one team is winning by twenty-eight points or more, the losing team gets one offensive series to continue regulation play. If they do not score, the game is over.
IX. Coaches
1. Coaches are typically volunteer parents or family members helping the players learn and enjoy the game.
2. Parents are encouraged to support the coach at all time. 3. Coaches are allowed on the field to direct players according to need and bracket. Defensive Coach must move to the sidelines before the snap of the ball (make all effort not to stand on sideline occupied by opponents CDA).
4. Coaches are expected to adhere to NFL FLAG philosophies, coaching guidelines and codes of conduct.
5. Only three coaches per team are allowed on the sidelines. X. Live Ball/Dead Ball
1. The ball is live at the snap of the ball and remains live until the official
whistles the ball dead.
2. The official will indicate the neutral zone and line of scrimmage. It is an automatic dead ball foul if any player on defense or offense enters the neutral zone. In regard to the neutral zone, the official may give both teams a “courtesy” neutral zone notification to allow their players to move back beyond the line.
3. A player who gains possession in the air is considered in bounds as long as one foot comes down in the field of play.
4. The defense may not mimic the offensive team signals, by trying to confuse the offensive players, while the quarterback is calling out signals to start the play.
5. Substitutions may be made on any dead ball.
6. Any official can whistle the play dead.
7. Play is ruled “dead” when:
a. The ball hits the ground.
b. The ball carrier’s flag is pulled.
c. The ball carrier steps out of bounds.
d. A touchdown, PAT or safety is scored.
e. The ball carrier’s knee or arm hits the ground.
f. The ball carrier’s flag falls out.
g. The receiver catches the ball while in possession of one flag. h. The 6 second pass clock expires.
i. An inadvertent whistle is performed (at the spot where the ball was whistled dead).
8. In the case of an inadvertent whistle, the offense has two options: a. Take the ball where the whistle blew.
b. Replay the down from the original line of scrimmage.
9. Note: There are no fumbles. The ball is spotted where the ball hits the ground.
10. A team is allowed to use a time out to question an official’s rule interpretation. If the rule is interpreted incorrectly, the time out will not be charged and the proper ruling will be enforced. Officials should all agree upon any controversial call in order to give each team the full benefit of each call. If the ruling is correct the team will be charged a time out. XI. Running
1. The ball is spotted where the ball is when the flag is pulled. 2. The quarterback cannot directly run with the ball.
3. Only direct handoffs behind the line of scrimmage are permitted. Offense may use multiple handoffs.
4. Absolutely NO laterals or pitches of any kind.
5. “No-Run Zones,” located 5 yards before each end zone and 5 yards on either side of midfield, are designed to avoid short-yardage, power-running situations. Teams are not allowed to run in these zones IF the subsequent line is LIVE. (Reminder: Each offensive squad approaches only TWO No Run Zones in each drive - one 5 yards from midfield to gain the first down, one 5 yards from the goal line to score a TD 5 yards).
6. The player who takes the handoff can throw the ball from behind the line of scrimmage.
7. Once the ball has been handed off in front or behind the quarterback, all defensive players are eligible to rush.
8. Runners may leave their feet to advance the ball as long as they are not hurdling a player or make contact with the defensive player. Diving or leaping is considered flag guarding. (No leaping over players) 9. Spinning is allowed.
10. Runners may leave their feet if there is a clear indication that he/she has done so to avoid collision with another player without a flag guarding penalty enforced.
11. No blocking or “screening” is allowed at any time.
12. Offensive players must stop their motion or clear their routes out of the way of the ball carrier and not while impeding a defensive player from making a move towards the ball carrier. No running with the ball carrier. 13. Flag Obstruction – All jerseys MUST be tucked in before play begins. The flags must be on the player’s hips and free from obstruction. 14. Deliberately obstructed flags will be considered flag guarding. XII. Passing
1. All passes must be from behind the line of scrimmage, thrown forward and received beyond the line of scrimmage.
2. Shovel passes are allowed, but must be received beyond the line of scrimmage.
3. The quarterback has a six-second “pass clock.” If a pass is not thrown within the six seconds, play is dead, the down is consumed and the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage. Once the ball is handed off, the 6- second rule no longer is in effect.
a. If the QB is standing in the end zone at the end of the 6-second clock,
the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage (LOS).
XIII. Receiving
1. All players are eligible to receive passes (including the quarterback if the ball has been handed off behind the line).
2. Only one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the line of scrimmage and no motion is permitted towards the line of scrimmage.
3. A player must have at least one foot inbounds when making a reception. 4. In the case of simultaneous possession by both an offensive and defensive player, possession is awarded to the offense.
5. Interceptions change the possession of the ball at the point of interception. Interceptions are the only changes of possession that do not start on the 5-yard line.
6. Interceptions are returnable, and on conversions after touchdowns (worth 1 Point).
XIV. Rushing the Passer
1. All players who rush the passer must be a minimum of seven yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped.
2. Any number of players can rush the quarterback. Players not rushing the quarterback may defend on the line of scrimmage.
3. Once the ball is handed off, the seven-yard rule no longer is in effect and all defenders may go behind the line of scrimmage.
4. A special marker, or the referee, will designate a Rush Line seven yards from the line of scrimmage.
5. Defensive players should verify they are in the correct position with the official on every play.
a. A legal rush is:
b. Any rush from a point 7 yards from the defensive line of scrimmage. 6. ii. A rush from anywhere on the field AFTER the ball has been handed off by the quarterback.
7. iii. .If a rusher leaves the rush line early, they may return to the rush line, reset and then legally rush the quarterback.
8. iv. If a rusher leaves the rush line early and the ball is handed off before they cross the line of scrimmage, they may legally rush the quarterback. a. A penalty may be called if:
9. The rusher leaves the rush line before the snap and crosses the line of scrimmage before a handoff or pass – Illegal Rush (5 yards LOS and first down).
10. ii.. Any defensive player crosses the line of scrimmage before the ball is snapped – Offside (5 yards LOS and first down).
11. Any defensive player, not lined up at the rush line crosses the line of scrimmage before the ball is passed or handed – Illegal Rush (5 yards LOS and first down).
a. Special circumstances:
b. Teams are not required to rush the quarterback, seven second clock in effect.
12. Teams are not required to identify their rusher before the play. 13. If rusher leaves the 7-yard line before the snap, he/she may immediately drop back to act as a defender with no offside penalty enforced.
14. Offense cannot impede the rusher in any way. The rusher has a CLEAR PATH to the QB and any interference that would impede his/her path to the QB will be considered screening. The defense may attempt to block a pass provided they do not strike the passer.
15. Pass rushers must go for QB's flag. Any attempt to block the pass is a penalty (5-yard penalty) if the attempt causes the defensive player to make contact with the QB’s throwing arm. The QB must have room to follow through with his/her throw. This is to protect QB.
16. A Sack occurs if the QB’s flags are pulled behind the line of scrimmage. The ball is placed where the QB’s feet are when the flag is pulled. a. A Safety is awarded if the sack takes place in the offensive team’s end zone.
XV. Flag Pulling
1. A legal flag pull takes place when the ball carrier is in full possession of the ball.
2. Defenders can dive to pull flags, but cannot tackle, hold or run through ball carrier when pulling flags.
3. It is illegal to attempt to strip or pull the ball or pull from the ball carrier’s possession at any time.
4. If a player’s flag inadvertently falls off during the play, the player is down immediately upon possession of the ball and the play ends. 5. A defensive player may not intentionally pull the flags off of a player who is not in possession of the ball.
6. Flag guarding is an attempt by the ball carrier to obstruct the defender’s access to the flags by stiff arming, dropping of head, hand, arm or shoulder, or intentionally covering flags with the football or jersey.
XVI. Formations
1. An offensive team must have a minimum of one player on the line of scrimmage (the Center) and up to four players on the line of scrimmage. 2. The quarterback must be off the line of scrimmage. One player at a time may go in motion 1-yard beyond and parallel to the line of scrimmage (i.e. No motion is allowed towards the line of scrimmage). 3. Offensive players must come to a complete stop for one second before the ball is snapped unless he/she is the one player in motion. 4. Movement by a player who is set or a player who runs toward the line of scrimmage while in motion is considered a false start.
5. The center must snap the ball with a rapid and continuous motion between his/her legs to a player in the backfield, and the ball must completely leave his/her hands.
XVII. Unsportsmanlike Conduct
1. If the Field Director or referee witnesses any acts of intentional tackling, elbowing, cheap shots, blocking, or any unsportsmanlike act, the game will be stopped and the player will be ejected from the game. The decision is made at the referee’s discretion. .No appeals! FOUL PLAY WILL NOT BE TOLERATED.
2. Offensive or confrontational language is illegal. Officials have the right to determine offensive language. If offensive or confrontational language occurs, the referee will give one warning. If it continues, the player or players will be ejected from the game.
3. Coaches or Players may not physically or verbally abuse any opponent or official.
4. Ball carriers MUST make an effort to avoid defenders with an established position.
5. Defenders are not allowed to run through the ball carrier when pulling flags.
6. Fans must also adhere to good sportsmanship:
a. Yell to cheer on your players, not to harass officials or other teams. b. Keep comments clean and profanity free.
c. Compliment ALL players, not just one child or team.
7. Fans are required to keep fields safe and kids friendly:
a. Keep younger kids and equipment such as coolers, chairs and tents away from the sidelines.
b. Stay in the end zone area, not between fields.
XVIII. Penalties
General:
1. The referee will call all penalties.
2. Referees determine incidental contact that may result from normal run of play.
3. All penalties will be assessed from the line of scrimmage, except as noted (spot fouls).
1. Only the team captain or head coach may ask the referee questions about rule clarification and interpretations. Players cannot question judgment calls.
4. Games cannot end on a defensive penalty, unless the offense declines it. 5. Penalties are assessed Live Ball then Dead Ball. Live Ball penalties must be assessed before play is considered completed.
6. Penalties will be assessed half the distance to the goal yardage when the penalty yardage is more than half the distance to the goal. 5 Yard Penalties
1. Illegal Equipment
2. Offside
3. Illegal motion (more than one person moving, false start, etc.) 4. Illegal forward pass (pass received behind line of scrimmage or throwing a pass beyond the line of scrimmage)
5. Offensive pass interference (illegal pick play, pushing off/away defender) 6. Screening, Blocking or Running with the ball carrier
7. Delay of game
8. Defense Illegal contact (holding, blocking, etc.)
9. Defense Illegal flag pull (before receiver has ball)
10. Defense Illegal rushing (starting rush from inside 7-yard marker) 10 Yard Penalties
1. Roughing the passer
2. Taunting
3. Unsportsmanlike conduct. -After scoring and touchdown is good, offense receives a 10 yard penalty from the yard line of PAT attempt after touchdown (one warning to the player and team before ejection) iv. Spot Fouls
• Flag
guarding................................................................................................. ..........................10 yards & loss of down
•
Charging.................................................................................................
..................................10 yards & loss of down
• Defensive Pass
Interference............................................................................................ ...............................first down
•
Stripping................................................................................................. ......................................10 yards & first down
• Offensive Unnecessary
Roughness.........................................................................................10 yards & loss of down
• Screening, Blocking or Running with the ball
carrier................................................................. 5 yards & loss of down • Defensive Unnecessary
Roughness............................................................................................ 10 yards & first down
v. Defense
• Offside............................................................................5 yards from the LOS & automatic first down
• Illegal contact (Holding, blocking, etc.).............................5 yards from the LOS & automatic first down
• Illegal flag pull (Before receiver has ball)...........................5 yards from the LOS & automatic first down
• Illegal rushing (Starting rush from inside 7-yard marker)....5 yards from the LOS & automatic first down
• Roughing the passer .....................................................................10 yards from the LOS & first down
• Taunting .....................................................................................10 yards from the LOS & first down
• Unnecessary
Roughness.....................................................................Spot foul, 10 yards & first down
•
Stripping............................................................................................Sp ot foul, 10 yards & first down
• Defensive Pass
Interference.................................................................Spot foul & first down
• Defense more than 5 players on field (players must be involved in play
and not running off field)….5 yards & first down
vi. Offense
• Illegal motion (More than one person moving, false start, etc.)......5 yards from the LOS (loss of down will also result on every false start after two false starts during the game)
• Illegal forward pass (Pass received behind LOS or throwing a pass beyond LOS)………...5 yards from the LOS & loss of down • Offensive pass interference (Illegal pick play, pushing
off/away defender) ........5 yards from the LOS & loss of down • Flag
guarding.................................................................................Spot foul, 10 yards & loss of down
• Screening, Blocking or Running with the ball
carrier........................... Spot foul, 5 yards & loss of down •
Charging.........................................................................................Sp ot foul, 10 yards & loss of down
• Delay of
game.............................................................................5 yards from the LOS & loss of down
• Offensive Unnecessary Roughness................................................. Spot foul, 10 yards & loss of down
•
Offside........................................................................................5 yards from the LOS & loss of down
• Offense more than 5 players on field (players must be involved in play and not running off field)….5 yards & loss of down
XX. 6U Rule Differences
1. Offensive team has 4-plays to cross midfield for first down and 4 plays to score after crossing midfield.
2. 2 Fumble Rule – if the center or QB fumble the initialexchange (i.e. snap) it is not a dead ball in 6U divisions only. Only the QB can pick up the ball. All fumbles between QB and runners are dead ball. QB cannot run but can scramble behind the line of scrimmage.
Illegal motion is not called in this division.
Approved Football Sizes (we use official league ball distributed by Neighborhood Sports): • 6U - NFL mini
• 7U – 10U - Peewee (Coaches can choose to use their own ball as long as it is Pee Wee) • 11U – 12U - Junior (Coaches can choose to use their own ball as long as it is Junior; e.g. TDJ) • 13U – 14U – Youth (Coaches can choose to use their own ball as long as it is Youth; e.g. TDY)
• 17U – Official High School (e.g. GST)
Rules
I. Game
1. At the start of each game, captains from both teams shall meet at midfield for the coin toss to determine who shall start with the ball. 2. The visiting team shall call the toss.
3. The winner of the coin toss gets first offense possession. The loser of the coin toss chooses the end zone it would prefer to defend. 4. Teams may not choose to defer to second half choice.
5. The offensive team takes possession of the ball at its 5-yard line and has three (3) plays to cross midfield. If the team fails to convert a 1st down after 3 plays the team can decide to attempt to convert a 1st down with a 4th down attempt. If the team goes for a 1st down attempt on 4th down and fails to convert the ball turns over to the opposing team where the ball is spotted upon completion of the 4th down attempt. If the offensive team chooses not to go for a 4th down conversion attempt the opposing team will begin their drive on their 5 yard line (this essentially simulates a punt). Once a team crosses midfield; it has three (3) plays to score a touchdown. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession and the new offensive team takes over on its 5-yard line.
6. All possession changes, except interceptions, start on the offense’s 5- yard line.
7. Teams change sides after the first half. Possession changes to the loser of the coin toss.
8. Referee puts the ball into play each down. On change of possessions Referee will put the ball into play when the defense is set. If the defense is not set within 15 seconds of the offense being set he will issue a 5 yard delay of penalty to the defense.
II. Terminology
• Boundary lines – the outer perimeter lines around the field including the sidelines, and the rear end zone lines.
• Line Of Scrimmage (LOS) – an imaginary line running through point of football and across the width of the field.
• Line-To-Gain – the line the offense must pass to get a first down or score.
• Rush Line – an imaginary line running across the width of the field 7
yards (into the defensive side) from the Line of Scrimmage • Offense – the squad with possession of the ball.
• Defense – the squad opposing the offense to prevent them from advancing the ball.
• Passer – the offensive player that throws the ball and may or may not be the QB.
• Rusher – the defensive player assigned to rush the Quarterback to prevent him/her from passing .by pulling his/her flags or blocking the pass. • Downs (1-2-3) – the offensive squad has three attempts or “Downs” to advance the ball and cross the Line to Gain to get another set of downs or to score.
• Live Ball – the period of time that the play is in action. Generally used regarding penalties, Live Ball Penalties are considered part of the play and must be enforced before the down is considered complete. • Dead Ball – the period of time immediately before or after a play. • Whistle – the sound made by an official using a whistle that signifies the end of the play or a stop in the action for timeout, half time or the end of the game.
• Inadvertent whistle – an official’s whistle that is performed in error. • Charging – the movement of the ball carrier directly at a defensive player who has established position on the field. This includes lowering the head, making contact with the defender with a shoulder, chest or forearm. • Flag Guarding – An act by ball carrier to prevent a defender from pulling ball carrier's flags by stiff arm, lowering elbow, or head and or by blocking access to the runner's flags with hand or arm.
• Shovel Pass – a legal pass attempted behind the line of scrimmage by throwing the ball underhand or pushing it towards a receiver in a shot-put type manner.
• Lateral – a backwards or sideways toss of the ball by the ball carrier. • Unsportsmanlike Conduct – rude, confrontational or offensive behavior or language.
III. Eligibility
1. Neighborhood Sports Co-ed divisions are based on age as of August 1. Age will be verified by each player having an active Zorts card. Players can play up an age division with permission but never down a division. 2. All players must present a waiver that is signed by a legal guardian or parent. All players must be registered for the current season in which they are participating in. If a non-registered player participates, the player is
ineligible and therefore a forfeit will be declared for any games the ineligible player participates in.
IV. Equipment
1. NFL Flags or Sonic Flag-A-Tag Flags are required. All teams are responsible for providing their own flags. If you need to purchase, we will have them for sale for $10 per flag belt. Teams can also provide their own ball for use.
2. Players must wear shoes. Cleats are allowed, however cleats with exposed metal are not allowed and must be removed.
3. Players may tape their forearms, hands and fingers. Players may wear gloves, elbow pads, and kneepads. Braces with exposed metals are not allowed. Players with hard cast cannot play. Players with soft cast can play with a doctor’s release and if padded.
4. Players must remove all watches, earrings and any other jewelry that the officials deem hazardous.
5. Official NFL FLAG jerseys can be worn. All teams must wear the same color shirt and provide an alternative color in case the other team is wearing the same color. This may be decided by a coin toss if the same color is worn and cannot reach an agreement on who will change. 6. Players’ jerseys or shirts must be tucked into the pants if they hang below the belt line. Nothing should obstruct the white plastic portion of the flag belt where the flag attaches to the belt. A play will be called down at the spot a player who is in violation of this rule obtains possession of the ball.
7. Pants or shorts with belt pockets must be duct taped. We prefer everyone to not have pockets for player safety. Flags may not be the same color as shorts.
8. All players MUST wear a mouth guard for practice and games. V. Field
1. The recommended field size is 25 yards by 60 yards with two 5-yard end zones and a midfield line-to-gain. No-Running Zones precede each line-to-gain by 5 yards. However, some league organizers prefer to use smaller fields to run more games per football/soccer field.
2. No Run Zones are in place to prevent teams from conducting power run plays. While in the No Run Zones (a 5-yard imaginary zone before midfield and before the End zone), teams may not run the ball in any fashion. All plays, including those that begin with a handoff, must be pass plays. 3. Stepping on the boundary line is considered out of bounds.
4. Each offensive squad approaches only TWO No Run Zones in each drive (one zone 5 yards from midfield to gain the first down, one zone 5 yards from the goal line to score a TD).
VI. Rosters
1. Teams may not have the same color jersey/shirt when playing against each other.
2. Teams play 5 offensive players verse 5 defensive players 3. Teams must field a minimum of four (4) players at all times. VII. Timing and Overtime
1. Games are played on a 12-minute continuous clock. The clock stops only for timeouts except in the last 1 minute of the game. During the last 1 minute of the game the clock will stop (unless the point difference is more than 14 points) on change of possession, incomplete passes, ball carrier goes out of bounds, the offense gains a first down, and the official signals a penalty by throwing a flag.
2. Halftime is one-minute long.
3. Each time the play is over and even before the ball is spotted, a team has 30 seconds to snap the ball. Teams will receive one warning before a delay-of-game penalty is enforced. The offense is responsible for putting the ball on the line of scrimmage. After a 10 second runoff once a play is complete the game official will start the 30 second play clock (10 seconds
should be enough time for the offense to set the ball and return to huddle). 4. Each team has one – 3 second timeout per half, timeouts do not roll over to second half.
5. Officials can stop the clock at their discretion.
6. In the event of an injury the clock will stop and then restart when the injured player is removed from the field of play.
7. If the score is tied at the end of regulation, the game goes into overtime.
8. In tournament or playoff situations, an Overtime (OT) Period will be used to determine a winner. OT format is as follows:
a. Each team gets one play from the 7 yard line that can be either a pass or run. First possession choice goes to the winner of regulation coin toss.
b. There is no Sudden Death; each team gets a minimum of one possession.
c. First team to score when the opposing team does not score wins the game.
d. All regulation period rules and penalties are in effect.
e. There are no time-outs.
f. In triple overtime the play if from the 10 yard line.
VIII. Scoring
1. Touchdown: 6 points
2. PAT (Point-After Touchdown) 1 point (5-yard line) or 2 points (12-yard line). Note: 1-point PAT is pass only, 2-point PAT can be run or pass. 3. Safety: 2 points
a. The ball is spotted where the runners front foot is when the flag is pulled, not where the ball is.
b. A Safety occurs when the ball carrier is declared down in his/her own end zone. They can be called down when their flags are pulled by a defensive player, their flag falls out, they step out of bounds or they hit the ground with their knee or arm. A Safety also occurs when there is an offensive penalty in end zone.
c. A team that scores a touchdown must declare whether it wishes to attempt a 1-pt. conversion (from the 5-yard line) or a 2-pt. conversion (from the 12-yard line). Any change, once a decision is made to try for the extra point, requires a charged time out.
d. Decision cannot be changed after a penalty. Interceptions on conversions can be returned for 1 point.
Mercy Rule: After one team is winning by twenty-eight points or more, the losing team gets one offensive series to continue regulation play. If they do not score, the game is over.
IX. Coaches
1. Coaches are typically volunteer parents or family members helping the players learn and enjoy the game.
2. Parents are encouraged to support the coach at all time. 3. Coaches are allowed on the field to direct players according to need and bracket. Defensive Coach must move to the sidelines before the snap of the ball (make all effort not to stand on sideline occupied by opponents CDA).
4. Coaches are expected to adhere to NFL FLAG philosophies, coaching guidelines and codes of conduct.
5. Only three coaches per team are allowed on the sidelines. X. Live Ball/Dead Ball
1. The ball is live at the snap of the ball and remains live until the official
whistles the ball dead.
2. The official will indicate the neutral zone and line of scrimmage. It is an automatic dead ball foul if any player on defense or offense enters the neutral zone. In regard to the neutral zone, the official may give both teams a “courtesy” neutral zone notification to allow their players to move back beyond the line.
3. A player who gains possession in the air is considered in bounds as long as one foot comes down in the field of play.
4. The defense may not mimic the offensive team signals, by trying to confuse the offensive players, while the quarterback is calling out signals to start the play.
5. Substitutions may be made on any dead ball.
6. Any official can whistle the play dead.
7. Play is ruled “dead” when:
a. The ball hits the ground.
b. The ball carrier’s flag is pulled.
c. The ball carrier steps out of bounds.
d. A touchdown, PAT or safety is scored.
e. The ball carrier’s knee or arm hits the ground.
f. The ball carrier’s flag falls out.
g. The receiver catches the ball while in possession of one flag. h. The 6 second pass clock expires.
i. An inadvertent whistle is performed (at the spot where the ball was whistled dead).
8. In the case of an inadvertent whistle, the offense has two options: a. Take the ball where the whistle blew.
b. Replay the down from the original line of scrimmage.
9. Note: There are no fumbles. The ball is spotted where the ball hits the ground.
10. A team is allowed to use a time out to question an official’s rule interpretation. If the rule is interpreted incorrectly, the time out will not be charged and the proper ruling will be enforced. Officials should all agree upon any controversial call in order to give each team the full benefit of each call. If the ruling is correct the team will be charged a time out. XI. Running
1. The ball is spotted where the ball is when the flag is pulled. 2. The quarterback cannot directly run with the ball.
3. Only direct handoffs behind the line of scrimmage are permitted. Offense may use multiple handoffs.
4. Absolutely NO laterals or pitches of any kind.
5. “No-Run Zones,” located 5 yards before each end zone and 5 yards on either side of midfield, are designed to avoid short-yardage, power-running situations. Teams are not allowed to run in these zones IF the subsequent line is LIVE. (Reminder: Each offensive squad approaches only TWO No Run Zones in each drive - one 5 yards from midfield to gain the first down, one 5 yards from the goal line to score a TD 5 yards).
6. The player who takes the handoff can throw the ball from behind the line of scrimmage.
7. Once the ball has been handed off in front or behind the quarterback, all defensive players are eligible to rush.
8. Runners may leave their feet to advance the ball as long as they are not hurdling a player or make contact with the defensive player. Diving or leaping is considered flag guarding. (No leaping over players) 9. Spinning is allowed.
10. Runners may leave their feet if there is a clear indication that he/she has done so to avoid collision with another player without a flag guarding penalty enforced.
11. No blocking or “screening” is allowed at any time.
12. Offensive players must stop their motion or clear their routes out of the way of the ball carrier and not while impeding a defensive player from making a move towards the ball carrier. No running with the ball carrier. 13. Flag Obstruction – All jerseys MUST be tucked in before play begins. The flags must be on the player’s hips and free from obstruction. 14. Deliberately obstructed flags will be considered flag guarding. XII. Passing
1. All passes must be from behind the line of scrimmage, thrown forward and received beyond the line of scrimmage.
2. Shovel passes are allowed, but must be received beyond the line of scrimmage.
3. The quarterback has a six-second “pass clock.” If a pass is not thrown within the six seconds, play is dead, the down is consumed and the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage. Once the ball is handed off, the 6- second rule no longer is in effect.
a. If the QB is standing in the end zone at the end of the 6-second clock,
the ball is returned to the line of scrimmage (LOS).
XIII. Receiving
1. All players are eligible to receive passes (including the quarterback if the ball has been handed off behind the line).
2. Only one player is allowed in motion at a time. All motion must be parallel to the line of scrimmage and no motion is permitted towards the line of scrimmage.
3. A player must have at least one foot inbounds when making a reception. 4. In the case of simultaneous possession by both an offensive and defensive player, possession is awarded to the offense.
5. Interceptions change the possession of the ball at the point of interception. Interceptions are the only changes of possession that do not start on the 5-yard line.
6. Interceptions are returnable, and on conversions after touchdowns (worth 1 Point).
XIV. Rushing the Passer
1. All players who rush the passer must be a minimum of seven yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped.
2. Any number of players can rush the quarterback. Players not rushing the quarterback may defend on the line of scrimmage.
3. Once the ball is handed off, the seven-yard rule no longer is in effect and all defenders may go behind the line of scrimmage.
4. A special marker, or the referee, will designate a Rush Line seven yards from the line of scrimmage.
5. Defensive players should verify they are in the correct position with the official on every play.
a. A legal rush is:
b. Any rush from a point 7 yards from the defensive line of scrimmage. 6. ii. A rush from anywhere on the field AFTER the ball has been handed off by the quarterback.
7. iii. .If a rusher leaves the rush line early, they may return to the rush line, reset and then legally rush the quarterback.
8. iv. If a rusher leaves the rush line early and the ball is handed off before they cross the line of scrimmage, they may legally rush the quarterback. a. A penalty may be called if:
9. The rusher leaves the rush line before the snap and crosses the line of scrimmage before a handoff or pass – Illegal Rush (5 yards LOS and first down).
10. ii.. Any defensive player crosses the line of scrimmage before the ball is snapped – Offside (5 yards LOS and first down).
11. Any defensive player, not lined up at the rush line crosses the line of scrimmage before the ball is passed or handed – Illegal Rush (5 yards LOS and first down).
a. Special circumstances:
b. Teams are not required to rush the quarterback, seven second clock in effect.
12. Teams are not required to identify their rusher before the play. 13. If rusher leaves the 7-yard line before the snap, he/she may immediately drop back to act as a defender with no offside penalty enforced.
14. Offense cannot impede the rusher in any way. The rusher has a CLEAR PATH to the QB and any interference that would impede his/her path to the QB will be considered screening. The defense may attempt to block a pass provided they do not strike the passer.
15. Pass rushers must go for QB's flag. Any attempt to block the pass is a penalty (5-yard penalty) if the attempt causes the defensive player to make contact with the QB’s throwing arm. The QB must have room to follow through with his/her throw. This is to protect QB.
16. A Sack occurs if the QB’s flags are pulled behind the line of scrimmage. The ball is placed where the QB’s feet are when the flag is pulled. a. A Safety is awarded if the sack takes place in the offensive team’s end zone.
XV. Flag Pulling
1. A legal flag pull takes place when the ball carrier is in full possession of the ball.
2. Defenders can dive to pull flags, but cannot tackle, hold or run through ball carrier when pulling flags.
3. It is illegal to attempt to strip or pull the ball or pull from the ball carrier’s possession at any time.
4. If a player’s flag inadvertently falls off during the play, the player is down immediately upon possession of the ball and the play ends. 5. A defensive player may not intentionally pull the flags off of a player who is not in possession of the ball.
6. Flag guarding is an attempt by the ball carrier to obstruct the defender’s access to the flags by stiff arming, dropping of head, hand, arm or shoulder, or intentionally covering flags with the football or jersey.
XVI. Formations
1. An offensive team must have a minimum of one player on the line of scrimmage (the Center) and up to four players on the line of scrimmage. 2. The quarterback must be off the line of scrimmage. One player at a time may go in motion 1-yard beyond and parallel to the line of scrimmage (i.e. No motion is allowed towards the line of scrimmage). 3. Offensive players must come to a complete stop for one second before the ball is snapped unless he/she is the one player in motion. 4. Movement by a player who is set or a player who runs toward the line of scrimmage while in motion is considered a false start.
5. The center must snap the ball with a rapid and continuous motion between his/her legs to a player in the backfield, and the ball must completely leave his/her hands.
XVII. Unsportsmanlike Conduct
1. If the Field Director or referee witnesses any acts of intentional tackling, elbowing, cheap shots, blocking, or any unsportsmanlike act, the game will be stopped and the player will be ejected from the game. The decision is made at the referee’s discretion. .No appeals! FOUL PLAY WILL NOT BE TOLERATED.
2. Offensive or confrontational language is illegal. Officials have the right to determine offensive language. If offensive or confrontational language occurs, the referee will give one warning. If it continues, the player or players will be ejected from the game.
3. Coaches or Players may not physically or verbally abuse any opponent or official.
4. Ball carriers MUST make an effort to avoid defenders with an established position.
5. Defenders are not allowed to run through the ball carrier when pulling flags.
6. Fans must also adhere to good sportsmanship:
a. Yell to cheer on your players, not to harass officials or other teams. b. Keep comments clean and profanity free.
c. Compliment ALL players, not just one child or team.
7. Fans are required to keep fields safe and kids friendly:
a. Keep younger kids and equipment such as coolers, chairs and tents away from the sidelines.
b. Stay in the end zone area, not between fields.
XVIII. Penalties
General:
1. The referee will call all penalties.
2. Referees determine incidental contact that may result from normal run of play.
3. All penalties will be assessed from the line of scrimmage, except as noted (spot fouls).
1. Only the team captain or head coach may ask the referee questions about rule clarification and interpretations. Players cannot question judgment calls.
4. Games cannot end on a defensive penalty, unless the offense declines it. 5. Penalties are assessed Live Ball then Dead Ball. Live Ball penalties must be assessed before play is considered completed.
6. Penalties will be assessed half the distance to the goal yardage when the penalty yardage is more than half the distance to the goal. 5 Yard Penalties
1. Illegal Equipment
2. Offside
3. Illegal motion (more than one person moving, false start, etc.) 4. Illegal forward pass (pass received behind line of scrimmage or throwing a pass beyond the line of scrimmage)
5. Offensive pass interference (illegal pick play, pushing off/away defender) 6. Screening, Blocking or Running with the ball carrier
7. Delay of game
8. Defense Illegal contact (holding, blocking, etc.)
9. Defense Illegal flag pull (before receiver has ball)
10. Defense Illegal rushing (starting rush from inside 7-yard marker) 10 Yard Penalties
1. Roughing the passer
2. Taunting
3. Unsportsmanlike conduct. -After scoring and touchdown is good, offense receives a 10 yard penalty from the yard line of PAT attempt after touchdown (one warning to the player and team before ejection) iv. Spot Fouls
• Flag
guarding................................................................................................. ..........................10 yards & loss of down
•
Charging.................................................................................................
..................................10 yards & loss of down
• Defensive Pass
Interference............................................................................................ ...............................first down
•
Stripping................................................................................................. ......................................10 yards & first down
• Offensive Unnecessary
Roughness.........................................................................................10 yards & loss of down
• Screening, Blocking or Running with the ball
carrier................................................................. 5 yards & loss of down • Defensive Unnecessary
Roughness............................................................................................ 10 yards & first down
v. Defense
• Offside............................................................................5 yards from the LOS & automatic first down
• Illegal contact (Holding, blocking, etc.).............................5 yards from the LOS & automatic first down
• Illegal flag pull (Before receiver has ball)...........................5 yards from the LOS & automatic first down
• Illegal rushing (Starting rush from inside 7-yard marker)....5 yards from the LOS & automatic first down
• Roughing the passer .....................................................................10 yards from the LOS & first down
• Taunting .....................................................................................10 yards from the LOS & first down
• Unnecessary
Roughness.....................................................................Spot foul, 10 yards & first down
•
Stripping............................................................................................Sp ot foul, 10 yards & first down
• Defensive Pass
Interference.................................................................Spot foul & first down
• Defense more than 5 players on field (players must be involved in play
and not running off field)….5 yards & first down
vi. Offense
• Illegal motion (More than one person moving, false start, etc.)......5 yards from the LOS (loss of down will also result on every false start after two false starts during the game)
• Illegal forward pass (Pass received behind LOS or throwing a pass beyond LOS)………...5 yards from the LOS & loss of down • Offensive pass interference (Illegal pick play, pushing
off/away defender) ........5 yards from the LOS & loss of down • Flag
guarding.................................................................................Spot foul, 10 yards & loss of down
• Screening, Blocking or Running with the ball
carrier........................... Spot foul, 5 yards & loss of down •
Charging.........................................................................................Sp ot foul, 10 yards & loss of down
• Delay of
game.............................................................................5 yards from the LOS & loss of down
• Offensive Unnecessary Roughness................................................. Spot foul, 10 yards & loss of down
•
Offside........................................................................................5 yards from the LOS & loss of down
• Offense more than 5 players on field (players must be involved in play and not running off field)….5 yards & loss of down
XX. 6U Rule Differences
1. Offensive team has 4-plays to cross midfield for first down and 4 plays to score after crossing midfield.
2. 2 Fumble Rule – if the center or QB fumble the initialexchange (i.e. snap) it is not a dead ball in 6U divisions only. Only the QB can pick up the ball. All fumbles between QB and runners are dead ball. QB cannot run but can scramble behind the line of scrimmage.
Illegal motion is not called in this division.
