I. The Association

A. Organization: This organization shall be known as the Panhandle Youth Football Association (PYFA) and shall be governed by these By-laws.

1. Adoption of By-laws - These By-laws shall be adopted and used when voted in by a majority of the Representatives of all participating Areas. They will remain in effect indefinitely or until a revised/updated version is approved by majority vote of the PYFA.

2. Amendment - These By-laws can be amended by vote of a majority of the Representatives of all participating areas.

B. Purpose: The purpose of this organization shall be to foster the sport of football and regulate activities among the youth of Northwest Florida, and to educate adults to be youth leaders through involvement in the Association of youth football and cheerleading program.

C. Management: The management and administration of the Association shall be conducted by the Board of Directors and one Area Representative from each area in the association. The Board of Directors shall be the President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Public Relations Director, and Football Director. Each participating Area may designate an alternate Area Representative who may cast that Areas vote at meetings and exercise all other powers on the absence of the regular Area Representative for that Area. The PYFA President shall not be an Area Representative or Alternate Representative.

1. The active participating areas in this organization are the following: WALTON BRAVES, NICEVILLE EAGLES, BEACH MARLINS, SOUTH WALTON SEAHAWKS, SHALIMAR WILDCATS, FORT WALTON BEACH BUCCANERS, CRESTVIEW BULLDOGS, FREEPORT BULLDOGS, LYNN HAVEN STORM, VERNON YELLOW JACKETS, JACKSON COUNTY PREDATORS, HOLMES COUNTY BLUE DEVILS, DESTIN DOLPHINS, CALLAWAY REBELS, CHIPLEY TIGERS, SOUTHPORT PATRIOTS, BAKER GATORS, and GLENWOOD RATTLERS. All organizations are resident in the Panhandle of Florida.

2. Participating Areas may remove an Area Representative or designate a new representative at their discretion and may establish their own individual procedures for doing so. If a participating Area fails to designate an Area Representative during the regular season then the Board of Directors may designate an acting representative for that area. No area will be deemed participating in the Association unless it is represented by a designated Area Representative prior to the meeting at which the regular schedule for that year is adopted. An Area Representative shall continue to serve in that capacity until he resigns, or until a new Area Representative is designated by the participating area, or until he is removed by the Association for violation of these By-laws.

D. Meetings:

1. Annual Meetings: There shall be an Annual Meeting of the PYFA Board in January to review the results and issues of the previous season. At the February annual meeting, an election of officers will be held.

2. Scheduling Meeting: The PYFA President and his designated representatives are responsible for meeting during the month of August to build the regular season schedule. The meeting time and location will be set at the discretion of the PYFA President.

3. Regular Meetings: Regular Meetings for the transaction of necessary business shall be called on 3-5 days’ notice.

4. Emergency Meetings: Emergency Meetings to transact only such emergency business as is set forth in the notice of the meeting must be conducted with a minimum 48-hour notice. Only, Board Members, Area Representatives, and the effected partiesmay attend this meeting. These meetings can be held by email or conference callsif a face-to-face meeting is not possible.

5. Rules Infractions Meetings: Infractions of these By-laws may be determined to have occurred, and sanctions imposed for such infractions only at an Infraction Meeting conducted with a minimum 48-hour notice. Such Notice shall state that the meeting is an Infractions Meeting and shall state the date, times, place. The PYFA board will preside at the infraction meetings, but other attendees will include the individuals involved in the suspected infraction as well as to the Area Representative of teams involved. All players and coaches of a team shall be deemed to have been given such notice if such notice is given to the Head Coach of the team. No sanctions may be imposed at any meeting on any person, team, or Area which was not given notice of the meeting as required by this paragraph. All infractions must be brought before the area representative prior to requesting an infraction meeting.

6. Complaint Process: Parents and Coaches that have complaints will direct those complaints to their Area Representative for consideration. In the event the Area Representative cannot properly address the complaint, the Parent/Coach can bring the complaint to their Area Board of Directors. The PYFA will not be part of the area complaint process and will only provide assistance as requested from the Area Representative.

7. Notices: Notices of the Annual Meeting, Scheduling Meeting, Emergency Meetings, and Infractions Meetings shall be by the PYFA President to each Area Representative in advance as required above. The President shall also send additional notices of Infractions Meetings as required above. It is recommended that written notice of Regular Meetings be given, but an email notice is sufficient.

8. Calling Meetings: The President may call Board meetings with minimum notice as required and direct the secretary to send required notices to Board members.

E. Quorum:

At any meeting of the Association, a quorum shall consist of a minimum of 4 Board Members and four Area Representatives. An alternate Area Representative present in lieu of that Areas regular Representative shall count towards a quorum.

F. Voting:

At each Panhandle Football Meeting, each Board Member and Area Representative shall be entitled to cast one vote in the affairs of the Association; such vote to be cast by the Area Representative or, in his absence, the alternate Area Representative. The President may vote only to break a tie. However, the President shall not vote on any resolutions to impose penalties for violation of these By-laws; nor shall the President vote in the election of a new President.

G. PYFA Monthly Meetings:

1. All areas will be represented at the monthly PYFA board meetings. This may be the designated area representative, or any person appointed by the area representative in their absence. An area can be represented by a PYFA Board of Directors member from that area with the exception of the PYFA President.

2. Any Area in the association may miss one meeting during the year. A $50.00 fine will be collected for every meeting missed after the first missed meeting. This fine is payable when team fees are collected prior to the start of the season. If any area refuses to pay any fine, they will not participate in the post-season playoffs the current year.

H. Board of Directors:

All board members shall be elected by a majority of Directors and Area Representative voting at the Annual Meeting and shall serve until their successors are elected at the next annual meeting. All new “appointed” positions to the Board of Directors shall be in place for two years before becoming a voting position on the Board. The Association shall have the following Officers:

1. President - The chief executive officer shall be the President who shall call and preside at all meetings and have primary responsibility for the administration of the Association. The President is a voting position.

2. Vice - President- May be an Area Representative and shall preside at meetings in the absence of the President but shall not be entitled to cast the President’s tie breaking vote. The Vice President shall have such other duties as authorized by the Board of Directors. The Vice President is a voting position.

3. Secretary- Shall keep the minutes of all meetings, be the official custodian of Association position and may be occupied by an Area Representative. The Secretary is a voting position.

4. Treasurer - Shall be the custodian of the funds and bank accounts of the Association. The office of Treasurer is a voting position and may be occupied by an area Representative. The Treasurer is a voting position.

5.Public Relations Director- Appointed position each year. Shall coordinate all public relations activities including the maintenance of the PYFA website. The Public relations Director is a non-voting position.

6. West Football Director – Appointed position each year. Will coordinate all player safety activities including USA Football “Heads Up” program and be the primary liaison with official associations for all areas in the West Division. The West Football Director is a voting position.

7. East Football Director – Appointed position each year. Will coordinate all player safety activities including USA Football “Heads Up” program and be the primary liaison with official associations for all areas in the East Division. The East Football Director is a voting position.

8. Cheerleading Director – This is an appointed position by the PFYA President. This individual shall coordinate all cheerleading activities within the PYFA with area cheerleading advisors including cheerleading competitions and fund-raising activities. The Cheerleading Director is a non-voting position.

II. Participating Areas:

A. Any city or community which deems itself capable and interested in supporting a youth football program may apply to the Association at any time to become a participating Area. To qualify for admittance the Area must be able to field at least one team in three divisions of play. Approval will be by a majority vote of Area Representatives at a meeting conducted with a minimum ten-day notice of such application. No newly admitted Area may include a geographical portion of an Existing Area without the expressed written consent of the Area Representative from the existing effected Area. A newly admitted Area shall be entitled to have an Area Representative in the Association and to the same privileges as are held by existing Areas.

1. Scope of Participation - An Area may participate by fielding one or more teams in three divisions of play under these By-laws. The Area must show proof of home field, insurance, equipment and roster of 16 or more players.

2. Maintaining Area Status - Once an Area is granted admission to the PYFA they will retain area status even if they drop below the three divisions of play participation requirement. Areas are considered “inactive” if they cannot fill a minimum one team roster for the year. Inactive areas will be removed from the PYFA after two years of inactivity.

3. Renewal of Area Status - Any Area that was previously a PYFA member in good standing can reapply for admission to the PYFA. The Area must be able to provide at least one team in three divisions of play by the Scheduling Meeting. Any Area may reapply for admission to the PYFA at any time.

4. New Areas: Any future areas that want to join the PYFA can submit their request in January but no later than the April PYFA Board Meeting.

5. New inquiries for membership in the PYFA may not come from nor will be approved for any organization inside the geographical boundary of a current participating PYFA Area.

III. Funding

A. Each Area shall generate their own funding to operate their own teams.

B. Board of Directors shall require each area to pay an annual fee not to exceed $150.00 per football team and $100 per cheer team. In addition, all fines imposed on any area during the year must be paid when Area Team Fees are paid. Failure to pay the required fees/fines by this date will result in loss of home games and play-off participation for that Area.

C. Matters of financial assistance must be addressed to the President and Board of Directors in writing. The board will thoroughly investigate upon request. The board will present its findings and recommendations, to include a repayment schedule to the Association for approval. Any loan exceeding 90 days shall bear interest at the current CD rate.

D. There will be NO SOLICITATION for the PYFA. The PYFA MAY NOT be used as a means for requesting funds.

IV. Injury Policy and Procedures. The PYFA, as an independent sanctioning authority, has established policies and procedures for injuries to players which are as follows:

A. General Policy and Procedures. The PYFA requires that all participating areas maintain equipment and facilities that meet standard safety requirements for all players and coaches. This requirement is monitored on a regular basis by the PYFA board members. Each Area of the PYFA will be insured by the incorporated program in which they play. Proof of Insurance is required by the date of the card signing. General procedures for all injuries are as follows:

1. Any player sustaining an injury in practice or during a game will be immediately removed from that activity.

2. The parent or legal guardian will be contacted as soon as possible. However, player safety and first aid (if required) will be the priority before contact is attempted.

3. The head coach will ensure that an injury incident report form is filled out and returned to the area representative within 48 hours of the incident.

4. If the injured player visits an ER or physician, written permission from a physician is required before that player can return to any activity.

B. Head Injuries. Additional procedures for head injuries are as follows:

1. The PYFA will adopt guidelines to educate coaches, players, and their parents or guardians of the nature and risk of concussion and head injury.

2. Each area will require the parent or guardian of a player who participates in athletic practices or competitions of the PYFA, before the player participates in a competition, practice, or other activity, to sign and return a consent form that explains the nature and risk of concussion and head injury, including the risk of continuing to play after a concussion or head injury has occurred. This form should be available as part of the registration process for that area.

3. Each area will require youth athletes who are suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury in a practice or competition to be immediately removed from the activity.

4. Each area will ensure a youth athlete who has been removed may not return to practice or competition until the youth receives written clearance to return from a licensed physician.

PANHANDLE YOUTH FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION RULES AND PROCEDURES

I. Season Schedules and Playoffs. –

A. Conference Structure for 2026. The PYFA will have conferences for the 2026 regular season and play-offs. The following is the conference designations and member areas:

1. EAST- Calloway, Beach Marlins, Vernon, Jackson County, Holmes County, Lynn Haven Storm, South Walton, Chipley, Southport, and Glenwood.

2. WEST- Crestview, Niceville, Shalimar, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Walton, Freeport, and Baker.

B. Pre-Season. Runs from the first official day in full pads (27 July) to the first regular season game (22 August).

1. Teams may play games or conduct scrimmages with teams from areas outside or inside of the PYFA.

2. Areas are encouraged to participate in the PYFA Jamboree or host/attend other similar events held prior to the first game of the season. Participation is not mandatory.

C. Regular Season. Runs from the first regular season game until the first play-off game. Each year the Association shall conduct a regular schedule of games for each division.

1. The schedule shall provide for games by teams fielded by participating Areas only. Non-sanctioned PYFA games are prohibited.

2. To the maximum extent possible, each team in the Pee Wee, Juniors, and Senior age groups will be scheduled to play six in-conference and two out of conference games. Boomers will be scheduled for five conference games and three out of conference games. Each age conference schedule shall result in each team within that conference playing the same number of total games when at all possible. Goal is for each team to be home team for one half of its scheduled games when at all possible.

a. Home games will be limited for areas that cannot field teams in all age groups.

b. In the event of unforeseen situations (weather, finances, etc.) the PYFA can add or subtract home games as necessary.

3. Each team shall play one game per week unless approved by the PYFA Board. Games canceled due to weather will not normally be rescheduled unless approved by the PYFA Board. Games shall normally be scheduled for play on Saturday and shall not be played from Sunday through Friday unless approved by the Board. Two games may be played during the week including back-to-back games with Board approval. If two games are played back-to-back, each team participating will have a mandatory off day the following day.

D. Post Season. Begins when a team is eliminated from the play-offs and runs through the start of the Off-Season (1 January).

1. Teams may participate in tournaments or other football activities outside of the PYFA at their discretion.

E. PYFA Off-Season. Off Season for the PYFA will officially begin on 1 January and continue to the official start of the season. Areas may conduct Off Season Organized Team Activities (OTAs) under the following rules:

a. No pads/helmets or player contact allowed at practice or scrimmages. Contact against shields/bags are allowed.

b. Areas may participate in 7 on 7 competitions.

c. Areas may participate in Flag Football leagues.

d. Only registered players will be allowed to participate due to insurance concerns.

e. Areas will ensure their insurance covers their OTA sessions.

6. Non-PYFA Tackle Football Association Membership. Any PYFA Area/team registered with another Tackle Football Association nullifies its membership in the PYFA for the coming season. The Area may reapply for readmission to the PYFA in January of the next off season. For an Area to maintain good standing with the PYFA for the coming season all the following actions will be taken for participation in another Tackle Football Association:

a. Establish separate Board of Directors

b. Change Team Name

c. Area must be officially established and incorporated with the State of Florida

d. Team can use same PYFA team colors including helmets

e. Separate Player Sign-ups (online or in person) with participation fee

f. Separate financial accounts from PYFA team

g. Must be officially a member of another Tackle Football Association

7. In season practice will not begin prior to 20 July of the current year. The first week of practice will be “helmets only” with full pads allowed starting 27 July. The official start of the PYFA season is the first day of practice. Games shall be scheduled for play during August, September, October and November; however, post-season play may be scheduled during December. Non-sanctioned PYFA games are prohibited. Games played with teams outside the PYFA during the season are prohibited. The season is considered over when your team is out of the Playoffs.

8. Open dates are permitted to balance the rotation of the schedule; however, no team shall have two consecutive open dates unless agreed to by the Area Representative.

9. Game sites or playing times may be changed only by mutual agreement of the Area Representatives of the two teams involved, with the approval of the President. Except for a true emergency, approval of the President must be obtained at least 72 hours prior to the earliest of either the originally scheduled game time or the revised game time. In case of emergency, such as power outage at a night game, severe weather, or other conditions, approval of the President may be obtained on the spot or on reasonable notice to both teams.

10. Area games may not be started before 8:30 am unless cleared by the PYFA Board.

11. A game is considered completed if the teams complete the first half.

12. Any area may field more than one team in each division. Final team rosters must be provided to PYFA by the designated date each year.

13. Forfeited Games- If a team declares a forfeited game after Thursday of game week, the Area will be charged a fine of $250. If the same team forfeits a second game, an additional $250 fine will be assessed and that team will be removed from the schedule for that year. If a forfeit is declared during the course of a game due to coaches or sideline issues, both areas involved will be fined $250 dollars.

F. Playoffs: The Play-Off format, dates, number of teams, locations, etc. may be changed or modified at any time by the PYFA Board due to circumstances resulting from weather, forfeits, or other circumstances. The six teams with the best overall winning percentage in each conference will advance to the post-season playoffs for the Boomer, Pee Wee, Junior, and Senior Divisions.

1. There will be two brackets per conference for each age group in which the teams will be seeded by conference record. The 1 and 2 seeds from each conference will have a BYE in the first rounds of the play-offs. The seeding in the first play-off round will be 3 vs. 6, 4 vs. 5. Second round seeding will be 1 vs. 3/6 winner and 2 vs. 4/5 winner.

2. If there is a tie for any of the play-off positions in either division, the tie will be broken first by conference record then by head-to-head record. If a tie still exists, overall record will break the tie. Once the top six teams from each age conference/age group have been determined, the playoff seeding will be established.

3. The conference champion for each age group will receive an award purchased by the PYFA. The award will be presented at the conclusion of conference championship game for each age group.

4. Awards for the Super Bowl champion will be acknowledged and purchased by the PYFA.

5. Each Area that is scheduled to host a play-off round will pay a $1000 fee to the PYFA after the hosts have been determined and no later than one week prior to the first playoff round.

II. Area and Team

Organization

A. Subject only to the limitations and requirements expressly set forth in these By-laws; each Area may conduct its affairs, as it shall deem appropriate.

B. Area Representative is deemed by the Association to be fully authorized to act on behalf of, and to make decisions binding upon, the Area he represents. All coaches, parent directors, athletic directors, cheerleading sponsors and coordinators shall be familiar with and abide by all rules, regulations, and by-laws of the Association.

C. No team may participate in the Season Schedule, practice, or scrimmage unless that team has been registered with the Association as a participating Area. Individuals may participate in the Associations affairs or programs only as an officer, an Area Representative, or Alternate Area Representative.

D. Team Coaching Requirements: Each team must have one registered Head Coach and registered assistant coaches. All coaches are encouraged to complete USA Football “Heads Up” Level 1 certification prior to the official league start date. All coaches will have PYFA badges prior to the first game and can be purchased for $10 from the PYFA. Only coaches with identification cards may address the officials during the course of a game. If a coach does not have a current ID card in his possession, he is considered an “active” coach but is limited to PYFA Respects (cannot address officials, PYFA playoff individual entry fee will apply).

E. Coaches cannot change Areas after the final roster is submitted. If a coach leaves an Area for any reason, they are ineligible to coach in the PYFA for the remainder of the season. This applies to Head coaches and Assistants.

F. Due to the increasing volume of violent activities at youth sporting events the State of Florida is adopting new laws for the upcoming year. The primary goal is to ensure our youth leaders and volunteers are establishing a safe environment for all individuals participating in these activities. In accordance with Florida law the PYFA will conduct background checks in the following manner:

1. All Head Coaches and assistants must have current background checks on file with their Area Board. Background checks are valid for two years after completion unless legal action is being taken against the individual. A volunteer sheet with all coaches listed will be provided by each Area to the PYFA Secretary with the final team rosters. If a background check is not completed, that coach will not be eligible to coach until provided to the Area Board. Each Area is responsible for determining how to fund background checks for their coaches.

2. Active Military personnel, First Responders, School Board Officials, and current government employees (Federal or State) are subject to exemption if employed by one of these organizations.

3. Coaches who actively participated prior to the 2025 season will be labeled “active” and will be required to renew their background check after two consecutive seasons with the PYFA.

G. HEAD COACH: The Head Coach has total authority over the preparation and discipline of his team players, and over the responsibilities and conduct of his team’s Assistant Coaches, parents, and spectators. All details of practices, game preparation, travel arrangements, and similar procedure are under the authority of the Head Coach.

a. No person may serve as Head Coach of two PYFA teams.

b. In the absence of the Head Coach during a game, one Assistant Coach of the team shall serve as Acting Head Coach.

c. No game shall be forfeited because of the absence of a Head Coach.

d. A team may have 7 additional coaches, all of whom can be Assistant Coaches.

e. The names and addresses of all Assistant Coaches shall be registered as Assistant Coaches with their respective Area Board. The list of all Area coaches will be provided to the PYFA with the final roster.

f. The Head Coach or his designee must be at all weigh-ins.

g. The Head Coach is responsible for the actions of the assistant coaches, players, parents and spectators. Failure to enforce good sportsmanship values during any game will result in an Unsportsmanlike Conduct penalty on the Head Coach.

1. The Head Coach may impose suspension or benching of a player as a disciplinary action for missing practice, failure to participate, refusal to follow instructions, or other breaches of good order and discipline of the team. The Head Coach may allocate responsibility among Assistant Coaches as he deems fit. All coaches must have their PYFA photo identification card displayed or they will not be allowed to address the officials during the game.

H. ASSISTANT COACH: The Assistant Coaches shall carry out the instructions of the Head Coach and shall have authority over practices and team discipline subject only to those instructions. An Assistant Coach may recommend benching or suspension of a player, but only the Head Coach may impose such measures.

III. PLAYER ELIGIBILITY:

A. A player is only allowed to move up one age group due to reasonable circumstances. If this occurs the parent, coaches, and the Area Representative must be in agreement. Once the player is on a roster, they cannot fall back and must complete the season on the final roster submitted to the PYFA.

C. Roster Number Requirements: Peewee, Junior, and Senior teams may not have more than 32 players on its roster with a minimum of 16 on the roster. Boomer teams will have a maximum of 26 players with a minimum of 13 on the roster.

D. Players will be placed on teams on a first-come basis. Any area that has filled a team and does not have enough players to split into two teams MUST notify the additional players of other participating areas that may have space available for play. Registration forms must have a date and time of registration listed for verification.

E. Players will sign up in the area which they reside to the maximum extent possible. A player’s home park is determined first by the area of residence and second by the first park they register in. A player may sign up in another PYFA area if it is agreed to in “writing” (email) by the area representative in which the player resides. The “written” agreement must be provided to the PYFA Board of Directors and maintained by the PYFA Secretary. That player may only play in the area that they sign up in for the current year and areas cannot be changed within the season. The player has the option to sign up in his home park the following season. If the area representative disagrees with the transfer and will not sign an agreement, both area representatives will present the issue before the PYFA Executive Board for final resolution. The PYFA Executive Board will determine paperwork requirements on a case-by-case basis.

F. No out of area recruiting will be allowed for any area. This applies to all representatives of the area including board members and coaches. Out of area Recruiting Violations will go to the Board of Directors for resolution. Penalties will include as a minimum, forfeiture of all games which the player or players participate. Other penalties will be determined by vote of the Board of Directors and Area Representatives and can include but are not limited to coaching suspensions, loss of playoffs for the team or area, or fines to the PYFA.

IV. Common Playing Rules:

Rules listed below are applied to all age groups in the PYFA:

A. Teams must have a minimum of three (3) practice days of physical conditioning before starting drills involving body contact or hitting. Helmets only may be worn during these three days.

B. Four (4) practice sessions, each lasting not longer than two (2) hours for a combined maximum of eight (8) hours per week will be allowed prior to the 1st game. However, sessions will not last more than two (2) hours or be held more than once a day. Six (6) hours is the maximum practice per week any team is allowed after the 1st game. If a team has a by-week they may have one additional two (2) hour practice session.

C. Minimum Player Requirements: A team must have a minimum of 11 eligible players on the field for game play. If 11 players are not available, that game may be played with the consent of both coaches but the team with less than 11 will receive a forfeit.

D. No more than eight people on the field in the coaches’ box at a time including the Head Coach. This can be any combination of assistants and team help. Enforcement may be limited in City Parks but will be strictly enforced in stadium setting.

E. The hosting area representative and both Head Coaches or their designees will be present and conduct weigh-in and verify player cards eligibility at all games.

1. Weigh-in will be conducted no later than 30 minutes before the designated scheduled start time. All players will be weighed in prior to each game and each player must physically stand on the scale. Any player not at original weigh-in can be weighed in at half time and participate in the remainder of the game. No player may be in the bench area in uniform unless he is eligible to participate in that game. All age groups including Boomers are required to weigh-in. Digital scales will be standardized and will be available for purchase through the PYFA. Areas may buy more than one scale.

2. ID cards must be presented to the opposing team at the time of the official weigh-in before the game. If player ID cards are not provided at the weigh-in, final roster can be used in place of ID cards. The area representative will have in his possession the final rosters of his teams during game day. If the ID cards and final roster are not available, the game can be played under protest. Teams’ ID cards or final roster will have to be provided to the PYFA President at a later date for verification. All PYFA players will have ID cards including Boomers.

3. Player may step on the scale one time for weigh-in. If the digital scale shows any amount over the maximum run weight the player is “restricted”. However, players are allowed to strip down prior to stepping on the scale to make the maximum playing weight.

4. Each player that weighs must have his numerical game jersey in his possession.

5. A coach will not be allowed to change team members/ numbers after the official weigh-in.

F. Restricted Players- Any player over the set run weight in that age group will be considered “RESTRICTED.” Restricted players can be identified by a large “R” on the back of the helmet. The Area representative and all Head Coaches will have in their possession additional restricted stickers in the event a player does not make weight at the scales. Restricted players are not eligible on a free kick which is defined as kick-off or kick-off return.

1. Offense- restricted players may only play on the line of scrimmage in the “restricted zone” defined as from tight end to tight end in any stance. Restricted players are ineligible as pass receivers and cannot advance a recovered fumble.

2. Defense- restricted players may play anywhere on the line of scrimmage but must have a hand on the ground (three- or four-point stance) prior to the snap.

3. For teams that cannot field 11 non-restricted players on kick-off and kick-off return the ball will be spotted on the 30-yard line. In this circumstance, a team wishing to attempt an on-side kick will be allowed to do so under these conditions:

a. Two minutes or less remaining in the game.

b. Ball will be spotted on the 50-yard line.

c. Kicking team must successfully complete a 4th down and 10 yards play to retain possession.

d. The play will be untimed.

G. Penalties are 5, 10, &15 yards for all age groups.

H. No audio assistance allowed from coach- to- coach, coach- to- player, or spectator- to- coach during the game. Only one individual may film the game on the sideline and must be outside the coach’s box. This individual must be wearing a current PYFA badge.

I. All games will consist of 4 quarters.

J. Season games ending in a tie will be broken by each team having one set of four downs from the 10-yard line. If there is still a tie, the game will end as a tie.

K. Playoff games ending in a tie will be broken by each team having one set of four downs from the 10-yard line. A turnover nullifies the series and the other team takes possession. If there is still a tie, a second overtime series will be taken under the same conditions. All following overtime periods will be from the 5 yd line. In all cases, each team will have the opportunity to go for the extra point conversion of their choice after scoring.

L. Any team behind by 32 points the following procedures apply:

1. Fourth quarter will be a running clock. The only time the clock stops is for official’s timeouts, this includes injuries and water breaks.

2. Kicking game is nullified. After the score the receiving team will start on their 30-yard line. Punts will be marked off 25 yards but will not go past the receiving teams 20 yard-line.

M. Coaches ejected before, during, or after a PYFA game must report the incident to Area Representative prior to leaving the field. The Head Official will report the circumstances of the ejection to the Area Representative prior to leaving the field. The Area Representative is responsible for reporting the incident to a PYFA Board member addressing who was ejected and the circumstances. Coaches ejected during a game will be suspended for four consecutive complete quarters but will be allowed to prepare his team during the week. Coaches ejected a second time in the same season will be suspended for the remainder of the season.

N. Player ejected before, during, or after a PYFA game the Head Coach will report the incident to the area representative prior to leaving the field. The area representative is responsible for reporting the incident to a PYFA Board member addressing who was ejected and the circumstances. Players ejected during a game will be suspended for four consecutive complete quarters but will be allowed to practice during the week. Players ejected a second time in the same season will be suspended for the remainder of the season.

O. EQUIPMENT REGULATIONS:

1. Game balls will be provided by the offensive team.

2. Each player will be furnished the following as a minimum; N.O.C.S.A.E. approved helmet and shoulder pads, pants with thigh, hip, and knee pads, tail bone pads, and a game jersey.

3. Players and candidates will obtain and use approved mouthpieces and rubber cleats or the equivalent. No metal cleats!

4. All players will be furnished with a game jersey and games pants.

5. All mouthpieces must be attached to the helmet at all times. No clear mouthpieces.

6. Visors: Clear Visors only can be worn. “Tinted” Visors of any color are not allowed.

V. Age Group Rules:

All Rules of game play will only be those set under the current National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and Florida High School Football Association rules unless amended by the PYFA playing rules which take priority. No other FHSFA/NFHS administrative/organizational rules apply. The rules for each age group are described in the following pages:

A. BOOMERS:

1. Age: 5 & 6- Must be 5 or 6 as of July 1st of the current calendar year

2. Weight/Player Cards: 75lbs. to run and unrestricted to play. Restricted Player Rules apply to players over the run weight. All players will have ID cards and be weighed in prior to game start.

3. Field. 100-yard field

4. Time: Four 8-minute quarters using the standard game clock.

a. Play clock will be used and run by the officials on the field. Play clock procedures will be those set under FHSFA rules.

5. Ball: K-2 ball will be used which can be either leather or composite

6. Kickoff: No Live kick off. Ball will be spotted on the 35-yard line.

7. Coach on Field: Only one Coach from each team can be on the field during game play. Coaches cannot make adjustments after the QB engages with the center or sets up in a shotgun/pistol formation.

8. Punt:

a. A team can declare a “punt” to the head official on fourth down if the ball is on or outside of mid-field.

b. A team may elect to run a timed play on fourth down from any location which includes lining up in a punt formation and either punting or running/passing for a first down.

c. 25-yard assessment will be marked off and 20 seconds will be taken off the clock.

d. Inside two minutes of the second and fourth quarters, the 25-yard mark off will be made but no time will be taken off the clock.

9. Scoring:

a. Touchdown- 6 points; EP run in – 1 point: EP Forward Pass- 1 point; EP Field Goal-2 points

Field Goal- 3 points

b. If an Extra Point kick or Field Goal is attempted there will be “no rush” by the defense. If the ball hits the ground at any point during the kick attempt (other than the holder spotting the ball) the play will be ruled dead.

10. Alignment:

a. NO BLITZING (Referee Discretion) (Defined): No movement towards the line of scrimmage prior to the snap inside the Free Blocking Zone. (< 3yds of LOS)

1). 1st INFRACTION: 5 Yard Penalty - “Delay of Game”

2). 2nd INFRACTION: If the officials deem that a team is using this penalty in order to run the clock out then that team can be charged with an unsportsmanlike conduct foul. That foul will be charged to the Head Coach.

b. Defensive player may line up in the A or B gap but cannot be “heads up” on the center prior to the snap. Offensive player may run through the A and B gaps from any formation.

c. All linemen must be in a down position in either a three- or four-point stance if they line up inside of the offensive tackles in the “free blocking zone” boundary. Defense ends lining up outside the offensive tackles may be in any stance.

d. No more than six players allowed on the defensive LOS outside the RED ZONE. Players not on the defensive LOS will be >3 yards off the LOS.

e. RED ZONE- (<20yd. Line) More than six players are allowed on the LOS.

B. PEE WEES:

1. Age: 7& 8, As of July 1st of calendar year

2. Weight: Unlimited play weight. Max run weight is 100 lbs. - Restricted Player Rules apply to players over the run weight.

3. Field: 100-yard field

4. Time: Four 8-minute quarters using the standard game clock.

a. Play clock will be used and run by the officials on the field. Play clock procedures will be those set under FHSFA rules.

5. Ball: K-2 ball will be used which can be either leather or composite

6. Kickoff: Live kick off from the 40-yard line.

a. Restricted players cannot participate in a “Free Kick”

b. For teams that cannot field 11 players on kick-off and kick- off return the ball will be spotted

on the 30-yard line.

7. Coaches cannot be on the field during play.

8. Punt:

a. A team can declare a “punt” to the head official on fourth down if the ball is on or outside mid-field.

b. A team may elect to run a timed play on fourth down from any location which includes lining up in a punt formation and either punting or running/passing for a first down.

c. 25-yard assessment will be marked off and 20 seconds will be taken off the clock.

d. Inside two minutes of the second and fourth quarters, the 25-yard mark off will be made but no time will be taken off the clock.

9. Scoring:

a. Touchdown- 6 points; EP run in – 1 point: EP Forward Pass- 1 point; EP Field Goal-2 points

Field Goal- 3 points

b. If an Extra Point kick or Field Goal is attempted there will be “no rush” by the defense. If the ball hits the ground at any point during the kick attempt (other than the holder spotting the ball) the play will be ruled dead.

10. Alignment:

a. NO BLITZING (Referee Discretion) (Defined): No movement towards the line of scrimmage prior to the snap inside the Free Blocking Zone. (< 3yds of LOS)

1). 1st INFRACTION: 5 Yard Penalty - “Delay of Game”

2). 2nd INFRACTION: If the officials deem that a team is using this penalty in order to run the clock out then that team can be charged with an unsportsmanlike conduct foul. That foul will be charged to the Head Coach.

b. Defensive player may line up in the A or B gap but cannot be “heads up” on the center prior to the snap. Offensive player may run through the A and B gaps from any formation.

c. All linemen must be in a down position in either a three or four point stance if they line up inside of the offensive tackles in the “free blocking zone” boundary. Defense ends lining up outside the offensive tackles may be in any stance.

d. No more than six players allowed on the defensive LOS outside the RED ZONE. Players not on the defensive LOS will be >3 yards off the LOS.

e. RED ZONE- (<20yd. Line) More than six players are allowed on the LOS.

B. JUNIORS:

1. Ages: 9& 10- As of July 1st of calendar year

2. Weight: Unlimited play weight. Max run weight is 125 lbs. Restricted Player Rules apply to players over the run weight.

3. Field: 100-yard field

4. Four 10-minute quarters using the standard game clock.

a. Play clock will be used and run by the officials on the field. Play clock procedures will be those set under FHSFA rules.

5. TDJ ball will be used - leather or composite.

6. Kickoff: Live kick off from the 40-yard line

a. Restricted players cannot participate in a “Free Kick”

b. For teams that cannot field 11 players on kick-off and kick- off return the ball will be spotted

on the 30-yard line.

7. Punt:

a. A team can declare a “punt” to the head official on fourth down if the ball is on or outside the opponent’s 40-yard line.

b. A team may elect to run a timed play on fourth down from any location which includes lining up in a punt formation and either punting or running/passing for a first down.

d. 25-yard assessment will be marked off and 20 seconds will be taken off the clock.

e. Inside two minutes of the second and fourth quarters, the 25-yard mark off will be made but no time will be taken off the clock.

8. Scoring:

a. Touchdown- 6 points; EP run in – 1 point: EP Forward Pass- 1 point; EP Field Goal-2 points

Field Goal- 3 points

b. All EP Kicks and Field Goal attempts are “live”.

C. SENIORS:

1. Ages: 11& 12- As of July 1st of calendar year.

2. Weight: Unlimited play weight. Maximum run weight is 150 lbs. Restricted Player Rules apply to players over the run weight.

3. Field: 100-yard field

4. Four 10-minute quarters using the standard game clock.

a. Play clock will be used and run by the officials on the field. Play clock procedures will be those set under FHSFA rules.

5. TDY ball will be used - leather or composite.

6. Kickoff: Live kick off from the 40-yard line

a. Restricted players cannot participate in a “Free Kick”

b. For teams that cannot field 11 players on kick-off and kick- off return the ball will be spotted

on the 30-yard line.

7. Punt:

a. A team can declare a “punt” to the head official on fourth down if the ball is on or outside the opponent’s 40-yard line.

b. A team may elect to run a timed play on fourth down from any location which includes lining up in a punt formation and either punting or running/passing for a first down.

c. 25-yard assessment will be marked off and 20 seconds will be taken off the clock.

d. Inside two minutes of the second and fourth quarters, the 25-yard mark off will be made but no time will be taken off the clock.

8. Scoring:

a. Touchdown- 6 points; EP run in – 1 point: EP Forward Pass- 1 point; EP Field Goal-2 points

Field Goal- 3 points

b. All EP Kicks and Field Goal attempts are “live”.

10. Middle School Player Participation: Players on a Middle School roster are allowed to register in areas that are active members of the PYFA. The guidelines are as follows:

a. If the Player has previously played in the PYFA, he will register in the area that is considered his home park. If the player residence has changed or he has never played in the PYFA, players will register in the area they currently reside in.

b. Player must meet the age and weight requirements, be on the final team roster, and have a valid player card as defined in these By Laws.

c. Practice and game participation for each middle school player will be at the discretion of the Head Coach.

VI. HOST RULES:

A. The maximum gate fee during the regular season and play-offs is $5.00 for any park.

C. Each area may introduce their football team and cheerleaders prior to game, but game start time will not be held up to allow this to occur. All Half-Time shows will be completed by the end of the official time allocated for half time. All other events may be conducted after game completion. Half time will be minimum seven minutes but maximum ten minutes in length.

D. The designated HOME TEAM must furnish three 3 people over the age of 14 for the chains and down markers.

E. The officials used will be those secured by each Area. Florida High Schools Rules are to be used unless specifically amended in these By Laws.

F. No coolers brought into facility hosting regular season or play-off games except for the team’s refreshment coolers.

G. Field Standards for Playoff/Super Bowl. For an Area to qualify to host a Play-off game the following are required:

1. A gate fee must be able to be collected

2. Operable Scoreboard

3. Field must be lined and marked

4. One set of Goalposts must be in place

Superbowl- The above conditions apply, and a Stadium is highly recommended.

H. Standards for hosting Playoff games. Solid standing in the PYFA which includes no Bylaws violations as determined by the PYFA Board for the current year.

VII. GENERAL.

A. Penalties for specific violations (i.e., Recruiting) of the PYFA By Laws are covered in that section. Violations not specifically addressed are at the discretion of the PYFA Board and can include but are not limited to the following:

1st Offense-Suspension of coach for 1game

2nd Offense-No Post season for that team

3rd Offense- Suspension of area league

B. Player qualifications will consist of parent signature on a League contract. Copy of Birth certificates, valid military dependent I.D. card, Passport, or Baptismal records or will be accepted as proof of eligibility. All areas will be responsible for the accurate eligibility of their participants.

C. Any fraudulent act of cheating will result in the forfeiture of all games played to that date and suspension of a coach or the area rep for the remainder of the current season. This may be an indefinite suspension if any acts are found to be in conscious violation as ruled by the PYFA Board of Directors.

D. Social Media- Any individual or group (PYFA Board member, Area representative, coach, player, or parent) that uses social media to disgrace, shame, or slander individuals or groups belonging to or working with the PYFA shall be dismissed from all PYFA participation. This applies to both private and league social media sites.

E. On field altercations resulting in multiple acts of physical interaction between either players, coaches, parents, or any combination of participants will result in the immediate suspension of both teams for the remainder of the season.

F. No firearms allowed on the premises of any PYFA event. The exception is for on-duty law enforcement acting in the capacity of their employment. If a firearm is found or displayed at any event play will immediately cease and the area will be cleared of all individuals. The PYFA upon review will determine if the responsible Area continues with the PYFA for the year.