NOVA AYF/AYC 2016 Bylaws ARTICLE I Name of ......NOVA AYF/AYC 2016 Bylaws ARTICLE I Name of...

Confidential Property of the Northern Virginia American Youth Football Conference Page1

NOVA AYF/AYC 2016 Bylaws

ARTICLE I Name of Organization

Section 1.01

The name of this organization is Northern Virginia American Youth Football and Cheer (aka NOVA AYF / AYC. NOVA is a non-profit organization within the meaning of the statutes and regulations of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States of America. NOVA AYF / AYC is a League officially chartered by the internationally recognized American Youth Football, Inc. (AYF) headquartered in Miami, FL.


ARTICLE II Purpose

Section 2.01

NOVA AYF/AYC consists of five or more members joined by mutual consent for the common, nonprofit purposes of providing the youth of the Northern Virginia Area to include the following counties in Virginia (Fairfax, Prince William, Loudoun Arlington, Stafford, Fauquier, Spotsylvania) and the Cities of (Manassas, Manassas Park, Fredericksburg, Alexandria and Falls Church) with organized, adult-supervised, football, cheerleading, dance and step programs, coaching, developing, educating and mentoring young athletes consistent with AYF/AYC rules. In doing so, this organization will constantly promote and provide a healthy approach to community, fellowship, great sportsmanship, and fair play, for adults and youth is our mission. play while ensuring that proper training, instruction, safety and equipment are furnished to the participants.

ARTICLE III Definitions Section 3.01

A. Applicable Rules: The term “Applicable Rules” as used herein shall mean formally

adopted AYF/AYC rules or other formally adopted rules by AYF/AYC Atlantic Region, NOVA AYF/AYC, or individual Association rules so long as such rules are allowed by AYF/AYC rules for the subject matter at hand. Refer to the current and future American Youth Football/American Youth Cheer Official Rules and Regulations Handbooks for more details.

B. League: The term “League” shall mean the NOVA AYF/AYC.

C. Associations: The term “Association” is utilized in the identification of 3 different types of Associations, as follows:

1. Association shall mean any group with three or more weighted core football

teams (more specifically: Tiny Mites, Mitey Mites, Junior Pee Wee, and Pee Wee, Jr. Midget) or any group with four or more unlimited core football teams (more specifically: 8u, 10u, 12u, and 13u or 14u), who has by-laws, has an AYF/AYC membership as provided in AYF/AYC rules and shall further mean an organization that has been approved as a NOVA AYF/AYC Association, has paid the requisite fees during the calendar year as prescribed by NOVA AYF/AYC, and has one vote by the Association spokesperson on NOVA AYF/AYC board of diretors voting matters.

2. Probationary Association shall mean any group with three or more weighted core football teams (more specifically: Tiny Mites, Mitey Mites, Junior Pee Wee, Pee Wee, Jr. Midget) or any group with three or more unlimited core football teams (more specifically: 8u, 10u, 12u, and 13u or 14u), in their first year of


existence in NOVA AYF/AYC who has by-laws, has an AYF/AYC membership as provided in AYF/AYC rules, and has been approved as a NOVA AYF/AYC Probationary Association has paid the requisite fees during the calendar year as prescribed by NOVA AYF/AYC.

3. Local Team Association shall mean any group that does not meet the minimum core football team limit.

D. Association in Good Standing: The term “Association in Good Standing” shall mean

an Association whose fee payments to NOVA AYF/AYC are current, and are not subject to any pending or future known disciplinary action.

ARTICLE IV

Organizational Structure and Membership Section 4.01

General. NOVA AYF/AYC is a youth football, cheerleading, dance and step league that falls under the jurisdiction of the AYF/AYC and participates in the AYF/AYC Atlantic Region. NOVA AYF/AYC consists of individuals and associations dedicated to the promotion and advancement of youth sports and related activities, through public education, training, and skill development. Membership is open to football and cheer organizations in Northern Virginia and anyone wishing to render support, guidance and encouragement to individuals wishing to learn or enhance youth sports and related skills. The League is comprised of an Executive Board (comprised of the President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, Football Commissioner, All-American Football Commissioner, Instructional Football Commissioner and Cheer Commissioner) and Board of Directors (comprised of Association Presidents). Associations are comprised of a management unit (e.g., Board of Directors), various committees or other positions of authority, and individual teams, which are further, comprised of coaches, other positions of responsibility, and youth participants.

A. Volunteers. All persons holding any position of responsibility within NOVAAYF/AYC

shall serve as volunteers without remuneration except contracted sports officials (referees, umpires, scoreboard officials, announcers, photographers etc.).

B. Qualifications

1. Adult Volunteers (Coaches, Team Moms, Trainers, etc.) All adult volunteers must be 21 years of age or older before August 1st of the season. Adult volunteers having any contact with children shall meet all qualifications established by applicable Rules for the position in question and shall be subject to a criminal background check (to include sexual offenders registry) prior to undertaking his or her responsibilities.


2. Coach Trainees. Coach trainees shall be at least sixteen (16) years of age and

meet all qualifications as established by Applicable Rules. 3. Youth Participants Youth football participants shall be between the ages of five

(5) and fifteen (15) and, cheerleading, dance and step participants shall be between the ages of five (5) and fifteen (15) both ages inclusive and shall meet all qualifications established by Applicable Rules.

C. HEAD COACHES

Head Coaches have daily personal contact with the community’s children, and by definition and tradition, serve as important role models and mentors. Head Coaches must be at least 21 years old, meet all the qualifications set forth in Applicable Rules and must have at least one-year relevant coaching experience. Associations shall select their Head Coaches and ensure the Background Check is fully completed and included in team notebooks for certification process. IMPORTANT NOTE: Head Coaches must attend ALL mandatory NOVA AYF Commissioner Meetings to ensure proper understanding of League policies and expectations. Unless an Association promulgates more stringent rules, Head Coaches may appoint as many Assistant Coaches, Coach Trainees, Team Mom/Dad, and Trainers as AYF rules/rosters allow.

1. It is required by the NOVA AYF/AYC that all Head Coaches be AYF certified.

All Head Coaches must be AYF certified to be eligible to coach in any Regional/National AYF games. Head Coaches are also encouraged to ensure his complete staff be league certified.

2. All head coaches must be identified in writing and added to the myayf.com system on/before August 1st of the upcoming season.

3. Any coach moving from one club to another club in the NOVA AYF/AYC is restricted from taking any players, except their own children. Exceptions may be granted provided both organization commissioners/presidents approve or by appeal to the Board of Directors.

D. Finances. NOVA AYF/AYC functions on a fiscal year basis. The fiscal year begins on January 1 and runs through December 31 of each year. NOVA AYF/AYC functions primarily through fees collected from associations and tournament fees.

E. Annual Fees

1. All NOVA AYF/AYC Associations shall pay an annual membership fee to maintain the league affiliation. The NOVA AYF/AYC Executive Board will determine no later than February 1st of each year the fees to be paid by each NOVA AYF/AYC association for that season. Each team associated with NOVA


AYF/AYC will pay the approved annual membership fee no later than May 1st, plus the approved per team AYF/AYC National/All American division. The first per team fee is due no later than June 1st; additional per team fees for football and cheer will be due no later than August 1st. Annual membership fees and per team fees will be used to help defray league expenses.

2. Each Association that participates in NOVA AYF/AYC shall collect its own individual participant registration fees, the amount of which shall be up to the sole discretion of each Association.

F. Sponsorship Donations. NOVA AYF/AYC may solicit sponsorship donations from

persons, business, and other organizations. Such sponsorships shall be used to defray league expenses. Associations possessing their own Internal Revenue Service tax/employer identification number may seek and keep for their own use sponsorship donations.

1) Divisions. NOVA AYF/AYC will consist of teams in the National Division and the All-American Division. National Division will be comprised of older but lighter age groups. Specifically, the National Division CORE TEAMS will consist of, Tiny Mites, Mitey Mites, Cadet, Junior Pee Wee, Pee Wee and Jr. Midget levels. All-American Division will be comprised of our UNLIMITED grade-based teams. Specifically, All-American Division CORE TEAMS will consist 8u, 10u, 12u, and 13u/14u age based unlimited teams; There shall be no high school football players allowed on AYF teams, during the regular season or during the playoffs. However, for football players in middle school, AYF may allow players to participate/play for both their middle school team and for NOVA each year. After November 1, no team may have a middle school player who is also actively playing for his middle school team. While NOVA does not encourage this practice, NOVA will allow middle school ball players on teams so long as the player's parent/guardian consents in writing.

G. Conference Boundaries. The NOVA AYF/AYC has no boundary restrictions. The intent of the league is to grow our product throughout the entire Northern Virginia Area.

ARTICLES V League Leadership

Section 5.01

NOVA AYF/AYC is comprised of an Executive Board and Board of Directors. All board members are held to a high standard and are required to conducts themselves in a manner consistent with the NOVA AYF/AYC volunteer code of conduct. Any Board member found in violation of the NOVA AYF/AYC volunteer code of conduct is subject to being fined, suspended or removed from Leadership position by majority vote of the Board of Directors.

A. Executive Board. The Executive Board will consist of elected members voted in by the Board of Directors upon a simple majority vote for a period of 2 years. The members will be the League President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Football Commissioner,


and Cheer Commissioner. The Football commissioner may also appoint an All American Football Commissioner and an Instructional Football Commissioner. The Cheer Commissioner may appoint a Vice Cheer Commissioner. These members will handle all day-to-day functions and management of the NOVA AYF/AYC.

B. Board of Directors. The Board of Directors will consist of (1) representative/President from each association (non probationary) in good standing with the League.

C. Outgoing President. In the event that a new President is elected, the outgoing president will be allowed to remain an executive officer for two additional years to assure

continuity in all day-to-day functions and management of the NOVA AYF/AYC unless the outgoing president is not in good standing with the League.

1) Appointment/Appointment Process/Term of Office/Removal of Officers.

a) Appointment. The Associations (Probationary Associations are excluded) on the Board of Directors shall appoint, upon simple majority vote, the NOVA Executive Board.

b) Appointment Process. From December through January each two year term, the Executive Board shall accept nominations from all Associations to fill NOVA Executive Board positions for the upcoming term. Anyone that is nominated and not present must give written acceptance to be elected; letter or email that is printed and present is the written acceptance that is necessary. At the January Board of Directors Meeting each term, the previous year’s Board of Directors shall vote by secret ballot to appoint one of the nominees to fill each position.

c) Term of Office. Officers shall serve a two-year term beginning on January 31 and ending January 30. Unless an Executive Board Member resigns or was removed for cause, there is no limit on the number of times an incumbent may be re-appointed.

d) Removal. Upon proper motion by any Board of Directors member, the Board of Directors may, upon 2/3 majority vote, remove an executive board member for sufficient cause. Upon removal of an officer, the Board of Directors shall accept nominations from adult volunteers and vote by secret ballot to appoint a replacement.

e) Resignation. If a NOVA Executive Board Member is unable or unwilling to perform his or her duty, notification should be submitted in writing to the NOVA Secretary or President. Responsibility of his/her office does not cease until his/her resignation is accepted, or, at least, until there has been a reasonable time for its


acceptance. Upon acceptance of the resignation, nominations will be accepted at the next monthly Board of Directors meeting to fill said vacancy. Upon all nominations being made and properly seconded the Board of Directors shall vote by secret ballot to appoint one of the nominees to fill the vacant Executive Board position.

3) Appointment/Removal of Association Presidents.

a) Appointment. The President of each Association (Probationary Associations excluded) is eligible for membership on the Board of Directors, elected or appointed to said position in accordance with the Association's by-laws, shall serve on the Board of Directors. Each Association (Probationary Associations excluded) shall appoint a representative (e.g. Vice President or Vice Commissioner) to represent the Association on the Board of Directors if the Association President is unable to attend Board of Directors meetings or otherwise conduct Board of Directors business.

b) Removal. Upon proper motion of any Board of Directors member, the Board of Directors may, upon 2/3 majority vote, remove, for sufficient cause, an Association representative from future participation in Board of Directors meetings or other NOVA AYF activities. In such case, the affected Association shall appoint another person to sit as a voting member of the Board of Directors.

Officer Duties Section 5.02

A. President. The President presides at all meetings of the Board of Directors, conducts meetings with Robert's Rules of Order using it as a guide only and votes only in the event of a tie vote. The President shall represent NOVA on all business (not otherwise delegated to or appropriately handled by the NOVA Football Commissioner or NOVA Cheerleading Commissioner) between NOVA and other entities including the community, the Atlantic Region and/or AYF. The President shall perform such other duties as assigned by the Executive Board. The President shall:

(i) Approve and publish the proposed pre-season, regular season, intra-league postseason, and bowl game schedules;

(ii) Publish League, Regional and National Playoff schedules;

(iii) Interface with officials from other leagues and regions and gain appropriate Atlantic Region approval for inter-league and inter-region games;


(iv) Ensure that the organization’s By-laws are employed and enforced.

(v) The President must attend all Atlantic Region meetings and/or participate in conference calls or assign a designee in his/her place.

(vi) The President may call for an audit at his/her discretion or will have an audit done upon a majority vote of the Board of Directors. (vii) The President may coach any Football or Cheerleading team as long as it does not interfere with his/her duties.

B. Vice-President. The Vice-President shall fulfill duties of the President upon the President's absence or inability to perform his or her duties. The Vice-President shall perform such other duties as assigned by the President or Executive Board. The Vice President may coach any Football or Cheerleading team as long as it does not interfere with his/her duties. C. Secretary. The Secretary shall maintain a permanent and accurate file of all records and documents of the NOVA, notify members of meetings of the Board of Directors, record the minutes of all such meetings (including the names of all attendees), maintain a master file of NOVA membership (including Association Boards of Directors and team/squad rosters) and publish and update the NOVA calendar approved by the Executive Board. The Secretary shall perform such other duties as assigned by the Executive Board. The Secretary will send out the unofficial minutes within 10 business days following monthly meetings, once approved by the president and football commissioner. The Secretary will review and certify all association and individual team books per the guidelines set forth by AYF. The Secretary may coach any Football or cheerleading team as long as coaching does not interfere with his/her duties. D. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall establish and maintain a checking account in the name of NOVA, maintain an accurate accounting of all NOVA receipts and disbursements, prepare for the Board of Directors and public disclosure (if requested in writing) monthly NOVA financial statements and, for Executive Board approval, an annual NOVA budget. The Treasurer shall maintain records of all sponsors for the NOVA and ensure that any receipts or other information required by the Internal Revenue Service are provided to such sponsors. The Treasurer shall perform such other duties as assigned by the Executive Board. The Treasurer may coach any Football or cheerleading team as long as coaching does not interfere with his/her duties.

E. Football Commissioner. The NOVA Football Commissioner has authority to make day-to-day operational decisions regarding the NOVA football program, including, but not limited to, rules enforcement, field assignments, player assignment disputes between Associations and rules disputes. The Football Commissioner shall communicate regularly with the Executive Board, Vice Football Commissioner, Cheerleading Commissioner, Association Directors of Football Operations, (or similar title such as “Football Commissioners") and Head Coaches, when


appropriate, to facilitate compliance with rules and conduct other business. To this end, the Football Commissioner may call league-wide mandatory attendance meetings of the Association Directors of Football Operations (and coaches, as appropriate). The Football Commissioner shall be the final arbiter of rules disputes related to games (that do not amount to a game protest) appealed to him/her. The Football Commissioner shall:

(i) Enforce all Applicable Rules;

(ii) Preside at all meetings of the Association of Football Commissioners, and/or Coaches;

(iii) Promote and ensure safe and healthy competition at all games;

(iv) Arrange for game officials unless an alternative arrangement is made with an Association;

(v) Ensure Field Marshals are trained;

(vi) Publish deadlines for the submission of paperwork for all AYF activities potentially affecting Association teams, due by September 15th;

(vii) Approve and forward any paperwork required by the Region or Nationals;

(viii) Ensure all Associations/Individual Teams have complied with AYF registration and insurance requirements;

(ix) Perform such other duties as assigned by the Executive Board.

The football commissioner may coach any football or cheerleading team as long as coaching does not interfere with his/her duties. F. Cheerleading Commissioner. The Cheerleading Commissioner is responsible for ensuring that all participants in the cheerleading program follow all applicable rules. The Cheerleading Commissioner shall communicate regularly with the Executive Board, Association Cheerleading Commissioners and Head Cheerleading Coaches to facilitate compliance with such rules and conduct other business. To this end, the Cheerleading Commissioner may call mandatory league-wide meetings of the Association Cheerleading Commissioners (and coaches, appropriate). The Cheerleading Commissioner shall:

(i) Enforce all applicable rules; (ii) Preside at all meetings of the Association Cheerleading Commissioners; and/or Coaches;


(iii) Promote and ensure safe and healthy competition at all games;

(iv) Publish the proposed pre-season, regular season, intra-league postseason, and bowl game football schedules;

(v) Plan, coordinate and execute an intra-league cheer competition;

(vi) Interface with officials from other leagues and regions and obtain appropriate Atlantic Region approval for cheer competitions outside the league;

(vii) Publish information regarding cheer competitions outside the league;

(viii) Review and approve all Association/Individual Team cheer rosters;

(ix) Publish deadlines for the submission of paperwork for all AYF activities potentially affecting Association teams;

(x) Approve and forward any paperwork required by the Region or Nationals;

(xi) Sign NOVA cheerleader identification cards, if applicable;

(xii) Shall perform such other duties as assigned by the Executive Board.

The cheerleading commissioner may coach any football or cheerleading team as long as coaching does not interfere with his/her duties.

2) Committees.

a) Scheduling Committee. There shall be a Scheduling Committee consisting of a representative from each jurisdiction hosting football games for the upcoming season. Recommend that the Scheduling Committee appoint a person to serve as the Master Scheduler who will coordinate and develop the game schedule with input from those established jurisdictions. The Scheduling Committee will develop and present a proposed regular season schedule that must be approved by the Executive Board before publishing to the League.


b) Ad Hoc Committees. The Executive Board may create standing and/or ad hoc committees as appropriate.

c) Appointment and Duties of Committee Chairpersons. The Executive Board shall appoint Committee Chairpersons for the Scheduling Committee and/or any ad hoc committees created by the Executive Board. Committee Chairperson shall perform duties as assigned by the Executive Board and may be relieved of their respective positions for sufficient cause by the Executive Board.

d) The bylaw committee will include the Presidents of each Association (or representative) and the Executive Board. They will meet before the season begins yearly, to go over the bylaws and make amendments/changes that are needed

Voting

Section 5.03

The Executive Board will vote on all monies (over to $500), football related activities and functions of the League. Two-thirds of the permanent, then-existing membership constitutes a quorum of NOVA AYF/AYC. Unless specifically stated otherwise herein, all votes shall be by majority (51%) vote. The President shall not vote on any motion brought before the board, however, should the result of the BOD vote ends in a tie, the President shall cast one vote only as a tie breaker. Face-to-face and conference call meeting. Votes can be cast either in a face-to-face meeting or by conference call. All votes shall be taken by the President upon a properly seconded motion and the opportunity for discussion.

Board Meetings

Section 5.04

I-B) Board Meeting: The Executive Board and Board of Directors shall meet at least eight times throughout the year or more frequently as requested by the NOVA AYF President or any two Executive Board members. All meetings shall be conducted with Robert’s Rules of Order; using it as a guide only. The Executive Board may invite the Commissioners and Committee Chairpersons to provide information and/or participate in General Board discussions.


A. Organization Presidents or designee with inquiries will be given an opportunity to

express concerns or opinions at the monthly NOVA AYF/AYC Board meetings during an allotted time after they have consulted with the Football or Cheer Commissioner.

B. Any outbursts or disrespectful behavior during a NOVA AYF/AYC Board meeting will result in the party or parties being immediately removed at the request of the Board of

Directors, or Executive Officers for the duration of the meeting. Any member not leaving after requested to do so shall be fined $25.00 for every five minutes from the time asked

to leave.

Rules of Engagement

Section 5.05

Motion/Discussion Process: When the board is going to discuss an issue that may require a motion, the following process will be used:

A. A NOVA AYF/AYC Rep (Board of Directors or Executive Board Member) will make a motion.

B. The motion then must be seconded by a NOVA AYF/AYC Rep

Special Meetings Section 5.06

A special meeting may be called by majority vote of the NOVA AYF/AYC Executive Board or Board of Directors. The location and time will be provided by the NOVA AYF/AYC President.

ARTICLE VI

League Membership Section 6.01

NOVA AYF/AYC does not restrict membership nor deny admission into the program due to race, color, religion, national and ethnic origin. Each association as a part of the NOVA AYF/AYC is encouraged to be a non-profit entity and registered with the state in which they are operating. They should also be registered with the IRS as a non-profit entity and have and Employee Identification Number (EIN) to show the same.

Section 6.02

A. NOVA AYF/AYC Members Defined: 1. Charter Member: A Founding Member of NOVA AYF/AYC.


2. Regular Member: Any organization that has served at least (1) year on probation and has been voted in by majority vote by the BOD.

3. Probationary Member: Any organization that has not attained permanent status in the NOVA AYF/AYC.

New Membership Section 6.03

A. New Membership: Each year in January the NOVA AYF/AYC Board will discuss and

vote upon whether the NOVA AYF/AYC will accept expansion applications for the upcoming season, and if desired set a limit on the number of teams that may be added. Setting a limit does not obligate the NOVA AYF/AYC to accept that many. The preferred method of expansion is by invitation of the NOVA AYF/AYC to a prospective club. Geographical location of new association will be examined to assure that there will not be any direct confliction of current NOVA AYF/AYC associations due to overlapping of recruiting or advertising.

Application Process Section 6.04

A. Organizations seeking membership to the NOVA AYF/AYC must attend a full board

meeting to present their organization and answer questions from members. B. Following a yes vote for probationary membership, the Board of Directors shall assign a

permanent member to mentor and guide the new member. C. New members are required to pay the annual fee upon being accepted into the league. . D. All New Members will serve a year (1) season probation, WITHOUT voting privileges. E. Following the first season of probation, a straight vote for Permanent Membership status,

extending probation or expulsion will occur at the first NOVA AYF/AYC Board meeting in January.

F. All New Members must get their mascot and colors approved by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board.

Mentoring Charter Responsibilities Section 6.05

Chartered Associations will be responsible for assisting and overseeing to the best of their ability but not limited to the following criteria upon acceptance of applications of Probationary Associations. Instructing probationary associations and insuring compliance with NOVA AYF/AYC rules included in by-laws to include but not limited to, MPR, game field management


in regards to NOVA AYF/AYC rules, AYF/AYC Membership conformation, Proof of Insurance, Submission of NOVA AYF/AYC rosters, Coaching certification – as deemed by mentoring charter, criminal background check (to include sexual offenders registry) are preformed and viewed, Chartered association will be the lead for field coordination within that county.

Insurance Section 6.06

All NOVA AYF/AYC Associations are required to maintain league insurance as selected by the members of the NOVA AYF/AYC. The Secretary shall maintain proof of Insurance. Said proof of insurance must be submitted no later than the first regular meeting in July and prior to the start of any practice. There will be a fine of $100.00 for non-compliance, and no practice will be allowed until proof is submitted.

Membership Termination Section 6.07

Termination of membership of an association, youth or adult member shall be enacted and enforced by the Board of Directors without a refund. The termination will be enacted when an association or an individual no longer follows the philosophy and principles of the NOVA AYF/AYC and it is deemed by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board of Directors that the association or individual has become detrimental to the growth, reputation or overall benefit to the athletes, coaches, volunteers, association or the NOVA AYF/AYC. Termination will be by a 2/3 vote of the Board of Directors.

Fees & Fines Section 6.08

The NOVA AYF/AYC fees and fines are subject to change yearly. If any fees or fines are changed, the NOVA AYF/AYC Executive Board will determine no later than February 1st of the current year the fees and fines to be paid by each NOVA AYF/AYC Association for that season. All fines are due and payable within 1 week of written notification of fine by the Secretary. If not paid in that time, the Conference Member will lose its voting privileges, if applicable, until the Treasurer receives payment.

Fee/Fine Amount Team Fee $100.00 Cheer Fee

• Competitive • Side Line

$60 $60


Insurance Certificates $100 Fine for non-compliance Game Day Forfeits (no show) 48 hour notice Game Day Forfeits (no show) no notice

$150 (to be paid by forfeiting team).Home team to be reimbursed up to $150 for ref fees. Non-conference games are included. $300 (to be paid by forfeiting team). Home team to be reimbursed up to $200 for ref & field fees. Non-conference games are included.

Board Meeting Outbursts/Misconduct/Removal

$25.00 fine for every five minutes

ARTICLE VII

League Member Rules Section 7.01

A. All League Associations shall be subject to, and agree to pay, any special assessments

and/or fines levied by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board. All fines are due and payable within 1 weeks of notification of fines. If not paid in that time, the League Member will lose its voting privileges, if applicable, until the Treasurer receives payment.

B. All League Associations are to police and discipline their own personnel, players, coaches, parents, relatives and fans, in regards to but not limited to: recruiting, registration policies, scouting, and conduct both on and off the field. Although it is expected that each League Association police themselves, if the NOVA AYF/AYC Board finds the League Association’s penalties inappropriate, the Board may assess additional penalties against the party being disciplined.

C. Each League Association is responsible for the proper sportsmanship of its personnel, coaches and players, as well as, the physical well-being of its players at all times. It is expected that each League Association take the appropriate action to insure the health, safety and well-being of its players at all times and to insure proper supervision of its teams while not in play.

D. CONDUCT 1. AYF/AYC Code. Parents and Volunteers shall sign and adhere to the AYF/AYC

Code of Conduct. Associations shall deliver a copy of the AYF/AYC Code of Conduct to the participant's parents or legal guardians upon registration of the participant. Coaches will read and adhere to the Coaches Code of Conduct from the annually issued AYF/AYC Rules and Regulation book.

2. Sideline Area. Only official staff and players are permitted in the sideline area. Any person violating this rule will first be asked to leave the sideline area. A second warning will result in the removal of the offending person from the event. Refusal to leave the event will result in the forfeit of the game for the team the


offending person is supporting. Official staff and players must stay between the 25-yard lines.

3. Coaches shall be responsible for the conduct of their players. Improper conduct, in the judgment of the game official, on the part of the players, coaches or spectators may result in penalties, expulsion, and suspension or forfeiture of the game.

4. Field Marshall shall have the responsibility to assist officials in maintaining proper conduct of players, coaches and spectators.

5. If at any time the Football Commissioner finds the conduct of any coach to be detrimental and contrary to the best interest of this program, such individual may be suspended from further participation for whatever period of time may be deemed reasonable and proper. Detrimental conduct by any coach shall first be investigated by the Commissioner.

6. No Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Team Parent, or any other club official or affiliate shall recruit players from another NOVA AYF/AYC club.

7. Any player who is ejected from a game for unsportsmanlike conduct will be suspended for the next played game. Any player allowed by game officials to return to a game shall not be considered as being ejected from a game. Game officials shall notify the Field Marshall of any ejection. Field Marshall shall notify the NOVA AYF/AYC Football Commissioner and individual designated by the NOVA AYF/AYC President of any ejection immediately.

8. Any player, who is involved in a fight before, during or after his /her game, will be suspended for the next played game.

9. Any player who is involved in a second fighting incident whether before, during or after their game, will be suspended for the remainder of the current season.

10. No coach or team parent will video tape or observe another club’s team practices before or during the regular season or any time during the post season (The exception to this rule will be in the event there is a scrimmage between two separate clubs). The practice of videotaping another club’s team practices in order to gain an offensive or defensive advantage shall be considered detrimental and contrary to the best interest of the NOVA AYF/AYC. Penalties may be imposed on the team, coach or club under rule 7.10 - C.

11. Any player or coach who repeats any of the aforementioned offenses will be suspended for the remainder of the season.

E. COACHES UNSPORTSMANLIKE: If a coach, assistant coach, trainer, or any other

person connected with a participating team enters the playing field without a proper time-out being called, to protest a call or non-call by a game official, the game officials may issue an unsportsmanlike penalty. If there is a second offense, the game officials, as a unit, may terminate the game at that point. If a time-out has been called and the party or parties fail to leave the field promptly upon the expiration of the time-out, the officials, as a unit, may issue an unsportsmanlike penalty. If there is a second offense, the officials may terminate the game at that point.

F. All Association Presidents and/or designee (Field Marshalls, Admin, etc) shall on Monday, by 5:00 pm, report all their teams’ scores to the league Commissioner or appointed League Representative.


Financial Waivers

Section 7.02

Although the NOVA AYF/AYC does not have a waiver procedure to prohibit players from joining various associations within the NOVA AYF/AYC, each individual player has an obligation to its current association to satisfy all financial obligations to the association. No player will be allowed to register with another NOVA AYF/AYC association unless a financial waiver can be obtained by the player’s previous association. The player’s current association has an obligation to the NOVA AYF/AYC and the player to sign and release the player if there are no financial obligations within 48 hours of receiving a request for a financial waiver. Any association that knowingly allows an individual player to participate without a financial waiver will forfeit all games in which the individual player participated in until such waiver is granted.

League Authority

Section 7.03

A. The NOVA AYF/AYC Board appointed Representatives may inspect any/all fields prior to the first game, and may re-inspect any field any time during the season. If the field is determined to be unsafe, this may result in the loss of home games for a League Association until the condition is corrected.

B. To exercise disciplinary authority, so far as is lawful over all persons engaged in such games, competitions, and exhibitions, to the end that amateur games and contests may be subject to clean, dignified competition, any League Member, it’s personnel, Representatives, coaches, players, parents, relatives or fans, found by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board failing to comply with a lawful request from the NOVA AYF/AYC Board, it’s Officers, Commissioners, or Representatives will be suspended.

C. Any League Association, it’s personnel, Representatives, coaches, players, parents, relatives or fans, found by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board, to knowingly give false information, or misrepresent by word or deed the NOVA AYF/AYC, it’s Board, Officers, Commissioners, Representatives, or League Members, will be suspended.

D. Any League Association, it’s personnel, Representatives, coaches, players, parents, relatives or fans, found by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board to violate any Bylaw, or who acts in any manner deemed by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board to be grossly disrespectful to a team or another person, or who engages in a fight or other major un-sportsmanlike conduct, or conducts themselves in manner found disrespectful to a League Association Representative will be disciplined.

E. The NOVA AYF/AYC Executive Board, following an Incident Hearing, may discipline any League Association; its personnel, Representatives, coaches, players, parents, relatives or fans as defined in these Bylaws.

Protest Procedures Section 7.04


A. There shall be no protests allowed involving a judgment call by a game official.

B. The following procedures will be followed in the event of a protest accompanied by a

$50.00 fee, which will be returned if the protest is upheld: (i) The protesting coach must communicate his complaint to the referee and opposing coach immediately following the game. “PROTEST” must be written on the MPR. (Game protest only) (ii) The protesting organization’s Commissioner must submit his protest in writing to the Commissioner within 24 hours after the incident. (iii) The Football Commissioner will render a decision within 5 days of receipt of the protest. (iv) The protested club will then have 24 hours to inform the President of their desire to appeal the Commissioners ruling to the Executive Board. (v) If the decision of the Football Commissioner is not appealed within the time specified, the decision is final.

(vi) The Executive Board will meet within 6 working days of the appeal. The appellant may request to the President that a witness may appear on his/ her behalf. The Executive Board may uphold reverse or reduce the decision of Football Commissioner. The decision of the Executive Board will be final. There will be no other appeals. (viii) Player Eligibility

Protests concerning a player’s eligibility (weight, age, legitimate weigh-in) can be made at any time throughout the season. Protests concerning roster irregularities must be made within seven (7) days of the game being protested. Protests concerning a player’s eligibility must be in writing accompanied by a $50.00 fee. (If such a game protest is upheld, the fee will go into the general fund of the NOVA AYF/AYC and used to pay for expenses as determined by the NOVA AYF/AYC Executive Board).

C. The defendant Association President will be notified of the complaint by the Football

Commissioner. He will be advised at that time of the player’s name, number and team. The defendant Association President will be given a written copy of the complaint.

D. The defendant Association President and his organization have the responsibility of notifying the player and his parent/guardian that his failure to respond to the Football Commissioners questions/investigation could result in his suspension for the remainder of the season.


Determination of Severity of Offense:

Section 7.05

When the lodging of a complaint results in the determination that punitive action is required, the offense will be categorized as a Level I, II, III or IV offense, with commensurate results:

Level Penalty Level I Offense Level I offenses are generally categorized as being of an

‘administrative’ nature, or include offenses not directly perpetrated by the member and not reasonably under his/her immediate control and disrespecting league representatives.

Level II Offense Level II offenses are generally categorized as attempts to gain an unfair advantage over a competitor through cheating and rules violation. Level II offenses shall be penalized by a minimum 2 game suspension.

Level III Offense Level III offenses are generally categorized as offenses involving the use of illegal/banned substances and equipment, or which create situations that could lead to violence to include taunting, inciting a fight or otherwise jeopardize the health or safety of players, coaches, officials or fans. Level III offenses shall be penalized by a minimum 3 game suspension.

Level IV Offense Level IV offenses are generally categorized as those offenses which could potentially result in criminal prosecution of the offender, or which clearly indicate that the offender should not be entrusted with the well-being of youth athletes. Level IV offenses shall be penalized by expulsion from the league.

The following table summarizes the maximum penalty Levels associated with current bylaw provisions. As referenced in Section 7.10 - C, the NOVA AYF/AYC board may consider aggravating or mitigating circumstances in penalty assessments, and based on that consideration, award a penalty less than that indicated in the matrix.

Violation Level Illegal Practice II Recruiting Players (Section 7.12 - B) II


Willful misrepresentation before the NOVA AYF/AYC board III Acting in any manner deemed by NOVA AYF/AYC board to be grossly disrespectful to a team or another person

II

Any Physical Altercation IV Major Unsportsmanlike Conduct (Any violation resulting in ejection) III Disrespect of League Representative I Attempting to interfere with or influence on-field officials III Responsibility of Head Coach for actions of players, parents and fans I Ineligible player dressed inside the ropes II Playing ineligible player II Touching of any referee, league/field rep, coach, player or parent in an offensive manner

IV

Use of tobacco products within less than 500 feet of field (offender only) I Permitting use of narcotics, steroids or CDS (coaches and parents) IV Sweating of players II Use of alcoholic beverages within 500 feet of field (offender only) IV Use of audible communications gear or cell phone III Disruption of game via bullhorns, sirens, etc. II Improperly prepared book at weigh-in I Failure to avoid opposing team’s bench III Violation of mercy rules II Cleats violation (player and coach) II

General Rules: Section 7.06

A. Practices

1. START DATE: Team practice will commence on the 4th Monday of July of the current year. This rule applies to any organized team activities, as well as blocking and tackling drills, running of plays, etc., but does not preclude individual activity and effort in order for players to get there selves into condition for the first day of team practice. Players must participate in ten (10) hours practices without equipment before they are allowed to dress in full equipment.

2. FREQUENCY: Practices shall not exceed one 2-hour period per day, five days a week, until school starts. Beginning with the first week of school the number of


practices or team meetings shall not exceed (8) hours per week including a game for all weight groups. Example: Three (2) hour practices plus one (2) hour game in a week equals (8) hours.

3. CAMPS: Must be open to the public; clubs are allowed to do "football" related drills. They are not allowed to have organized team activities.

4. VIOLATONS/ FINES/ FORFEITS: If any club caught violating rules A1- A5 will be fined $100 for every team in violation.

B. Recruiting Players. Parents may choose to play, from year to year, in any Association or any Individual Team that they so choose (as long as the Association agrees and have submitted a financial waiver). However, no coach may recruit or otherwise contact a player or the player's family for purposes of recruiting if that player played on another NOVA AYF/AYC team the season prior to the season for which the player is being recruited. Any coach that violates this provision is subject to sanctions by the NOVA AYF/AYC. Coaches may appeal the NOVA AYF/AYC's ruling to the NOVA AYF/AYC Board of Directors who shall meet in Special Session to hear the matter. In the spirit of having competitive football and cheerleading teams, coaches will be allowed to “recruit” players. The recruitment process is specifically defined as a coach identifying a potential player/participant and inquiring with the child’s parent as to the child’s and parent’s interest in your program. The following specific guidelines must be adhered to while “recruiting potential players”.

1. A child’s parent must be active in the entire recruiting process; potential players / participants are minors and cannot make legal decisions.

2. A player (or his parent) that was registered by an NOVA AYF/AYC team the year before may not be contacted by a coach of another NOVA AYF/AYC team for purposes of changing teams or other reasons deemed unethical by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board. A coach can communicate with a player / parent of another team in the off-season if the communication was prompted by the player’s parent. Example: A coach in year 2016 may not contact a player / parent that was registered with a NOVA AYF/AYC team in year 2015 unless the parent (not the player) contacted the coach or his organization first.

3. In accordance with AYF/AYC national rules and in the spirit of allowing all children to participate regardless of financial means, a child’s registration and related fees may be waived. However, under NO CIRCUMSTANCES may a coach entice a potential player to play for a specific team by providing a gift(s). The determination of “gift(s)” or “financial assistance to allow participation” would be determined by the NOVA AYF/AYC Board if not reconciled at the local Association level.

C. Official Team Rosters. In accordance with these by-laws, each Association that participates in NOVA AYF/AYC shall collect its own registration fees in the amount of which shall be up to the sole discretion of that Association. Once the individual teams are registered, each Association will be required to submit team rosters to the NOVA AYF/AYC


Football Commissioner on/before September 15th of the current calendar year. Failure to comply submitting a team(s) roster will suspend that team(s) play for the upcoming week, failure to comply by the following Monday will result in permanent suspension of that team for the remainder of the season and removal from the schedule. Team rosters must consist of at least 16 eligible players and not more than 36 players. C. Dual Membership Roster. No player on the NOVA AYF/AYC Official Roster can be

actively on another league team official football roster (exception may be granted by football commissioner for middle school team). Any team that is found with a player with Dual Membership will result in the forfeiture of all games that the dual membership player was certified to play in and the player will be remove from the NOVA AYF/AYC Official Roster. Any Head Coach that had knowledge of player(s) with Dual Membership on his team will be suspended indefinitely (Section 7.12 - C). Any League Association with knowledge of player(s) with Dual Membership or allow a Suspended Coach to have contact with his staff will be fined and placed on probation.

D. Coaches Changing Teams or Associations: Coaches are permitted to change teams if they choose to do so. If a Coach decides to leave a team or Association and they have a child participating, they are allowed to leave under the following circumstances:

1. Coach leaves by his own decision can obviously take his own child or children

2. Coach must turn in all equipment, gear and uniforms

3. If not the Head Coach, he cannot contact another parent on the team regarding this move or in an attempt to recruit them to leave with him.

4. He cannot contact another player on the team regarding this in an attempt to persuade them to move.

5. If he chooses to leave on his own accord, he will forfeit any registration already paid to the losing organization for the current season.

6. He cannot coach with another team until the following football season.


Football Division Rules

General.

1) High School Rules. Except where specifically prescribed by these By-laws and/or National AYF Rules, all football games will played under National Federation of State High School Athletic Association Rules. 2) Field Marshals. Each Association shall appoint at least three (3) adult volunteers to serve as Field Marshals. All Field Marshals must receive training in accordance with the Football Commissioner’s guidance and be certified by NOVA AYF prior to serving in such capacity. Field Marshals are the highest authority at all games played on that Field Marshal's field for that day (except the Football Commissioner) unless an issue is protested to higher authority pursuant to these rules.

Football Class/Division/Conference Assignments

Assignment. Depending upon the number of available teams, NOVA AYF may conduct organized football in any or all of the following Divisions.

Age and Weight Classifications.

a) Age. National Division participants age is his/her age as of July 31 of the current year. All American Division participants age is her/her age as of August 1 of the current year.

b) Weight. (i) Game Day Weight Masters. Field Marshals shall serve as Weight Masters

for all games at his or her respective field.


(ii) Rulebook Weight. Players shall meet the weight prescribed above plus the

equipment allowance. Note: Pee Wee and below shall be granted a 5 pound equipment allowance and Jr. Midget and above will be granted a 6 pounds equipment allowance. "Equipment" shall consist of cleats, game pants with 7-piece pad set, socks, and game jersey. Any player(s) exceeding this weight WILL NOT play in that game. There are no exceptions to this rule. Violations of this rule shall result in a one-game suspension of both head coaches and a second violation will result in the removal of the offending coach for the remainder of the season. If a player does not make weight, they do not turn their jersey inside out.

Football Divisions INSTRUCTIONAL DIVISIONS OF PLAY

UNLIMITED WEIGHT & WEIGHTED NON- COMPETITIVE DIVISIONS

DIVISIONS OF PLAY PROTECTED AGES WEIGHT

7U Division CANNOT TURN 8 ON OR BEFORE

8/1/16 UNLIMITED WEIGHT





AGE DIVISIONS CAN BE COMBINED

DIVISION OF PLAY AGE CUT-OFF 7/31 STRIP WEIGHT +

EQUIPMENT ALLOWANCE

TINY MITE 7 YEARS OLD AND UNDER 85lbs + 5lbs= 90lbs

MIGHTY MITE 9 YEARS OLD AND UNDER 100lbs + 5lbs= 105lbs


ALL-AMERICANDIVISIONSOFPLAYAGEPROTECTEDUNLIMITEDWEIGHT

COMPETITIVEDIVISIONS

DIVISIONSOFPLAY PROTECTEDAGES WEIGHT















NATIONALDIVISIONSOFPLAYAGE&WEIGHT

COMPETITIVEDIVISIONS

DIVISIONSOFPLAY AGECUT-OFF7/31 STRIPWEIGHT+EQUIPMENTALLOWANCE

CADET 9 and Under 114lbs + 5lbs= 119lbs

DIVISION 1 & DIVISION 2 10 Older Lighter 94lbs + 5lbs = 99lbs

JUNIOR PEE WEE 10 and Under 124lbs + 5lbs= 129lbs


PEE WEE 11 and Under 139lbs + 5lbs= 144lbs


JUNIOR MIDGET 12 and Under 159lbs + 6lbs= 165lbs


PRE-GAME WEIGH-IN MUST BE CONDUCTED PRIOR TO ALL GAMES

CONFERENCE ALL STAR DIVISIONS OF PLAY AGE PROTECTED UNLIMITED WEIGHT

*AYF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY ONLY


DIVISIONS OF PLAY PROTECTED AGES WEIGHT

10U ALL STARS CANNOT TURN 11

BEFORE 8/1/16 UNLIMITED WEIGHT






c) Practice/Games Within Age/Weight Class. No practices or games will be played between teams of different age/weight classes.

d) Identification Cards. Identification cards shall be in accordance with applicable rules and shall not be expired on or before the date of the game for which the card is being used. Only the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) Walker’s ID, passport or military ID will be accepted as proper identification.

2) School Ball. There shall be no high school football players allowed (grades 9 through 12) on AYF teams, during the regular season or during the playoffs. However, for football players in middle school, AYF may allow players to participate/play for both their middle school team and for NOVA AYF each year. After November 1, no team may have a middle school player who is also actively playing for his middle school team. While NOVA AYF does not encourage this practice, NOVA AYF may allow middle school ball players on teams so long as the player's parent/guardian consents in writing. Violation of the “NO HIGH SCHOOL BALL RULE”. This will be enforced w/ the strictest of measure and accountability – Association Presidents and League Football Commissioners must be really watchful for this practice and will conduct an immediate investigation if discovered.

The following measures will occur if this type of practice is discovered:

a) If a team rosters players who are participating in a high school football program,

this is in direct violation of the AYF rules and NOVA AYF by-laws.


b) The head coach of that team will be suspended for the remainder of the football season and will be prohibited from attending practice sessions and games.

c) The team in violation of this policy will continue to play their scheduled games without the ineligible players… ineligible players will be removed from the team roster immediately!

d) All games played with ineligible players on the roster will be forfeited immediately.

IMPORTANT: Head coaches who violated the “no high school ball rule” policy will have to petition the NOVA AYF Executive Board for future restatement and opportunities to coach in the league.

NOVA AYF Division I/II Selection and Declaration.

D1 and D2 are determined by the Regional and National level and NOVA AYF must follow their decisions.

3) Playing Schedule/Determining Champions.

a) Schedule

(i) Schedule Made by League. NOVA AYF shall schedule all regular season. Associations/Individual Teams may schedule their own pre-season and post-season games as long as they do not interfere with post-season regional/national playoff games. Development of the Schedule. The Scheduling Committee shall develop a regular season schedule (including field assignments) and present it to the Executive no later than August 19 of each year. The Executive Board shall approve the schedule as soon as possible but no later than August 22 of each year.

(ii) Field Assignments. Every effort shall be made to assign each Association four dates to host games at the Association's home field during the regular season schedule.


(iii) Inter-League/Inter-Region Games. Inter-League/Inter-Region games are authorized so long as they do not interfere with the NOVA AYF regular season schedule.

4) Determining Division/League Champions. The best record within an Age/Weight Class Division shall determine final team standing for the regular season. However, should a tie for first place occur within the division, the following guidelines will be enforced:

a) Head-To-Head records will determine the champion, if there is still a tie then points against.

5) Equipment

a) Football Player Gear.

(i) Teams traveling to compete at the regional and national tournaments must have two different color jerseys.

b) Game/Field Equipment. Each football team will provide their own game balls for the football game. Each Association hosting the football game shall provide field equipment (e.g., chains, line markers, goal post pads) for games played at the Association’s home field. The home team will have equipment on their own sideline- down markers and chains.

6) Playing Rules.

a) Roster Requirements and Minimum Playing Time.

(i) All assigned players present for a game must play at least four to eight plays from scrimmage dependant on roster size as applicable to AYF National rules. All teams must have a minimum of 16 eligible rostered players to be considered an official team and must have a minimum of 13 eligible rostered players eligible to play at the start of a game. At all times, a team must have a minimum of 11 eligible players to continue playing a regulation game. In the event a team has less than the required eligible rostered players, the game will be considered a forfeit. A forfeit score is documented as 6-0.


(ii) Head Coaches shall be held responsible for ensuring that all players play the minimum time in a game. At the end of the third quarter of play, the Field Marshal must stop the game to ensure all players have played the minimum number of plays. Mandatory play rosters must be provided to the Field Marshal immediately following each game. If a player has not received all of their numbered plays at the start of the 4th quarter, they must enter the game at that time and not leave the field until all plays are complete- even plays that don’t count for the MPR form, the player must stay on the field.

(iii) Tie Games. All inter-Division games and League Championship games tied at the end of regulation play shall be settled by a tie-breaker using the ten-yard line overtime procedure, as set forth by the National Federation of State High School Association. Further explanation of the tie-breaker procedure is provided below:

• No Sudden Death will be allowed!

• There will ONLY be one time out granted to each team per overtime period – (remaining timeouts during the regulation game do not carry over!)

• The referee will conduct a coin toss to determine which team gets the football

• Teams will attempt to break the tie ball game with each team having two possessions (if required)

• First possession will consist of four downs starting from the 10 yard line… and if required… the second possession will consist of four downs starting from the 5 yard line

• Penalties will be properly enforced during overtime play

• Extra points will be attempted

• DURING THE REGULAR SEASON, IF GAME IS STILL TIED AFTER EACH TEAM HAVING TWO POSSESSIONS – THE GAME ENDS IN A TIE SCORE AND WILL BE RECORDED AS SUCH

• Championship games will continue until a winner is decided!


b) Clock. There will be a 10 minute per quarter regulation clock for all tackle football games in the Mighty Mite to All American levels. There will be a 12-minute per quarter running clock for Tiny-Mite football games. The clock shall stop on all changes of possession and at the end of each half with two minutes remaining.

(i) A regulation clock is defined as the clock stopping on all out of bounds plays, incomplete passes, penalties, change of possession and the resetting of the chains for a 1st down.

(ii) The running clock shall stop on all possession changes and at the end of each half with two minutes remaining.

(iii) The running clock shall stop on all time outs.

c) Scoring. A touchdown is worth 6 Points. A PAT is worth 2 points if kicked and a successful PAT by running or passing the ball is worth 1 point. A field goal is worth 3 points.

d) Centering /Long Snapping. During a long snap for purposes of a punt or extra point the center will NOT have a defensive player head up. In the case of an offensive formation with a Shotgun snap, the defense WILL be allowed to have a defensive player head up on the center.

e) Mandatory Play Rule Procedures. NOVA AYF set the minimum at 6-8 plays per game for each player rostered in accordance with Mandatory Play Roster (MPR) and AYF Rulebook. (I.e.16-25 player roster 8 plays minimum, 26-30 players have 6 play minimum and 31-36 player rosters require a 4 play minimum).

(i) Each team will assign two people, 18 years or older to assist w/ tracking minimum plays… (1) MPR monitor and (1) MPR spotter.

(ii) The MPR monitor will be staged on the opponent’s sideline to track minimum plays.

(iii) The MPR spotter will assist the opponent’s MPR monitor in tracking


minimum plays.

(iv) MPRs need to be completed and available at the weigh-in prior to the start each game. MPRs should be typed before games and not be hand written at the scale.

(v) After weigh-ins are complete both teams will exchange MPRs.

(vi) Only plays from the line of scrimmage can be counted as a play (kickoffs, extra points, penalties or free kicks do not count as plays).

(vii) If a player has not received their mandatory plays by the end of the third quarter, those players MUST go in the game and remain in the game until they get their required number of plays. NO EXCEPTIONS. If this is violated; the game will be forfeited.

Note: If any player on either team does not meet the minimum play requirements – the violating team will forfeit that game. There will be NO pre-marking of the MPR prior to the player completing the required play. Violations will result in forfeiture of the game by the offending team without question.

f) Slaughter / Mercy Rule Procedures - AYF lopsided score rule is 35 points or 5 touchdowns, whichever comes first. NOVA AYF will also use the 35 points or 5 touchdowns, whichever comes first:

(i) Once a team scores 5 touchdowns more than the opposing team or is up by 35 points, the Slaughter / Mercy Rule shall be put in effect.

(ii) Once the mercy rule goes into effect a running game clock is started.

(iii) Losing teams have the option of receiving a normal kickoff or they may take the ball on their own 40 yard line.

(iv) Winning team is prohibited from running any misdirection, counter, reverses or trick plays. Skill position players must be replaced when possible.


(v) Mandatory plays must still be completed by all players.

(vi) Leagues cannot limit winning teams to only running between the tackles.

(vii) Once 35 point differential is met current score will be officially recorded regardless of end score.

g) Pre-game weigh – in procedures:

(i) Head Coaches will be held responsible for the actions and/or inactions of all team personnel at the scales. No taunting, singing or commenting at the scales.

(ii) At a maximum 2 individuals per Association are allowed at the scales during weigh-in. It is the responsibility of the Head Coach to ensure all other individuals (staff, family members, etc.) leave the area.

(iii) The goal is to conduct weigh-ins at half time of the previous game. Coaches

do not, under any circumstances, have the authority to allow a player who does not make the established weight, to participate in a game.

(iv) If a player does not make the required weight during the team weigh-in, the player will not be allowed to weigh-in again. Jerseys will not be turned inside out if the player does not make weight.

(v) Field Marshal must conduct all weigh-ins and have players produce the proper ID.

(vi) At a minimum, the Head Coach will have in possession at every game the certified team books with all required documentation.

(vii) If a player is not present during the team weigh-in, he or she has until half time of the scheduled game to be weighed-in and will play if they make


weight and have the proper ID.

(viii) The late player will still be required to meet the “MPR” as if the entire game was played.

(ix) If a player does not weigh-in prior to the end of half time… they WILL NOT PLAY IN THE GAME!

(x) Head coach will ensure the late player meets the minimum play requirements.

(xi) A minimum of two referees must be present to be a sanctioned football game (Cadet – Midget and All American Divisions)

(xii) All American Divisions will go through ID and equipment check with the field marshal present to verify.

2) NOVA AYF Special Tiny-Mite and Mitey Mite Game Rules.

a) Coaches on Field.

(i) Two coaches may be present on the field for instructional purposes during all Tiny-Mite games.

(ii) One coach may be present on the field for all pre-season Mitey Mite games and the first 4 weeks of play. It is NOVA AYF’s philosophy that Mitey-Mite players can and should learn to function on the field without the presence of an instructional coach out on the field of play.

(iii) Coaches must cease all instruction, physical contact and/or verbal communication with their players once the quarterback is under center and must be 5 yards behind the deepest player on the field of play.

(iv) If a coach’s presence on the field unduly delays the play of the game, a referee may prohibit that coach from coming on to the field for instructional purposes.

b) Punts. Tiny-Mite and Mitey-Mite teams have the option of punting or moving the ball 25 yards from the line of scrimmage on fourth down. When the ball is on or


inside the 30 yard line, the ball may only be advanced to the 20 yard line. When punting, no rushing is allowed and the kicking team must remain stationary until the football is kicked.

c) Lining up over Center. This practice is prohibited during all Tiny-Mite and Mighty-Mite games.

d) Clock. There will be a 12-minute per quarter running clock for Tiny-Mite games. The clock will stop on all possession changes and at the two-minute warning of each half. In Mighty Mite Games a 10 minute regulation clock will be in effect. In Tiny Mite games the running clocks stops for all time outs.

e) Length of Football Field. Tiny-Mite field will be 80 yards and Mitey-Mite field will be 100 yards.

f) Turnovers. No fumbles will be allowed during a Tiny-Mite football game. A fumbled ball makes the play dead. Interceptions will result in a turnover and can be advanced.

g) Tiny Mite and Mitey Mite Tie Games. Games will be allowed to end in a tie. Tiny Mite teams will not kickoff; the ball will be placed on their own 35 yard line

h) Tiny Mite games will not have more than 6 defensive players on the line of scrimmage from end to end and linebackers must be at minimum 3 yards from the line of scrimmage. “Blitzing is discouraged”

3) Player Transfers

a ) The deadline to transfer from one NOVA AYF association to another NOVA AYF is August 9, 2016 at 3:00 pm. New players may still be added to a roster until 9/15.

ARTICLE IX


Amendments Section 8.01

These By-Laws and General Rules may be amended by majority vote of the Board of Directors.

Signature Page

Section 8.02

Approval and Adoption by the NOVA AYF/AYC Executive Board.

We, the undersigned representatives for NOVA AYF/AYC, respectively, hereby approve and adopt these By-laws and Rules. We agree to actively discharge the duties herein in a manner that is fair and consistent. In the event, an issue arises that is not addressed or expressly outlined in these bylaws, the Executive Officers will refer to the National AYF/AYC rules for guidance.

These bylaws are agreed to by: Eric Heltzel President Obie Woods

Signature Date

Vice President Toria Smith

Signature Date

Secretary Jennifer Jordan

Signature Date

Treasurer Sterling Collins

Signature Date

Football Commissioner Kelly Frazier_________________________ Cheerleading Commissioner Jim Harris______________________

Signature Date


Scholastic Coordinator

SUPER TINY MITE RULES

1) Cut-off date for 5 and 6 year olds is September 1st, Must be 5 by September 1st.

2) Player must be 5 -6 but can turn 7 after July 31 of that calendar year to be eligible to play STM. 3) 45 minutes before game there will be a face-off to show picture ID and league certified stamp in books.

4) There are no losers in Super Tiny Mite. No Scores is kept. (All kids are winners at this level it’s a teaching process for kids).

5) No weigh in.

6) Only Coaches and staff on field (No parents will be allowed on field).

7) Each Head Coach is responsible for crowd control and parents.

8) Each ORG is responsible for a chain fence or roped off field to ensure safety for football players and cheerleaders.

9) No blitzing. (No player over the center or in the A and B Gaps must be heads up on the guards and tackles).

10) No Weight in’s just check the books to the players.

11) 2 timeouts per half.

12) There must be a center/quarterback exchange for the play to start also there must be a full quarterback cadence down – set – go. (Ball must be snapped like a regular tackle football play).

13) Each player must have at least 8 plays.

14) At the start of the game the ball will be placed at the 35 yard line.

15) If the team with the ball decides to punt, the ball will be placed on the receiving team’s 35 yard line.

16) Field is 80 yards.


17) There must be at least 10 players certified to have a team. (18 players’ max. per team. 10 players’ min. per team). Commissioner has right to change this rule.

18) Game time each team must have a min. of 10 players ready at the face-off. Commissioner has right to change this rule. (Any player late can be checked in at halftime).

• 8 man football (8 on offense- 8 on defense)

• 5man on the line of scrimmage and 3 in the Backfield.

19) Teach the kids that the whistle means STOP! Practice with a whistle.

20) Games length running clock 15 minutes half (2 halves) no over times.

21) 1 or 2 coaches on the playing field per team.

22) No fumbles, ball is dead when touches the ground.

23) Only interception or a strip as long as the ball does not touch the ground the ball can be advanced.

24) Coaches that are on the field must be 5 yards away from the last player on the team.

25) Rules are rules please let’s all follow them. NO EXCEPTIONS

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