What equipment is required?
As part of registration your football player will receive a practice jersey, practice pants, a game jersey, game pants. Your football player will also be fitted for pads and a helmet (with chin strap) which must be returned at the end of the season.
Players will supply their own cleats (plastic/rubber), mouthguard and cup. We recommend purchasing a few mouthguards in case one gets lost. Players will not be permitted to play without a mouthguard.
When are practices?
During the month of August (prior to the start of school), practices are Monday through Thursday from 6pm-8pm. Once school starts, practices are Tuesday through Thursday from 6pm-8pm.
CYFO does not practice or participate in games on Friday's! We encourage all of our families to attend the OJR High school football game and support our Varsity football & cheer programs!
When are games?
Home games are played on Sundays at the OJR HS Stadium. Away games are held either Saturday or Sunday. In previous years, and at least for home games, we try to schedule games in order, starting with the lowest grades.
What teams do you play against?
Many of our opponents at the youth level are the same opponents that the high school program competes against.
How are player positions determined?
Player positions are decided at the discretion of the coach. This is based on the other players on the team, your player’s safety and what is best for the team. If you have any concerns, your player is encouraged to talk to their coach. At the end of the day, this is a team sport and every player is part of the team and will get the opportunity to play.
How much play time will my player get?
In order to promote the league mission, a minimum play rule of ten (10) plays for tackle football teams - including special teams, per game, per football player - shall be instituted by all football coaches (the “10-Play Rule”). However, the 10-Play Rule, subject to the CYFO Board of Directors ultimate oversight, can be reduced and/or voided by Head Coaches for reasons set forth herein and in situations impacting the safety of a player or team.
In particular, the 10-Play Rule may be reduced and/or voided due to reasons that include, but are not limited to:
- Absence or lack of participation in practice;
- Disciplinary actions taken by the Head Coach;
- Violations of the Player Code of Conduct, bullying, or poor/disrespectful behavior towards coaches, teammates, opposing players, or referees;
- Injury or Sickness;
- Failure to report to games at designated times; and
- Player safety concerns.
If any of the foregoing situations arise in which a Head Coach reduces and/or voids the 10-Play Rule, Head Coaches shall notify the CYFO Athletic Director and President.
Additionally, if the CYFO Board, in its sole discretion, votes to exceed twenty-four (24) players per tackle team, the 10-Play Rule shall be modified as follows:
25-27 players – 8 plays
28-30 players – 6 plays
31+ players – 2 plays
In order for a player to qualify for their minimum number of plays, they must be able to demonstrate the following (at a minimum):
- Player can demonstrate a proper stance for the position he or she is asked to play;
- Player must be able to line up in the proper position/ place on the field;
- Player must have a basic understanding of the difference between offense and defense; and
- Player must be aware, focused and engaged enough to protect his or herself and not put players around them at an increased risk of injury.
Why does registration close and limit the number of participants?
We limit the number of participants on each team to ensure players get quality instruction and fair opportunities for playing time.
What training has each coach received in order to qualify as a CYFO coach?
Every tackle football coach for CYFO is required to take part in a series of trainings and certification tests on an annual basis. The governing program that coaches must comply with is referred to as Heads
The foundations of these courses cover the following:
- Proper Tackling and Blocking - Fundamentals and techniques to avoid injuries (the core of Heads Up)
- Health and safety - Teaches coaches how to monitor & protect the players.
- Proper equipment fit and sizing to ensure safety
- Coaching and team development fundamentals
You are encouraged to review and learn more at www.usafootball.com/programs/heads-up-football
All coaches are also required to have a background check yearly.