©2018 Milford Youth Organization, Inc. Page | 1

MILFORD YOUTH

ORGANIZATION

PARENT HANDBOOK

FOOTBALL & CHEERLEADING Revised January 2018

Table of Contents

1. Welcome to the Warrior Nation ....................................................................................................................... 3

Together we will have a winning season! ..................................................................................................... 3

2. Board of Directors ............................................................................................................................................ 4

Go Hard or Go Home! ................................................................................................................................... 4

3. Football Program ............................................................................................................................................. 5

Frequently Asked Questions ......................................................................................................................... 5

4. Cheerleading Program .................................................................................................................................... 8

Frequently Asked Questions ......................................................................................................................... 8

Conduct Expectations ................................................................................................................................. 11

5. General Rules of The Road ........................................................................................................................... 12

Park Ground Rules ...................................................................................................................................... 12

Parents Code of Conduct ................................................................................................................................. 13

6. Parent/Guardian Responsibilities .................................................................................................................. 15

Parental Involvement ................................................................................................................................... 15

Fundraising.................................................................................................................................................. 16

Park Communication ................................................................................................................................... 18

7. Special Events ............................................................................................................................................... 19

What to expect during the season............................................................................................................... 19

8. Miscellaneous Information ............................................................................................................................. 20

9. Concussion Information Sheet....................................................................................................................... 21

Acknowledgement Form .................................................................................................................................... 22

1

WHAT IS A MYO

“Winning Season”.

We consider our season a

success when:

• All of our athletes had fun

• All of our athletes furthered

their skill level in either

football or cheerleading

• All of our athletes achieved

academic excellence

during the season

• All of our athletes developed

discipline, teamwork,

compassion, persistence,

and self esteem

• All of our parents enjoyed

watching their athletes and

had a good time

participating in the Warriors’

program

• Everyone, both adults and

athletes alike, conducted

themselves with

sportsmanlike behavior

both on and off the field.

Welcome to the Warrior Nation

Together we will have

a winning season!

The board members of The Milford Youth Organization (MYO) would like to

officially welcome you to the Warrior Nation. Our board continues to

strengthen and make efforts grow our program. Even with the strength of the

Board of Directors, our program is not possible without parents like you

stepping up to volunteer and placing their confidence in the success of our

organization and your children.

Thank you for trusting us with your most treasured "possession," your children.

We are committed to providing a safe, fun and family oriented environment in

which your child will have the opportunity to meet new friends, build confidence

and learn the skills not only to become a successful athlete, but more

importantly a productive member of the community.

A safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experience for your child is our number one

goal. Your presence at practices & games along with your positive support and

encouragement will help your child meet new challenges. Our coaches teach

the skills, but the motivation must come from the athlete. Your involvement on

the parental level and your positive attitude will serve as a great example for

your child to emulate.

As a parent, please try to attend as many practices as you can. Please do not

be offended if the coaches ask you to keep a certain distance from the practice

for safety reasons and to ensure that the athletes pay attention to the coaches.

By attending practice, you will meet other families and become better

acquainted with the Coaches and the Board of Directors who will answer any

question you may have. Most parents of returning athletes would love to share

their experiences and can give you a real sense of what to expect.

Once again, welcome and thank you for choosing The Milford Youth

Organization (MYO). Let’s make it a great year!

2

Board of Directors

Go Hard or Go Home!

It is both an honor and privilege to have your child(ren) join us on an amazing adventure of self-growth.

As our year gets under way we would like to take a moment to share with you what being a Warrior

means. We pride ourselves on having the ability to demonstrate discipline, determination and sacrifice.

We are recognized by other associations and MAYFL for our first rate program, administration, and

sportsmanship skills. We are extremely proud of our diverse makeup and embrace what each athlete and

parent can bring to our Warrior family to make us even better.

As with any family there is work to be done. We are looking forward to getting a chance to work one on

one with each of you when you work your gate, concession or field assignments. A lot of our board

members came from meeting each other in those same places and seeing what fun the group can have.

Our board is a group of hard working volunteers who are always looking for individuals who can add a

positive, supportive hand.

Now that our teams are coming into place we are excited that you have chosen to grow and to improve

with us. So get ready… “NO EXCUSES GET IT DONE!”

2018 Voting Board Members President Edward Turner president@milfordwarriors.com

Vice President Douglas Murry vicepresidend@milfordwarriors.com

Athletic Director Antonio Herron athleticdirector@milfordwarriors.com

Cheer Director Valencia Arrington cheerdirector@milfordwarriors.com

Assistant Cheer Director LaShea Hermansen assistantcheerdirector@milfordwarriors.com

Secretary Tanurah Elhadi secretary@milfordwarriors.com

Treasurer Tanaya Tuck treasurer@milfordwarriors.com

Equipment Director Chris Banks equipmentdirector@milfordwarriors.com

Assistant Equipment Director Kevin Morgan equipmentassistant@milfordwarriors.com

Fundraising Director Tisha Johnson fundraising@milfordwarriors.com

Team Mom Coordinator Jasmine Robinson parentcoordinator@milfordwarriors.com

Concessions Director Melanie Banks concessions@milfordwarriors.com

Website/Communications LaRiesh Garner webmaster@milfordwarriors.com

At Large Board Members (Non-Voting) Board Adviser Ricky Taylor adviser@milfordwarriors.com

Sponsorship Adviser Stacie Taylor sponsorship@milfordwarriors.com

Support Adviser Teresa Taylor support@milfordwarriors.com

Financial Adviser Tawana Weems finance@milfordwarriors.com

3

Football Program

Frequently Asked

Questions

Football FAQs

1. How often will my child get to play? If your child meets all practice obligations, they will be

guaranteed 8 plays per game for competitive teams. If your child is on a development team,

they are also guaranteed at least 8 plays.

2. What game day obligations to parents have? Parents rotate different job assignments

scheduled by the Team Mom. This may include providing snacks and/or drinks, serving as

a member of the chain crew for your child’s game or possibly concession duty prior to

your game.

3. What can I expect as a practice schedule? Practice will be limited to ten hours per week

until school begins. After the start of school teams will practice no more than three times

during any calendar week, not to exceed six (6) hours. At the start of the league playoffs,

teams that are scheduled to play in the playoffs may hold up to four practices during a

calendar week, not to exceed eight (8) hours.

No practice will continue past 9:00 pm.

The first practices are basically a meeting with introductions and information to help you

become familiar with the practice fields and organization. Your athlete will begin with

conditioning. The next few practices will be in helmets, practice shirt and pants. NO PADS.

4. When are the games played? Games are generally played on Saturday. There may be an

occasionally a week day game scheduled, as necessary. Games will be played between 9am

and 9pm with the younger teams typically playing in the earlier games. All teams will play a

minimum of eight (8) games during the regular season. No MAYFL sponsored games shall be

played during Labor Day Weekend. Teams that qualify for the playoffs as well as make it to the

Championship will play additional games as determined by MAYFL. The game schedule will

be posted and maintained on our website and Facebook throughout the season.

5. What happens if practice is canceled? Your team mom and/or coach may send out a text

message or email. However, you should always check our Facebook page and website for the

most recent updates. Practice may be rescheduled, by the coach’s discretion. However, even if

it is raining practice may not be canceled.

Football Divisions

There is no maximum weight for skill players. Teams are formed based on the age of the players as of July first of

the current season. The age for participants in each division is as follows:

Team (Age Group) Age on July 1st (Age Level)

Pee Wee 5 – 6

Mighty Mite 7 – 8

Bandit 9 – 10

Junior 11 – 12

Senior 13 – 14

MYO participates in a league that consists of two Youth Football Conferences: (i) Super Elite Conference (“SEC”)

and, (ii) Conference USA (“CUSA”).

1. The SEC is reserved for designated competitive players and teams in the age groups of 8, 10, 12, and

13/14.

2. The CUSA is reserved for non-competitive teams in the age groups of 5/6, 7, 9, and 11.

Your child may be placed in either division. Team Placement will be determined by the President and Athletic

Director as they feel is best suited for the MYO program. When making team division placement decisions, they will

take into consideration the experience of the individual teams, players, and parents regardless of a team’s format.

Football Equipment Football equipment consists of one (1) helmet, and one (1) shoulder pad.

Football Equipment remains the property of the

Milford Youth Organization (MYO) and are issued

to you for your child’s use and protection. No

alteration may be performed without the prior

written permission of the Athletic Director. The

proper care and safeguarding of these items are

your responsibility and your deposit of $200.00

will be held in escrow by MYO to insure its return

in usable condition. After the team’s last

sanctioned MYO event, on a date identified by the

head coach, the equipment must be cleaned and

returned to MYO without change in condition or

appearance, NORMAL WEAR EXPECTED. Any

decorations applied to helmets must be removed

prior to return to MYO. In the event of loss, if all

the equipment is not returned, or if the equipment

is returned damaged, your deposit will be used

by MYO for replacement.

Players also receive a game jersey, game pants

and game socks, which may be kept by the

player at the end of the season.

GAME PANTS AND GAMES JERSEY’S

SHALL NOT BE WORN DURING PRACTICES!

Items Not Covered by Registration Fee

• Each player is responsible for obtaining their

own shoes (rubber cleats only, no metal or

hard plastic replaceable cleats are allowed).

• League approved mouthpieces and chin

straps must be purchased from MYO.

• Practice pants and jerseys may be

purchased from MYO or you can choose

to provide your own.

• Breast cancer awareness items are not

included in your registration fees.

Practices Official team practices begin in July. Teams

may practice up to five times during the first

week. Second Monday in July marks the first

official day of practice. After the first week in

August, practices are conducted on Monday,

Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Practices

commence at 6:30PM and end no later than

8:30PM.

Certification

All players on the team roster must attend

the MAYFL certification unless injury or

sickness prevents their attendance.

The following certification documentation is

required of all participants by the Metro Atlanta

Youth Football League (MAYFL):

Certified Birth Certificate (with raised seal) is

required for every football player.

NOTARIZED COPIES, AND/OR

HOSPITAL CERITIFICATES OF

BIRTH ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE!

Signed Physicians Physical Form (provided

by physician) completion date must be after

Feb 28 of the current season. You may obtain

a sports physical for ~$25 at Piedmont

UrgentCare by WellStreet at 3999 Austell Rd,

Suite #901, Austell GA, 30106

Signed copy of the Parents Code of

Conduct Form No participant will be certified

without all required documents. Any participant,

not meeting certification requirements prior to

Aug 10, will be deemed ineligible and not

allowed to participate in MYO sanctioned

activities. No refunds will be provided for non–

certification.

Certification Photo Each football player is

required to take an individual (head shot) picture.

Photograph must be in color;

• Photograph must clearly capture the

participant’s facial features with no other

distracting objects or persons;

• Each participant’s photograph shall be taken in

the same uniform as to style, design, and color

Scrimmage/Jamboree/Bowl Games Prior to the first official game and throughout the

season, football players may have a chance to

suit up and scrimmage and/or compete in

additional jamborees/bowl games against other

teams. These may be either home or away

games. Coaches will notify players and parents as

appropriate. These activities are generally fast

paced and provide a very exciting experience for

the participants, as it further prepares the players

for game days.

Game Days Game schedules will be distributed as soon as

they are finalized by the MAYFL. Please expect

that the first few games of the season to be

communicated to you via park messaging, as

the league may have to make changes to

schedules before posting a final schedule to

their website (https://mayflatl.info/). Times and

locations will vary from team to team. We travel

to play games with Associations from various

parks. Most teams within the league are

located throughout SW Atlanta and Fulton

Counties.

Arrival of Football Players

PLAYERS MUST BE IN LINE WITH THEIR

HEAD 1 HOUR PRIOR TO THE SCHEDULED

GAME TIME. Teams are required to check in at

the game site with the game day coordinator

one hour prior to the scheduled game time for

pre-game roster checks. Teams with less than

12 players at the time of the pre-game roster

check will forfeit their game and the team will

be assessed a fine by the league. Your

coaches make good use of this additional time

by taking athletes through pre-game stretching

and warm up; a tactic used to prevent injury.

4

Cheerleading Program

Frequently

Asked

Questions

Cheerleading FAQs 1. What squad will my child cheer for? Your child will cheer for their age group, as determined by

the cheer director. It is at the cheer director’s discretion to allow your child to cheer up or down

one age group.

2. Do parents have any obligations during the season? Parents rotate different job assignments

given by the Team Mom. This includes gate or concession duty during practices, bowl games,

tournaments or home games. Game day assignments will be performed 2 hours prior to your

child’s game. You may also be asked to assist with game day snacks and/or run through signs.

3. What can we expect the first few days of practice? The first day of practice is basically a

meeting with introductions, information and becoming familiar with the practice fields and

organization. Your athlete must be prepared to participate in strength and condition training,

stunting, tumbling and cheer.

4. When are games and practice? Games are played on Saturday between 9am and 9pm with the

younger teams typically playing earlier in the day. Practices are generally Monday, Tuesday and

Thursday from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Your cheer director will communicate a final practice

schedule. Schedule may change due to make up days and/or competition practices.

5. Where do we practice? At the lower level of Hurt Road Park unless otherwise stated by the

director.

6. What happens if a game or practice is canceled? You may be called by a calling post to a

number you specify, but checking our website - www.milfordwarriors.com - or Facebook page is

always best. Practices may be rescheduled at the discretion of coaches; however, even if it's

raining practice may not be canceled.

Is there anything else I need? A GREAT WARRIOR ATTITUDE!!

Team Placement

Cheerleading squads are generally assigned by age as of July 1st, consistent with the football teams. Maximum size for

cheer squads is 20. Registration is on a first-come, first serve basis. Places cannot be reserved on a squad until all

fees are paid in full. Should a roster become full, a waiting list will be maintained. Additional squads will only be

created if additional volunteer coaches come forward and if uniforms remain available. The age for participants on each

squad is as follows:

Team (Age Group) Age on July 1st (Age Level)

Tiny 6 & Under

Mini 8 & Under

Youth 10 & Under

Junior 1 12 & Under

Junior 2 14 & Under

Cheer Gear

Cheerleading fees include a uniform (rental), shoes,

socks, bloomers, midriff, bow, cheer bag, (2) pom-

poms, and a practice uniform.

Practice Attire

One (1) practice uniform will be issued by MYO for use

during special performance during the warmer days.

These performances include pep-rallies, scrimmages,

community events, etc.

Regular practice attire consists of comfortable

shorts/athletic pants and shirts. Hair longer than shoulder

length should be pulled back. Athletic shoes must be

worn (NO flip-flops, sandals, boots, dress shoes, etc.)

For your child’s safety, please remember there are

absolutely no excessive hair accessories, no gum,

candy, jewelry, make-up or nail polish allowed.

Game Attire Uniforms should be clean and wrinkle free. Shoes should

always be as clean. Each cheerleader is expected to be in

full uniform for every game. This includes skirt and shell,

bloomers, socks, shoes and cheer bow. Additional

accessories may be used at the coach’s discretion.

Certification

All cheerleaders on the team roster must attend the

MAYFL certification unless injury or sickness prevents

their attendance. The following certification

documentation is required of all participants by the Metro

Atlanta Youth Football League (MAYFL):

Certified Birth Certificate (with raised seal) is required

for every cheerleader.

NOTARIZED COPIES, AND/OR HOSPITAL

CERITIFICATES OF BIRTH ARE NOT

ACCEPTABLE!

Signed Physicians Physical Form (provided by

physician) completion date must be after Feb 28 of the

current season. You may obtain a sports physical for

~$25 at Piedmont UrgentCare by WellStreet at 3999

Austell Rd, Suite #901, Austell GA, 30106

Signed copy of the Parents Code of Conduct Form

No participant will be certified without all required

documents. Any participant, not meeting certification

requirements prior to Aug 10, will be deemed ineligible

and not allowed to participate in MYO sanctioned

activities. No refunds will be provided for non–

certification.

Certification Photo Each cheerleader is required to

take an individual (head shot) picture. Pictures should be

legible and attire should be a uniform or camp gear.

Cheer Camp

Summer cheer camp will be held for one week at the

end of July or the beginning of August. Further details

of cheer camp, including dates, time and location, will

be provided to you, please check your emails!

Football Season

The football season could last until December 31. It is

the expectation that all Milford Warrior cheerleaders

cheer during Regular Season, Post Season and

Bowl Games/Tournaments.

Game Days

Cheerleaders should arrive at the playing field 1 hour

prior to game time. This allows for time to get

organized, stretch, prepare banners and run through

any last minute half time preparations. Please advise

your coach in advance of any transportation problems.

Please be mindful that it is extremely difficult for your

coaches to rearrange girls at the last minute for a

routine. Please notify your team mom if your child is

going to be late or absent.

Cheerleaders not arriving 1 hour prior to game start

will not be allowed to cheer during the first half

and/or participate in the half-time routine (see

demerit system).

Attendance

Your child must be present at all practices in order to be

an effective member of the team. Cheerleading involves

stunts, jumps, and routines that require our children to

work together for successful completion. Therefore, you

are only allowed 3 missed practices. If you miss more

than three, your coach is not required to allow you to

participate in games or competitions.

Practices

The Cheer director will communicate a final practice

schedule with you. Practices may be adjusted per

competition schedule. All practices will be held at the

Hurt Road Park, weather permitting.

Half Time

Each squad will perform at halftime and then be

allowed to enjoy their snack and rest for the remainder

of halftime and approximately 4 minutes of the 3rd

quarter. The Tiny squad is allowed to rest for the entire

3rd quarter due to age.

Captains

We encourage the development of leadership qualities

of all participants. Therefore, team captains/co-captains

will be named by the Head Coach of each squad on a

weekly basis based on their overall participation during

the week. The cheerleaders who possess the most

enthusiasm, most spirit & most leadership skills will be

named captain for the week.

Competition(s)

In addition to play-offs, championship games and

bowls/tournaments, our season consists of cheer

competitions. All cheerleaders are encouraged and

expected to participate on the cheerleading

competition squad. The competition(s) are usually

held at a local high school. Cheerleading competition

typically occurs on a Sunday from October to

November. It takes a lot of time, dedication for the

cheerleader and parents, and practice to be fully

prepared for cheer competition(s). Therefore,

cheerleaders who have three (3) unexcused

absences to competition practice will be unable to

compete on the competition squad. Absences

associated with school or church events may be

excused provided the situation is reviewed with the

Head Coach before the absence occurs.

There may be up to three (3) competitions for which

our girls will participate. There is an additional

competition fee to cover items to refresh the girls’

uniform attire (e.g., socks, cheer bows, shoes,

midriffs, etc.) Your cheer Director will determine and

communicate any competition fees. Please also

expect the possibility of paying additional “Per

Cheerleader Entry Fees” assessed by the

competition host. The Cheer Director will make a

decision to complete fundraising and/or collecting the

additional fees during the football season to cover this

expense. The Cheer Director will provide competition

details as events are finalized by the host(s) and

information is provided to MYO.

Please be prepared to attend invitational competitions

for which we are invited to compete with a short

notice. Your Cheer Coach and Team Mom will advise

you of the possibility of such competitions and any

requirements associated with such participation.

Additional Expenses As you all know we cannot include every expense that may arise during the season in the registration fee. So we

want to prepare you for some of the items that may arise. This is not a complete list and your squad may not do all

that is on this list or they may add different items.

• Snack Dues

• Goody Bags for Visiting Team

• Banner Supplies

• Team Treats

• Competition Expenses

Conduct Expectations

Disciplinary/Demerit System MYO Cheer Staff will enforce the following discipline/demerit system: (this is an abridged version; see full policy)

• Team Members arriving 15 minutes tardy to a practice will receive 1 lap for every 15 minutes late.

• Team Members not arriving 1 hour prior to game start will not be allowed to cheer during the first half and/or

half-time routine.

• Team Members caught chewing gum or eating food/candy during practices or games will receive 1 demerit.

• Team Members not fully uniformed for the game will receive 1 demerit.

• Team members caught wearing their Cheer Gear (with the exception of practice uniform) to practice will

receive 1 demerit.

• Team Members not participating in practices or at the game will receive 1 demerit.

• Team Members using profanity or being disrespectful to the Coaching Staff will receive 1 DEMERIT.

• Team Members who have engaged in fighting or using any unwanted contact to their teammates or Coaching Staff will automatically be granted a meeting with THE MYO Cheer Board and possible termination from the team with. There will be NO REFUND.

Demerit Consequences

1. Team Members receiving 3 DEMERITS per week EQUALS a Suspension from a game.

2. Team Members will still have to come to the game fully uniformed and watch her teammates cheer from the

stands.

3. Team Members receiving 3 SUSPENSIONS will automatically be granted a meeting with the MYO Cheer

Board with possible termination from the team with NO REFUND.

4. Team Members will be given the opportunity to work off demerits (at the head coach’s discretion before or

after regular scheduled practice.

5

General Rules of The Road

Park Ground Rules

1. A parent or guardian MUST accompany each child at all practices and games.

2. Drive slowly as you enter the parking area and watch for children running between the cars. (This

is especially important when you enter the parking lot and when you pass the gates to the game

field.)

3. Alcohol, drugs, firearms, knives, or other type of weapons are prohibited at any practice or game

field, in the parking lot or at any facility where the children may participate. Violators are subject to

arrest.

4. Smoking is discouraged at the park especially the areas where the children are practicing and/or playing.

5. Smoking is prohibited in the stands, in the restrooms and in the concession stand.

6. Chairs are not permitted in the stands. Cushions and stadium seats are permitted.

7. Good sportsmanship is expected of everyone! All persons are required to conduct themselves in a

manner that sets a positive example of our children, whether you are in the stands, on the

sidelines and whether you are at “our field” or at another Association’s field. You will be asked

leave the premises for using foul language, fussing at the official, or displaying any conduct that is

not providing a positive environment for our youth participants.

8. Maintaining a clean park is the responsibility of everyone. Keep trash picked up in and around the

practice field, restrooms and/or playing field. Leave the facilities ‘cleaner than you found them’.

Please, be considerate of our hosts and clean up after ourselves when playing at another

Association’s park.

9. NO ANIMALS of any kind are allowed in the game or practice areas.

10. The concession stand operates as a fundraising activity for MYO. All food and drink are

encouraged to be purchased from the concession stand. Team fundraising activities may not

include the sale of food or drinks on game days or practices without the written permission of the

Board of Directors.

Parents Code of Conduct

It is the expectation of Milford Youth Organization that all parents read, understand and sign this form prior to

their child(ren) participating in MYO’s cheerleading and football programs.

Any parent guilty of improper conduct at any game or practice will be asked to leave the sports facility and be

suspended from the following game. Repeat violations may cause result in the forfeiture of the season for the

participants.

Preamble

The essential elements of character-building and ethics in sports are embodied in the concept of

sportsmanship and six core principles:

• Trustworthiness,

• Respect,

• Responsibility,

• Fairness,

• Caring, and

• Good Citizenship.

The highest potential of sports is achieved when competition reflects these “six pillars of character.” I, as a

parent or guardian, therefore agree:

1. I will not force my child to participate in sports.

2. I will remember that children participate to have fun and that the game is for youth, not adults.

3. I will inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child or the

safety of others.

4. I will learn the rules of the game and the policies of MYO and MAYFL.

5. I (and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child(ren) and encourage sportsmanship by

showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches,

officials and spectators at every competition, game, or practice.

6. I (and my guests) will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach,

player, or parent such as booing and taunting; refusing to shake hands; or using profane language or

gestures.

7. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well-being of the

athletes.

8. I will teach my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or

violence.

9. I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, officials and spectators with respect

regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability.

10. I will teach my child that doing one’s best is more important than winning, so that my child will never

feel defeated by the outcome of a game or his/her performance.

11. I will praise my child for competing fairly and trying hard, and make my child feel like a winner every

time.

12. I will never ridicule or yell at my child or other participants for making a mistake or losing a

competition.

13. I will emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit my child over winning. I will

also de-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups.

14. I will promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire I

may have for my child to win.

15. I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or

confront coaches at the game field, and will take time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time

and place.

16. I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and I will

refrain from their use at all MYO/MAYFL sanctioned events (e.g., practices, games, tournaments,

etc.)

17. I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices, unless I am one of

the official coaches of the team.

Adherences to these rules of conduct are mandatory. Refusal to abide by these rules of conduct will result in

my ejection from the field and facility, and if continued, my child's expulsion from participation in the program.

A form acknowledging your receipt and review of this handbook, including the Parent’s Code of Conduct, is

the last page of this handbook. A signed form must be included in your child(ren)’s registration records and

presented to MAYFL at the time of certification. No cheerleader or football participant will be certified to

participate in the program without the completion and return of this form.

6

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

Parental Involvement

The football and cheer programs are completely dependent upon parent volunteers to make each week

run smoothly. You are the key to success. At registration, each Warrior Family will be required to submit a

$40 concession deposit, which will be refunded at the end of the season upon completion of a volunteer

“shift”. A “shift” is considered one game’s worth of help (two hours), e.g. concession stand, gate duty, play

monitoring, chain gang, etc., or pre/post game help such as setup, cleanup, etc. The volunteer

opportunities sign-up sheet are maintained and made available during the season by your assigned Team

Mom. On average we need 45 volunteers per home game to operate successfully.

The volunteer time can be completed in a variety of ways. Below are some suggestions.

• Coaches-coach on any one of the teams.

• Concession Stand- work in the concession stand during home games.

• Gate Duty – work the entry gate for a full home game.

• Chain Workers- work the chains during home games.

• 10 Play Monitors- monitor game play during games home and away.

• Cook for Grill- cook during the home games.

• Clean Up- help pick up trash and take down extra equipment at the end of a home game day

** THE ONLY WAY FOR THE SEASON TO RUN SMOOTHLY IS TO HAVE EVERYONE’S HELP **

Team Moms Every team needs a team mom, please step up and help your child’s team. Each team will select a Team Mom to

be agreed upon by the coaching staff of the associated team. These parents will be in charge of handling the

snacks and drinks at games, managing communications for the coaching staff and helping to schedule and manage

game day volunteers.

Duties

• Coordinate and schedule parents for concession stand duty (in conjunction with the Concession Director)

• Coordinate fund raising activities with the Fund Raising Director.

• Coordinate Homecoming Activities of their team (including Homecoming ceremonies) with the

Homecoming Director.

• Coordinate the Team Banquet and trophy pick-up with the Head Coach.

• Assist in distribution of football game jerseys, coordinate certification pictures

Snacks & Drinks Your Team Mom will either collect a contribution at the beginning of the season or assign you a day to be

responsible for snacks to be provided to the children on game days. Your child and their team is depending on you

so please help out in any way you can. If, for some reason, you cannot fulfill that which you are scheduled to do,

please communicate with your Team Mom and try to make other arrangements.

Attendance At least one parent or guardian must be present at all practices and all games in case your child is injured or

removed from the game/practice field. Practices may end early. In the past, some parents have left only a cell

phone for their child to call when practice is over or have simply left to come back once practice has concluded. This

behavior puts your child at risk and will not be tolerated. The volunteers that work with your children cannot and will

not serve as babysitters for your child(ren). In the event of an emergency, someone must be present who can make

medical and legal decisions for your child. In the event that a legal guardian or parent is not present, your child will

not be allowed to practice or participate in a game.

Fundraising

Park-wide Fundraising Milford Youth Organization is a 501(3) (c) classified charitable organization that depends on donations and

sponsorships to maintain its operations. We understand that no one really wants to participate in fundraising.

However, our organization receives on assistance from the county or local government agencies and your

registration fees are not enough to cover all of the expenses required to operate the park, all team fees due to

participate in the league, provision of security personnel during sanctioned events, referee fees, etc. Including

all of these cost considerations would drive registration fees up substantially. As such, fundraising is a

necessity! We require all park participants to help us in our efforts. The board only asks that you participate in

two mandatory fundraisers each season. You may opt out of participation by paying $50.00 per fundraiser. The

park will not ask you to participate in any individual team fundraising activity. If you are asked to participate in

an individual team fundraiser, please make sure it has been approved by the Board of Directors. It is at your

discretion to participate in any additional “individual team fundraisers”.

The Board of Directors works hard to enroll the Milford Youth Organization into programs that will give back to

our organization. Your support of these programs, can help reduce the fundraising requirements during the

season. Please look out for opportunities to support programs that help raise funds for our organization. A few

examples include:

Kroger Community Awards Program Help us earn extra money to replace and add to our equipment. With two new fields and an increasing

number of participants, we need field and individual football equipment. In order for us to get what we need

without raising registration rates, we need your help. How? Simply, add The Milford Youth Organization to your

Kroger Plus Card. Every time you shop at Kroger, in addition to earning your fuel points, you will help MYO

receive a quarterly percentage on all purchases made using a linked card. Please follow the steps below and

ASK EVERYONE you know to add us to their cards as well.

TO USE THE KROGER COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM:

• Register online at kroger.com/communityrewards

• Be sure to have your Kroger Plus card handy

• Click on Sign In/Register

• SIGN UP TODAY in the ‘New Customer?’ box.

• Sign up for a Kroger Rewards Account by entering zip code, clicking on favorite store, entering your

email address and creating a password, agreeing to the terms and conditions

• You will then get a message to check your email inbox and click on the link within the body of the

email.

• Click on My Account and use your email address and password to proceed to the next step.

• Click on Edit Kroger Community

• Rewards information and input your Kroger Plus card number.

• Update or confirm your information.

• Enter Milford Youth Organization, Inc. or select it from list and click on confirm.

• To verify you are enrolled correctly, you will see your organization’s name on the right side of your

information page.

• Do you use your phone number at the

• register? Call 800-576-4377, select option 4 to get your Kroger Plus card number.

• Members must swipe their registered Kroger Plus card or use the phone number that is related to

their registered Kroger Plus card when shopping for each purchase to count.

Amazon Smile Program

https://smile.amazon.com

The Milford Youth Organization, Inc. is a part of the Amazon Smile program. What's this? Well when

you shop at Amazon, they will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible purchases to support the youth of the

Warrior Nation. It's the same Amazon you already use to shop, now with the added benefit of supporting your

Milford Warriors. Remember to use Amazon Smile each time you shop Amazon and designate the

Milford Youth Organization as the charitable organization to receive the donation.

Park Communication

Communication is key in order for this to be a fun, enjoyable and successful season for both athletes and

parents. To this end, MYO endeavors to provide timely information via two primary methods.

Email You must have an email on file that you regularly check to receive the park email communications and

monthly newsletter. If you are not receiving the monthly newsletter, you are likely missing key information

regarding what to expect for the month. We make every effort to add you to the email distribution list

based on the email provided on your registration form. However, if you do not receive the newsletter,

please send an email to support@milfordwarriors.com requesting to be added.

Text Another key form of communication is the use of park wide text messages. In order to make sure that you

receive important information regarding games, cancelations, upcoming events or special

announcements, you must join our Registration Manager’s Remind 101 list.

To receive messages via text,

text the words “join myowarrior” to 810-10.

You can opt out of messages at any time by replying,

unsubscribe @ m y ow a r r i o r .

Are you having trouble using 81010?

Try texting “join myowarrior” to

(404) 537-3978 instead.

*Standard text message rates apply.

7 Opening Day

Special Events

What to expect during

the season

Milford Warrior’s Purple/Gold Day is our opening day

celebration. It is a day to come, meet and support the

kids and get the kids recognized and excited about

their season. Opening day is a fun filled family day at

Milford Park.

Picture Day Individual and Team pictures are taken as early in the

season as possible. Picture day is typically conducted

on a Saturday before each teams scheduled Home

Game or a Sunday afternoon in late August or early

September.

Pep Rally During the football season expect to participate in 1-3

pep rallies. Our cheerleaders perform and lead the

crowd in chants/cheers to promote that Warrior spirit

and to encourage support of our fighting Warriors!

Homecoming This is a special time for our players and cheerleaders

as we celebrate our organization. Specifics of

homecoming are given out closer to the actual event,

which usually takes place in or October.

Please keep in mind there may be additional

expenses associated with this event.

Homecoming activities may include a pep rally, a

powder puff game between the football parents and

cheer parents, a game between the football coaches

and park dads, and a ceremony where the

Homecoming court is announced. FYI – this is a great

photo opportunity!

Homecoming provides an ideal opportunity for

fundraising activities for our youth football program.

The Homecoming court for each team

Princes/Princesses and King/Queen are determined

by contributions collected with the Homecoming

Donation Sheet. You can get a jump start on the

Homecoming fundraiser by downloading the packet

from www.milfordwarriors.com/homecoming.

Otherwise, your Team Mom will provide donation

sheets as we begin preparation for homecoming.

The park generally allows teams to set up food,

games, and face painting booths. All funds raised

through these activities are used for individual team

dues for MAYFL, park expenses (fines, forfeiture

fees, etc.), and the end of year banquet.

Breast Cancer Awareness The Milford Youth Organization recognizes Breast

Cancer Awareness for the month of October. Breast

Cancer Awareness is an annual international health

campaign organized by major breast cancer charities

to increase awareness of the disease and to raise

funds for research into its cause, prevention,

diagnosis, treatment and cure. You may be asked to

purchase socks, shoestrings, etc. Your team mom

will communicate all requirements to you.

Banquets An end of the year banquet will be scheduled for the

entire park. All football players and cheerleaders will

be recognized and will receive any participation

awards at this event.

8

Miscellaneous Information

Important Information

Complaint – Grievance Process Although it is our hope that no problems will arise, we

have found that on occasion a conflict will develop

which requires attention. If you find yourself in that

situation, the accepted process to address a concern is

described below:

1. A primary consideration is to remember that all

the coaches, team moms and MYO board

members are volunteers who are offering their

time to work with your child.

2. Your first point of contact to discuss any issue

is the head coach for the team on which your

child participates. However, you should not

do so in a confrontational manner, nor

should you approach the coach during a

practice, on the game field or within

eyesight or earshot of the children. Wait

until before or after the next scheduled

practice.

3. If you receive no satisfaction from the head

coach or you are not comfortable approaching

the head coach, you should contact the Athletic

Director to discuss the matter. The Athletic

Director will investigate the matter, set up a

meeting with the appropriate coach/coaches

and will provide you with a response. If a

meeting with the coach is appropriate, the

Athletic Director will conduct such a meeting

and act as arbitrator.

4. If you are not satisfied with the resolution while

working with the Athletic Director, you may file

a formal complaint with the MYO Board of

Directors by contacting the President or Vice

President. The formal complaint should be filed

in writing. Upon receipt, the President shall call

a special meeting of the Board, which will act

as the Grievance Committee. The President

shall serve as the chair of the Grievance

Committee. The Vice President shall serve as

the chair if the complaint is against the

President. You will be advised in writing of the

Board’s decision and any actions the Board

takes in regards to your complaint.

5. If the complaint involves the Football

Conference a formal charge (or complaint) in

legible print shall be made to the Athletic

Director. The formal charge will be provided to

the President for immediate submission to the

appropriate authority.

Insurance Information

All participants must hold some form of health

insurance coverage. The Milford Youth Organization

maintains insurance for sanction events. However, the

medical coverage provided under this policy is

secondary to your primary medical insurance.

In the event of an injury, contact your coach. An

insurance claim form may be obtained from the MYO

secretary and must be completed in its entirety by the

parent or guardian of the injured child, and returned to

the secretary within 30 days of the date of the injury.

9

Concussion Information Sheet

Concussion Fact Sheet

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury.

Concussions are caused by a bump or blow to the head.

Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to

be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious.

You can’t see a concussion. Signs and symptoms of

concussion can show up right after the injury or may not

appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury.

If your child reports any symptoms of concussion, or if

you notice the symptoms yourself, seek medical

attention right away.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A

CONCUSSION?

Signs Observed by Parents or Guardians

If your child has experienced a bump or blow to the head

during a game or practice, look for any of the following

signs and symptoms of a concussion:

• Appears dazed or stunned

• Is confused about assignment or position

• Forgets an instruction

• Is unsure of game, score, or opponent

• Moves clumsily

• Answers questions slowly

• Loses consciousness (even briefly)

• Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes

Symptoms Reported by Athlete

• Headache or “pressure” in head

• Nausea or vomiting

• Balance problems or dizziness

• Double or blurry vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Sensitivity to noise

• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy

Concentration or memory problems

• Confusion

• Just “not feeling right” or “feeling down”

HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR CHILD PREVENT A

CONCUSSION OR OTHER SERIOUS BRAIN INJURY?

• Ensure that they follow their coach’s rules for

safety and the rules of the sport.

• Encourage them to practice good sportsmanship

at all times.

• Make sure they wear the right protective

equipment for their activity. Protective

equipment should fit properly and be well

maintained.

• Wearing a helmet is a must to reduce the risk of

a serious brain injury or skull fracture.

o However, helmets are not designed to

prevent concussions. There is no

“concussion-proof” helmet. So, even with a

helmet, it is important for kids and teens to

avoid hits to the head.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU THINK YOUR CHILD

HAS A CONCUSSION?

1. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION RIGHT AWAY.

A health care professional will be able to decide how

serious the concussion is and when it is safe for your

child to return to regular activities, including sports.

2. KEEP YOUR CHILD OUT OF PLAY.

Concussions take time to heal. Don’t let your child

return to play the day of the injury and until a health

care professional says it’s OK. Children who return to

play too soon—while the brain is still healing—risk a

greater chance of having a repeat concussion.

Repeat or later concussions can be very serious.

They can cause permanent brain damage, affecting

your child for a lifetime.

3. TELL YOUR CHILD’S COACH ABOUT ANY

PREVIOUS CONCUSSION.

Coaches should know if your child had a previous

concussion. Your child’s coach may not know about a

concussion your child received in another sport or

activity unless you tell the coach.

THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

Acknowledgement Form

For each child participating in the program, please provide a signed copy of this form to

the Registration Manager. This form must be signed and on file with your child(ren)’s

registration form in order for him/her to obtain official certification and participate in the

program. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS REQUIREMENT.

I, , parent of,

(parent’s name printed) (student’s name printed)

have carefully reviewed the Parent Handbook, which includes the MAYFL code of conduct, as well as the Concussion Fact Sheet. I understand the conditions for participation in the Milford Youth Organization cheerleading and football program, and understand there are inherent risks associated with participation.

I/We agree as follows:

• My son/daughter has my permission to participate in the program at the Milford Youth Organization.

• I have the required medical coverage for my child(ren)

• I have provided the registration manager with a copy of a signed physicians physical form, (provided by physician) dated after Feb 28th for this season

• I understand and conform to all of the statements in the stipulations outlined in

the handbook.

• I understand and will abide by the policies set forth in the Concussion Fact Sheet.

Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian Date