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Admin
WSJFL FOOTBALL
lower michigan, Michigan
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 WSJFL Rulebook |
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| WESTERN SUBURBAN
JUNIOR FOOTBALL
LEAGUE
2004 RULE BOOK
THE REAL SCORE
“A coach can never make a great player
of a youngster who isn’t potentially great.
But a coach can make a great competitor out of any child.
And miraculously, coaches can make adults out of children.
For a coach, the final score doesn’t read
So many points for my team; so many for theirs,
Instead it reads:
So many men and women out of so many boys and girls,
And this is a score that coaches read to themselves,
And in which they find real joy…
When the last game is over.”
Western Suburban Junior
Football League
2004 Rules
Table of Contents
- SUMMARY OF RULE CHANGES FOR 2004
- WSJFL EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMEBERS
- UNIT AND CHEERLEADING DIRECTORS
- HOME FIELD LOCATIONS AND TEAM COLORS
- PHILOSOPHY
- PURPOSE
- DEFINITIONS
- RULE I – COMPLIANCE
- RULE II – PLAYING RULES
- C. CHEERLEADING RULES
- D. CHEERLEADING ELIGEBILITY RULES
- E. CHEERLEADING RALLY
- SPORTSMANSHIP
- RULE III – ELIGIBILITY RULES
- RULE IV – REGISTRATION AND PHYSICAL EXAM
- RULE V – PRACTICE RULES
- RULE VI – SCHEDULING RULES
- RULE VII – WEATHER
- RULE VIII – AWARDS
- RULE IX – COMMERCIALIZATION
- RULE X – PUBLICITY
- RULE XI – GAME REPORTS
- LEAGUE COACHING CRITERIA
- 2004 WSJFL SCHEDULE
SUMMARY OF RULE CHANGES FOR 2002
The following is a summary of major changes made during 2002
General:
Officials Proposals-
4 Officials at games
May begin with 3 officials
Weight/Reweight:
Players may weigh/reweigh up to 10 minutes prior to each game:
A. 11:50 – Freshman
B. Start of Freshman 4th quarter for JV
C. Start of JV 4th quarter for Varsity
D. Game Clock time
Cheerleading:
Cheerleading Camps:
Cheerleaders may attend (1) camp as a squad with coaches
Only in month of July; camp must not exceed 5 days in length
Summary of Rule Changes for 2004
Cheerleading
No Stunting
WSJFL EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS
PRESIDENT
33749 Beechnut
Westland, 48186
Tim Graham (734) 721-3826
VICE PRESIDENT
Lew Stewart (734) 981-6671
TREASURER
Michele Julien (734) 434-9575
SECRETARY
Keith DeMolay (734) 722-1251
37251 Norene
Westland, 48186
CHEERLEADING DIRECTOR
R & E CHAIRMAN
John Sankar (313) 562-5022
5704 Huron St. Cell (313) 585-5075
Dearborn Heights, 48125
OFFICIALS
Bob Allen (734) 595-3193
Cell (734) 658-4750
Pager (734) 504-2091
DIRECTORS
UNIT AND CHEERLEADING
Ann Arbor Wildcats:
Belleville Cougars:
Canton Lions:
Dearborn Heights Redskins:
Farmington Rockets:
Robert Will (248) 474-9449
Garden City Chargers:
Ron Koss (734) 522-5604
Julie Savino (734) 525-5617
Lincoln Railsplitters:
Plymouth-Canton Steelers:
Redford Rangers:
Westland Comets:
Keith DeMolay (734) 722-1251
Cheryl DeLuca (734) 728-1970
Westland Meteors:
Robert Kyle (734) 721-1553
Abbie Howard (734) 727-1688
Ypsilanti Braves:
Roosevelt Barrett (734) 604-4363
HOME FIELDS LOCTIONS & TEAM COLORS
HOME JERSEY/PANTS/HELMET AWAY JERSEY/PANTS/HELMET
Ann Arbor Wildcats Pioneer High School
Navy/Gold/Navy Same
Belleville Cougars Belleville High School
White/Purple/Orange Same
Canton Lions Central Middle School
Blue/Grey/Blue Same
Dearborn Heights Redskins Annapolis High School
Maroon/Maroon/Maroon White/Maroon/Maroon
Farmington Rockets Farmington High School
Orange/Black/Black White/Black/Orange
Garden City Chargers Garden City High School
Green/Green/White Same
Lincoln Railsplitters Lincoln High School
Royal Blue/Silver/Silver Same
Plymouth-Canton Steelers Central Middle School
Black/Gold/Black White/Gold/Black
Redford Rangers Hilbert Jr. High School
Blue/Gold/Blue White/Gold/Blue
Westland Comets John Glenn High School
Red/Blue/Navy Same
Westland Meteors Wayne Memorial High School
Gold/Blue/Gold Same
Ypsilanti Braves Ypsilanti High School
Purple/Purple/White Same
PHILOSOPHY
The WESTERN SUBURBAN JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE’S purpose is to provide a healthy, typically American, sport for children. On the premise that children will participate in football, or cheerleading anyway, somehow and somewhere, the League directs this activity toward proper playing fields, provides the best protective equipment, competent instructors and officiating.
The League recognizes as valid, the usual criticism leveled at programs of this type; that the good done by the program can be outweighed by the harm derived from undue mental pressures placed upon children of this age by the “need to win”. That is not to say, however, that the League thereby de-emphasizes winning, which is confirmed by each child who has played. Instead, the program places emphasis on good sportsmanship, teamwork and individual discipline. Winning “at any cost” is what is de-emphasized.
Weight limitations are designed to tailor the football program for children 8-14 years old who, in many cases, may not otherwise have an opportunity during their school career to participate in contact sports. Combined with age limitations that provide for three teams within a Unit, it is possible to achieve equal competitive standards during game participation.
The children play a good, hard game. The WESTERN SUBURBAN JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE wants children to be proud of the game they played and the way they played it – win or lose. With that purpose accomplished, the League can be proud of its program.
PURPOSE
This association is designed primarily for the improvement and development of the capabilities of individuals; to encourage certain types of sports and athletic endeavors; to promote the physical, mental and moral development and well being of children 8 through 14 years of age without regard to race, creed, sex, color, or religion, who are residents within the area of each Football Franchise, by providing the means through which the individual child shall receive education and instruction in sports programs; and the purpose of setting up such a program will be to develop a sense of fair play, honest and fair competition and true sportsmanship, with the end result that there will be a lessening of juvenile delinquency and juvenile problems with the prescribed area; further, approved protective equipment , and the protection of the emotional health and welfare of each child involved, as well as the physical health and welfare, shall be attained by emphasis upon equal competitive standards scientifically determined, rather than upon the winning of games or any other adult competitive standard.
CHEERLEADING
The purpose of WESTERN SUBURBAN JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE Cheerleading I to actively influence and stimulate positive conduct and response from the crowd.
DEFINITIONS
1. Member – A member shall be a duly incorporated body holding a franchise in this league, whose rules and bylaws dictate the formation of a Freshman, Junior Varsity, and Varsity Football and (optionally) Cheerleading teams.
2. Team – Teams shall be considered as the name dictates.
3. Veteran – A child who has participated in a franchise the previous year.
4. Player - A child who is participating in football.
5. Cheerleader – A child who is participating in cheerleading.
6. Participant – Either a player or cheerleader.
RULE I – COMPLIANCE
A. Member organizations failing to comply with these rules and philosophy may be subject to disciplinary action for each violation at the discretion of the League Members after due hearings. All suspected violations must be in written form, signed by the Unit Director and submitted to the Rules and Eligibility Chairman. Any interested person may file a written notice of violation and request for investigation under the following procedure.
B. Procedure for Violations
All violations must be reported by telephone to the R&E Chairman on the first Monday following the game. The parties involved will be will be advised by telephone, immediately, upon receipt of complaint and requested to present their case in writing by the next regularly scheduled league meeting.
Failure to appear will be interpreted as a plea of “Guilty”.
C. Compliance
The penalties for non-compliance of all Western Suburban rules
published and amended, or agreed to, by the Western Suburban
Junior Football League, are as follows:
Penalty for a violation with any one specific rule will result in the following steps of disciplinary action. Exceptional circumstances may dictate more severe penalties at the discretion of the League Members. A year is determined to be from February through January,
based on the annual review of franchises.
First Violation:
Written letter of advisement to Franchise stating the violation and the imposition of a minimum of $25.00 fine, not to exceed $125.00 fine.
Second Violation:
For the same violation, a minimum of $50.00 fine, not to exceed $150.00 fine.
Third Violation:
For the same violation, expulsion of individual or individuals, or Franchise, from the Western Suburban Junior Football League.
RULE II – PLAYING RULES
A. Football rules of the National Federation of State High School Athletic Association and the Michigan High School Athletic Association rules shall apply except as hereinafter noted. The rules of the League will be binding on all Members without exception.
1. Four (4) officials but not less than three (3) shall administer the game. The duties of the Referee, the Umpire, and the Linesman are those stipulated in the High School rules.
2. No flags shall be required at the goal line.
3. The ball shall be leather Wilson TDJ or equivalent for Freshman and Junior Varsity, and a Wilson TDY or equivalent for Varsity. In case of inclement weather, a rubber ball of comparable size and weight may be used upon agreement of both team coaches, provided agreement is made prior to the start of the game or the second half.
4. Block numerals of not more than eight (8) inches, nor less than six (6) inches, shall be required on the back of the jersey; and block numerals of at least four (4) inches on the front of the jersey. The colors of the uniform (jerseys, pants, helmets) must be specified prior to the beginning of the season and cannot be changed during the season. Nicknames on the jersey are not allowed.
5. Football shoes shall consist of molded rubber construction, of leather or canvas uppers, of not less than eight (8) cleats per shoe, with molded (not screw-in) cleats of soft rubber construction and not more than ½ inch in length.
6. All games shall be played in four (4) quarters of ten (10) minute each. There will be at least a ten (10) minute intermission at the half. There shall be no tie breaking attempts played. Subsequent games will start as soon as the proceeding game is completed.
7. Every player who is in uniform for a game must play at least five (5) plays in each half, except in compliance with the eighteen (18) point rules, or the other team has been notified that player cannot participate because of injury, sickness, weight disqualification or disciplinary action.
a. For purposes of this rule, a kickoff, punt, or extra point shall be deemed a play.
b. For purposes of this rule, Dead Ball penalties shall not be deemed a play.
8. The Unit Director shall be held responsible to designate, on cards provided by the League, the eight best players for each team. The card shall be given to the opposing Unit Director at each Team weigh-in. Those eight designated players must be removed from the game and remain as a group between the 10 & 20 yard lines (the goal line and 10 yard lines shall be used when opposing teams share the same sideline), when their Team is 18 points or more ahead, after the extra point attempt.
a. The opposing team shall have the option of changing the players listed in compliance with this rule. This change may be made at any time during the game, but may be made only once.
b. A full official time-out will be permitted, if requested by either team, at the first time of the insertion of the 18 point Team to permit both teams sufficient time to make required adjustments (once per game).
c. If the losing Team remains 18 points or more behind after a score, it shall have the option of kicking or receiving. In addition, a team losing by 18 points or more has the option of receiving the 2nd half kick off.
d. The best 8 players shall not return to the field of play until the try for extra point play has been completed.
e. For those teams unable to remove all eight players because of the required eleven players on the field, the opposing team will specify which player (s) will return. Also the opposing team will specify one injury player to be used for injury substitutions only. This does not negate the option to make one change as specified in part “a” of this rule.
f. For those teams unable to remove all eight players because of the required eleven players on he field, the opposing team may indicate position changes for the eleven players remaining in the game.
9. Periods may be shortened in any emergency by agreement of the Unit Directors and the referee.
10. The games shall be played on a regulation football field 300’x160’. In cases where there is an exception to this rule, procedures would be followed by mutual consent of the Unit Directors of both teams competing.
11. The extra point shall be scored as one (1) point for either a pass or a run and two (2) points for a kick in the Freshman, Junior, Varsity and Varsity Games, if successful.
12. All Units are required before the start of each season to provide proof to the League that player’s helmets being used meet all NOCSA requirements.
Additionally, helmets may be checked before games for proper NOCSE certification. Players in any practice or game may not be use players in any practice or game.
13. The wearing of a mouthpiece shall be mandatory for all players.
14. All players shall wear a cup.
15. Officials will have their own timepiece and will keep official time on the field and is identified as “stop time”. The home unit will provide a capable person to handle the scoreboard clock for all three games when available. The officials shall insure that the time difference between the scoreboard clock and the “official time”, not exceed thirty (30) seconds, during the final four (4) minutes of each half
16. Either team may request a full official time out at the four minute warning for the purpose of complying with the minimum number of plays rule.
17. No decals or other foreign objects will be allowed on football helmets, which would indicate a player’s performance.
18. Any player not wearing all required equipment in the proper way shall not be permitted to participate until corrections are made.
19. The use of headsets for communication between the sidelines and an elevated observation point for purposes of coaching during any game is prohibited.
20. In the Freshman games only, each team will be allowed four (4) time-outs per half.
21. No Uniform changes are allowed after weigh-in except for severe damage or in compliance with High School Blood Rule.
22. The Home Team will wear dark jerseys, if available, the Away Team will wear light
It is the duty of the Unit Director or representative to advise the opposing Unit Director or representative, after weigh-in, as to what players will not play according to Rule II, Article A, Item 7.
1. It is the duty of each Member organization to see that their coaches are giving players, and cheerleaders proper opportunities for participation in practice and games.
2. A specific individual or individuals within the unit, other than coaching personnel, should be charged with the responsibility of checking on participation and determining four minutes prior to the ending of each half which players have not played, and further, to inform the team coach to enter these players into the game.
3. At the official 4-minute time out (if requested) in both halves of the game, Unit Directors shall confirm that all their players have obtained the minimum number of plays in that half. Unit directors shall have coaches make the required substitutions at this time to insure all players meet the minimum play requirements.
Coaches or Units, proven to be in violation of the 5-play per player rule shall be removed by the League Members upon proof of a third violation in one season.
1. CHEERLEADING RULES
Cheerleading rules of the Michigan High School Athletic Association shall apply except as hereinafter noted. The rules of the League will be binding on all Members without exception.
1. All cheerleading shoes shall consist of a laced supportive leather upper construction – no hard sole shoes or bare feet.
2. Cheering is expected in all four quarters.
3. The Cheerleading Director or designated person should be present at all practices and games.
4. The cheerleading directors/coaches should follow the recommended rules as prescribed by the Western Suburban Junior Football League.
5. The following are considered hazardous in practice and performance and cannot be used.
a. Jewelry
b. Spirit buttons
c. Pockets
d. Hoods
e. Clothes with loose fitting necks
f. Free flowing hairstyles
6. The following are considered proper personal guidelines to be followed by all Cheerleaders:
a. Undergarments when necessary
b. Dance briefs or trunks are required at all times
c. Makeup to be kept moderate
d. Nails to be neat and trim, no acrylic nails allowed.
7. Cheerleading units performing mounts during their game and/or half time performances MUST follow the appropriate safety guidelines for spotters according to the MHSAA Cheerleading Guidelines.
8. Cheerleaders should realize the importance of actively influencing the positive conduct of spectators.
9. Stimulate and control crowd response.
10. Choose the right cheers at the right time.
11. Be certain that words used in cheer do not suggest or inflame an audience. The use of the opposing teams name in a cheer, banner, or poster is prohibited.
12. The use of bells, horns and noisemakers by the fans at the Cheerleading Rally is prohibited.
13. Divert the crowd’s attention by starting a popular cheer when booing develops.
14. Cheerleaders should get the crowd to respond to their lead.
15. It is important that the cheerleader look at the crowd while leading a cheer; his/her facial expressions are very important in generating enthusiasm and a strong response.
16. Emphasize each word so that each is distinct and the cheer may be understood and followed easily.
17. Cheerleaders are not to cheer when a football player is injured.
18. The sportsmanship and conduct of the Cheerleaders, Directors, Coaches, and/or designated person will fall under the same rules, guidelines and penalties as the Football players, Unit Director and/or coaches.
19. It is mandatory for the Cheerleading Director of a Cheerleading Head Coach to attend all WSJFL league meetings during the football season.
20. Cheerleading Head Coaches must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
21. When teams are located on the same side of the field: the Cheerleader squads shall alternate cheers, and any whole team/squad cheers may be performed only at quarter and half intermissions.
CHEERLEADING ELIGIBILITY RULES
1. The minimum/maximum number of cheerleaders per squad shall be left to the discretion of the individual units.
2. The ages of cheerleaders for each squad shall be 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 years old for Junior Varsity, and 11, 12, 13 or 14 years old for Varsity
3. A Mascot is considered to be anyone on a squad, which is below the eligibility age requirements of the squad. Mascots are required furnish the same proof.
4. Try-outs for Cheerleading are not permitted.
C. CHEERLEADING RALLY
RALLY PHILOSPHY
The primary purpose of a cheerleading squad is to support the team, raise team spirit, and to be a functional part of the program. Competitors are a secondary part of a cheerleading. The Cheerleading Rally should provide a chance for a group to perform their skills in a competitive and exciting atmosphere. The Rally should be fun and team’s attitude in attending this event should be to enjoy the event and do the best it could. Enjoy the pageantry of the event observing new ideas, acknowledging other talent, and being with other squads. Use this as a character-building event. Do not let the pressure of winning overcome the original purpose for being chosen as a cheerleader. Remember your primary purpose, to be a leader of the crowd. If you get a chance to compete, enjoy it and don’t let it control your team. Help your cheerleaders have the right attitude. The teams should be capable of winning graciously or accepting defeat without complaining about the judges, scoring, penalties, or operation of the competition itself.
1. A Cheerleading Rally will be hosted by units as determined by drawing (see Section VI-E-3), or a team as designated by the WSJFL Board of Directors.
2. The Rally is to be held on the Saturday of the Playoffs, the exact time and location to be determined by the Rally host unit.
3. The cheerleaders will perform for a minimum of one minute and 15 seconds (1:15) and a maximum of one minute and 45 seconds (1:45) of cheers before Judges and will be graded upon their cheerleading performance. The scoring will be based upon very simplistic cheerleading moves.
4. Cheerleaders to be evaluated in each of the following categories by the Judges:
a. Personality/Smile (projection and smile the entire time)
b. Voice control (loud and controlled)
c. Arms and Motions (form and technique)
d. Rhythm and Timing (does the routine flow and stay in rhythm from the beginning of routine to the end)
e. Knowledge of cheers (do they know the motions, cheers, and formations)
f. Formations (is each formation equally spaced from the center and out)
g. Overall execution (what was the overall impression of routine.
5. There will be ten (10) point system used, with one (1) point being given for a poor performance, five (5) points for a superior performance. Mascots are expected and encouraged to attend; however their performances are not to be a factor in judging. Each Mascot will wear an identification ribbon on the right side of their skirt.
6. Sliding splits (landing with legs extended at right angles to the trunk in a split position with first bearing most of the weight on at least one hand to break the impact of the split) are allowed.
7. Jumps allowed.
8. Drops (all moves that would involve both knees hitting the floor at the same time before another body part) are NOT allowed.
9. Mounts – any type of stunt in which one or more persons (with one or more foot of the ground) are supposed by one or more persons with both feet on the ground, are NOT ALLOWED.
10. Music, Pom Poms, flips and/or Cartwheels are NOT ALLOWED.
11. Performance must begin with a crowd response cheer.
12. Twenty-five (25) point deduction for performing over or under the time limitation.
13. Fifty (50)-point penalty deduction for each team for unsportsmanlike conduct. A team may be penalized the unsportsmanlike conduct if their fans (parents) are derogatory in the stands.
14. Fifty (50)-point penalty deduction for coaches standing behind or near Judges to “coach” during performance.
15. Fifty (50)-point penalty for coaches using coaching signs during performance.
16. 50-point penalty for coaches using coaching signs during the performance.
17. Blue participation ribbons will be given to each participant. The squads with the highest three total points in each age level of participation will be awarded a “Hi Point” award for each member of that squad.
18. The squads will perform in a placement order determined by a random drawing of teams by the Cheerleading Directors at the time prior to the Cheerleading Rally.
19. The squads from Freshman, Junior, Varsity and Varsity level awarded with the highest points from the Cheerleading Rally will be invited to cheer their winning performance during half time of the WSJFL Super Bowl game.
20. There will be no choreographed team entrances or exits from the floor. The timing of the squad’s performance starts with the first movement or sound.
21. There will be a Coaches & Cheer Directors Meeting the day of the rally, with all Judges present. The host team shall provide the meeting room.
SPORTSMANSHIP
A. Any player, cheerleader, coach, chain gang member, or Unit Director that issues a threat against an official during or after a game, shall be suspended until a hearing is held.
B. Any player, cheerleader, coach, chain gang member, Unit Director or official that uses abusive language, gestures or issues any personal threat toward any participant on or off the playing field on game day shall be deemed in violation of League sportsmanship rules and shall be subjected to the following options:
1. Ejection from the game in progress by the referee.
2. Ejection from the game in progress by a Unit Director and/or Unit President of his/her particular Unit.
3. Termination of game in progress by joint agreement of Unit Director(s) and/or the referee.
4. Termination of future participation during the season in progress by action of the League Members.
C. All coaching personnel are to be held responsible for upholding the principles established in the Western Suburban League COACHING CRITERIA. Unit Directors are to distribute copies of these criteria to all unit coaches prior to the first practice every season.
RULE III – ELIGIBILITY RULES
A. AGE
1. The age of participants 8 through 14 shall be their age before September 1 of the year concerned.
2. Freshman – Participants eight, nine, and ten years old
3. Junior Varsity – Participants nine, ten, eleven, and twelve years old. No participant eight years old shall be allowed at the Junior Varsity level.
4. Varsity – Participants eleven, twelve, thirteen, and fourteen years old. No participant eight, nine or ten years old shall be allowed at the Varsity level.
B. WEIGHT
The weight referred to hereinafter shall be the weight of the player with the full uniform consisting of at least but limited to a jersey, pants with knee and thigh pads, girdle with pads, jock w/cup, socks and football shoes.
After the weigh-in a player will add shoulder pads and helmet. Also, a player may add protective gear such as arm/hand/rib/elbow pads, flack jacket, cold weather clothing, etc.
Each player must have his jersey tucked inside pants prior to weigh in.
1. Freshmen
a. Eight years old players weights shall be a maximum of 125 pounds.
b. Nine-year-old players weight shall be a maximum of 125 pounds.
c. Ten-year-old players weight shall be maximum of 125 pounds.
2. Junior Varsity
a. Nine-year-old players weight shall be a maximum of 135 pounds.
b. Ten-year-old players weight shall be a maximum of 135 pounds.
c. Eleven-year-old players weight shall be a maximum of 135 pounds.
d. Twelve-year-old players weight shall be a maximum of 130 pounds.
3. Varsity
a. Eleven year old players weight shall be a maximum of 165 pounds
b. Twelve-year-old players weight shall be a maximum of 165 pounds.
c. Thirteen-year players weight shall be a maximum of 165 pounds.
d. Fourteen-year-old players weight shall be a maximum of 165 pounds.
C. During the progress of the playing season there will be no weight allowances.
D. There shall be no mandatory minimum league weights at any level, however each unit may establish minimum weights, which shall not exceed 65 pounds of Freshman, 100 pounds on Junior Varsity, and 100 pounds on Varsity.
E. The aforementioned weights shall be determined once for each player prior to each regularly scheduled and post-season game by actual weigh-in in the presence of one official from each Member organization representing the opposing teams.
1. Any player may weigh in up to ten (10) minutes prior to the start of the game. Players arriving after this time will not be allowed to play during the first half of the game. Players arriving during the first half may weigh in and play the second half. Players arriving after the start of the second half will not be allowed to play.
2. Coaching personnel are specifically prohibited from participating in the weigh-in ceremonies.
3. It is the duty of the home team to furnish a beam-type scale for this weight-in. The home team must also provide a certain weight (minimum of 50 lbs) for purposes of verifying scale accuracy. The scale weight certification must be on the weight and readable.
4. No artificial means may be used to reduce a player’s weight on the day of the scheduled game, sweat suits, steam bath, plastic bags, etc.
5. All overweight players in excess of one pound shall be reported to the League’s Rules and Eligibility Chairman by the opposing registrar within three days after each game in the game report.
6. A player is considered overweight when the beam of the scale rests on the upper frame of the scale.
7. Players wearing improper cleats will not be allowed to play in the game, in addition the Head Coach of the team weighing in will be ejected from the game.
F. Each team roster shall be final 6 days prior to the first scheduled League playing date. Copies of the roster must be in the hands of the League on that date. Rosters must be filled out completely as defined by the R&E Chairman. Units not in compliance with this rule will be subject to a $50.00 fine.
1. No new players may be added after the third scheduled game ends except when the team roster count falls to 14 or below. In this case, players may be added to bring the roster count back to 14. Players may be moved any time before the sixth scheduled game for any reason. This move can only be upward.
2. No players may be moved for any post-season game.
3. It will be the Unit Directors responsibility to notify the R&E Chairman, of a new player added after the team rosters have been submitted, if a player moved due to weight problems, or a player is added after the end of the third game if the roster count falls to 14 or below.
This notification must be prior to the player participating in any game.
A $50.00 fine will be imposed for noncompliance with this rule.
G. Girls and boys eligible for the cheerleading or football providing they meet the other eligibility requirements.
H. Each team must have a minimum of 12 players dressed and ready to play, with approved equipment, for each game.
I. The home Unit shall have a qualified medical person (MD, RN, EMT, CAT) present on the field at all games.
No games will be played without a qualified medical person on the field.
A fine of $50.00 shall be charged to any home Unit not in compliance with this rule.
1. The home team medical person in charge on the field shall make the determination as to the ability of a player removed from a game, due to injury, to return to the game.
J. Each team shall have a first aid kit and phone on hand at all practices and League games, for emergency purposes.
K. Players or Cheerleaders participating, or who have participated during the current season, in a public, private or parochial school football or football cheerleading program are not eligible.
L. All participants shall be responsible to the Unit Director or designated representative of the Unit Director.
M. Overweight players may practice (make contact) only if their weight is within 10 pounds of the maximum weight for the age and level.
RULE IV – REGISTRATION AND PHYSICAL EXAM
A. Registration
Registration will be on “First Come, First Served” basis or by a lottery system as approved by the League Member’s with veterans right in both cases for all participants.
B. Physical Examination
Every participant must have an annual certificate of good health signed by a physician and countersigned by parents, prior to any physical conditioning or body contact. These shall be on file with the Member organization and open for inspection at all time.
C. Registrars
Each Member shall have a registrar who is responsible only to his/her organization for its team registrations any physical examination forms.
1. Each participant shall furnish proof of age, which must be checked by the Unit Director or registrar.
A birth certificate or passport is the only acceptable evidence of proof of age.
For purposes of this rule, Cheerleading Mascots are considered participants.
2. The Unit Director or registrar must keep a copy of each participant birth certificate or passport on file. Each Unit must also bring these copies to every game and make them available for opposing Unit Director’s inspection.
3. A copy of each participant’s birth certificate or passport shall be supplied to the League, for verification, with their team rosters.
4. Each organization’s registrar shall supply the League and its opponents with a master roster list by Team which must include:
For the players name, age, weight and uniform number
For the cheerleaders name and age.
RULE V – PRACTICE RULES
A. Opening Practice
No formal or informal supervised practice or conditioning shall be held before five weeks prior to the first regularly scheduled game for any participant. The first week of conditioning is optional.
B. Body Contact (players only)
The optional first week of practice for each player will be for physical conditioning purposes only.
Additionally, the first four days, following the optional first week, for each player will be for physical conditioning only.
No contact with any devise or individuals shall be allowed. A football and helmet shall not be classified as a devise.
C. Prohibited Practice
Prior to the first game there shall be no practice on one day per week for all participants.
After the first game there shall be no more than 4 practice days per week, except that there may be 5 practice days during a “Bye Week” when no game is scheduled. One of the two days off shall each team determine the same day of the week throughout the season as; the other day may be variable.
A chalk talk or the viewing of films on a non-practice day not exceeding one hour shall not constitute a practice if the players do not participate in any physical practice.
D. Practice Duration
Night practices are allowed however, no practice shall exceed two (2) hours duration per day.
RULE VI – SCHEDULING RIGHTS
A. Schedule Establishment
1. Each team shall be allowed two practice scrimmages prior to the first scheduled game; these scrimmages are not to be held in the same week.
2. Teams may scrimmage at any time during the season with the stipulation that a scrimmage counts as a practice. There may be only one scrimmage per team per week.
3. This is strictly a practice session and absolutely no attempt shall be made to approximate game competitive standards. No first downs shall be kept nor any attempt to keep score or any other method to determine the comparative abilities of the teams.
4. All games shall be scheduled and approved by the Members of the League.
5. Games may be scheduled only on Saturday afternoon, Saturday night or Sunday afternoon. The home team has the option of setting actual date and time within the limits outlined below.
6. Games will be played in the order: Freshman, Junior Varsity, and Varsity. Changes to this order can be made on by the prior agreement of both Unit Directors.
7. The League shall be randomly split into two (2) divisions each year. The divisions will be known as “A” and “B”. The two teams hosting divisional playoffs will be assigned a division by a coin toss.
B. Day Games
The first game of all day games shall not start prior to 11:00 am or later than 1:00 pm. Any game affected by Daylight Savings Time shall start no later then 12:00 noon.
Allow a thirty (30) minute delay under exceptional circumstances to be agreed upon by both unit directors.
C. Night Games
Night games can be scheduled only on Saturday nights provided the Freshman game starts prior to 5:30 pm and the Varsity game starts prior to 9:15 pm.
Allow a thirty (30) minute delay under exceptional circumstance to be agreed upon by both unit directors.
D. The regular season shall consist be eight (8) games and start the weekend after Labor Day weekend. In case of an odd number of teams, the following apply:
a. Eight (8) teams, to be determined randomly each year, will play seven (7) games.
b. Of these eight (8) teams playing only seven (7) games, four (4) teams will have four (4) home games and the rest will only have three (3) home games. The four (4) teams will be determined randomly each year.
E. Post Season Play
a. The top team in each division (Division Winner) will participate in the playoffs. Each teams divisional win/loss record will be used to determine standings within their division.
If all three (3) divisions, the team with the best overall record that is not a Division Winner will compete in the Playoffs as the Wild Card Winner.
In case of a tie, for either Division Winners or Wild Card Winner, the following methods will be used to break the tie (listed in the order of use):
The team with the fewest losses and/or ties in their division record will be given a higher ranking (not applicable if teams don’t all play same number of games)
The winner of a game between the tied teams will be given a higher ranking (not used if three or more teams are tied)
The team with the fewest losses and/or ties in their division record will be given a higher ranking (not applicable if teams don’t play same number of games)
The winner of a game between the tied teams will be given a higher ranking (not used if three or more teams are tied)
The team with the fewest losses and/or ties in their overall record will be given a higher ranking.
The team with the fewest average points scored against them in divisional games will be given the higher ranking.
2. A post-season football tournament will be played as follows and must be completed by sundown on November 15.
The top two teams in each of the two divisions will play in two Playoff games.
The team assignments to the Playoff sites will be determined by random drawing. The Executive Board may give preference to units with more than one team in the Playoffs or to Playoff Host units.
The winners from the two (2) games described above will play the final tournament game (Super Bowl)
The playoff games described above will be each hosted by a rotating site in the order listed below:
2000 Rockets/Steelers
2001 Comets/Cougars
2002 Lions/Railsplitters
2003 Rangers/Braves
2004 Meteors/Chargers
2005 Redskins/Wildcats
The Super Bowl game described above will be each hosted by a rotating site in the order listed below:
2000 Westland Meteors
2001 Ann Arbor Wildcats
2002 Westland Comets
2003 Plymouth-Canton Steelers
2004 Garden City Chargers
2005 Canton Lions
2006 Ypsilanti Braves
2007 Lincoln Railsplitters
2008 Redford Rangers
2009 Belleville Cougars
2010 Dearborn Heights Redskins
2011 Farmington Rockets
The host field shall not charge admission but shall provide a concession stand, with all proceeds going to the host unit.
The host team will provide footballs, announcer, scales, and chain gang.
If a host unit is not able to host a game the next unit in the rotation will be selected to fill their place.
Post season Tournament games will include Freshman, Junior, Varsity, and Varsity Teams.
3. A post season Cheerleading Competition will be held on the ninth Saturday of the regular season and will include all League Franchises and will be hosted by a rotating site in the order listed below:
2000 Belleville Cougars
2001 Lincoln Railsplitters
2002 Ypsilanti Braves
2003 Plymouth-Canton Steelers
2004 Ann Arbor Wildcats
2005 Canton Lions
2006 Redford Rangers
2007 Garden City Chargers
2008 Westland Comets
2009 Dearborn Heights Redskins
2010 Farmington Rockets
2011 Westland Meteors
RULE VII – WEATHER
A. To play or not to play
a. The decision as to whether or not a game should be played in inclement weather shall be in the hands of the referee. He will be instructed to consider the health of the participants.
B. Results of Called Games in Progress
a. A called game before half time is considered no contest
b. A called game after half time will be considered completed as the score stands at the time of calling.
C. Rescheduling of Called Games
Any called game may be rescheduled at both team’s convenience on any open date during the season. A sincere effort on the part of both teams involved must be made to reschedule this game within the limitations imposed by previous commitments as to Rule VI, Article A, Item 3, and Rule VI, Article D and E.
RULE VIII – AWARDS
A. There will be no individual participant awards given by a Member or Unit unless one is given to each participant.
B. There will be no League awards to teams or individuals participants except as decided by the League Members on a yearly basis.
RULE IX – COMMERCIALIZATION
A. Commercialization of the Western Suburban Junior Football League’s program, which would benefit a business, will not be permitted. The sole aim of any contributor both in time and money should be able to assist youth, and to help make their community a better place in which to live.
Members, which persist in violating this rule, run the risk of losing their Franchise by action of the Members of the Western Suburban Junior Football League.
RULE X – PUBLICITY
A. There will be no restriction in publicity except for commercialization as stated in Rule IX. Publicity shall be left up to the discretion of the individual Franchise as long as they comply with the rules and philosophy of this organization.
RULE IX – GAME REPORTS
A. It shall be mandatory by Tuesday following each game, that Unit Directors file a report of the game and that the officials be rated.
This shall be a rule for purposes of imposing penalties recited above. A $25.00 fine shall be imposed on any team if the R&E Chairman does not receive the complete game report by the Friday following the game.
B. Copies of all Unit Directors game reports must be forwarded to the R&E Chairman.
RECOMMENDATIONS
A. To Officials
a. Penalties should be called only when the infraction gives advantage to the team of the violator. It must be kept in mind that the age of the players and the experience of the coaches is different than in other types of contests.
b. We want officials to feel they are part of our instruction staff, both in the technical and sportsmanship aspects of the game.
c. Please report unpleasant incidents and examples of improper coaching to their chief official.
B. To Members
a. Make certain that all your coaches have a copy of these rules.
b. Make certain that all of the people in your organization who are active in the presentation of our games have a copy of these rules.
WESTERN SUBURBAN JUNIOR FOOTBALL
LEAGUE COACHING CRITERIA
The purpose of these criteria is to insure a cohesive and uniform organizational structure for the Western Suburban Junior Football League.
The guidelines set forth herein will be enforced and any deviation will result in appropriate action being taken from the Unit affected.
RESPONSIBILITY
All coaches of football players, all cheerleading directors and cheerleading coaches are to adhere to the basic principles set forth herein.
All coaches acting, as assistants are responsible to the head coach of the team for which they assist.
All head coaches are responsible to the Unit Director of his/her particular Unit for his/her actions and the actions of his/her assistants.
Head Coaches are to inform the Unit Director of any serious problem relating to a player or cheerleader on his/her team.
CODE OF ETHICS
Responsibility to Participants
In his/her relationship with players or cheerleaders under his/her care, the coach should always be aware of the tremendous influence he/she wields, for good or bad. Parents entrust their dearest possession to the coach’s charge, and the coach through his/her own example, must always be sure that the players and cheerleaders who have participated under him/her are a finer and more decent people for having done so. The coach should never place the valued of a win above that of instilling the highest desirable ideals and character traits in his/her players or cheerleaders. The safety and welfare of his/her players or cheerleaders should always be uppermost in his/her mind, and must never be sacrificed for any personnel prestige or selfish glory.
In teaching the game of football, or cheerleading the coach must realize that there are certain rules designed to protect the play and provide common standards for determining a winner and loser. Any attempts to beat these rules, to take unfair advantage of an opponent or teach deliberate unsportsmanlike conduct have no place in the game of football or cheerleading nor has any coach guilty of such teaching any right to call himself/herself a coach. The coach shall set the example for winning without boasting and losing without bitterness.
A coach who conducts himself/herself according to these principles need have no fear or failure, for the final analysis, the success of a coach can be measured in terms of the respect he/she has earned from his/her own players or cheerleaders and from his/her opponents.
The diagnosis and treatment of injuries is a medical problem and should not be considered a province of at he coach. A coach’s responsibility is to see that the injured players are given prompt medical attention and that they physician’s or qualified medical person’s orders are carried out.
Under no circumstances should a coach authorize the use of mendicants, stimulants or drugs except authorized by a physician.
A player or cheerleader’s future should not be jeopardized by any circumvention of eligibility rules.
A coach should not make demands on his/her players or cheerleaders that will interfere with the players or cheerleaders opportunities for achieving academic success.
Responsibility to the Unit
The function of the coach is to educate young people through participation in the game of football or cheerleading. This primary and basic function must never be disregarded.
A coach shall conduct himself/herself so as to maintain the principles, integrity and dignity of his/her unit.
A coach should discuss his/her problems with his/her Unit Director in a friendly manner and then accept and support the decisions that have been reached.
It is highly important that a coach support the Unit is all policies, rules and regulations regarding football or cheerleading.
Rules of the Game
Each coach should be acquainted thoroughly with the rules of the game and the League. He/she is responsible for having the rules taught and interpreted for his/her players and all assistants.
The coaches must adhere to both the letter and the spirit of the rules.
A coach must remember always that it is not the purpose of football to hurt or injure an opponent by legal or illegal methods.
Good sportsmanship habit formation is developed on the practice field. Where coaches permit, encourage or condone performance, which is dangerous to an opponent, they are derelict in their responsibility to teach fair play and good sportsmanship. This aspect of coaching must be attacked just as vigorously as the teaching of offence and defense, and to the players it is far more important that all technical aspects of the game combined. Any coach who fails to stress this point, or who permits, encourages, or defends the use of unsportsmanlike tactics shall be considered guilty of the most serious breach of football or cheerleading coaching ethics.
Game Day
On the day of the game officials should be treated in a courteous manner. If problems arise during a game situation with an official, the coach is to ask the Unit Director to intercede and address the problem to the official.
It is vitally important a coach’s actions and behavior at all times bring credit to himself/herself, his/her team and the game of football or cheerleading.
Before and after a game, rival coaches should meet and exchange a friendly greeting.
Coaches are accountable for the conduct of his/her players, or cheerleaders on an off the playing field. Discipline is a part of football/cheerleading and should be taught by the coaching staff.
2002 WSJFL SCHEDULE
“A” Division “B” Division
1. 7.
2. 8.
3. 9.
4. 10.
5. 11.
6. 12.
Regular season Home team is listed second
Game starting times shown in parenthesis
DAY Date
SAT
SUN
SAT
SUN
SAT
SUN
SAT
SUN
SAT
SUN
SAT
SUN
SAT
SUN
SAT
SUN
Post Season
Nov. WSJFL Cheerleading Rally
Nov Playoff Games
Nov Super Bowl
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2011 rules