The Game

  • 2 12:00 halves
  • 2 timeouts per game
  • 3 players minimum to avoid forfeit (1 female for co-ed)

The Field

The dimensions of the field are 60 yds. x 25. Each half will be 23 yards with end zones being 7 yards.

The offensive team takes possession of the ball at their 5-yard line and has three plays to cross mid-field (first down). Once a team crosses mid-field, they have three plays to score. If the offense fails to score, the ball changes possession. All drives start from the 5-yard line except interceptions which will be spotted where the player is deflagged. Penalties that result in a first down will give the offense 3 more plays to achieve mid-field (first down) or if the penalty puts the LOS past mid-field, then 3 plays to score.

OFFENSE

Running

  • The quarterback may not run unless the ball has been thrown back, handed or pitched to him or her in the backfield.
  • Teams may handoff (unlimited), pitch, or throw back in the backfield. UNLIMITED laterals or throwbacks behind the LOS are allowed for the player to remain eligible to pass. The player who receives the pitch or handoff may throw the ball as long as he or she is not fully beyond the line of scrimmage.
  • Pitching (backwards/laterally) is allowed downfield (unlimited). Handoffs are allowed in front or behind.
  • A forward pass DOES NOT have to cross the LOS to be a legal play.
  • If the ball is placed on the ?Back? of ANY player, the player MUST run the ball (no give and go to the QB on the back)
  • No run zones are located 5 yards before mid-field and 5-yards before the end zone. You may not run the ball in the no run zone (5-yards before the first down and end zone), only forward passes are allowed.
  • Ball is spotted where the ball is when the flag is pulled.
  • Players may NOT block down field in any form.

Passing

  • The quarterback has 5 seconds to pass the ball if there is no rush. If the ball is not thrown, then the play is dead. After the ball is ruled dead it is returned to the line of scrimmage.
  • Once the ball is handed off or pitched backwards the 5 second count stops. If the defensive team rushes, then there is no 5 second count.
  • There is no arm in motion, if the ball is in hand when the quarterback?s flag is pulled then it will be ruled a sack.
  • Interceptions may be returned.
  • The rusher may not have any contact with the QB (no hitting the QB arm or knocking the ball out of the QB hand).
  • If ANY part of the players body is behind the LOS it is a legal pass

Receiving

  • All players are eligible to receive a pass, including the quarterback, if the ball has been pitched or handed off in the backfield.
  • Players must have at least one foot in bounds when making catch.
  • Players that run out of bounds during a play cannot be the first player to touch a ball when attempting to make a catch (this is a penalty Illegal touching). If the player is pushed out of bounds by a defender, then comes back into the play, he or she is still eligible to touch the ball first.

Play is Ruled Dead When

  • The offensive player?s flag is pulled.
  • Ball carrier steps out of bounds.
  • A touchdown is scored.
  • Any part of the body that is not hands or feet touches the ground.
  • Incomplete pass.
  • Ball hits the ground.

Defense

Rushing the Quarterback

  • Players that rush the quarterback must be a minimum of 7 yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped.
  • The 7 yards will be measured off by a referee.
  • Players that are not 7 yards from the line of scrimmage when the ball is snapped may not enter into the backfield until there is a change of possession.
  • The rusher is allowed a direct lane to the quarterback as long as he or she rushes from either side of the center or outside the bunch formation. The offense must avoid interfering with the rusher if he or she has established a lane.

Pass Coverage

  • Contacting receivers is not allowed
  • Pass interference normally occurs above the waist; entangled feet are not considered pass interference.
  • Incidental contact is not considered pass interference.
  • A player may ?find? their opponent by reaching out and placing a hand on them as long as touching does not delay, impede, twist, or turn their opponent. This is not considered pass interference.
  • A player may use their arms or hands to intentionally obstruct the receiver?s view (face guarding) of the ball without turning their own head to play the ball as long as noteworthy contact is not made with the receiver.
  • If defensive pass interference occurs in the end zone the ball will be placed on the one-yard line, automatic first down.
  • Interceptions may be returned.
  • Interceptions in the end zone that are not returned to the field of play will result in a touchback and the ball will be spotted on the 5-yard line.
  • Contact away from the direction of the pass is not considered pass interference but may be considered illegal contact.
  • Whether a pass is catchable or uncatchable has no bearing on pass interference. The benefit of the doubt is given to the receiver.
  • Examples of pass interference include:
    • Shoving or pushing off to create separation.
    • Playing through the back.
    • Hook and turn: grabbing the torso and turning an opponent before the pass arrives.
    • Arm bars, hooking, restricting, grabbing wrists, or turning a receiver. Blocking downfield before the ball has been touched, commonly seen through ?pick plays?.

Scoring

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TOUCHDOWN ? 6 POINTS
POINT AFTER TOUCHDOWN (PAT)
    • 1 POINT FROM THE 5-YARD LINE (NO-RUN ZONE IN EFFECT)

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    • 2 POINTS FROM THE 12-YARD LINE, RUN, PASS (OUTSIDE OF NO-RUN ZONE)

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  • INTERCEPTIONS RETURNED ON 2 POINT PAT?S ARE WORTH 2 POINTS
SAFETY ? 2 POINTS

Point After Touchdown (PAT)

  • Following a touchdown, once the scoring team has informed an official of which point conversion choice they want to attempt the decision cannot be changed unless the scoring team uses a team timeout.
  • If a penalty occurs during an extra point attempt, the penalty will be assessed but the extra point value remains the same.
  • Decisions cannot be changed after a penalty. For example, if the offense attempts a 1-point PAT and is penalized five yards for a false start, they cannot change their mind and go for a 2-point PAT. They will still be attempting a 1-point try even if they call a timeout.
  • Defensive unsportsmanlike conduct, personal fouls, or roughing penalties during a successful touchdown attempt will be assessed at half the distance to the goal during the PAT attempt (e.g., 2-point PAT attempts will be spotted at the 6-yard line, 1-point PAT attempts will be spotted at the 2.5-yard line). All other defensive penalties may be declined by the offense and the score will stand.
  • Dead ball fouls committed by the offense that do not carry a loss-of-down penalty (false start) may result in penalty yardage assessed and the down replayed.
  • Fouls by the offense during a successful PAT attempt that carry a loss-of-down penalty (flag guarding, illegal advancement, illegal forward pass, etc.) will result in the PAT being no good.
  • Fouls committed by the offense in unsuccessful PAT attempts will be declined by the defense and the PAT will be ?no good? and will not be replayed.
  • Fouls by the defense during an unsuccessful PAT attempt will result in a retry after the options are administered.
  • If the PAT-attempting team throws an interception and then commits a flagrant foul after the interception during the attempted return (physically contains the ball carrier; bear hugs, aggressively holds, tackles, etc. without making a clear, legal attempt to pull the ball carrier?s flag, the ball carrier will be awarded two points.

PENALTIES

PENALTY CHANGES for inside 2 minutes of BOTH halves.

    • Defensive pass interference is a spot foul and will result in an automatic 1st down.
    • Intentional delay of game by the offense or defense, any team member, or fan will result in a 15 yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty
      • automatic 1st down (if committed by the defense)
      • LOD (if committed by the offense) and the clock will stop.

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Penalties

PREVIOUS SPOTLOSS OF DOWN

Foul Yardage Enforcement Spot Result
FLAG GUARDING 5 SPOT OF FOUL LOSS OF DOWN
ILLEGAL ADVANCEMENT 5 SPOT OF FOUL LOSS OF DOWN
ILLEGAL FORWARD PASS 5 PREVIOUS SPOT LOSS OF DOWN
OFFENSIVE PASS INTERFERENCE 5
DEFENSIVE PASS INTERFERENCE 15 PREVIOUS SPOT
**SPOT FOUL UNDER 2 MIN OF 1ST/2ND HALF
AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
PERSONAL FOUL/UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS 15 END OF THE PLAY OR PREVIOUS SPOT WHICHEVER PENALIZES THE OFFENDER MORE BY THE OFFENSE: LOSS OF DOWN
BY THE DEFENSE: AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT 15 END OF THE PLAY OR PREVIOUS SPOT WHICHEVER PENALIZES THE OFFENDER MORE BY THE OFFENSE: LOSS OF DOWN
BY THE DEFENSE: AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
ROUGHING THE PASSER 15 PREVIOUS SPOT AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
DELAY OF GAME 5 PREVIOUS SPOT REPLAY DOWN
** LOD, IF 2 MIN OR LESS
FALSE START 5 PREVIOUS SPOT REPLAY DOWN
**LOD, IF 2 MIN OR LESS
OFFSIDE / ENCROACHMENT 5 PREVIOUS SPOT AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTION OR ILLEGAL PARTICIPATION 5 PREVIOUS SPOT REPLAY DOWN-DEAD BALL
ILLEGAL SHIFT OR ILLEGAL MOTION 5 PREVIOUS SPOT LOSS OF DOWN
STRIPPING OR ATTEMPTED STRIPPING 5 SPOT OF THE FOUL AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
ILLEGAL CONTACT 5 PREVIOUS SPOT OR SPOT OF THE FOUL BY THE OFFENSE: LOSS OF DOWN
BY THE DEFENSE: AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
EARLY FLAG PULL 5 PREVIOUS SPOT AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
ILLEGAL TOUCHING 5 PREVIOUS SPOT LOSS OF DOWN
ILLEGAL BLOCKING 5 SPOT FOUL OR FROM PREVIOUS SPOT IF BEHIND LOS LOSS OF DOWN
HOLDING 5 SPOT OF THE FOUL AUTOMATIC 1ST DOWN
IMPEDING THE RUSHER 5 PREVIOUS SPOT LOSS OF DOWN
CHARGING 5 SPOT OF THE FOUL LOSS OF DOWN

COED LEAGUE RULES

NUMBER OF PLAYERS/TEAM ROSTERS

Each team shall field eight players, with “pick-up” players (one male/one female, two females) will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team. Teams are not permitted to use pickup players when sufficient roster players of the same gender are present. A pick-up player is defined as a player on another roster in the same league; because roster checks are not performed in the regular season, true “guest” players are permitted, provided they sign the waiver at www.cvillesocial.com/guest prior to participation.

Teams that are not able to field at least six players may play a “legal” game with the consent of the opposing captain. It is illegal for a team to have more than eight players on the field of play. Teams with coaches and/or additional players that enter the field of play without entering the game will be penalized for illegal participation.

The league requires the team captain or a team representative to provide the full name of each pick-up player before they can enter the field. A pick-up player can only play for the same team twice (2) in any league / season. This will eliminate teams illegally “sharing” players. Any team that does not report their pick up player(s) may have that game result in a forfeit.

Team rosters and online player registration must be completed and submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team that has not submitted these documents by that time will have its scheduled games declared a “forfeit” until all forms are received. If a player fails to submit their online player waiver and release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. C’Ville Social will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online player waiver and release form.

Players may only be listed on one team’s roster per league. Players can play (and be on a team’s roster) in multiple leagues, they just cannot play for 2 teams in the same league.

For a player to be considered “playoff eligible” (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he/she must be listed on the team’s roster.

Any team that does not have a full roster registered by week 2 will not be eligible for the playoffs.

NO POCKET / FLAG BELT RULE

Due to safety reasons, players cannot wear any article of clothing that contains pockets (shorts, pants, jackets, sweatshirts, hand warmers, etc). If a player wears an article of clothing with pockets, they will not be allowed to wear a flag belt and will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. C’Ville Social does not permit players to tape their pockets or turn them inside out; only if shorts are “double-lined” where the pocket is concealed inside the lining may a player turn their shorts inside out.

Players may not wear only tights, underwear, or thermal undergarments not intended as exterior wear.

If a player (other than the QB) begins the play without a flag belt, the player will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. There is no additional penalty because the player has no opportunity to gain additional yardage. If the QB begins a play without a flag belt, they are down as soon as they receive the snap, and loss of down.

FOOTBALL SIZE REQUIREMENTS

For all plays in which a male player receives the snap, the ball used must be a regulation NFHS/NCAA/NFL sized football. Female players receiving the snap may use a women?s or junior sized football. Note: When a female player takes the snap and pitches a smaller ball laterally or behind to a male player, the male player MAY throw the ball.

GAME TIME / PLAY CLOCK

The game will be divided into two 20 minute halves. Each team is allowed two one-minute timeouts per game. Both timeouts may be used in either half. The offensive team will have 35 seconds to snap the ball once the referee has spotted the ball. The official game clock will be maintained by a referee and will run continuously except for time-outs or serious injury–following an injury timeout, the game clock should resume following the ready-for-play whistle.. The clock will stop during the final 2 minutes of play for the following occurrences:

**If a team is leading by 17 points or more, the clock will run continuously during the last two minutes of play. In this scenario, the team that is winning will not be allowed to use any timeouts that is has left. **

  • Incomplete pass
  • Player advancing the ball goes out of bounds
  • First Down
  • Change of possession
  • Either team scores. (The clock will not resume until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt. The clock does not run during extra points.)
  • Penalty
  • Declared punt
  • Time Out
BEGINNING OF THE GAME

Teams must be lined up on opposite sidelines. Before the start of the game the referee will toss a coin in the presence of opposing captains, after first designating which captain shall call the toss. The team that wins the coin flip at the start of the game must choose one of the following:

  • Offense
  • Defense
  • To defer the choice of the above options to begin the second half
  • The team that loses the coin flip shall select the direction for the 2nd half.

Play starts from the 10-yard line at the beginning of each half. At the beginning of the second half, the teams will change their direction of play. There will be a maximum ten minute “grace period” before each game. The game will be deemed a forfeit thereafter at the discretion of the Referee.

SNAPPING THE BALL INTO PLAY

To begin each play, the ball must be snapped from the ground to the QB who is lined up at least 5 yards behind the center. The ball can be snapped to any player lined up at least 5 yards behind the line of scrimmage with a verbal or non-verbal command. Silent counts / snaps are legal. Players may shift and change formations prior to the snap of the ball, but must be stationary at the time the ball is snapped. One player is allowed in motion at the time the ball is snapped, but cannot be moving towards the line of scrimmage. A snap from center is not required on declared punts. A minimum of four players must be lined up (set) at the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.

**Before the ball is snapped into play, the head referee will announce when the line is legally set and play can begin. The QB does not have to wait until the referee makes this announcement, however the line must be legally set before a snap can occur.

INTENTIONAL GROUNDING

There is No Intentional Grounding rule

INADVERTENT WHISTLES

Should an inadvertent whistle be blown, the team in possession of the ball at the time of the whistle will have two options: take the result of the play with the ball declared “dead” at the spot where the whistle was blown, or replay the down from the original line of scrimmage. If an inadvertent whistle is blown during a pass play while the ball is in the air, the play will be declared “dead” and replayed from the original line of scrimmage.

OVERTIME

There will be no overtime during the regular season. In the playoffs, overtime will mirror NCAA overtime, and will consist of each team having one offensive possession starting at the 20-yard line selected in a captains meeting (both offenses will go toward the same goal in overtime). The offensive team will have 4 un-timed downs to score a touchdown (all regular penalties will apply during the overtime period). If a touchdown is scored the offensive team will have the option to go for a 1- or 2-point conversion (female scoring will be awarded in the same fashion as during regulation. See Scoring). If teams are tied after the 1st overtime period, the process will be repeated until a winner is determined. Starting with the 3rd overtime period, teams will be required to go for a 2-point conversion upon scoring a touchdown.

FORFEITS

If a ?game is deemed a ?forfeit, it will be scored 6-0.

NO CONTACT / NO DOWN FIELD BLOCKING

There is no blocking or tackling permitted in the league. Players acting as offensive linemen may not use their hands when protecting the quarterback from defensive rushers. Offensive linemen can position their bodies at any particular angle in an attempt to direct the rushers to a particular area, but there is no contact permitted. Offensive lineman must have their hands at their sides or behind their backs when blocking to prevent their arms from extending. “Picks” are also NOT permitted at any time.

No downfield blocking/tackling is permitted. Illegal contact includes tripping, contact with the QB, any intentional contact by an opposing player and contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped. Also note that rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty. Anyone in violation of this rule is subject to penalty, suspension and/or expulsion from the league.

“Picks” or Illegal Screens are NOT Permitted at any time.

CO-ED / GENDER PLAY REQUIREMENTS

The offense will be penalized if it fails to use a female as an “operative player” at least once within three consecutive downs. The penalty for running three consecutive plays without using a female as an “operative player” will be a five yard penalty, loss of down and a female must be the “operative player” on the next play. For example, if a male player catches or runs the ball on a play in which a female must be the “operative player”, the offense will be penalized and must replay the gender requirement.

Note: The term “closed” or “forced gender” means that a female must be the “operative player”. The term “open” means that any player, male or female, is eligible to be the operative player.

A pass attempt must cross the line of scrimmage to count as an operative play.

An operative player is defined as a player who:

  • Is the intended receiver of a forward pass across the line of scrimmage. The pass does not have to be completed.
  • If a ball is tipped or under/overthrown, the play’s gender is determined by the last player who made an attempt to catch the ball.
  • Runs the ball as the primary runner (must cross the line of scrimmage)
  • Receives the snap as the QB and scrambles past the line of scrimmage or attempts a pass the crosses the line of scrimmage.
  • Throws or catches a forward pass that is complete behind the line of scrimmage but the resulting run moves past the line of scrimmage.

An operative player is NOT defined as a player who:

  • Hands off the football to another player
  • Snaps the ball into play
  • Receives a handoff only to pass or handoff the ball to a male before crossing the line of scrimmage
  • Female who throws a lateral pass
  • Receives a lateral from another player and does not cross the line of scrimmage.

Examples:

  • A pass deflected by a male and caught by a female is a female “operative” play
  • If a female pitches the ball to a male behind the line of scrimmage, this will not result in a female “operative” play
  • If a male laterals the ball to a female past the line of scrimmage, this will not result in a female “operative” play
  • If a female throws a forward pass that does not cross the line of scrimmage, but is caught and gains positive yardage, that does count as a female operative play

Gender Play (Tipped Pass) Clarification

  • A pass that is deflected by a female, and caught by a male does not count as a female “operative” play
  • If this occurs on a “closed” play, the offense has the option of:
    • Accepting the play as an incomplete pass and having it count as a female play
    • Accepting a 5-yard penalty and replaying the down as a closed play
  • There is no gender requirement for extra points and punt plays.
FIRST DOWNS

Each team shall have four downs to earn a first down or score. First downs are achieved when a team crosses either of the 20 yard markers (20, 20) based on its original field position. Offensive teams may elect to punt on fourth downs. All punts are live and may be fielded after bouncing on the ground. However, if a receiving player muffs? (touches) the ball and it hits the ground, the play is dead. If a team does not punt, fails to score or earn a first down the opposing team will obtain possession.

SCORING

The scoring shall be assigned as follows:

  • Touchdown:
    • A Male Touchdown is awarded 6 points
    • A 9-point touchdown will be awarded in the following scenarios:
      • A female runs the ball from behind the line of scrimmage for the score
      • A male QB throws to a female receiver who scores
      • A pass that is tipped by a male and caught by a female will be awarded a 9 point female TD
      • A female returns an interception or punt for a score
      • A female QB throws to any receiver for the score (regardless of any pitches to a male)

Any lateral passes (pitches) involving a male player during any of the above situations will result in only 6 points being awarded, except that the female was the QB who threw a forward pass.

All other touchdowns will be awarded 6 points

  • Extra Point(s):
    • From the 5 yard line
      • 1-point for all normal conversions
      • 2-points will be awarded using the same scenarios listed above for the 9-point TD
    • From the 10 yard line
      • 2-point for all normal conversions
      • 3-points will be awarded using the same scenarios listed above for the 9-point TD The defense may return an interception for two points on a two-point attempt.
PASS RUSH

Once the line of scrimmage has been marked, the referee will walk off five paces in the direction the offense is going and place another marker. This “5 pace” marker is the “RUSH LINE”. Only defensive players that are behind this marker when the ball is snapped may cross the line of scrimmage to rush the QB. No players lined up within this “zone”, may rush the QB. If the QB pitches the ball or hands-off to another offensive player, any defensive player may cross the line of scrimmage no matter where they were lined up before the snap. If the line of scrimmage is between the goal line and the five-yard line, the RUSH LINE will be the goal line. The rush line can never be placed inside the endzone.

CONTINUANCE OF PLAY

Play shall continue until:

  • Ball carrier has flag-belt pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)
  • Ball carrier leaves the field of play
  • Ball carrier scores
  • Ball carrier’s knee touches the ground
  • Ball touches the ground
SPOT OF THE BALL

The ball will be spotted where the ball is at the time the ball carrier’s flag is pulled. If the ball crosses the plane of the goal line before the ball carrier’s flag has been pulled it will result in a touchdown (ball extension).

PUNTS

The offensive team must declare their intention to punt or election to play on every 4th down. The referee shall notify the defensive team of the election prior to the ball being made ready for play.

  • A punt must be declared and cannot be faked.
  • The receiving team may return a punt once it has hit the ground.
  • All punts are “free punts”. A team need not snap during a punt.
    • A dropped snap during a punt is not a fumble.
  • Punts must be kicked and cannot be thrown.
  • The kicking team may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked.
  • Downfield blocking is not permitted.
  • The receiving team can line up be no closer than the 5-yard rush line and may not raise hands or jump to block a punt.
  • The punting team may down the punted ball if the receiving team makes no effort to gain the ball.
  • A punt into the end zone will be spotted at the 10-yard line–the punt is immediately ruled a touchback once the ball breaks the vertical plane of the goal line.
    • If a player drops the ball in the end zone, the ball is spotted at the 10-yard line and is not counted as a safety.
TURNOVERS

A change of possession (not after a score) can only occur due to downs or an interception. A fumble is not a turnover and the play is considered dead at the point of the fumble. A lateral may be intercepted and returned by the opposing team.

FLAG GUARDING

Flag guarding is not allowed. Flag guarding is defined as any action that is made with the arms, hands, or legs that prevents a player from being able to pull another player’s flag. A player engaging in flag guarding will be penalized. It is illegal to pull the flag of a player who does not have possession of the football. Throwing flag belts after making a pull is not allowed, and can be penalized as a personal foul.

FLAG BELTS

Flag belts must be fastened outside of all clothing with nothing obstructing them. If, during a play, any clothing obstructs the defense’s ability to grab a flag (shirt is hanging over the flag belt), then the player will be called down at the first instance that the defense had a chance to pull the flag. A ball carrier whose flag-belt falls off inadvertently during a play will be considered down upon a one-handed touch. However, if any player (besides the QB) gains possession of the ball without properly secured flags, then they will be down as soon as they touch/catch the ball. It is a penalty for a ball carrier to stiff-arm, charge into, or deliberately try to knock over a defensive player. In addition, a ball carrier may not dive (diving is defined as a player leaving their feet without returning to their feet) in an effort to gain extra yardage.

SPORTSMANSHIP

C’Ville Social endorses the principles of good sportsmanship. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Unsportsmanlike conduct can include the following: Fighting, pushing, verbal/physical abuse directed toward an official or opponent, profanity/obscene gestures, flagrant/violent fouls, taunting/trash talking/baiting, cheating, throwing/abusing equipment and physical intimidation. A player may be ejected from a game (or a team may be evicted from the field of play) for engaging in Unsportsmanlike Conduct. An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct at any time, including after the game clock has expired. The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts. These guidelines apply to players and spectators.

WEATHER CANCELATION POLICY

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. C’Ville Social staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary.

If the games are cancelled, C’Ville Social will update the schedule which will automatically notify all rostered players via email/text. It is still the captain’s responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, C’Ville Social will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next week’s schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, C’Ville Social reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. C’Ville Social will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. C’Ville Social also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary

FORFEIT FEES

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. C’Ville Social Football has now implemented the following forfeit fees: $50 within 8 hours of game time (Monday – Friday) and within 12 hours of game time (Saturdays & Sundays).

NO JEWELRY POLICY

At the Referee’s discretion, he/she can ask any player to remove jewelry they feel is not safe for play. Failure to comply could result in a suspension and game forfeit.

PENALTIES & ENFORCEMENT
OFFENSIVE FOULS PENALTY ENFORCEMENT SPOT DOWN
Flag Guarding 5 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
Offsides 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Downfield Blocking 5 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
False Start (*Dead Ball Foul) 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Gender Violation (Still Closed) 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Next Down
Illegal Contact/Pick (Pre-Pass) 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Contact/Pick (Post-Pass) 5 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
Illegal Forward Pass 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Loss of Down
Illegal Motion 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Participation 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Formation 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Offensive Pass Interference 10 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Diving 5 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
DEFENSIVE FOULS PENALTY ENFORCEMENT SPOT DOWN
Illegal Rushing 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Offsides 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Contact 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Pass Interference 10 Yards Previous L.O.S. Auto 1st Down
Roughing the Passer 10 Yards Previous L.O.S. Auto 1st Down
Holding (on Run Plays) 5 Yards End of Run Next Down
Holding (on Pass Plays) 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Flag Pull 5 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
Illegal Stripping 5 Yards End of Run Next Down
Illegal Participation 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
GENERAL FOULS PENALTY ENFORCEMENT SPOT DOWN
Arguing w/ Official 10 Yards End of Play Next Down
Unsportsmanlike Conduct 10 Yards End of Play Automatic 1st Down
Defensive Excessive ContactÃ? / Rough Play 10 Yards End of Play Auto 1st Down
Offensive Excessive ContactÃ? / Rough Play 10 Yards End of Play Loss of Down

Defensive Penalty Clarifications:

  • Holding = Replay the down if the penalty occurs on 4th down or inside the 10-yard line
  • Illegal Contact is defined as:
    • Tripping
    • Contact with the QB
    • Any intentional contact by an opposing player (referee discretion)
    • Contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped
    • Rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty
  • Illegal Stripping = It is illegal to bat or strip a ball from a player’s hand.
  • A game cannot end on a defensive penalty even if time expires. One un-timed down will be required to complete the game.

Offensive Penalty Clarifications:

  • Illegal Contact is defined as:
    • Pushing Off
    • Any other intentional contact by an offensive player on a defensive player in the field of play

General Penalty Clarifications:

  • Unsportsmanlike Conduct
    • Any unsportsmanlike conduct (towards players, referees, league staff, coaches, sidelines, spectators) = 10 yards/Possible Ejection & Automatic 1st Down
    • Excessive Contact/Rough Play
  • If official determines that contact was initiated “with intent to harm”, the offending player will be ejected from the game. The player must leave the field of play immediately. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged with a forfeit for the game regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.
  • The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.
  • An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.
  • The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.
  • Fighting:
    • Automatic ejection from the game
    • Once ejected, a player must leave the field. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged a forfeit? for that game, regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.
    • The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.
    • An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.
    • The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.
C’Ville Social LEAGUE POLICIES
  • Team Captains are responsible for the complete payment of all league fees.
  • A Captains’ Meeting will be held prior to the start of the season. Captains, or a team representative, are required to attend. League rules and procedures will be discussed at that time.
  • League fees must be paid by PayPal before the first game. Failure to make payment before this time may lead to expulsion from the league.
  • Team Rosters must be completed and submitted online. Additions and changes to the Roster are permitted up until the fourth game of the season
  • The Online Player Waiver & Release form must be filled out completely by each player, and submitted online before the first game.
  • If a team is not prepared to play at its designated game time and/or does not have the minimum number of players at the designated game time, the game will be declared a forfeit. There will be a ten-minute grace period prior to a forfeit being declared.
  • A maximum of two “pick-up” players (1 male & 1 female or 2 females) will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team. Additionally, the league now requires the team captain or a team representative to provide the full name of each pick-up player before they can enter the field. In extreme cases, that pick up player may be required to show ID. A pick-up player can only play for the same team twice (2) in any league / season. This rule is intended to eliminate teams illegally “sharing” players. Any team that does not report their pick up player(s) may have that game result in a forfeit. A pick up player is defined as any male or female that is not listed on the team’s roster.
  • If a game is stopped due to dangerous weather conditions prior to the beginning of the second half or prior to a previously designated point, the game will be replayed in its entirety. If a game is stopped thereafter, it will be considered a complete game and the score will stand. There is no requirement that each team have the same number of offensive series before a game is stopped.
  • Any excessive verbal or physical activity will result in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. This rule applies to players, managers and coaches on the field and on the sidelines.
  • Fighting or obscene language will result in an automatic ejection from the league with no refund of payments. Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated.
  • ABSOLUTELY NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR DRUG USE ARE ALLOWED ON THE FIELD. Any player using drugs or alcohol in the playing area, the parking lot, before, during or after games will be ejected from the league with no refund of payments. THIS RULE WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED.

These rules & policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.

MEN’S LEAGUE RULES

ROSTER SIZE & REGULATIONS

Each team shall field eight male players. Teams that are not able to field a complete team may play with a minimum of six players. A maximum of two pick-up players will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team. Teams that are not able to field at least six players may play a legal game with the consent of the opposing captain. It is illegal for a team to have more than eight players on the field of play. Teams with coaches and/or additional players who enter the field of play without entering the game will be penalized for illegal participation.

Team rosters and online player waiver release forms must be completed and submitted prior to the first scheduled game of the season. Any team that has not submitted these forms by that time will have its scheduled games declared a forfeit until all forms are received. If a player fails to submit their online player waiver release form, all liability and legal issues will be the responsibility of the team captain. Fairfax Athletics will not be responsible for players that do not submit an online player waiver release form.

Players may be listed only on one teams roster per season throughout the league. For a player to be considered playoff eligible (eligible to participate in the playoffs), he must be listed on a teams roster and must have played in a minimum of two regular season games for that particular team.

Any team that does not have a full roster uploaded to the website and visible to the public by week 2 will not be eligible for the playoffs. No exceptions will be made!

NO POCKET/FLAG BELT RULES

Due to safety reasons, players cannot wear any article of clothing that contains pockets (shorts, pants, jackets, sweatshirts, hand warmers, etc). If a player wears an article of clothing with pockets, they will not be allowed to wear a flag belt and will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. C’Ville Social does not permit players to tape their pockets or turn them inside out; only if shorts are double-lined where the pocket is concealed inside the lining may a player turn their shorts inside out.

If a player (other than the QB) begins the play without a flag belt, the player will be marked down at the spot where the ball was caught. There is no additional penalty because the player has no opportunity to gain additional yardage. If the QB begins a play without a flag belt, they are down as soon as they receive the snap, and loss of down.

FOOTBALL SIZE REQUIREMENTS

For all plays, the ball used must be a regulation NFHS/NCAA/NFL sized football.

GAME TIME/PLAY CLOCK

The game will be divided into two 22 minute halves. Each team is allowed two 30 second timeouts per half. Unused timeouts will not carry over from one period to another. The offensive team will have 30 seconds to snap the ball once the referee has made the ball ready for play. The official game clock will be maintained by a referee and will run continuously except for time-outs or serious injury–following an injury timeout, the game clock should resume following the ready-for-play whistle.. The clock will stop during the final 2 minutes of each half for the following occurrences:

  • Incomplete pass
  • Player advancing the ball goes out of bounds
  • Change of possession
  • Either team scores. (The clock will not continue until the opposing team snaps the ball after the PAT attempt. The clock does not run during extra points.)
  • Penalty
  • Time Out

If a team is leading by 17 points or more, the clock will run continuously during the last two minutes of play. In this scenario, the team that is winning will not be allowed to use any timeouts that is has left if they are on offense.

BEGINNING OF THE GAME

Teams must be lined up on opposite sidelines. Before the start of the game the referee will toss a coin in the presence of opposing captains, after first designating which captain shall call the toss. The team that wins the coin flip at the start of the game must choose one of the following:

  • Offense
  • Defense
  • To defer the choice of the above options to begin the second half
  • The team that loses the coin flip shall select the direction for the 2nd half.

There will be a maximum ten minute grace period before each game. The game will be deemed a forfeit thereafter at the discretion of the Referee.

FREE KICKS

A free kick begins each half of a game, and begins play following a touchdown, field goal, or safety. The ball shall be put in play by a place kick from some spot on the kicking teams restraining line: the 40 yard line, or from the 20 yard line following a safety. The receiving teams restraining line will be 20 yards from the kicking teams restraining line.

No player of the kicking team may touch a free kick before it reaches the receiving teams restraining line. Thereafter, all players of the kicking team are eligible to touch, recover, or catch the kick. No player of the kicking team may interfere with the receiving teams opportunity to catch the ball. A free kick touched by a player of the kicking team which then touches the ground is dead at the spot at which it touches the ground. If first touched before reaching the restraining line of the receiving team, it belongs to the receiving team. If first touched after reaching the restraining line of the receiving team, the ball belongs to the kicking team. A free kick touched by a player of the receiving team, which then touches the ground, is dead at the spot at which it touches the ground and belongs to the receiving team.

A kick caught or recovered by a player of the receiving team continues in play; if caught or recovered by the kicking team, the ball becomes dead.

SCRIMMAGE (PLACE) KICKS
  • Must be snapped a minimum of 7 yards back from the line of scrimmage to the holder.
  • The holder must be stationary and can stand or kneel to receive the snap, but must catch the ball in the air and place it on the ground for the kicker to kick.
  • The defense can only jump to block the FG, they are not allowed to rush or cross the line of scrimmage
  • Holders may not use a kicking tee/block or their foot/shoe to raise/hold the ball. The ball must be placed on the ground, and held with one finger (same as College/NFL)

A missed FG recovered by the defense is returnable by the defense.

  • Any yardage gained or points scored will stand just as on a play from scrimmage.
  • A missed FG not returned will result in the ball being returned to the original line of scrimmage and the defense taking possession.
  • New (Summer 2016): A missed FG where the original line of scrimmage was inside the 20 yard line will be spotted at the 20 yard line when the defense takes possession.
PUNTS

A punt must be declared and cannot be fakes. The referee shall notify the defensive team prior to the ball being made ready-for-play.

  • New (Summer 2016): Punts must be snapped just like all other plays from scrimmage.
  • Punts must be kicked and cannot be thrown.
  • The kicking team may not cross the line of scrimmage until the ball is kicked.
  • Downfield blocking is not permitted.
  • The receiving team may not raise hands or jump to block a punt.
  • The kicking team may down the punt, but may not recover a punt.
  • A punt through the end zone will be spotted at the 20-yard line. If a player drops the ball in the end zone, the ball is spotted at the 20-yard line and is not counted as a safety.
SNAPPING THE BALL INTO PLAY

To begin each play, the ball must be snapped by a center to the QB who is lined up behind the center. The ball can be snapped with a verbal or nonverbal command–silent counts / snaps are legal. Players may shift and change formations prior to the snap of the ball, but must be stationary at the time the ball is snapped. One player is allowed in motion at the time the ball is snapped, but cannot be moving towards the line of scrimmage. A snap from center is required on declared punts. A minimum of four players must be lined up (set) at the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.

New (Summer 2016): A skip rule will now be in effect for all snaps–the ball may skip one time provided it is then fielded cleanly by the quarterback.

FORWARD PASS

All players are eligible to receive a forward pass. During a scrimmage down and before team possession has changed, a forward pass may be thrown provided some part of the passers body remains behind the line of scrimmage.

New (Summer 2016) The offense may make as many forward passes as desired from in or behind the neutral zone. Once the ball has crossed the line of scrimmage (run or pass), all subsequent forward passes during that down, are illegal. The ball may be thrown across only once during the down.

INADVERTENT WHISTLE

Should an inadvertent whistle be blown, the team in possession of the ball at the time of the whistle will have two options: take the result of the play with the ball declared dead at the spot where the whistle was blown, or replay the down from the original line of scrimmage. If an inadvertent whistle is blown during a pass play while the ball is in the air, the play will be declared dead and replayed from the original line of scrimmage.

OVERTIME

There will be no overtime during the regular season. In the playoffs, overtime will consist of each team having one offensive possession starting at the opponents 20-yard line. A second coin toss shall determine order and direction. The team winning the coin toss shall have the option to elect offense first, defense first, or select the end to be used for the overtime period(s). Both teams shall go the same direction on offense for the entirety of overtime.

The offensive team will have 4 un-timed downs to score a touchdown (all regular penalties will apply during the overtime period). If a touchdown is scored the offensive team will have the the same conversion options that applied in regulation.. If teams are tied after the 1st overtime period, the process will be repeated until a winner is determined. Starting with the 3rd overtime period, teams will be required to attempt a 2-point conversion upon scoring a touchdown.

FORFEITS

If a ?game is deemed a ?forfeit, it will be scored 6-0.

CONTACT/BLOCKING

There is limited blocking and contact; however there will be no tackling permitted in the league. Players acting as offensive linemen can use their hands to block defensive rushers (between their shoulders and waist) when protecting the quarterback. Offensive linemen can position their bodies at any particular angle in an attempt to direct the rushers to a particular area and can use their hands to protect the QB.

No downfield blocking/tackling is permitted. Illegal contact includes tripping, contact with the QB, any intentional contact by an opposing player, and contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped. Also note that rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty. Anyone in violation of this rule is subject to penalty, suspension and/or expulsion from the league.

We have a 1-Pace Rush Line that only allows defensive players who are behind this line to rush the QB. IT IS ILLEGAL FOR DEFENSIVE RUSHERS TO RUN THROUGH AN OFFENSIVE BLOCKER TO PURSUE THE QB.

Violation of this rule is a 10-yard penalty/previous spot/replay down.

This restriction gives defensive rushers 2 options:

  1. Do a speed rush, but must run around the offensive blocker to pursue the QB
  2. Run towards the line-of-scrimmage; slow down when approaching an offensive blocker; engage contact; and then use legal means to pursue the QB

A legal block consists of contact with open hands (with palms facing the opponent) to the area between the waist and shoulders. Blocking is restricted to at or behind the line-of-scrimmage. These contact rules apply to both offensive blockers and defensive rushers.

Illegal blocks consist of any of the following:

  • Contact below the waist or above the shoulders
  • Blocking in the back
  • Blocking using forearms, elbows, shoulders, hips, legs, or anything besides open hands
  • Holding
  • Blocking past the line-of-scrimmage (this will be penalized as downfield blocking)

Illegal blocks will result in a 10-yard penalty/previous spot/replay down. For offensive players, there is NO downfield blocking.

Please keep in mind that we are allowing LIMITED contact in this league. Any excessive and/or intentional contact is subject to a personal foul and/or expulsion from the league.

CONTACT DOWNFIELD

For defensive players, bump-and-run/jamming of receivers is allowed within 5 yards of the line of scrimmage, and is defined as open hands to the chest/shoulders.

Any contact beyond 5 yards will result in:

  • A Defensive Holding penalty (5 yard penalty/previous spot/auto 1st down), or
  • An Illegal Contact penalty (10-yard penalty/previous spot/replay down).
FIRST DOWNS

Each team shall have four downs to earn a first down or score. First downs are achieved when a team crosses either of the 20 yard markers (20, 20) based on its original field position. Offensive teams may elect to punt on fourth downs. All punts are live and may be fielded after bouncing on the ground. However, if a receiving player muffs? (touches) the ball and it hits the ground, the play is dead. If a team does not punt, fails to score or earn a first down the opposing team will obtain possession.

SCORING

The scoring shall be assigned as follows:

  • Touchdown: All touchdowns will be awarded 6 points
  • Extra Point(s):
    • Play from the 5 yd line – 1-point
    • Play from the 10 yd line – 2-points
    • Kick from the 10 yard line (snapped from the 3 yard line) – 1 point
  • Field Goal: All Field Goals will be awarded 3 points

The defense may return an interception for two points on a two-point conversion attempt.

PASS RUSH

Once the line of scrimmage has been marked, the referee will walk off one (1) pace in the direction the offense is going and place another marker. This 1 pace marker is the RUSH LINE. Only defensive players that are behind this marker when the ball is snapped may cross the line of scrimmage to rush the QB. No players lined up within this zone, may rush the QB. If the QB pitches the ball or hands-off to another offensive player, any defensive player may cross the line of scrimmage no matter where they were lined up before the snap. If the line of scrimmage is between the goal line and the one-yard line, the RUSH LINE will be the goal line. The rush line can never be placed inside the endzone.

Note: The RUSH LINE will not be applicable when the QB is lined up directly behind the CENTER to receive the snap of the ball; that is, when the CENTER hands the ball to the QB at the snap. In such situations, defensive players lined up in front of the RUSH LINE may rush the QB.

CONTINUANCE OF PLAY

Play shall continue until:

  • Ball carrier has flag-belt pulled by an opponent (see flag specifics for the few exceptions/additions concerning flag pulling)
  • Ball carrier leaves the field of play
  • Ball carrier scores
  • Ball carrier’s knee touches the ground
  • Ball touches the ground
SPOT OF THE BALL

The ball will be spotted where the ball is at the time the ball carrier’s flag is pulled. If the ball crosses the plane of the goal line before the ball carrier’s flag has been pulled it will result in a touchdown (ball extension).

TUNROVERS

A change of possession (not after a score) can only occur due to downs or an interception. A fumble is not a turnover and the play is considered dead at the point of the fumble. A lateral may be intercepted and returned by the opposing team.

FLAG GUARDING

Flag guarding is not allowed. Flag guarding is defined as any action that is made with the arms, hands, or legs that prevents a player from being able to pull another player’s flag. A player engaging in flag guarding will be penalized. It is illegal to pull the flag of a player who does not have possession of the football. Throwing flag belts after making a pull is not allowed, and can be penalized as a personal foul.

FLAG BELTS

Flag belts must be fastened outside of all clothing with nothing obstructing them. If, during a play, any clothing obstructs the defenses ability to grab a flag (shirt is hanging over the flag belt), then the player will be called down at the first instance that the defense had a chance to pull the flag. A ball carrier whose flag-belt falls off inadvertently during a play will be considered down upon a one-handed touch. However, if any player gains possession of the ball without properly secured flags, then they will be down as soon as they touch/catch the ball. It is a penalty for a ball carrier to stiff-arm, charge into, or deliberately try to knock over a defensive player. In addition, a ball carrier may not dive (diving is defined as a player leaving their feet without returning to their feet) in an effort to gain extra yardage.

SPORTSMANSHIPS

C’Ville Social endorses the principles of good sportsmanship. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Unsportsmanlike conduct can include the following: Fighting, pushing, verbal/physical abuse directed toward an official or opponent, profanity/obscene gestures, flagrant/violent fouls, taunting/trash talking/baiting, cheating, throwing/abusing equipment and physical intimidation. A player may be ejected from a game (or a team may be evicted from the field of play) for engaging in Unsportsmanlike Conduct. An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct at any time, including after the game clock has expired. The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts. These guidelines apply to players and spectators.

GAME CANCELLATION

Games may be cancelled due to existing weather conditions, dangerous or unplayable field conditions, facility constraints, etc. C’Ville Social staff makes every effort to play all scheduled games, thus we will not cancel games until absolutely necessary. Therefore, if you call the C’Ville Social Hotline to find out if the fields are open and/or games are cancelled, remember we will not update the hotline until close to the start of the game. With that said, we will update the hotline as soon as we have updated status.

If the games are cancelled, C’Ville Social will update the hotline immediately. C’Ville Social will then change the status of the field to Closed on the website, which will send out an email to all roster players letting them know the game is cancelled. It is still the captains responsibility to inform all teammates of the cancellation. If a game is cancelled on site, C’Ville Social will attempt to contact those teams still scheduled to play the remainder of the day/night. Depending on the time of cancellation, some teams will have to be notified on site. If we do cancel, follow next weeks schedule unless otherwise notified, (i.e. If June 20th games are cancelled, teams should follow the June 27th schedule for their next game). The games that are cancelled will be made up towards the end of the season if time allows.

In extreme circumstances, C’Ville Social reserves the right to run a shortened season without a refund. C’Ville Social will make every attempt to get all regular season games played, however for every two (2) game cancellations due to weather, the season may be shortened one (1) regular season game. C’Ville Social also reserves the right to schedule games on days other than your regularly scheduled league day/night if necessary

FORFEIT FEES

If your team needs to forfeit a game (for whatever reason), please make sure to let us know ASAP. C’Ville Social Football has now implemented the following forfeit fees: $100 within 8 hours of game time (Monday – Friday) and within 12 hours of game time (Saturdays & Sundays).

NO JEWELRY POLICIES

At the Referees sole discretion, any player may be required to remove jewelry deemed unsafe feel for play. Failure to comply could result in a suspension and game forfeit.

PENALTIES & ENFORCEMENTS
OFFENSIVE FOULS PENALTY ENFORCEMENT SPOT DOWN
Flag Guarding 5 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
OffSides 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Downfield Blocking 10 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
False Start (*Dead Ball Foul) 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Contact/Pick (Pre-Pass) 10 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Contact/Pick (Post-Pass) 10 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
Illegal Forward Pass 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Loss of Down
Illegal Motion 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Participation 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Formation 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Offensive Pass Interference 10 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Diving 5 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
DEFENSIVE FOULS PENALTY ENFORCEMENT SPOT DOWN
Illegal Rushing 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
OffSides 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Illegal Contact 10 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
Pass Interference 15 Yards Previous L.O.S. Auto 1st Down
Roughing the Passer 15 Yards Previous L.O.S. Auto 1st Down
Holding (on Run Plays) 10 Yards End of Run Next Down
Holding (on Pass Plays) 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Auto 1st Down
Illegal Flag Pull 5 Yards Spot Foul Next Down
Illegal Stripping 5 Yards End of Run Next Down
Illegal Participation 5 Yards Previous L.O.S. Replay Down
GENERAL FOULS PENALTY ENFORCEMENT SPOT DOWN
Arguing w/ Official 15 Yards End of Play Next Down
Unsportsmanlike Conduct 15 Yards End of Play Auto 1st Down
Defensive Excessive Contact?/ Rough Play 15 Yards End of Play Auto 1st Down
Offensive Excessive Contact?/ Rough Play 15 Yards End of Play Loss of Down

Defensive Penalty Clarifications:

  • Holding = Replay the down if the penalty occurs on 4th down or inside the 10-yard line
  • Illegal Contact is defined as:
    • Tripping
    • Contact with the QB
    • Any intentional contact by an opposing player (referee discretion)
    • Contact with an opposing player after a ball is tipped
    • Rough play may result in an unsportsmanlike penalty
  • Illegal Stripping = It is illegal to bat or strip a ball from a player’s hand.
  • A game cannot end on a defensive penalty even if time expires. One un-timed down will be required to complete the game.

Offensive Penalty Clarifications:

  • Illegal Contact is defined as:
    • Pushing Off
    • Any other intentional contact by an offensive player on a defensive player in the field of play

General Penalty Clarifications:

  • Unsportsmanlike Conduct
    • Any unsportsmanlike conduct (towards players, referees, league staff, coaches, sidelines, spectators) = 10 yards/Possible Ejection & Automatic 1st Down
    • Excessive Contact/Rough Play
  • If official determines that contact was initiated with intent to harm, the offending player will be ejected from the game. The player must leave the field of play immediately. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged with a forfeit for the game regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.
  • The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.
  • An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.
  • The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.
  • Fighting:
    • Automatic ejection from the game
    • Once ejected, a player must leave the field. If the player does not leave the field his/her team may be charged a forfeit for that game, regardless of score or time remaining. Any player ejected from a game may not play in any other games that day.
    • The ejected player may not play in future games without league approval.
    • An official may call a forfeit for unsportsmanlike conduct. Even if the game has ended, an official may call a forfeit.
    • The League has the authority to suspend and/or expel a player or team from the league and/or future game(s) at its discretion with no refund of monies for such acts.
GENERAL LEAGUE POLICIES
    • Team Captains are responsible for the complete payment of all league fees
    • A Captains Meeting will be held prior to the start of the season. Captains, or a team representative, are required to attend. League rules and procedures will be discussed at that time
    • League fees must be paid before the first game. Failure to make payment before this time may lead to expulsion from the league
    • Team Rosters must be completed and submitted online. Additions and changes to the Roster are permitted up until the fourth game of the seaso
    • The Online Player Waiver & Release form must be filled out completely by each player, and submitted online before the first game
    • If a team is not prepared to play at its designated game time and/or does not have the minimum number of players at the designated game time, the game will be declared a forfeit. There will be a ten-minute grace period prior to a forfeit being declared
    • A maximum of two pick-up players will be permitted only when a team does not have enough of its own players present to field a team
    • If a game is stopped due to dangerous weather conditions prior to the beginning of the second half or prior to a previously designated point, the game will be replayed in its entirety. If a game is stopped thereafter, it will be considered a complete game and the score will stand. There is no requirement that each team have the same number of offensive series before a game is stopped
    • Any excessive verbal or physical activity will result in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. This rule applies to players, managers and coaches on the field and on the sidelines
    • Fighting or obscene language will result in an automatic ejection from the league with no refund of payments. Unsportsmanlike behavior will not be tolerated
  • ABSOLUTELY NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR DRUG USE ARE ALLOWED ON THE FIELD. Any player using drugs or alcohol in the playing area, the parking lot, before, during or after games will be ejected from the league with no refund of payments. THIS RULE WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCED.

These rules & policies are designed to make the league run as smoothly and safely as possible, and provide continuity for its participants. Each player in the league is responsible for this information: please advise your team of these rules / league policies and thanks for playing.

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