Note: The Commissioner of Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader Program reserves the right to make additions, rescind or modify any Rule contained in this Manual when such addition, rescission or modification is done as deemed by the Commissioner in the best interest of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program. 
 
 
GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Parents, Coaches and Volunteers involved in the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program believe that regardless of the situation, it is at all times about the children.  ALL of the children.   Not just one child, not my child, not your child, not a small group of children or a single team of children – it is about every child in our programs as well as the children in our opponents’ program, regardless of ability, athleticism, skills, physical attributes, age, sex, race or any other factor.    Our actions, attitudes, expectations, and opinions will be guided by the understanding that we are influencing the lives of young children and we will ALWAYS conduct ourselves appropriately and in an adult-like manner.  Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program (WAYANF&C) will not discriminate against any individual on basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability or sexual orientation.

MISSION
The mission of Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader (WAYANF&C) program is to teach and encourage good sportsmanship and fair play through the promotion and support of American football for the young people of our community. WAYANF&C is committed to the development of self-discipline, character and sportsmanship and believes that an athletic contest must be viewed in the framework of an educational experience. Coaches will teach their participants the elements of fairness, teamwork, self-control, courtesy and respect for the rules of the game as well as the other participants and officials.

GOALS

• Provide a positive, fun-filled experience;
• Teach the participants the skills, rules, strategy and discipline of Football & Cheerleading; 
• Encourage good sportsmanship, self-confidence and teamwork;
• Promote healthy and safe physical activity for all participants;
• Build character by offering a team experience, regardless of individual ability, stressing skill development and a positive attitude regardless of winning or losing;
• Provide opportunities for equal participating time for all members as much as possible.

OBJECTIVES
 

• To promote balanced competition within the scope of our rules and regulations and to ensure the safety                                       and welfare of the youth football players and cheerleaders.
• To provide responsible football and cheerleading programs with organized and trained adult volunteers.
• To teach the fundamentals of football and cheerleading and influence good sportsmanship, teamwork,   the highest moral and physical standards and the importance of academic achievement.

• To allow participation by ALL youth regardless of experience or ability.
• To create a family friendly environment by giving parents/guardians the opportunity to participate with their children in a drug and alcohol free environment.

PURPOSE  

Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader (WAYANF&C) Rules are established to prevent confusion and encourage uniformity.  WAYANF&C rules are developed in an effort to make the game of Football more interesting, while ensuring that the game is safe and is played fairly. In addition to encouraging order, WAYANF&C rules establishes goals and expectations more clearly and allows both children and adults to feel confident, competent and safe.
When a coach, player or other member of the WAYANF&C program engages in conduct in violation of the rules and the conduct is committed away from the field of practice or play, the WAYANF&C may discipline the violator, up to and including dismissal from the program, whenever the conduct causes unfavorable publicity to the WAYANF&C program or hampers the ability of the coach, player or other member to represent the WAYANF&C program.
 
Infractions to the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader Program Rules may result in formal disciplinary action by the Commissioner up to and including permanent dismissal from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader Program, depending upon the severity of the offense, i.e., physical violence during a Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader Program event, continued or repeated violations, cheating, etc.  Once the Commissioner receives a formal complaint, he/she shall investigate the matter and, where deemed necessary, schedule a meeting with the parties to hear the evidence and render a written decision.  The decision of the Commissioner shall be final and no further action may be taken. 
   
Section 1. Team qualifying age is determined based upon the participant’s age on August 1st immediately preceding the current season.  Football players are required to provide a state issued identification card or copy of his/her original birth certificate (no copy) at the time of official weigh-in as proof of age to ensure each player is placed in the correct division.  If an original (no copy) of official birth certificate is not presented, the player will not be eligible to participate.  
 
Section 2. Divisions for football players are as follows:
   Section 3.  Head coaches are responsible for ensuring that only eligible players are participating in games. Any Head Coach who intentionally or unintentionally plays an ineligible player shall be immediately ejected from the game and is subject to discipline by the Commissioner, up to and including a one year suspension.
 
Section 4.  A player is permitted to play up in the next Division if that player will be eligible to play in the Division during the next regular season.  Example:  A player on the B-Team, ten year old player, is permitted to play on the A-Team if the player will be 11 years old on August 1, of the next year.  D-Team players are not permitted to play up.
 
   
Section 1. The Commissioner serves at the will and pleasure of the parents and coaches of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader Program and as such may be removed with or without cause by a 2/3 majority of parents and coaches of the WAYANF&C at a meeting called for that purpose. Notice and purpose of the meeting must be provided to Football Commissioner, parents and coaches of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader Program no later than 15 days prior to the meeting.

Section 2. The Commissioner shall perform such duties ordinarily incumbent upon Commissioners and other duties as may be required for the effective and efficient operation of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader Program. The Commissioner’s duties shall include but not be limited to: 

Administrative  
- The Commissioner shall be the primary representative of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program.
- The Commissioner shall be responsible for providing all WAYANF&C updates and rule changes, as necessary.
- The Commissioner or his/her designee shall be available during all scheduled WAYANF&C practices and games.
- The Commissioner shall preside at the meeting of the WAYANF&C and be accountable for the proper conduct of the affairs of the WAYANF&C.
- The Commissioner shall be responsible for all participant rosters.
- The Commissioner may appoint special committees as may be necessary to assist in the administration of the affairs of the WAYANF&C.
- The Commissioner shall hold regular coaches meetings with each team’s head coach, to keep the coaches abreast of any rule changes and football concerns.
- The Commissioner shall oversee all aspects of practice including the performance of the coaches; all coaching staff is following the Coach’s Code of Conduct, and adherence to all safety regulations.
- The Commissioner shall coordinate uniform budgeting, purchases and storage and support the WAYANF&C’s budgeting process for any additional budget related to the football program.
- The Commissioner shall be responsible for ensuring that all Football Coaches and volunteers of the WAYANF&C who provide football instruction to the participants have the necessary USA Football certifications.
- The Commissioner shall ensure that all WAYANF&C volunteers working on the sideline wear their badges clearly visible at all games.
- The Commissioner shall be responsible for acquiring practice and game fields and ensuring that they are properly maintained.
- The Commissioner shall present a written financial report to include a balance sheet by December 31st of the current year.

Sponsorship &Fundraising  
- The Commissioner shall be responsible for direction and maintenance of the WAYANF&C’s sponsorship and fund-raising programs.
- The Commissioner shall solicit support, create committees and teams as appropriate to successfully execute sponsorship and fund raising mission.

Concession
- The Commissioner shall be responsible for direction and maintenance of the WAYANF&C’s concession program.
- The Commissioner shall solicit support and create teams as appropriate to successfully execute the association concession program.
- The Commissioner shall provide regular status reports to the WAYANF&C.

Equipment
- The Commissioner shall be responsible for direction and maintenance of the WAYANF&C equipment program.
- The Commissioner shall solicit support as needed to successfully execute the WAYANF&C’s Equipment program.
-  The Commissioner shall inspect all equipment for safety and serviceability prior to the league season.
- The Commissioner shall coordinate the reconditioning of helmets as needed.
- The Commissioner shall make arrangements for the purchase of additional equipment for the coming season.
- The Commissioner shall inventory all WAYANF&C equipment before and after the season.

Safety
- The Commissioner shall solicit support as needed to successfully execute the WAYANF&C’s safety program.
- The Commissioner in concurrence with the WAYANF&C Player Safety Coach shall be responsible for direction and maintenance of the WAYANF&C’s safety program.

Merchandise
-The Commissioner shall be responsible for designing, ordering and maintaining inventory for WAYANF&C merchandise.
 -The Commissioner shall be responsible for keeping a running inventory list of all merchandise in stock. 

Volunteers
The Commissioner shall be responsible for the coordination of scheduling volunteers for parents to meet their volunteer time commitments.

Marketing / Recruiting
- The Commissioner shall be responsible for the coordination of marketing materials to promote the WAYANF&C to new and returning athletes.
-The Commissioner shall work with parents, coaches and volunteers to coordinate advertising and marketing efforts with the WAYANF&C registration schedule in mind.

Community Outreach/ Events
- The Commissioner shall coordinate community outreach events to build community support for WAYANF&C’s football & cheer programs.
-The Commissioner shall be a liaison to the majority of the community and represent WAYANF&C’s interests and vision.
-The Commissioner shall be present at home games to network with guests and build a positive community support.
  Section 1.  Coaches are the “Core” of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program. They represent the integrity of the program being conducted and must support program objectives and policies. Coaches must be aware of the positive and negative impacts they can have on their participants and others. Coaches must maintain an atmosphere which promotes and supports the philosophy of the WAYANF&C program. Coaches shall be responsible to young athletes, parents, officials, and other coaches by being knowledgeable of the policies and procedures pertaining to the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program.   
 
Section 2.  The function of a Coach in the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program is to educate student-athlete through participation in competitive sports.  The Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program is designed to enhance academic achievement and should never interfere with opportunities for academic success. Each student-athlete should be treated as though he or she were the Coaches’ own, and his or her welfare shall be uppermost at all times.  

Section 3.  Each Head Coach will conduct a meeting with parents/guardians after the registration period and prior to the season’s first practice to explain the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program rules. The dates of all parents/guardian meetings will be posted on the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program’s media page and a courtesy/reminder phone call will be made to the parents/guardian prior to the meeting. 
 
Section 4. Head Coaches must be at least 21 years of age.  Assistant coaches must be at least 18 years of age.  Assigned Head Coaches of each team take full responsibility of their assistant coaches, staff members, players and parents.
 
Section 3.  All Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program coaches and staff age 18 or above must submit to a background check to ensure that all adult volunteers are suitable to work with children.   
 
Section 5. An adult will not be permitted to volunteer in the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program if the results of the background check reveal unsuitability for working with children. Upon successful completion of a background check, an organization identification badge will be issued.  This badge must be visibly worn and in plain view at all times when the coach, staff, or other team/squad personnel are acting in any official capacity away from home field.
 
Section 6.  At least one adult coach or staff member of Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program must hold a valid CPR & First Aid certification and be present during all WAYANF&C events in which the teams/squads participate.  In the event an athlete is injured, a First Aid/CPR certified coach or team personnel, or other properly licensed medical provider, must attend to the athlete. 
 
Section 7.  Attendance at all coach meetings is mandatory for each team/squad.  In the event the Head Coach is unable to be present, it is acceptable for an Assistant Coach or other staff member to attend.
 
Section 8.  The Head Coach of each team shall be responsible for ensuring that the team’s structure, technique, and terminology on offense and defense match that of the Wilkinson County High School. 
 
Section 9.  The head coach (with the approval of the Commissioner) may remove any football player of cheerleader for any one or more of the following:
   
Section 10.  Head Coaches are required to ensure that parents are aware of, understand and comply with all rules of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program including:
 

• Parent’s role at practices and games is to be a cheerleader.
• Parents shall respect the role of the coaches and allow them to direct the children during practice and games.
• Only Coaches certified the by USA Heads Up Football program are permitted to provide instructions to players during practice and games.
• All personnel on the sidelines must have picture identification displayed at all times.
• Coaches are responsible for enforcing rules as violations of this rule will subject his/her team to penalties and game forfeiture.

Section 11.  The Head Coach shall be responsible for ensuring the accuracy and completeness of all Parent’s and Athlete’s paperwork as required by the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program. All completed forms and other program paperwork will be maintained by the office of the Commissioner. 
 
Section 12.  The Head Coach shall be responsible for collecting and organizing all required player forms and ensuring that all forms are completed correctly before equipment distribution
(Three members of each coaching staff must be present to assist at equipment distribution and two members of each coaching staff must be present at the equipment distribution make-up session)
 
Section 13.  The Head Coach shall be responsible for working with your team parent(s) to help with player equipment turn-in after the season.

Section 14.  All comments, concerns and questions regarding the team/squad shall be first addressed directly to the Head Coach.   

Section 15.  The Commissioner of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program shall develop an evaluation program to identify those coaches who are able and willing to support the purposes of the football/Cheerleader program. The Commissioner will also establish and implement procedures to identify those whose services should not be continued because they are not fulfilling the objectives of the program.

Section 16.  The Commissioner will regularly observe each coach’s performance. Coaches must be able to present evidence of competency in coaching football/cheerleaders and must be judged by the Commissioner to be among the most qualified to serve as youth coaches. The results of the evaluation program for youth coaches will be used to determine the most qualified for future coaching positions in the WAYANF&C program. 
 
Section 17.  If a Coach violates any rules of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program, the matter shall be addressed by the Commissioner.  The Commissioner will review the situation and issue his/her decision.  The Commissioner will resolve the matter in the best interest of the players and the WAYANF&C, as well as considering the goal of keeping coaches and helping them become better coaches and role models.  
 
Section 18.  The Commissioner is authorized to remove any coach for failure to follow the guidelines for Coaches’ duties in the football/cheerleader program or for failure to adhere to acceptable behavior for coaches as outlined in Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader Program Rules.

Section 19.  New Coaches without experience will be placed with experienced coaches with proven abilities. Those abilities include use of proper teaching techniques, skill in communicating with parents, players and other coaches, and presenting a positive self-image at all times.
 
Section 20. The following activities will result in the immediate loss of the coaching position;   striking a fellow coach, fighting, striking a player, intentional violation of the Minimum Play Rule.
   
Section 1.  Each player shall pay his/her registration fee on or before the designated date of the current season.  The registration fee for each player will be set prior to the start registration.  No uniform or other equipment will be issued until the registration fee is paid in full. No WAYANF&C coach, player or volunteer in any capacity shall be paid any amount of monies for any services rendered.
 
Section 2.  The Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program requires that grade checks be done twice during the season.  Head coaches will be responsible for verifying grades and ensuring participants are in compliance with the standards set by the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program.  A player must have at least a 2.0 GPA, or equivalent, to be eligible to participate in practice or games, with no grade in any subject being an “F” or otherwise unsatisfactory (“U”).  No child is exempt from this requirement.  Exceptions to this requirement made be made at the sole discretion of the Commissioner after consulting with the player, player’s parents and Head Coach with the most important factor to be considered is the player’s and parent’s attitude toward improvement. The skill level of the player shall not be considered. 
 
Section 3.  To assist in the development of and to increase Youth Athletes’ achievement in school, it shall be the policy of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program to require that ALL Youth Athletes participate in the Reading Initiative on a DAILY basis, PRIOR TO BEGINNING PRACTICE. The Reading Initiative will consist of ten (10) minutes of silent reading, twenty (20) minutes read and respond and vocabulary expansion and enrichment-word of the week.  Coaches are not authorized to make exceptions to this policy and are expected to strictly enforce this policy.   Exceptions to this policy made be by the Commissioner only.
  
Section 4.  Players must wear their regular season game jerseys while participating in a game. If a player is wearing a jersey other than that assigned to him/her, it shall be the duty of that player’s coach to notify the opposing team before play begins, or immediately upon the jersey change occurring if during the game (such as for a change necessitated by unwearable or unsafe condition).  Any Coach who switches jerseys, or causes jerseys to be switched prior to or during a game without good cause and notice to the opposing team will be suspended and/or permanently dismissed from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program. 
 
Section 5.  All Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football participants should play an active role in each game. Unless noted prior to the start of the game, by absence or by injury.

Section 6.  The player participation policy of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program is that each player shall participate in every game for a significant portion of the total game time. Although a specific number of plays or time requirements are not specified in this program, it is the spirit and intent of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program that all Players participate fully. Exceptions:  Experience has taught us that if a player is not ready mentally and physically to play in the game, injuries are more likely to occur. Coaches shall monitor which players are coming to practice and are prepared to compete both mentally and physically. Even though we have a rule that all players must fully participate in games, coaches must ensure that a player is mentally and physically prepared to play. If in the coaches’ determination, a player is not mentally and physically ready to play, the coach must not allow the player to participate in the game.

Section 7.  All Minimum plays must be “active” plays (punt and punt return are active plays from the line of scrimmage and do count). All other special team plays do not count as Minimum Play Rule plays. All plays must be from the line of scrimmage. Any penalties resulting in the replay of the down, do not count as plays. Plays that result in a quarterback dropping to his knee with the sole purpose of “playing it safe” will not count as plays.
 
Section 8.  Designating a player as “Disciplined” will not be an acceptable means of meeting the Mandatory Play Requirement without the approval of the Commissioner. All participants must receive their minimum mandatory number of plays by the end of the 3rd quarter. Any participant that has not received their minimum plays by the end of the 3rd quarter must enter the game and remain in the game until they have received their required number of plays.
 
Section 9.  No player may be designated as “Injured” as an acceptable means of meeting the Mandatory Play Requirement without an onsite evaluation and designation as approved by the Commissioner.
 
Section 10.  An intentional violations of the Minimum Play Rule during the regular season will result in the Head Coach being suspended from the next game. A subsequent intentional violation of the Minimum Play Rule during the regular season will result in the Head Coach being suspended from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program for one (1) year.   An intentional violation of the Minimum Play Rule during the post season will result in the Head Coach being disqualified from coaching in the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football and Cheerleader program.  
 
Section 11.  A player may not be eligible to participate in a game for the following reasons: 
   
Section 12.  If a player is not participating in a game, the Head Coach, or staff member must submit a report to the Commissioner which indicate the player’s name and number and the reason the player is ineligible.  It is the responsibility of the Head Coach to ensure all players are getting their required plays. 

Section 13.  Any player ejected from a game is suspended form practice and the next game. If a player is ejected a second time within the same season, the player’s actions will be reviewed by the Commissioner for possible further sanctions or suspension for the remainder of the season.

Section 14. Any youth participant whose actions or activities are detrimental to the Organization is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program
 
Section 15. Fighting: Suspension/ dismissal from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program.
 
Section 16. Disrespect for coaches, participants, game and team officials: First offense: removal from the game/practice and parental/guardian conference. Second offense: suspended for one game and one week of practice. Third offense: Suspension and parental conference.
 
Section 17. Badgering/Bullying opponents and or teammates by word or act with the purpose of intimidation: First offense: removal from the game/practice and parental/guardian conference. Second offense: Suspension/ dismissal from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program. Section 1.  Parent(s) and/or Guardians of participants in the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program are expected to voluntarily assist perform tasks related to the daily operations of the Organization and football games at the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader home field. The tasks to be performed include, but are not limited to:  
Section 2. Parent(s) and/or Guardians may opt out of participating in the performance of these task by paying $100.00 at the beginning of the season.  This amount is in addition to applicable registration fees.   
 
Section 3.  Failure of a Parent(s) and/or Guardians to participate in performing the required task or opting out of participation by paying $100.00 at the beginning of the season will result in their child/children being excluded from participating in any future Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader programs.
 
Section 4. Parent(s) and/or Guardians may, with prior approval of the Commissioner, designate another personal to perform the duties for which the Parent(s) and/or Guardians have been scheduled.   The person so designated shall not be scheduled to perform any other Organizational task during that day. Section 1. The following steps are required in the event a player or cheerleader has a head injury and demonstrates signs of a concussion. 
 

• Immediate Removal From Play – Any athlete (football or cheerleader) who exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with having sustained a concussion will be immediately removed from the game or practice. 
• Any referee, head coach, assistant coach, or volunteer trained in concussion signs and symptoms is empowered to make the on-site determination that an athlete has received a concussion. 
• Once it is determined that there may be a concussion that decision is final.  The athlete will not be allowed to return to the game or practice on that same day. 
• The parent or legal guardian of the athlete and WAYANF&C Commissioner will be notified of the suspected concussion as soon as possible.
• Required Medical Clearance – Any athlete (football or cheerleader) who has been removed from a game or practice for a suspected concussion must provide written medical clearance to the head coach in order to return to play. 
• The written medical clearance must be from a licensed health care provider and state that the athlete is medically cleared to return to play. 
• Written medical clearance will be maintained in the office of the Commissioner. 
• If a player who has been medically cleared experiences a return of any concussion signs or symptoms he/she will be immediately removed from play.
• Required Training for Coaches – All head and assistant coaches, football and cheerleader, will be required to complete concussion training annually. 
• Coaches will not receive their badges until the mandatory training has been completed.
• Informed Consent of Parents and Athletes – All parents/legal guardians and athletes will be provided a written copy of the WAYANF&C Concussion Policy as well as concussion education. 
• The head coach will ensure that parent/legal guardian and athlete sign a form acknowledging receipt and understanding of the WAYANF&C Concussion Policy. 
• The signed acknowledgement form must be signed before the first day of practice. 
• The signed acknowledgement form will be maintained in the office of the Commissioner.

   
Section 1. No player shall be permitted to participate in any practice, conditioning or other activity until all the necessary paperwork has been received in conjunction with established registration requirements.
 
Section 2. No player shall practice without a helmet once equipment has been issued. Shoulder pads, pants pads, and girdles may not be worn during the first 10 hours of conditioning.  Helmets and cleats are the only approved equipment to be worn during first 10 hours of conditioning.
 
Section 3.  No item will be worn on the head except the issued or approved helmet during practices and games.   An athletic skull cap may be worn underneath the helmet.  No jewelry, bandannas or other related items believed to be gang markings or clothing shall be worn.  Visors or sport goggles can be worn if clear.  Metal cleats are prohibited to be worn in practices, scrimmages and games.
 
Section 4.  Any player who does not meet required practice days during any week will not be permitted to participate during half or all of that week’s game. All absences must be excused and discussed with the Head Coach. 
 
Section 5.  Documentation of attendance at all practices, games and other Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program events is mandatory. Attendance sheets must be provided to the WAYANF&C Commissioner upon request. All players are required to participate in all scheduled games and other WAYANF&C events.  Failure to participate may result in the suspension of the player.
 
Section 6.  Any player who misses four (4) consecutive practices without prior notification may be cut from the team/squad.  The Head Coach must contact the Commissioner within forty-eight (48) hours if the player/cheerleader is cut and collect the appropriate uniform/equipment to be returned to the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program. 
 
Section 7. A Head Coach, upon approval of the Commissioner, may suspend any player/cheerleader for cause.  The suspension must be documented and provided to the Commissioner and parent or guardian of the suspended player.
 
Section 8.  All practice times, dates, and locations will be designated by agreements between the Head Coach and Player Safety Coach.  Each team/squad will be assigned a practice area for all regularly scheduled practices.  Any teams or squads intending to use an alternate location must clear said alternate location in advance with the Player Safety Coach. 
 
Section 9.  Practicing on weekends is not permitted.  No team/squad may begin practicing on fields under the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program prior to the official practice start date set by the Commissioner.  Violations will result in the suspension of the Head Coach from the WAYANF&C program. 
 
Section 10.  Coaches may gather their teams, in whole or in part during the off-season for practicing or conditioning. Coaches may also arrange workouts/conditioning with commercial or other third party entities for their teams provided that participation in such programs is voluntary for the players without repercussions.  Such events must not include any form of contact.  Equipment will not be issued for such off-season
 
Section 11.  Coaches must ensure that off season practice and conditioning does not interfere with other spring and summer sports and activities such as baseball and family vacations. The Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program requires that NO pressure be placed on individuals to participate. Coaches that “require” or in any way manipulate WAYANF&C participants to join or participate in off season practice in any way or who do not plan and allow for participation in other sports and family vacations will be immediately suspended from coaching any team in the WAYANF&C during the regular season.


Section 12.  Reported abuse of practice schedule rules will result in a written warning from the Commissioner and potential removal of head coach for subsequent violations. Violations may result in, but are not limited to, the suspension of the Head Coach from the WAYANF&C for one (1) year.
 
Section 13. The following Drills and Warm-up Exercises are hereby banned from all Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program activities: Unsupported Leg Lifts, Neck Bridges, Neck Rolls, Bull in the Ring, Barrel Rolls, and any and all drills and exercises not generally accepted as safe, and that may not be reflective of actions that would normally occur during the course of a football game. 
 
Section 14. Any team that participates in an “off-season” practice is required to notify the Commissioner of the practice.  An “off season” practice is considered to be an organized gathering of 5 or more participants in a single location at any given time.  Any head coach in violation of this rule will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including removal from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program. This Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program rule is not intended to prevent individuals from playing with their own children and the friends of their children at their homes, in the park, and other locations, regardless of the activity.
 
Section 15.  Water breaks must be given at a minimum of once every 20 minutes during practice and games and more frequently during extreme temperatures.
 
 Section 16.  All practice times, dates, and fields will be designated by agreements between the Head Coach, Player Safety Coach and the Commissioner. Each team will be assigned a practice area for all regularly scheduled practices. Any team intending to use an alternate location must clear said alternate location in advance with the Commissioner. Field use permits issued by local government bodies will be maintained by the Commissioner.
   
Section 1.  Fundraising events are sponsored from time to time to help subsidize the organization.  Some events include T-shirt sales, pictures, concession stands, raffles and other activities.  Any coach, any member of a coaching staff, or any individual that circumvents the organization in an Organization -Sponsored Fundraising Event will be permanently dismissed from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program. 
 
Section 2.  All monies collected for team activities associated with the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program must be directed through the Treasurer. 
 
Section 3.  Members, coaches, and any other Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program volunteers or representatives are not permitted to receive money either by check made payable to themselves or cash to be deposited in a personal account.  Those engaging in this practice of collecting funds in this manner under the guise of collecting funds for the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program will be dismissed from their position permanently.   
Section 4.  All monies raised by a team associated with the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program must be given to the Treasurer before making purchases, and if by check must be on deposit at least two weeks before fund can be released.  
   
Section 1. The use of alcohol, tobacco, electronic cigarettes, and drugs by members, coaches, Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program representatives, officials, youth participants, parents/guardians, and all other persons during any Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader event is prohibited. 
 
Section 2. Snacks having shells (such as sunflower seeds, peanuts, pistachios, etc.,), are prohibited at all Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader sites and facilities. 
 
Section 3. Excessive celebration either prior to or following any game must not include any items that may damage the fields or cause potential health risks to the players.  Items include but are not limited to, silly string, confetti, sparkling juices, smoke bombs, fireworks or pyrotechnics, etc. 
 Section 4. Any violations will result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the event and/or permanent dismissal from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader, as appropriate.   
 
Section 5. Acts of physical violence and verbal abuse, including the use of foul language by members, coaches, Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader representatives, officials, youth participants, parents/guardians, and all other persons during any Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network  Football & Cheerleader event will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the event and/or permanent dismissal from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network  Football & Cheerleader program, as appropriate.
 
Section 6. Any coach, or other Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader representative who commits a moral offense against the Organization or whose actions or activities are detrimental to the Organization is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including permanent dismissal from the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program. 
 
Section 13.  If a team has a 35-point lead on an opponent at any time of the contest, the game will be officially ended and the score at that time will be posted as the official game score accordingly. The WAYANF&C will encourage the winning head coach to refrain from intentionally attempting to score further points, i.e. playing starters, passing, calling time outs, onside kicks, etc. It will be the Commissioner’s opinion to determine if the team’s head coach or players act in an unsportsmanlike manner and sanction accordingly. Mercy Rule is applied during post season play as well.  
Section 1. Any participant including but not limited to parents, children, coaches, volunteers, and fans in the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program who is abusive (verbally or physically) toward any person including but not limited to opposing teams, Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader parents, coaches, referees, players, spectators, water boys, etc. will be suspended. 
 
Section 2. Suspended means that the person may not attend any Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader games or sponsored functions including practices.  Suspended parents will still be required to drop off and pick up children for practices and on game day.    
 

• First Violation – one (1) to two (2) week suspension.  This step may be skipped in the case of physical abuse or severe verbal abuse.
• Second Violation - suspension for the remainder of the season.
• Third Violation - suspended for life (if you are banned for life you may ineligible to participate in any Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleading activities).

 
Section 3. Due to the severity of the abuse the Commissioner reserves the right to escalate the disciplinary process to include all three steps on the first offense.
Section 4. There shall not be any use of alcohol and tobacco products when in contact with players and cheerleaders at any event, game, function, whether given, or sponsored, or affiliated with any Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network “team, player, or cheerleader”. 
 
Section 5. There shall never be any use and or sale of any type of illegal drugs while participating within Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program.  
   
Section 1. All disputes or disagreements or complaints with any coach on a team will first be addressed to the Head Coach of that team.  If the Complaint, dispute, or disagreement is with the Head Coach it will be addressed first to the Head Coach. 
 
Section 2.   If no resolution to the complaint, dispute, or disagreement is made the person making the complaint, may present the complaint, dispute, or disagreement to the Commissioner.  The complaint, dispute, or disagreement should include any and all particulars such as date of situation, nature of the problem, attempts to resolve with the Head Coach, date of attempt to resolve with the Head Coach, and outcome of the attempt to resolve with the Head Coach.
 
Section 3.  When the Commissioner receives the complaint, dispute, or disagreement the Commissioner will meet with the person and any witnesses to the complaint, dispute, or disagreement.  If the Commissioner is unable to resolve the complaint, dispute, or disagreement dispute at the initial meeting, he/she may have the parties meet together to resolve the matter.  After meeting with the parties and reviewing applicable rules and procedures, The Commissioner’s decision is to be made without unnecessary delay within a reasonable period and is final. 
 
Section 4.  A Head Coach may discipline a player with punishments that extend outside the practice field.  If an assistant coach feels the players conduct is so egregious to require punishment, such as: missing game(s), suspension, termination from the WAYANF&C program, then the matter is to be turned over to the Commissioner.  The assistant coach will notify the Commissioner of the problem and suggested resolution.  The Commissioner will meet with the alleged offending player, and if it is determined the punishment is greater than suspension from the team for one week, the Commissioner must meet with the parent to explain the situation. 
 
Section 5. If the recommended punishment is to be more than suspension for one game and/or one week of practice the head coach must inform the Commissioner.   The Commissioner will immediately review the conduct, history of the player, attempts at resolution of the problem(s), parent involvement, and meet with the head coach and the parents of the player in question.  The Commissioner may meet with any witnesses or coaches or other parents, or players.   The Commissioner’s decision will be made without unnecessary delay within a reasonable period and is final.  The Commissioner may not consider the skill level of the player in making his/her decision.
   It is the intent of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program that the Rules, Policies and Procedures of the WCCF Youth Football Association are hereby incorporated and made a part the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program Rules, Policies and Procedures. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency between the provisions of the Cheerleader program that the Rules, Policies and Procedures of the WCCF Rules, Policies and Procedures and those of the Wilk-Amite Youth Action Network Football & Cheerleader program, the provisions of the Cheerleader program that the Rules, Policies and Procedures of the WCCF shall govern and control.