THE PHILOSOPHY AND BYLAWS OF OREM YOUTH FOOTBALL DISTRICT
PHILOSOPHY AND PURPOSE STATEMENT
The purpose of the Orem Youth Football District is to provide the youth in our community with the best possible tackle football experience we can. This includes placing a premium on safety through use of high quality equipment and smart educated coaching, developing physical health, maintaining sound mental and moral wellbeing, providing optimum game day competition, teaching and upholding the rules of football along with its fundamentals, instilling work ethic and character, promoting sportsmanship, nurturing teamwork, increasing challenge conquering, fostering a love for the sport, and preparing players to succeed at the next level of the game. Orem Youth Football and its administrators and coaches are dedicated to these goals and through their examples work to inspire youth to be responsible students and members of our society. Orem Youth Football is committed to encourage adults to behave in an exemplary manner at all functions of the program, and to keep the welfare of the youth foremost and free from any adult compulsion for power and glory.
OREM YOUTH FOOTBALL PROGRAM BY LAWS – 2020
Web page: http://www.oremyouthfootball.online
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BOARD OFFICERS……………………………………………………………………..
0.0 CONFERENCE POLICIES, REGULATIONS, AND PROCEURES……………..
1.0 DISTRICT NAME AND DIFINITIONS……………………………………….…
2.0 ORGANIZATION…………………………………………………………………..
3.0 BOARD OF DIRECTORS…………………………………………………………
4.0 RULES OF THE ORGANIZATION…………………………………………………
5.0 DUTIES OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS………………………….
6.0 FEES…..…………………………………………………………………………….
7.0 CONFERENCE DISCIPLINE……………………………………………………….
8.0 EQUIPMENT……………………………………………………………………….
9.0 COACHES, MANAGERS, AND GAME OFFICIALS……………………….……
10.0 TEAM AND DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION……………..
10.4 RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS…………………………………………………..
11.0 TEAM AGES, WEIGHTS AND DISIGNATIONS……………………………….
12.0 STANDARDS OF THE GAME……………………………………………………
13.0 GAME RULES………………………………………………………………………
14.0 SPECIFIC CONFERENCE RULES………………………………………………...
15.0 GAME AND PRACTICE SCHEDULES…………………………………………..
16.0 CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS………………………………………………………..
17.0 AWARDS…………………………………………………………………………..
18.0 SOCIAL FUNCTIONS……………………………………………………………..
OREM YOUTH FOOTBALL DISTRICT BOARD
Contact any board member at oremyouthfootball.online
PRESIDENT: JENNA COY
VICE PRESIDENT: CHRIS ROMRELLCOY
SECRETARY/TREASURER: KATIE ROMRELL
0.0 Conference Policies, Procedures and Regulations
0.1 Chain Crews - The chain crew (commonly known as the "chain gang") are assistants to the linesman who handle the first down measuring chain and the down indicator box. The members of the chain crew who operate the measuring chain are called rod men and the person who works the down indicator box is called the box man. Each person operating as a chain crew member must wear a Ute Conference vest. This vest designates a member of chain crew and may be inside the sideline ropes. Coaches who are ineligible to coach, because they do not have a badge or have been ejected from a prior game are not allowed to be part of the chain crew. Chain crew members must be 18 years of age.
0.2 No dogs, pets or any animals are allowed on a practice or game field.
0.3 No ladders, scaffolding or elevated work platform (also known as a cherry picker, boom lift, man lift, basket crane or hydra ladder) type of aerial work platform that consists of a platform or bucket at the end of a hydraulic lifting system.
0.4 End Zone Flag Designation for Fans – A flag will be placed in the middle (center point) of the Spectator Viewing Area. Parents, Relatives and Spectators viewing will area begin 2 yards from the End Line of the End Zone. The Viewing area is defined as 2 yards to 7 yards beyond the End line of the End Zone and the width of the field from Sideline to Sideline. Parents, Relatives and Spectators may watch the game on their team’s half of the designated Viewing area. Anyone violating the viewing area will be asked to leave the premises. Violations could be but not limited to: sitting closer than 2 yards from the End Line or sitting on the opposite team’s half of the viewing area. All shade canopies, umbrellas must be at least 6 feet from the end line of end zone.
0.4.1 Team Flags Signs Lining End Zone – Team flags and signs must be 8 yards beyond the End Line of the End Zone. Flags will not be permitted in front of the Spectators Viewing Area. All Flags or signs must be at least 8 yards from the End Line of the End Zone. Flags Signs will not be allowed if there is not space available beyond 7 yards. A district at its option may designate 1 End Zone for spectators and 1 End Zone for Flags or another area for team flags.
0.5 Noise Makers – Air Horns, Cowbells, Drums or any other artificial noise makers are not allowed on practice or game fields.
0.6 Five (5) Rostered Coaches Permitted on Sideline During Games - Discipline action for violation required because of a Parent will be assessed to the Head Coach for not controlling sideline. All other actions will be given to the offending coach.
0.6.1 Should an assistant coach be ejected and this is his first ejection, he will be ineligible for the next two (2) games. If he is ejected a second time during the season, he is ineligible to coach for the remainder of the season and shall be removed from the roster. (2016)
0.7 Team Sportsmanship – Mountain View Buffs Youth Football Sportsmanship is an aspiration that football as an activity will be enjoyed for its own sake, with proper consideration for fairness, ethics, respect, and a sense of fellowship with one's competitors. No team (Pregame, Postgame, Win or Lose) will be allowed to form up and take part in the following but not limited to activities on the field of play in front of the opposing team: Jumping Jacks, HAKA Dance, or any other activity that exhibits poor sportsmanship or intimidating behavior.
0.8 Communication Between Coaches, Parents and Players During Games – Any type of device to include but not limited to: Cell Phones, Head Sets, Helmets with Headsets, Walkie Talkies and any other device that you can communicate via text, speech or video is strictly forbidden during games. Any communication between Coaches, Parents and Players that gives one team a competitive advantage is not allowed. Violation will bring disciplinary action to the head coach of the offending team.
0.9 Playoff Seeds, Tie Breaker Rules, and Tie Breaker Games for Playoff Elimination – Playoff Seeds, 4 teams will be sent to playoffs out of each division within its own league. The #1 seed will play the #4 seed and the #2 seed will play the #3 seed. Winners will move on to play in the Championship game.
0.9.1 The highest seed being the home team and will wear the dark jersey and control the chains.
0.9.2 Tie Breaker Rules – In successive Order
0.9.2.1 Head to Head
0.9.2.2 Cross Over Record
0.9.2.3 Tie Breaker Game - A Tie Breaker game for playoffs will only be played for elimination of 1 team or 2 teams from playoffs that rules 1 and 2 do not set precedent for seeding. Tie Breaker games will only include 3 teams vying for the #3 or #4 playoff seed positions. Whenever tie breaker rules 1 and 2 place a team into the #3 seed the tie breaker game is no longer needed. The #4 Playoff seed will be given to the winner of the head to head league game.
0.9.3 Tie breaker games will not be played for seeding purposes. If ties cannot be broken by the stated Tie Breaker rules, the commissioner will place the 3 teams in a hat and draw out the seeding positions. No Districts or team representatives will be present at drawing.
0.9.4 2 teams will never participate in a tie breaker game. Winner of the head to head league game will be placed in the #4 playoff seed position.
0.10 Scheduling Home and Away Games – Whenever possible the districts will host 4 or 5 Saturdays throughout the season. District Host dates will be done on a random basis.
0.11 Sweating down players to make weight. The Ute Conference Commissioner and/or Executive Board reserve the right to turn in any Parent, Coach or Board Member to the State of Utah for investigation of abuse pertaining to player(s) losing weight.
0.12 Policies, Procedures and Regulations will be administered and enforced by the Commissioner and Executive Board of the Ute Conference as authority given in these bylaws. Violations are Subject to disciplinary action.
0.13 The head coach must attend the pregame meeting/coin toss with his captains at midfield. He is the only coach allowed at this meeting. In the absence of the head coach, the assistant coach who attends in his place will be considered the head coach for the duration of the game.
0.14 Any player wanting to Y up or Z down must arrive at the official weigh- ins wearing no more than a t-shirt, shorts, socks and shoes. (2017)
0.15 When a Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Chain Crew Member or Spectator is ejected from a game, they must immediately leave the premises for the rest of the day. They are also banned from the next scheduled game and cannot be on the premises for any games that day. If a player is ejected, they may remain on the sidelines with their team but must remove their shoulder pads and helmet. They may also be on the sidelines during the next scheduled game but must be in street clothes.
0.16 Definitions
TARGETING: Targeting is an act by any player who takes aim and initiates contact against an opponent above the shoulders with the helmet, forearm, hand, fist, elbow or shoulders. Targeting means that a player takes aim at an opponent for the purpose of attacking with an apparent intent that goes beyond a legal tackle or a legal block or playing the ball. Some indicators of targeting include but are not limited to:
-leading with the helmet, forearm, fist, hand or elbow to attach with contact at the head or neck area.
-lower the head before attacking by initiating contact with the crown of the helmet
-launch - a player leaving his feet to attack an opponent by an upward and forward thrust of the body to make contact in the head or neck area
-A crouch followed by an upward and forward thrust to attack with contact at the head or neck area even though one or both feet are still on the ground
HELMET TO HELMET: Illegal helmet contact is an act of initiating contact with the helmet against an opponent, including:
-Butt blocking is an act by any plyer who initiates contact against an opponent who is not a runner with the front of his helmet
-Face Tackling is an act by a defensive player who initiates contact agains6t a runner with the front of his helmet
-Spearing is an act by any player who initiates contact against an opponent at the shoulders and below with the crown (top portion) of his helmet
DEFENSELESS PLAYER: a player who, because of his physical position and focus of concentration is especially vulnerable to injury. Targeting may be considered a flagrant foul if it is against a defenseless player. Examples of defenseless player:
-A quarterback moving on the line of scrimmage who has handed or pitched the ball to a teammate and then makes no attempt to participate further in the play
-A kicker who is in the act of kicking the ball or has not had a reasonable amount of time to regain his balance after the kick
-A passer who is in the act of throwing the ball or has not had a reasonable length of time to participate in the play again after releasing the ball
-A pass receiver whose concentration is on the ball and the contact by the defender is unrelated to attempting to catch the ball
-A pass receiver who has clearly relaxed when he has missed the pass or feels he can no longer catch the ball.
-A kick receiver whose attention is on the downward flight of the ball
-A kick receiver who has just touched the ball
-Any player who has relaxed once the ball has become dead
-Any player who is obviously out of the play. The game official must draw distinction between contact necessary to make a legal block or tackle and that which tartest a defenseless player
UNSPORTSMANLIKE BEHAVIOR: No player or coach, substitution, athletic trainer, parents or other team attendant including chain crew shall act in an unsportsmanlike manner one the game officials assume authority for the contest. Unsportsmanlike conduct fouls that occur while the ball is live are treated as dead ball fouls. These include such infractions as:
-Abusive or insulting language, profanity, taunting, inciting the spectator, player or coach
-Attempt to influence a decision by a game official
-Disrespectfully address a game official
-Using illegal communication equipment
-Using tobacco
-Head coach failure to verify to officials that all players on the team are legally equipped
-Players using disconcerting acts or words prior to the snap in an attempt to interfere with offensive play signals or movements
-Actions that generate ill will (Haka, jumping jacks facing the opposing team, etc.)
-Spiking the ball, throwing the ball high in the air from the field of play or end zone, or failure to return the ball immediately to a nearby official.
-Kicking the ball other than on a legal kick
-Coaches or other sideline personnel entering the field without permission of an official
-Any delayed, excessive or prolonged act by which a player attempts to focus attention upon himself
-A player leaving the bench during a fight
1.0 DISTRICT NAME AND DEFINITIONS
The name of this organization is OREM YOUTH FOOTBALL
1.1 The term “Board” or “Board of Directors” as used in these Bylaws refers to the Board of Directors of the OREM YOUTH FOOTBALL DISTRICT
1.2 The term “Conference” as used in these Bylaws refers to the Ute Conference Incorporated.
2.0 ORGANIZATION
2.1 Orem Youth Football shall be composed of teams with players ages 7 through 8th Grade representing the residents of the Orem High School boundary and surrounding high school boundaries where a Ute Conference district does not exist. The Orem Youth Football district shall have its own organization headed by a chairperson who shall be known as “President.”
3.0 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
3.1 The District shall be governed by a Board of Directors consisting of a President, Vice President, and a Secretary/Treasurer.
4.0 RULES OF THE ORGANIZATION
4.1 Bylaws Distribution. A copy of the District Rules, Regulations, and Bylaws will be posted at oremyouthfootball.online
4.2 Appointments, Delegation, and Committees
4.2.1 All appointments, delegations of authority, and committees are solely reportable to the District Board creating them and in no way have any authority exceeding the individual or group creating them.
5.0 DUTIES OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
5.0.1 To create and maintain an operating organization sufficient to support the district’s share of the Ute Conference
Incorporated.
5.0.2 To appoint and supervise coaches of the teams within the district.
5.0.3 To have one team participating in as many classifications as possible as required by the Conference.
5.0.4 To raise such financing as may be necessary to meet the minimum standards set forth in these Bylaws.
5.0.5 To secure and maintain the home playing and practicing areas used by the district.
5.0.6 To acquire and maintain the proper equipment for the district teams as prescribed by the Conference.
5.0.7 To collect such fees as may be required by the Board.
5.0.8 To provide for the orderly conduct of the games and fans in attendance at the district home games.
5.0.9 To obtain a written agreement from the parents or guardian of each player that he/she may participate. A Standard form used by the Conference must be used.
5.0.10 To submit to the Conference Accounting Office all money received by the district.
5.0.11 To follow Conference procedure in all purchases and expenditures by the district.
5.0.12 To appoint one or more persons in the district as reporter who shall be charged with the responsibility to report game scores as soon as possible, after the games are completed, to the designated official scorekeeper. Scores must be reported by 6:00 p.m. on the day of the game.
5.0.13 To provide all appropriate documentation for certification of Mountain View Buffs Youth Football the Ute Conference.
6 FEES
6.0 Participation fees must be paid in full prior to receiving equipment. A deposit check must also be provided in order to receive equipment.
7 CONFERENCE DISCIPLINE
7.0 For infraction or violation of the Conference Articles and/or Bylaws, or for other cause, the Conference may impose sanctions, probation or suspension as hereinafter defined upon a district, district officer, coach, assistant coach, team or player.
7.0.1Sanctions are defined herein as a fine, forfeiture of games, ineligibility of a player, coach, assistant coach, team or anyone else involved with any Conference or district activity to participate in one or more games or other restriction and condition placed on full participation in the Conference short of probation or suspension. Players and/or Coaches that are ejected from a game for any reason are immediately ineligible and cannot participate during the remainder of the game. In addition, if this is the players and/or coaches first (1st) ejection of the season, he/she shall not be eligible for the next scheduled game as well. If this is the players' and/or coaches' second (2nd) ejection of the season, he/she shall not be eligible for the next two (2) scheduled games. After three (3) ejections during any one season, the player and/or coach shall not be eligible to participate for the remainder of the season, including Post-Season play. NOTE: Illegal participation of any ineligible player and/or coach will result in the forfeiture of any and all games the ineligible player and/or coach participated.
7.0.2Probation is defined herein as a conditional status for a serious violation of the rules and Bylaws of the Conference. A team under probation may not participate in Conference championship and it may not engage in post-season games. A coach, assistant coach, or anyone else involved in any Conference or district activity, under probation, may be precluded from participation in Conference and/or district activities as provided in the terms of the probation.
7.0.3Suspension, as defined herein, is for a severe breach of the rules or Bylaws, cumulative or individual. A coach, assistant coach, or anyone else involved in any Conference or district activity, if suspended, is not eligible to participate in either district or Conference activities as of the date the suspension becomes effective. The suspension of any individual may be for either a definite or indefinite term. NOTE: In the event of a forfeiture of any game for standing purposes, the rule shall be the same as used by the Utah High School Activities Association. That is, presently, to award the win to the opposing team of a forfeited game and a loss to the forfeiting team. Said awarded wins may substantially change the yearend standings.
8 EQUIPMENT
8.0 All district equipment will be stored within two (2) weeks after the final game of the season of each district. Orem Youth Football will be required to account for, assemble, and deliver its equipment to its storage unit.
8.1 Equipment Specifications - The following equipment items are mandatory in all divisions:
8.1.1Helmet and Face Mask - (The helmet and face mask are the most important equipment a football player wears because they are intended to protect the nerve center of the entire body.) The helmet and face mask must meet the NOCSAE test standards and have a visible exterior warning label attached. They must further meet all the current National Federation of High School Association standards.
8.1.2Shoulder Pads - Shoulder pads should be of corrugated, molded fiber or plastic material and, for sanitary reasons should be padded with a coated, washable finish. Adjustable elastic underarm straps should be of a cantilever type. Shoulder pads must be fully covered by a jersey.
8.1.3Hip Pads.
8.1.4Thigh Pads
8.1.5Knee Pads
8.1.6Jerseys - Tear-away jerseys or jerseys that have been taped, tied, or altered in any manner which produces a knot-like protrusion are illegal.
8.1.7Pants
8.1.8Teeth Protector- It is required that each player should be fitted with a durable, well-made teeth and mouth protector, and it is required to be worn in all games and contact drills.
8.1.9Athletic Supporter-All boys must wear a good quality athletic supporter during all football practice sessions, games, etc. All girls must wear the protectionary equivalent.
8.1.10 Shoes - Official footwear for all divisions will conform to National Federation of State High School Association rules.
8.1.11 Ball – Ute Conference provides footballs that must be used in all games.
9 COACHES, MANAGERS, AND GAME OFFICIALS
9.0 Coaches – Orem Youth Football district shall appoint one (1) head coach for each team and such managers and assistant coaches as appropriate. These personnel should be of unquestionable character with a profound interest in and knowledge of football and the players.
9.1 A football coach or assistant should at all times set a good example by his/her behavior for the players in his/her charge. He/she should always remember to:
9.1.1refrain from smoking in front of players during game time or practice time;
9.1.2refrain from profane or abusive language in the presence of the players;
9.1.3not criticize players in front of spectators, but reserve constructive criticism for private or in the presence of the team so all might benefit;
9.1.4accept decisions of officials on the field as being fair and called to the best ability of the officials;
9.1.5not criticize the opposing team, its coaches, or fans by word of mouth or gesture;
9.1.6not permit "sweating down" tactics so that a player will make the team weight. "Sweating down" is to include steam rooms, steam cabinets, rubber sweat suits, or any method that is injurious to the health of the players;
9.1.7not permit a player to reenter any game after being badly bruised or injured;
9.1.8abide by the team doctor's decision in all matters of players' health, injures, and ability to play;
9.1.9refrain from excessive "sideline coaching" and leaving the bench area to shout instructions from the sidelines;
9.1.10 strive to make every football activity serve as a training ground for life;
9.1.11 be prepared to hold down the score of any game, once the outcome of that game is no longer in doubt.
9.2 It is "MANDATORY" that all coaches in the Ute Conference be certified. Certification will require any coach (head or assistant) to attend a Ute Conference sanctioned clinic and pass a Ute Conference security screening. Any coach not certified will not be allowed to coach in the conference. Each coach will receive a Photo ID. This I.D. must be visibly worn around the neck or chest area. Only coaches who are on the roster of the participating team are allowed inside the ropes. Any coach not wearing Conference I.D. will be asked to move outside the coaching area (behind the ropes). Failure to do so, or returning to the coaching area without said I.D., arguing with a District President, District Officer, or Conference board member, may result in suspension for the balance of the season.
9.3 No one that is not at least 18 years of age can assist on the field practicing, coaching, or participating in anyway with a Ute Conference Team. All spectators at any practice must remain a safe distance from the practice for safety purposes and all spectators at games must remain behind the ropes. All Ute Conference Districts will be responsible for assuring no one under the age of 18 are participating in practices and games, and only certified rostered coaches can be inside the ropes during games.
9.4 A coach who, during the same calendar year, has acted as a head coach, assistant coach, or team manager in another youth football organization may not be a head coach, assistant coach, or team manager of a Ute Conference team in the same age classification. Exclusions are High School Football, and non-contact 7 on 7 or 5on 5 Flag football. No coaching any player during the moratorium during the month of July each year.
9.5 Game officials may declare the game forfeited by any team not ready to play ten (10) minutes after the official scheduled game starting time.
9.6 Timer. The official on the field keeps time.
10 TEAM AND DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION
10.0 In order to form two teams at the same age group, there must be a minimum of 28 players and 14 players per team.
10.1 Player registration will include (1) birth certification by state or federal papers, or church record; (2) signed parental or guardian permission form; (3) any player registration fee required by team for ID cards, weigh-in, equipment expense, paid officiating, etc.; and (4) at any time, in the opinion of the district president, a prospective registrant may be required to furnish an examining physician's statement as to the ability of the registrant to participate in the program.
10.2 New players may not be added to a roster after the second weigh-in unless specific approval is obtained prior to registration of said players by the district’s assigned Executive Committee liaison.
10.3 Parent or Guardian Consent. Parent or guardian consent must be on file, in writing, with the district before any player will be permitted to participate in the Conference activities. Team rosters, verified by signature of the district official and certified by an Executive Board liaison, consisting of those eligible players, must be on file with the Conference Executive Board two (2) days before the game..
10.4 RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS
10.4.1 A player is eligible to play for the Orem district if that player resides in the Orem High School boundary or any surrounding high school boundary without a Ute Conference District as of the date the player is weighed-in and placed on an official roster. The district of residence of a player is the district in which the custodial parent or legal guardian resides with the player or the district in which the player resides (a) while in the custody or under the supervision of a Utah state agency, or (b) while under the supervision of a private or public agency which is duly authorized by the state to provide child placement services. A player whose custodial parent or legal guardian does not reside in Utah is considered to be a resident of the district in which the player lives if the requirements of UTAH CODE ANN. § 53a2-202 have been satisfied and a copy of the designation of guardianship issued by the school district is maintained with the player's registration. For purposes of these Bylaws residence requires two elements: (1) bodily presence at a domicile (2) with the intention of remaining in that place more or less indefinitely. Moving into a district temporarily for the purpose of establishing residency for a player to play football does not satisfy those elements. Subject to the foregoing, unless the contrary is shown by competent evidence, the residence or domicile of a player will be determined in accordance with the following standards: (a) the residence of a player is normally that of the player's father, or if the father is dead, that of the player's mother; (b) if both parents are dead, then the player's residence is that of the duly appointed guardian; (c) if the parents are separated or divorced, except as provided herein, a player's district of residence is the district of residence of the parent to whom custody is awarded and with whom the player lives; (d) a player whose parents or guardian move into a district to establish a permanent residence is eligible to register in that district; (3) a player properly listed on an official roster will not become ineligible to play the remainder of the current football season merely because the parents or guardian subsequently remove their legal residence from the district unless the parents or guardian originally moved into the district as a pretext to gain residence for the player to play football for the district; and (f) if the custody of a player has been granted to any person by court order or by foster placement made by a licensed child placement agency with a resident family in a district, the residency of the person to whom custody was awarded constitutes the residency of the player. Any dispute regarding the residency of a player will be resolved by the Executive Committee.
11 TEAM AGES, WEIGHTS AND DESIGNATIONS
Except as otherwise authorized by these bylaws for Z down and Y up players, all players must participate in their age classification (age as of July 1) at the time of registration. To participate in a lower classification as a Z down player, the player must be weighed in by a district officer at the time of registration or equipment pick up and make weight as provided herein, and the player also must be less than 15 years old as of September 1. A player who fails to make the Z down weight at registration or equipment pick up who nevertheless desires to be designated as a Z player by the official weigh in must present to the district a release from their family physician stating that losing the weight will do no harm to the player. In the meantime, however, the player will participate with a team in the player’s own age group. A player may only Z down to the next lower classification (e.g., from the Pee Wee division to the Gremlin division). There shall be no Z downs from the Gremlin to Scout division and a 9th Grader may not Z down to the Bantam division.
13.1 At the player’s option, a player will also be allowed to Y up to the next higher division (e.g., from the Gremlin to the Pee Wee division). A player must be X weight at their age group in order to be eligible to Y up. If the Y up players is under the X weight for that next higher division at the official weigh in, then the Y up player shall be allowed to participate in that higher division without being designated an X player. If they Y up player is not under the X weight of the higher division at that official weigh-in then the player shall be designated an X and all corresponding X rules shall apply. A seven year old Scout shall not be allowed to Y up to the Gremlin division.
The following chart establishes the age and weight classifications for all Ute Conference divisions (if a player is over the maximum weight for the division, the player shall be considered an X player and all X rules shall apply):
13.1 Chart of Weights and Designations.
| The age of a player for the playing season shall be his/her attained age as of July 1, of that year. NO EXCEPTIONS | Scout 7 - 8 | X Weight 85 lbs | No Z Downs | “Y”UP ONLY (for 8-year-olds only) | | Gremlin 9 | X Weight 95 lbs | Z Weight 75 lbs | 85-94 lbs to remove X | | Pee Wee 10 | X Weight 110 lbs | Z Weight 90 lbs | 96-109 lbs to remove X | | Mity Mite 11 | X Weight 120 lbs | Z Weight 100 lbs | 111-119 lbs to remove X | | Gridiron 12 | X Weight 135 lbs | Z Weight 115 lbs | 121-134 lbs to remove X | | Bantam 13, (14) must be in 8th grade or Z down rules apply . | X Weight 165 lbs | Z Weight 160 lbs | 136-164 lbs to remove X | | | | | | | | | | |
Any 14 year old eighth grader who desires to play in the Bantam division without complying with the “Z” down rules must provide proof of grade at the official weigh-in and a copy of the documentation provided shall be retained by the district.
11.0.1.1 The "X" player must be an Interior lineman on offense, playing one of the five line positions, from Tackle to Tackle, the "X" player must be set, but not necessarily down in a 3 or 4 point stance at the snap of the ball. On defense the "X" player must be an interior lineman. They can line up anywhere along the line of scrimmage. However, they must be on the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball. The "X" player on defense must be down in a 3 or 4 point stance at the snap of the ball.
11.1 The age of a player for the playing season shall be his/her attained age as of July 1 of that year.
11.2 A player must not be participating in any other football program in order to remain eligible for the Ute Conference Incorporated play and registration.
11.3 After the official weigh-in, any player who exceeds the official weight limit for each team classification will be required to play as described below for all "X"-Players, Offense, Defense and Special Teams "X" players.
11.3.1 A player may, at the player's option, move down one (1) classification as long as the player's weight is at least fifteen (20) pounds below the designated "X" weight of the lower classification to which the player is moving. This player will be designated on the official roster with the letter "Z". This move will be done on a year to-year basis and once a player fails to satisfy the weight qualification, the player must return to the correct age classification.
11.3.2 All players must participate at their age/weight classification at the time of registration, to participate in a lower classification as a "Z" player, the player must be weighed in by a District Officer at the time of registration or equipment pick-up and make weight as provided herein, the player must be less than 15 years of age . A player who fails to make the "Z" down weight at registration or equipment pick-up who nevertheless wishes to make weight to "Z" down by the official weigh-in, must present to the district a release from the family physician that states that losing the weight will do no harm to the player. In the meantime, however, the player will participate with a team in the player's age group.
11.3.3 All "X"-players must comply with the following:
11.3.3.1 All "X" players will be designated with an "X" on the player roster.
11.3.3.2 All "X"-players will be required at all times to wear a 4-inch black or white "X", whichever is a contrasting color to the helmet, on both front and back of his/her helmet. Skull bones, decorations, colorings, numbers, names, writings, etc. are prohibited on the "X" and the "X" cannot be made of Athletic tape, black electrical tape or anything other than the Conference-provided "X".
11.3.3.3 NO more than five (5) offensive linemen and four (4) defensive linemen are allowed on the field at a time per team.
11.3.4 On Offense, the "X"-player must comply with the following:
11.3.4.1 No more than five (5) offensive "X"-players are allowed on the field at a time. They must be on the line of scrimmage. The line of scrimmage is defined as the vertical plane through the point of the ball nearest the team’s goal line. An offensive lineman is on his line of scrimmage when he is facing his goal line with his shoulders approximately parallel thereto and with his head or foot breaking the imaginary plane drawn parallel to the line of scrimmage through the waist of the snapper when the ball is snapped.
11.3.4.2 The "X"-player must be an Interior Lineman, playing one of the front five line positions, from Tackle to Tackle; for example, Left Tackle - Left Guard - Center- Right Guard -Right Tackle, in a "balanced" formation.
11.3.4.3 The "X"-player must be set, but not necessarily down in a 3-or 4-point stance at the snap of the ball.
11.3.4.4 The furthest outside "X" player must be "covered" by a Non-“X” player; in other words, if the formation is such that the furthest outside Offensive linemen are "X"-players, then at least one Non-"X"-player must line up on the Line of Scrimmage outside of each of the furthest "X"-player(s).
11.3.4.5 The Offense may line up in an "unbalanced formation", such a "Double- or Triple-Tackle Stack" on one side of the ball, as long as the furthest outside "X"-player is "covered" per this section.
11.3.4.6 No Offensive play can be designed for an "X"-player to carry the ball; i.e., "X"-players cannot be the targeted recipient of a pass or run from scrimmage, including "Tackle-eligible", "Fake Fumble", "Statue of Liberty", "Double Pass", "Tipped Pass" or similar types of play.
11.3.4.7 Offensive "X"-players may recover and advance a "true" fumble or defensive tipped/batted pass.
11.3.5 On Defense, the "X"-player must comply with the following:
11.3.5.1 No more than four (4) "X"-players are allowed on the field at a time. A defensive player is on his line of scrimmage when he is within 1 yard of his scrimmage line at the snap and facing his goal line. They do not need to be covered.
11.3.5.2 Defensive "X" players do not have to cover, shade of line up outside the offensive X players shoulder. They can line up anywhere along the line of scrimmage. However, they must be on the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.
11.3.5.3 The "X"-player must be down in a 3- or 4-point stance anywhere on the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.
11.3.5.4 The "X"-player must be on his/her line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.
11.3.5.5 If the Offense lines up in an "unbalanced formation", such a "Double- or Triple-Tackle Stack" on one side of the ball, then the Defense doesn’t have to line up accordingly and can be anywhere along the line of scrimmage.
11.3.5.6 Defensive "X"-player's may recover and advance a fumble or interception.
11.3.6 On Special Teams, the "X"-player must comply with the following:
11.3.6.1 No more than five (5) "X"-players are allowed on the field at a time, per team.
11.3.6.2 A Scrimmage Kick (Punt) is governed by the Offensive & Defensive "X"-player rules (see 13.1.4.2 & 13.1.4.3). An "X"-player cannot be a Punter. (Note: Special rule application for Gremlin's only.
11.3.6.3 On Free Kicks (Kick-off and Kick-off Return teams), "X"-players are restricted to the front lines only, with the exception that an "X"-player may also be a Kicker.
11.3.6.4 An "X"-player may gain possession of and advance a Kick-off or Punt, but only if they do this starting from the front line position.
11.3.6.5 On all PAT attempts, the "X"-player is governed by the Offensive & Defensive "X"-player rules.
11.3.6.6 No Special Team play can be designed for an "X"-player to carry the ball; i.e., hand-offs, passes, fake fumbles, etc.
11.3.7 The penalty for misuse of the "X" player shall be five (5) yards if the offense commits foul, and five (5) yards if defense commits the foul. For purposes of penalty applications, "X" player violations can be both Dead-ball or Live-ball fouls, depending on the violation.
11.4 There will be one (1) official weigh-in held just prior to the start of league play; this weigh-in will be conducted according to procedures set up by the Executive Committee. Additionally, there may be (1) late weigh-in for players in both divisions which registered late or missed the official weigh-in. This would be held during the week between the first and second game. The purpose of this late weigh-in is to give those players who registered after the official weigh-in or missed the official weigh-in the opportunity to be added to the certified roster, thus allowing them to play as an eligible player. There would be no “X” removal, “Y” up or “Z” down player weigh–ins at this late weigh-in.
11.5 The certified roster for each team must be submitted to the Executive Committee prior to the first league game, or on or before a deadline date that shall be announced. Conference roster forms must be used.
11.6 A coach or district representative must have a certified roster at every league game to be available upon request by the opposing coach or a district representative. If the requested team fails to furnish an official certified roster before the end of the game, this game will be considered a forfeit. A certified roster must have a red stamp and must be signed by the district's assigned Executive Committee liaison. A photocopied roster is not an official certified roster.
11.7 Scout and Gremlin teams may have one (1) coach on the playing field when on offense and one (1) coach on the playing field when on defense. The coach may assist in positioning and instructing the ball players but cannot interfere with the play. The offensive and defensive coaches must be positioned 10 yards behind the official at the snap of the ball and cannot participate in the play, including calling audible and plays once the players are at the line of scrimmage. Violation of these rules will result in the following: 1st warning counts as a sideline warning 2nd warning results in a 5 yard penalty 3rd warning results in a 15 yard penalty and ejection of the coach.
11.8 Gremlin teams will have the option on 4th down, to declare to the officials that they "are punting". The officials will then notify the defensive team of this choice. If this declaration is made by the offensive team then the offensive team must line up in a normal punting formation - with the furthest offensive player no wider than 15 yards from the ball -and will get a 'free" snap to the punter. The "free" snap must be legal - going between the legs of the offensive center - and the ball must take a direct course of flight toward the punter who is standing directly behind the center. The Punter must immediately make an effort to gain possession of the ball, and once possession is obtained, he/she can take up to three (3) steps to punt the ball. There can be no rushing by the defensive players and no down field advance by the offensive players. All players are frozen until the ball is kicked. Then it becomes a "live ball" and full play is resumed. NOTE: The penalty for offensive or defensive violation of the "Freeze Punt" rule shall be ten (10) yards.
11.9 Scout Division ONLY; All kick offs, scrimmage kicks and free kicks will be removed from the game. Scouts will start possession of the ball at the 40-yard line. Each team is given four (4) downs to reach the line to gain or score. On all 4th down plays, the offense must attempt to go for line to gain. Teams achieving a line to gain will be granted new 1st down and given another four (4) downs. If the team does not reach the line to gain, the ball will go over to the other team and play will begin at the 40-yard line.
12 STANDARDS OF THE GAME
12.0 All teams will have their players in full uniform when on the field of play. No two jerseys having the same numeral from the same team will be allowed to participate on the field at the same time. Should it become necessary for jerseys to be changed during the game for any reason, the head official will have sole authority to approve or disapprove the changing of the jerseys, and if approved, will notify the opposing manager or head coach of that change.
12.1 Playing Field. The setting up and condition of the playing field(s) will be the responsibility of the host district and will be roped off from spectators at least ten (10) feet from the out-of-bounds lines from end zone to end zone. If this requirement cannot be met, spectators are to be kept out of this area completely. An eighty (80) yard length by fifty-three (53) yard width field will be used in all classifications. All fields will be properly marked as follows:
12.1.1 The out-of-bounds limits, end zones, and ten (10) yard distances will be plainly marked.
12.1.2 Safety cones or other visible devices with six (6) inch or larger numbers will be placed at then (10) yard intervals on both sides of the fields.
12.1.3 Goal lines and end zones will be plainly marked with pylons or flags.
12.1.4 To avoid injury to the players, all flag uprights will be of the types that freely bend from the vertical to the horizontal.
12.2 Coaches and players are limited to the 20 yard lines, no other persons, with the exception of officials, game doctors and law enforcement officers should be allowed inside the ropes near the playing field.
12.3 First Down, Ball Markers, and Yard Markers. The home team district is responsible for providing and operating the first down chain and ball markers. Yard markers shall also be provided by the home team.
12.4 Each district shall be responsible for having a physician or other person trained in emergency first aid present at every home game.
13 GAME RULES
13.0 All games are played under the rules and regulations of the National Federation of State High School Associations and all of its affiliated state and scholastic organizations, in addition to all specific Conference rules.
14 SPECIFIC CONFERENCE RULES
14.0 Each player will participate in all league games. All players will participate in a minimum of ten (10) plays per game. If, however, a coach prevents a player from playing for disciplinary or health reasons, any such reason must be presented to the district president in writing prior to any league game where the player does not participate. NOTE: Enforcement will be self-regulated by each district and all parents will receive written notification of this bylaw. Violation of this bylaw will not result in forfeiture of games. Disciplinary action by the Executive Board will be based on each individual violation if the district fails to resolve the problem.
14.1 Ball Placement. On an eighty (80) yard playing field, kickoff shall be from the thirty (30) yard line of the kicking team.
14.1.1 On an eighty (80) yard playing field, after a safety or a touchback, the ball shall be placed on the twenty (20) yard line in all divisions.
14.1.2 After all touchdowns the offensive team will be given the choice of a 1 point or a 2 point extra point conversion. If the team selects a 2 point conversion the ball will be placed on the 5 yard line, and if they select a 1 point conversion the ball will be placed on the 1 1/2 yard line. Once the selection has been made the team cannot reverse its decision.
14.2 Length of Game. The game shall consist of four (4) 15-minute, running-clock quarters, for all divisions and age classifications. The “Running-clock” format is defined as a continuously running field clock, which begins on the opening kick-off, until the last two (2) minutes of the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) quarter, with the exception of team or official time-outs, or the “Margin of Victory Rule.” In the final two (2) minutes of the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) quarters, the official keeping time will announce a time warning to both teams, and all High School rules and regulations pertaining to clock stoppage will apply. Halftime will be ten (10) minutes long. Eight (8) minutes after the start of halftime the captains will meet with the Officials on the field.
14.3 Margin of Victory Rule. As soon as the margin of victory for all divisions of thirty (30) points ahead of their opponents, the clock will automatically run in the 2nd half except during timeouts. The officials may stop the game with the consent of the coach with the fewest points, during the fourth quarter, and declare the score as final. This shall have no effect on Post-Season play since scores are not used as a tiebreaker. If the decision is to continue to play, the clock will continue to run unless the opposing team comes within 15 points at which time it resorts back to regular clock rules.
14.4 Orem team colors will be Gold, Black, and Grey. The district playing away from home must wear WHITE jerseys for their own use in any game on the road.
14.5 Any injured player for whom the clock is stopped, or for whom the ready-for-play signal is delayed, shall be replaced for at least one (1) play. His team shall not be charged with a time out.
14.6 Maximum Penalty. The maximum penalty for the teams of all classifications in the Conference which play on an (80) yard field shall be ten (10) yards per infraction with the exception that a 15 yard penalty can now be accessed for fouls that are deemed unnecessary or excessive. If a team, coach or non-player receives multiple dead ball penalties (e.g. Personal fouls) they can be marked off as multiples of fifteen (15) yard infractions.
14.7 Protests. There shall be no protests made of games played under the Ute Conference. All decisions regarding rules and situations shall be made by the referee at such games and shall be final.
15 GAME AND PRACTICE SCHEDULES
15.0 Practice. Practice may begin on, but not before, the last Saturday of July of each year, not to exceed 5 weeks of practice.
15.0.1 Pad or contact practice may begin on, but not before, the first Wednesday following the beginning of practice each year.
15.0.2 Any district beginning practice before the above dates will be subject to discipline by the conference. Practice shall be defined as any rostered coach gathering a group of players together for “conditioning”, “clinics”, “drills”, “film sessions”, or any type of organized event meant to prepare players for game situations.
17.1.2. Each district is allowed to have camps or clinics provided that they are
open and advertised to all players in the Ute Conference. A camp or
clinic must be approved by the conference Commissioner.
15.0.3 Practice sessions for division one (1) are to be limited to not more than two (2) hours per session Monday thru Friday and three (3) hours per session on Saturday and only one (1) session per day. Practice sessions for division two (2) are to be limited to not more than three (3) hours per session and only one (1) session per day. After the first Monday in September, practice sessions shall be limited to no more than 3-two (2) hour sessions per week. At all contact practice sessions, all players must wear full safety first equipment as required by the Bylaws.
15.0.4 Under no circumstances may a team play or scrimmage a team which is not in the same age and weight classification, including teams in the same district.
15.1 All teams in each district will have a Minimum of 8 regular season games, there may be times when more than 8 games will be played but the minimum required amount will be 8 regular season games per team per district.
15.1.1 All teams in each classification are permitted to play one (1) preseason exhibition game and one (1) exhibition game during the season. In addition, all teams may have one (1) controlled scrimmage per week with another district’s team of the same classification during the regular season in lieu of, not in addition to, regular practice time.
15.1.2 All teams in each classification may request approval to participate in post season games as may be arranged from time to time. Such approval is at the discretion of the Conference Board and the local district.
15.2 Unscheduled Games. All games to be played out of the state by a district’s team(s) or by all teams collectively before or after the season, or any games other than regularly scheduled Conference games (excluding practice games played within the state), must have the sanction of the Commissioner. Application for such sanctions must be presented by the district president in writing three (3) weeks prior to the game starting date, location, and opponent.
15.2.1 Post season play within Ute Conference districts may be approved if a worthwhile need is established and request is made to the Conference Commissioner three (3) weeks prior to the proposed scheduled game(s). First place teams from different leagues in any classification shall not be scheduled to play each other, unless scheduled three (3) weeks prior to the last regular season game.
15.3 In addition to the above, all districts traveling or hosting, prior to receiving approval from the Conference to do so, will provide evidence of the following by October 1st of each playing season:
15.3.1 A copy of the disclosure letter that was provided to all parents of those participating (both Ute Conference and opponents) stating that the Ute Conference, Inc. is not responsible for any liability developing from the proposed traveling or hosting activities. The district shall present a signed statement along with the copy of the disclosure letter certifying that the letter has been properly distributed.
15.3.2 The hosting or traveling Ute Conference District shall, at the same time, present to the Ute Conference Board of Directors evidence of a paid up bond or liability insurance policy to cover the activity in an amount previously indicated as satisfactory by the Commissioner or the Ute Conference legal counsel.
15.3.3 A copy of Bylaws or team criteria, utilized by hosting tournament, to establish team pairings.
16 CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS
16.0 Teams compiling the best win/loss percentage record for each league within the league within the Ute Conference shall be able to advance to the play-offs for the league. The specific number of teams will be determined annually.
16.1 The League championship in each classification will be determined through a series of play-offs set up by the Board of Directors prior to the beginning of each football season.
16.2 Conference playoffs and Championships shall be hosted at separate district locations if a sufficient number of eligible districts apply to host.
17 AWARDS
17.0 The following listed trophies and certificates will be awarded by the Conference:
17.0.1 Individual trophies will be presented to each member of Ute Conference championship teams.
17.0.2 A League Champion Certificate will be presented to all members of league championship teams.
17.0.3 A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to all registered players to be distributed through the district organizations.
17.1 Other awards may be selected and made at the discretion of each individual district.
18 SOCIAL FUNCTIONS
18.0 The Conference approves district sponsorship of award banquets, parent participation, game concessions, or other activities which build and aid the Conference, teams, or districts in a constructive way.
18.1 At the close of the season all teams, either individually or in conjunction with other teams of a district, are encouraged to have a suitable awards program. This program is for many players, the climax of the season. The Commissioner should be notified in advance of the time and place that each awards program is to be held.