Y O U W O U L D N ’ T S E N D Y O U R P L AY E R S O U T I N L E AT H E R

H E L M E T S . B U T Y O U S T I L L H Y D R AT E T H E M W I T H WAT E R ?

Of all the things you can do to protect your
players from dehydration, upgrading from water
to Gatorade® is the most important. When
athletes sweat they lose more than water.
They lose electrolytes, which are critical to
rehydrating young athletes. Unlike water,
Gatorade is scientifically formulated to replace
electrolytes, helping players retain fluids and stay
safely hydrated.
Learn why every coach should upgrade
his or her hydration plan from water to
Gatorade at gatorade.com/coaches

Revolution is a registered trademark of Riddell, Inc.

©2005 S-VC, Inc.
CONTENTS
ISSUE 1
FALL 2006

FEATURES
4 On the Prowl
Marvin Lewis has taken the
lessons learned from his youth
coaches in a small Pennsylvania
town to the NFL sidelines in
Cincinnati.
By Tim Polzer
18 Ball Hawk
Rod Woodson used to jump in
front of passes every Sunday.
Now the future Hall of Famer
jump-starts Play Football Month.
By Hilary Strahota
24 Why I Coach:
Gary Patterson
What’s a Horned Frog, you ask?
Texas Christian University’s
Gary Patterson introduced that
rare species to the Oklahoma
Sooners last season en route to
an 11-1 record and Top 10 finish
in the polls.

COACHING CENTER LEAGUE ENHANCEMENT CENTER DEPARTMENTS

6 USA Football Playbook: 14 Worst Case Scenario Playbook 2 Kickoff
Offensive Run Series: 34 Slant By Ed Passino
By Coach Tom Bass Bonus: Emergency Action Plan checklist 3 Audibles

7 Blueprints for Coaching Success 20 USA Football

By Coach Tom Bass OFFICIATING CENTER Pigskin
Portraits
8 Coaching Spotlight: Todd Casey 16 When In Doubt
By Tim Polzer By Bill LeMonnier 22 USA Football
Resources

HEALTH & SAFETY CENTER 23 Gear Up

10 Beware: Heat Illness

By Cynthia Hobgood

12 To Serve and Protect

The Sky’s the Limit

At least that’s what we think of the premiere issue of USA Football magazine.
Palm trees, green grass and a brilliant sunset provided a warm welcome to the
Pop Warner Championships at the Wide World of Sports Disney Complex in Florida.
PHOTO BY TOM DIPACE

Front Cover
MARVIN LEWIS PHOTO BY JOHN SOMMERS/ICON SMI

1
 [ ]
Beware: Heat Illness
USA Football’s Prevention Guide for coaches and parents
COACHING CENTER
BY CYNTHIA HOBGOOD
CENTER
SAFETY CENTER
HEALTH && SAFETY
HEALTH
LEAGUE ENHANCEMENT CENTER
CHECKLIST FOR COACHES
c Be aware of temperature and
humidity levels.
c Change practice length, intensity,
and equipment use as levels rise.
c Remind players to drink
OFFICIATING CENTER
regularly.
c Fluid breaks should be scheduled
for all practices and become more
frequent as the heat/humidity
levels rise.
c Have parent contact information
at all games and practices.
c Have an emergency action plan.
10 USA Football Magazine
CHECKLIST FOR PARENTS
c Before your child starts a sport, have
a physical exam done that includes
questions about history of heat illness
c Tell your child’s coach about any
history or heat illness.
c Make sure your child is hydrated
before going to practice or a game.
Give children their own water bottles.
c Make sure your child’s coach has your
contact information.
c Make sure your child’s league or team
has an emergency action plan.
[SOURCE: NATIONAL ATHLETIC TRAINERS’ ASSOCIATION]
PROPER OR IMPROPER HYDRATION
can have an immediate impact on the
safety of young football players. While
adequate hydration is essential year-round,
during hot weather, dehydration occurs
more frequently and has more severe
consequences, including an increased risk
of heat illness. Now for the good news:
Dehydration and heat illness are preventable
if coaches and parents remain vigilant.
The key to prevention is proper hydration.
According to American Academy of Pediatrics
(AAP), a good starting point for coaches is
to have children drink 5 ounces of water or
sports drink every 15 minutes during hot and
humid conditions.
“In the late summer when football starts
you have youth that are going to be playing
in a very hot, humid environment,” says Dr.
David Joyner, sports medicine physician and
USA Football Health & Safety Committee
Chairman. “Coaches and parents need to
know that young athletes need to have free
access to water; they need to be able to drink
whenever they want to.”
Children do not adapt well to extreme
temperature and do not sweat as much as
adults, making them especially vulnerable.
Do not rely on children to tell you if they need
fluid; most children don’t realize they are
dehydrated until they are already thirsty.
“You need to be forward thinking,”
says Joyner. “An athlete has to continue to
be hydrated so that they don’t get thirsty
because at that point they’re already 20
minutes behind on being able to hydrate, and
that’s getting into a potentially problematic
situation.”
Research conducted by the Gatorade
Institute of Sports Science and published
by the Internal Journal of Sports Medicine
indicates that young football players begin
practice measurably dehydrated.
PHOTO: CYNTHIA HOBGOOD
 “Recent research from our lab shows
that 60 to almost 80 percent of high-school
football players are likely to be dehydrated
before practice even starts,” says Craig
Horswill, Ph.D., Gatorade Sports Science GATORADE
Institute “By asking players to drink a bottle SPORTS SCIENCE
of sports drink or water after dinner and the INSTITUTE
morning on their way to practice, we were SUGGESTED
able to improve their hydration.” HYDRATION AND YOUTH ACTIVITY GUIDELINES
Generally, 7 to 9 cups, or 56 to 72 ounces, HEAT ILLNESS
of fluid are required for children every 24 PREVENTION TIPS: Zone A: Children should receive a 5-10 minute
hours to be hydrated. An additional 12-16 rest and fluid break after every 25 to 30 minutes of
ounces should be consumed approximately > To help prevent activity.
two hours prior to activity. dehydration, track
“Young athletes are coming to practice fluid loss of players Zone B: Children should receive a 5-10 minute rest
dehydrated, they’re getting more dehydrated during practice. and fluid break after every 20 to 25 minutes of activity.
as practice continues, and they’re Children should be in shorts and t-shirts (with helmet
progressively even more dehydrated on each > Have players weigh and shoulder pads only, not full equipment).
succeeding day of practice,” says Michael in before and after
F. Bergeron, Ph.D., American College of practice. The pounds Zone C: Children should receive a 5-10 minute
Sports Medicine. “Athletes need to pay more lost per practice is rest and fluid break after every 15 to 20 minutes of
attention to hydration in earnest, and make an estimate of sweat activity. Children should be in shorts and t-shirts
a stronger effort to be more hydrated at the rate and how much only (with all protective equipment removed).
start of practice, to drink regularly during fluid they need
practice, and to recover sufficiently from to drink during Zone D: Cancel or postpone all outdoor practices
each practice so they can start the next day training. Example: 3 and games. Practice may be held in an air-conditioned
adequately hydrated.” pounds weight loss/1.5 space.
Coaches and parents should also be hour practice = 2
[SOURCE: “PARENTS’ AND COACHES’ GUIDE TO DEHYDRATION AND
mindful of the temperature and humidity pounds per hour. OTHER HEAT ILLNESSES IN CHILDREN” BY NATIONAL ATHLETIC TRAINERS’
levels and adjust practices accordingly. Keep ASSOCIATION]

in mind that moderate temperatures with > To stay hydrated

high humidity can still create a dangerous during training and
situation for young players. games, players should sprinkle extra salt on > When pads go
Cynthia Hobgood manages USA Football’s drink 16 ounces per food. The sodium on, again reduce
Health & Safety programs. To contact pound of fluid they helps replace that lost the intensity for a
Cynthia, e-mail chobgood@usafootball.com. expect to lose. in sweat and promotes few days to allow
better rehydration. for further heat
• To help rehydration adaptations.
WARNING SIGNS after practice: > During early training
OF DEHYDRATION AND when it is hot outside, > Between plays,
HEAT ILLNESS: > Players should drink 20 coaches should reduce during timeouts
• Thirst to 24 ounces for every intensity to allow for or at the breaks
• Irritability 1 pound (16 ounces) of heat adaptation. between quarters,
• Headache and dizziness weight they lost (and remove helmets and
• Muscle cramping and unusual fatigue didn’t replace) during > Start the first few padding to improve
• Nausea and/or vomiting the actual practice. practices without cooling and heat
• Hyperventilation pads and contact, to release from body.
• Confusion and change in personality > Use sports drinks that allow players to adapt
[SOURCE: AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SPORTS MEDICINE] contain sodium and to the heat.

D 11
 [ ]
FA

To Serve and Protect

A head-to-toe guide to equipping your players for the ultimate in protection
Sh
co
im
no
ma
COACHING CENTER

vis
po
BEFORE YOUR TEAM OR CHILD SUITS UP, take a few minutes to learn how each
piece of equipment serves to protect your players. And always follow the manufacturer’s
guidelines to ensure proper fit, use and maintenance of all equipment.

SHOULDER PADS
These pads tend to take the most abuse
during the course of the game, especially
CENTER

when used to block or tackle. Shoulder pads

SAFETYCENTER

protect the shoulders, chest and back.

HEALTH&&SAFETY

PANTS
HEALTH

Pants may be of one-piece or shell

construction. One-piece pants feature
removable (snap-out) hip and kidney
pads; knit (cotton/nylon) material is
suggested with tunnel belts, loops or
attached web belt. Shell pants typically
LEAGUE ENHANCEMENT CENTER

feature knee guard and waist-suspended

thigh guard pockets.

RIB PADS THIGH GUARDS/PADS

Some quarterbacks wear rib pads, designed to protect their ribs and lower A player’s thighs often are the targets of
back from blind hits. hard tackles and blocks. Thigh pads protect
the quadriceps muscles and femur bone.
RECEIVER GLOVES Sizes vary for players at different positions.
Worn by receivers, running backs and defensive backs, these gloves can Kickers and punters generally wear the
provide an improved grip for catching and holding the football. They also help smallest size pads because those positions
provide warmth when playing in cold weather. receive the least amount of contact.
OFFICIATING CENTER

LINEMAN GLOVES
Designed to protect the hands, knuckles and fingers of both offensive and
defensive linemen. They provide more padding than the receiver gloves.

NECK ROLL
Worn primarily by linebackers and defensive linemen, the neck roll is used to
protect the head from whiplash during straight-on contact.

12 USA Football Magazine PHOTOS: CYNTHIA HOBGOOD

 FACE MASK HELMET
Shields the face from Protects various parts of the head, neck and
contact and collisions. Most jaw from collisions with other players and the
importantly, it protects the ground. A variety of internal padding systems
nose. Various styles of face allow the fit to be adjusted to each player’s head.
masks provide safety and
vision options for different
positions. CHIN STRAP
Standard equipment for
all helmets, the chin strap
not only protects the chin
and jaw, but also works in
tandem with the helmet to
provide maximum protection.
Always remind your players
to snap their chin straps.
s
MOUTH PIECE
Fitted to each individual’s mouth and
teeth, the mouth piece also protects
against concussions resulting from blows
to the head. This small but essential
piece of equipment always should be
inserted into the mouth prior to every
live play in practice or a game.
GIRDLE AND HIP PADS
The smallest pads required for
competition play a big role in protecting
important bones and internal organs.
They guard the exposed edge of the
hip bone, the base of the spine and the
kidney area. Pads must be worn in-
girdle or attached to a belt or pants.

KNEE PADS
Tucked inside the lower part of the
pants, these pads help absorb contact
with opponents and the ground. Make
SHOES sure they cover the player’s knee caps
Cleats or turf-soled shoes when the knee is flexed.
provide better traction
and help to protect the
foot during play. Leagues
usually regulate the length
of a shoe’s cleat.

D 13
 [ ]

Worst Case Scenario

Playbook
COACHING CENTER

Drawing up a comprehensive Emergency Action Plan enables coaches and

leagues to prepare for the unexpected BY ED PASSINO
FOOTBALL IS WITHOUT DOUBT one of the most physically
demanding games on the planet. Yet, the sport consistently
ranks as one of the safest youth recreational activities in the
HEALTH & SAFETY CENTER
Injuries do occur, but you should have them occur at the lowest
level. If they do occur, you should be very efficient in be being able
to protect the athlete.”

country. The reason? It boils down to one Emergencies ranging from natural disasters to the serious
simple word: Prevention. injuries of players, coaches and spectators can occur
When the inevitable anywhere and at any time. To limit confusion, a
injuries occur, readiness league’s EAP should be the same for every game,
and emergency every practice, every team and every situation.
planning can reduce the Your plan should include
severity of most injuries. information and medical releases
But being ready from all players and coaches,
means more than emergency contact
just understanding numbers for parents and/or
how to treat on-field guardians, methodology
injuries. A youth coach for contacting emergency
or administrator must services, and names and
CENTER
ENHANCEMENT CENTER

be prepared for any type of availability of medical

situation. That’s why it is strongly recommended that technicians (EMTs) at practice
every league, club, team and facility draw up an Emergency and game fields. It also should include
LEAGUE ENHANCEMENT

Action Plan (EAP). designated shelters and strategies for player

“Having an Emergency Action Plan is the right thing to do if
you’re a league administrator or coach,” says Dr. David Joyner,
orthopedic surgeon and USA Football Health & Safety Committee
Chairman. “You want to make the sport as safe as possible.
LEAGUE
protection from severe weather or other significant events.
Developing an EAP is the responsibility of the each coach and
league administrator. It is important that each person – coach
and league administrator – know what to do in the event of an

emergency and practice, putting the EAP in motion.

“You should have a plan,” Dr. Joyner says. “You should write
WHAT COACHES SHOULD down who is in charge of calling 911, who should have a cell
phone at every practices and games. And at least one member
KNOW ABOUT EAPS of the always present staff, should be trained in first aid, ideally
in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). An action plan is
• An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) should define the
OFFICIATING CENTER

important because those kind of seconds can make a difference

responsibilities of everyone who may be involved.
• An EAP should include the layout of the building and the
equipment that can be used in an emergency, support
personnel and staff responsibilities, communication
methods and follow-up methods.
• The coaching staff should practice the EAP so that
everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency.
in life- and limb-saving.”
Additionally, USA Football recommends that each team keep
a first aid kit on hand at all games, practices and team functions.
Coaches and league administrators should maintain effective
communication tools to contact emergency services should the
need arise.
Ed Passino manages USA Football’s League Enhancement
resources. To contact him, e-mail epassino@usafootball.com.

14 USA Football Magazine

+
Field Layout
EMERGENCY ACTION
PLAN CHECKLIST
Plan and locate the following:
• EMS personnel access and entry/exit routes
Staff Responsibilities
Identify and assign the following EAP
responsibilities and duties to team and league staff:
• Location of rescue and first aid equipment • Person to provide care
• Location of telephones with emergency telephone • Person to control bystanders and supervise other
numbers posted athletes
• Location of keys to reach telephones or • Person to meet EMS personnel
equipment • Person to transport injured athlete
• Exits and evacuation routes
External Support
Equipment Identify and list phone numbers and contact
Make sure the following equipment is on hand at information for each of the following:
every game and practice: • EMS personnel
• Rescue equipment • Police
• First Aid supplies • Fire
• Emergency equipment (flashlights, fire • Hazardous materials team
extinguishers, etc.) • Poison Control Center
• Hospitals
Support Personnel Within Facility • Power and gas companies
Identify and assign EAP responsibilities and duties • Health department
to each of the following personnel:
• Coaches
• Athletic trainers
• Athletic officials and referees
• Facility administrators
• Management personnel
• Teachers and/or team parents
• School nurse/physician
• Athletic director
• Clerical personnel
• Maintenance personnel

15
 [ ]

When In Doubt
Axioms help officials make the right call BY BILL LEMONNIER
COACHING CENTER

PLAYERS, COACHES AND FANS WOULD CRINGE if they knew every official THE PASSER HAS THROWN
sometimes doubts a call made during a game. Few non-officials realize the situation THE BALL FORWARD RATHER
happens more than we’d like to admit. That’s precisely why the “Axioms of Football THAN FUMBLING IT.
Officiating” have been developed through the years. These are the principles designed to Any action by the quarterback’s arm
aid officials in getting the call right more times than not. But the Axioms cannot live on moving forward and the ball coming out
paper alone. At their heart lies their mechanics. should be ruled a forward pass. Even if the
First, let’s look at the difference between having a call and having doubt. In most arm is going forward, untouched and the
calls, you’re in good position, you’ve seen the whole play and you simply make the call. QB loses the ball as he tries to pull it back.
HEALTH & SAFETY CENTER

Here, the Axioms The human eye is good enough to see the
do not apply. When full aspect of this motion. Again, ruling
you have primary these fumbles will result in more cheap
responsibility and you turnovers than correct calls.
didn’t see the whole
play – good mechanics IT’S A FUMBLE RATHER THAN
or not – you need to THE RUNNER DOWN.
use the Axioms to Replays show nearly 90 percent of
have a better shot at a the fumble/down situations are fumbles.
correct call. Any chance of getting help from your
Remember crew is taken away when you blow the
when you are not whistle without seeing the ball dead by
the primary official rule. Let the play continue and get help
LEAGUE ENHANCEMENT CENTER

covering a play, from a crewmate.

the Axioms do not
apply! They are strictly for the covering official who has primary responsibility. It’s Here’s one Axiom that needs more
the difference between making a call and having an opinion. Stay out of it unless the discussion: “When in doubt, it is an
covering official needs your help, and even then, understand the difference between incomplete pass/trap rather than a
having a call and an opinion. completed pass.” If we haven’t seen the
Let’s look at a few of the key Axioms: ball touch the ground, why would we call it
incomplete? If you see it touch the ground,
IT’S A TOUCHBACK RATHER THAN A SAFETY OR MOMENTUM. make the call: incomplete pass. If you aren’t
Too often we see officials not in a position to sell a safety call when the ball never came sure, look for help from another covering
out of the end zone. This is a fundamental Axiom that should be followed: Don’t put official, maybe even the umpire. Don’t take
cheap points on the board and have the team giving up the ball on the ensuing free kick. a good athletic play away from a receiver.
Axioms can be game savers but
THE FORWARD PASS IS INCOMPLETE RATHER THAN A FUMBLE. they don’t excuse officials from their
OFFICIATING CENTER

More times than not, the receiver never controlled the ball long enough to do responsibilities. Put yourself in position
something common to the game — run, pass or kick. Make sure a receiver has tucked the to make the call by using sound officiating
ball away with control before ruling a fumble. Often the receiver is outnumbered by the mechanics, rule knowledge and good
defense and has no chance to recover the ball. Make these plays incomplete! common sense. But never give up your
responsibility to make the call!
THE BALL IS ACCIDENTALLY BATTED/KICKED RATHER THAN
INTENTIONALLY BATTED/KICKED. Bill LeMonnier is a Big Ten Conference
Make the bat or kick obvious and intentional for everyone to see, not some little swipe and Arena Football referee and USA
and nick of the ball. Football Officiating Consultant.

16 USA Football Magazine

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BALLHAWK
Rod Woodson named honorary chairman of Play Football Month
BY HILARY STRAHOTA & TIM POLZER
P
ERENNIAL PRO BOWLER ROD
WOODSON grew up playing in
the Police Athletic League (PAL)
of Fort Wayne, Ind. As an NFL player,
Woodson was on the receiving end of 71
interceptions. But after 17 pro seasons of
stellar secondary play both as a corner
and safety, Rod is now delivering some
targeted passes of his own – in the form of
inspirational and informative messages to
youth football coaches, league personnel
and officials around the country. Woodson
has volunteered his time and experience to
serve as honorary chairman for this year’s
Play Football Month.
USA Football, in conjunction with the
NFL and NFL Players Association, kicked off
the 2006 football season with “The World’s
Largest Youth Football Celebration.” Play
Football Month showcases how different
communities celebrate the start of their
seasons and 2006 marks the third year of
the initiative.
Woodson is the perfect spokesperson to
lead the best month of the year. He believes
in – and has experienced firsthand – the
importance youth football can have in a
young person’s life.
“I began playing just to spend time with
my older brother. By the time I finished,
I had been exposed to so many new and
different things through my teammates and
coaches. Different backgrounds. Different
races. Different religions,” Woodson says.
“PALs introduced me to the structure
of teamwork and the discipline needed
18 USA Football Magazine
to be successful in football and in life.
Considering that I went on to a career in the
NFL, youth football obviously played a very
important part of my life.”
Woodson remains active in youth
football through his two sons. Thirteen-
year-old Demitrius is in his fourth year of
tackle and 8-year-old Jairus is enjoying his
second season of flag football.
“My sons enjoy athletics, and they love
playing football,” Woodson says. “It’s been a
great experience for them.”
Play Football Month officially kicked
off August 25 with the presentation of The
Governor’s Cup to Mississippi, selected as
the nation’s top football state. The project,
conducted by The Wharton Sports Business
Initiative, compiled a variety of criteria
including each state’s per capita percentages
of collegiate and professional football fans,
number of NFL players from each state,
percentage of high school football players
and percentage of high school players who
have letters-of-intent to play for NCAA
Division I-A colleges and universities.
Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour,
USA Football Chairman and Pro Football
Hall of Famer Jack Kemp, and other
former Mississippi football greats attended
the Governor’s press conference on the
steps of the capitol building. An awards
presentation during the New Orleans
Saints-Indianapolis Colts preseason game
topped off the weekend.
As the initiative continues throughout
the month of September, USA Football
plans to award more than $500,000
in equipment grants to eligible youth
football organizations and provide Play
Football Month Celebration Kits to
youth football teams at no cost. Grant
applications, eligibility requirements and
kit registration information is available at
usafootball.com.
During the NFL preseason, all 32 teams
invited local youth football teams to be part
of in-stadium celebrations through ticket
donations, pre-game activities, halftime
festivities and off-site events.
During Play Football Month and
throughout the duration of the season, USA
Football is hosting a weekly photo and video
contest on usafootball.com, where youth and
high school football players, coaches and
parents are encouraged to send in creative
pictures and videos from the season to win
weekly prizes.
Hilary Strahota, marketing & events
coordinator, organizes USA Football events
including Play Football Month. To learn more
about getting involved in USA Football events,
contact Hilary at hstrahota@usafootball.com.
K

“Youth football
obviously played
a very important
part of my life.”
Rod Woodson

TOM DIPACE PHOTOGRAPHY 19

 Dear youth football volunteers,
We are delighted to debut USA Football Magazine for youth football coaches,
administrators, officials, volunteers and parents. Our goal is to offer you reliable
information you can use during this fall season. USAFootball.com
USA Football is a non-profit organization
created by the NFL and NFL Players Association to Chairman
JACK KEMP
lead the development and growth of youth football.
Executive Director
USA Football helps youth football organizations SCOTT HALLENBECK
keep the sport fun, safe and accessible by offering
resources focused on coaching education, league
enhancement, officiating development, and health USA FOOTBALL
and safety awareness. EDITORIAL STAFF
In addition to our existing resources, such as
Managing Editor
our online Coaching Guide and Youth Football CYNTHIA HOBGOOD
Directory, in the coming months we will release Contributors:
more innovative tools. These include: youth TOM BASS, NATHAN BOUDREAUX,
football online coaches course, practice planner, BRIAN FEENER, BILL LEMONNIER,
ED PASSINO, RICK PEACOCK,
rule interpretations and animations for officials,
DAMON PHILIPS, HILARY STRAHOTA
and a league enhancement guide. Please visit www.usafootball.com to learn more.
To contact USA Football:
In the magazine, we will highlight the tremendous efforts of those involved in the (703) 918-0007
sport at every level of football. Most importantly, we will feature people just like you
– youth coaches, administrators, and officials working to create a positive experience
for the millions of youths that are playing our great sport. On page 8 of this issue, you
TRACTION MEDIA STAFF
will find a profile of Todd Casey, a dedicated youth football coach in Vienna, Va.
We selected Bengals Coach Marvin Lewis for our cover feature not only due Publisher
to his coaching success, but also because of his involvement in the community in RUDY J. KLANCNIK

Cincinnati. The Marvin Lewis Community Fund supports numerous community Editorial Director
TIM POLZER
programs in the Greater Cincinnati region including Inner-City Youth Football
Designer
Collaborative, helping purchase safe equipment and providing on-site supervision WILLIAM BRIDGEFORTH
for 102 youth football teams.
Traction Media
We urge you to share your experiences, questions and photos with us so we
Editorial Offices
can learn from you and inform others in the process through best practices and 9435 Waterview Road
innovative resources. Dallas, TX 75218
Tractionmedia@aol.com
USA Football wishes you the best of luck this season and hope you enjoy the first
issue of our magazine. Tell us what you think about the magazine, and what you’d like Editorial Department Phone
to see in the future, by writing to Cynthia Hobgood at chobgood@usafootball.com. (972) 896-8006
Custom Publishing
Sincerely, (972) 898-8585

USA Football Magazine is published by Traction

Media, LLC©. All rights reserved. Traction
Media does not accept unsolicited manuscripts.
Publisher assumes no responsibility for return
Scott Hallenbeck of unsolicited manuscripts or art. No part of
this magazine may be reprinted or otherwise
Executive Director, USA Football duplicated without the written permission of
the editor.

2 USA Football Magazine

 PIGSKIN PORTRAITS

Durham Fighting Eagles vs Capital City Steelers

Raleigh, N.C.

AYF Billings Broncos

Montana

Grimes County Rattlers Junior Team

Navosta, Texas

AYF El Segundo Eagles

California

AYF Torrance Panthers

California

European Youth Services Football

Hohenfels, Germany (U.S. Military families)

European Youth Services Football Flag Football

Hohenfels, Germany (U.S. Military families) South Arlington (Texas) Eagles

20 USA Football Magazine

 7th-8th grade
Lake Oswego (N.Y.)
Eminence Redskins
Kentucky

Matteson Bears
Illinois

South Arlington Eagles vs Grand

Prairie Cardinals
Texas

Tiny Mite at 2005 Pop

Warner Super Bowl
Lake Mary Rams (Fla.)

Pee Wee Tarheels

Ft. Wayne, Ind.

Mail
addr

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS!

USA Football
attn: Cynthia Hobgood,
8300 Boone Blvd., Suite 625
Vienna, VA 22182
Jr Midget 2005 Pop Warner Super Bowl E-mail: chobgood@usafootball.com
Lee’s Summit (Mo.) Tigers

21
 USA Football’s newly designed Web site now offers even more valuable youth football resources. Visit www.usafootball.com for
up-to-date youth football information, playbooks, coaching and league aids and directories.

Coaching Guide
Click “Coaching” for instructional content for youth football coaches focused on
coaching philosophy, offense, defense and special teams including drills, tips and
techniques.

Coaches Practice Planner

Click “Coaching” to find a comprehensive, start-to-finish online guide designed to
aid coaches in planning a season. The Practice Planner includes instruction, drills and
techniques from USA Football’s youth coaching curriculum.

League Enhancement Center

Click “League” to read tips for starting and managing a league, fundraising,
equipment purchasing and maintenance guidelines, background checks, operating
concessions, field set-up and emergency action plans.

Youth Football Directory

Click “Youth Football Directory” to promote your league on the USA Football website. The Youth Football Directory lets you submit
information about your league and search for leagues/organizations in your area. This directory is open to all youth football organizations.

Officiating Center
Click “Officiating” to discover a state-of-the-art resource for officials at all levels. Our nationwide network of respected and well-
trained football officials delivers tools and resources. The content pertains to football officiating with the core elements being rules,
mechanics and philosophy. Officials can ask questions of a credible source about rules, play situations, career success, etc. Recruiting
and mentoring information is provided, along with a listing of recommended clinics and seminars. Features, news and tips will be
added weekly during the season.

Health & Safety Center

Click “Health & Safety” to read recommended information on topics such as injury prevention, emergency care guidelines,
hydration, nutrition, conditioning, equipment fitting, the danger of performance enhancing drugs and current research. An
interactive tool allows users to send questions to sports medicine and research professionals.

NFL YOUTH FOOTBALL RESOURCES

The following resources are available at www.nflyouthfootball.com

NFL FLAG is the premier A national skills competition

NFL RUSH is the official
kids site for everything
NFL. This new site
features fun games,
contests and exclusive
NFL player content,
as well as information
on youth football and
community programs.
Visit www.nflrush.com to
learn more.
youth football league for
boys and girls ages 5-17.
The program provides young players a fun
and exciting opportunity to engage in non-
contact, continuous action while learning
lessons in teamwork. Launched in 1996,
the FLAG Football program is designed to
educate young people about football while
emphasizing participation and sportsmanship.
Players learn skills and lessons that help them
succeed both on and off the field.
in which girls and boys in four
separate age divisions (8-
9, 10-11, 12-13, and 14-15) compete against each
other in punting, passing and placekicking in a fun
and engaging forum. The program is free – both to
organizers who host a local competition and to every
youngster who wants to participate! With more than
four million boys and girls from around the country
taking part in the competition every year from July
through January, it is one of the world’s largest
youth sports participation programs.

22 USA Football Magazine

 GEAR UP
The latest, coolest, must-have, must-see youth football equipment, tools and clinics

A VERY TACKY GLOVE

K2 BALL DESIGNED FOR
LITTLE HANDS
Wilson’s exclusive Grip Stripes
and ACL Lacing System make the
K2 Pee Wee Game Ball perfect for
smaller hands. Wilson’s 864 Full
Grain Leather features a deep pebble
pattern designed for serious beginners
under 10 years of age. The K2 is used
as the game ball of more intermediate
youth leagues and junior high school
leagues than any other football. Visit
www.wilson.com for K2 Game Ball
specifications and an inside tour of
the making of a football.
Whether rain or snow or sweaty
palms, no other receiver glove performs
like the Cutter Original C-Tack. Other
gloves may look alike, but Cutter’s
C-Tack material provides maximum
grip and durability. It also is ideal for
running backs, defensive backs and
returners. Visit www.cuttergloves.com
for additional colors.
UNDER ARMOUR
HAMMER MID YOUTH
Built for stable, durable performance throughout
the season. Breathable synthetic leather upper
with HeatGear liner locks in moisture transport.
Performance cushioning in the insole keeps you
ready as the action heats up. Outsole cleat design
is designed for efficient cuts and maximum speed.
Visit www.underarmour.com to learn more.

NIKE CLINICS OFFER YOUTH SESSIONS

WITH COLLEGE COACHES
The 2006 Nike Coach of the Year clinics feature the nation’s top college football
coaches speaking at 20 sites across the country. Founded by a pair of legendary
college coaches, Oklahoma’s Bud Wilkinson and Michigan State’s Duffy Daugherty,
these state-of-the-art clinics feature 70 Division IA college head coaches on the
staff. Many clinics include lectures designed specially for youth league coaches
covering techniques, drills and 1-on-1 sessions. Hammer Strength also provides
a session covering strength and conditioning. Visit www.nikecoyfootball.com for
locations and dates.

SCHUTT HELMET PASSES DNA TEST

Kids require the best in head protection, too. Schutt’s award-winning DNA Helmet is
available for youth players. Schutt’s DNA helmet technology features a thinner, lighter
military-proven protective cushioning material, SKYDEX cushioning components
that are smarter and foam and the two-part SUREFIT air liner system that provides a
better fit for the back, sides and top of the helmet. Visit schuttsports.com for more
information on the DNA Helmet.

23

Purple People Leader
College football is no kids’
game, but Gary Patterson
still wants his TCU players to
enjoy the game and think of
him as a friend.
You’ll have to excuse Gary
Patterson if he gets defensive on
you. Prior to the 2005 season,
his Texas Christian University
Horned Frogs were picked to
finish sixth in their conference
as they hit the road to take on
Top-10 Oklahoma. So much for
preseason predictions. TCU’s
defense shocked the Sooners and
the nation in a 17-10 upset. The
Horned Frogs went on to post
an 11-1 record and earn a Top-
10 finish in the polls. In just five
seasons, Patterson has compiled a
43-18 record and is the only TCU
coach to record three 10-win
seasons. He also has added to his
reputation as a defensive general,
twice finishing the season with
the nation’s top-ranked defense.
Coach Patterson took a few
minutes after practicing this
year’s Mountain West favorites
and Top 25-ranked squad to
discuss his thoughts on coaching
with USA Football Magazine.
What made you want to be a
football coach?
Patterson: My whole life,
I grew up playing sports. My
uncles and my dad played in the
Canadian Football League, so
it’s just been a way of life. I was
raised in a small, little town so
either you played sports or you
worked. You ended up doing
both, but if you had your choice
you’d do the sports part.
24 USA Football Magazine
Gary Patterson HEAD COACH
TCU HORNED FROGS
Why do you enjoy coaching?
Patterson: I enjoy coaching
because of the kids. As coaches,
we enjoy trying to help others
get where we can’t. I also love
game days and being able to
compete against others. It’s good
and fulfilling to see what you
were able to get accomplished.
What was your first coaching
job?
Patterson: It was at my alma
mater, Kansas State. I served as a
graduate assistant.
Do you recall a game or
instance in your career that you
realized you could be a good
football coach?
Patterson: When I think
back to when I was at Sonoma
State (Calif.), it was a challenge
because we didn’t have all the
frills, yet we ended up leading After players leave your Do you remember a coach
the nation in defense in a couple program, how do you want them who impacted your youth?
different categories. There were to remember you? Patterson: Oh yes, my junior
only maybe 200 people in the Patterson: Remember that high coach, Mr. Price. He was
stands, but that’s the first time I was someone they respected always positive and wanted
I remember that we may have but more importantly that I was everyone to go out and work
something special defensively. tough on them and drove them hard and live up to his potential.
to be the best they could be. I’d He encouraged us to be all that
What is the greatest also want them to know that I we could be.
challenge any college football was their friend and cared about
coach faces? them outside of football. Do you have any advice to
Patterson: Just the way the offer youth coaches?
world is changing. Did you play football at the Patterson: Make sure to
youth level? understand they are just little kids
What values and experiences Patterson: I played a little and to not yell at them. I’d want
does football offer to young youth football but it was them to remember to be the kind
men? through the school system back of coach they’d want their children
Patterson: I think if they’re in my hometown. When you to be coached by. Understand that
coached right, it gives them come from a small town, you winning is important, but having
an outlet to become physically play as a youth but it all works fun is more essential because you
better and learn to play as a through grade school, junior want the players to continue to love
team and not an individual. high and high school programs. the game as they get older.
AARON M. SPRECHER/ICON SMI

When Tempers Flare
How to Deal with Players
Who Act Out
I’m an assistant coach on
my son’s third-grade tackle
team. We have several players
on the team whose tempers
flare up during the contact
drills that we run and it has
become very disruptive during
practice. How can I teach my
players to be positive and keep
a good perspective?
– Mack
Immediately take the
players out of the drill and have
them stand next to you, one on
each side. Explain that they will
not be allowed to practice until
you are convinced they can
take part in the drill without
losing their tempers. Players
play in games like they practice,
and the team cannot afford a
penalty during a game. When
you are faced with repeated
outbursts, sit the player down,
limiting his playing time in the
next game.
– Coach Tom Bass, USA
Football Advisor
If a loss of down penalty is
committed on fourth down, can
the defense accept the penalty,
take the ball and receive the
penalty yardage?
– Gary
Federation and NCAA
rulebooks differ slightly when
in this scenario.
NCAA Rules:
A yardage foul is not
associated with intentional
grounding [ING]. It is a spot
foul and loss of down. If
E-mail address:
chobgood@usafootball.com
PHOTO: CYNTHIA HOBGOOD
AUDIBLES
this happens on 4th down,
the defense is given the ball
1st and 10 at the spot of the
grounding. If the ball was
grounded to conserve time
instead of loss of yardage, then
a five-yard penalty is enforced
from the spot of the foul
and loss of down applies.
Declining the penalty
normally is not a good
option for the defense
as the grounding spot
foul is usually several
yards behind the line
of scrimmage. [7-3-2-d
Penalty]
Federation Rules:
The yardage penalty
in Federation play is five yards
from the previous spot and
loss of down. Federation
interpretations say that
declining this foul will result in
the same location as the spot of
the illegal pass is now the end
of the run. [7-5-2 Penalty]
– Bill LeMonnier, Big
10 Referee/USA Football
consultant
Is crashing a defensive end
the best way to stop an inside
running game? And what is the
best way to stop the option?
Should your defense hit the
fullback and QB every time no
matter what?
– Charles
Having a variety of
defensive formations can take
an offense out of its comfort
zone and create indecision
in your opponent’s blocking
scheme. For example: If an
offense is successful running
Mailing USA Football, attn: Cynthia Hobgood,
address: 8300 Boone Blvd., Suite 625, Vienna, VA 22182
inside against your base Can you explain the proper
4-3 defense that lines both way to snap the football?
defensive ends on the outside – Evan
shoulder of the offensive tackle, For a good grip, have your
call a 4-3 PINCH that lets all center turn the laces of the
four defensive linemen charge ball to the outside and below
through their inside gap. the midline of the ball and
grip the ball as if he
was going to throw
a pass; First finger
off the laces near
the front of the ball,
next two fingers
over the laces on the
front half of the ball
and the little finger
resting on the laces
at the center of the
ball. The thumb
Playing the option out of should be on the top panel.
the base 4-3 lets your middle On the snap count, bring
linebacker and both tackles the ball up between the legs,
secure the fullback, while both turning it sideways so that the
ends play the line and force QB can grip it with both hands.
the pitch. Calling 4-3 CRASH In making this motion, the
sends both ends crashing snapping hand stays under the
outside of the offensive tackles, ball and helps ensure a good
where they should immediately exchange while diminishing
hit the quarterback. any chance for a fumble.
– Coach Tom Bass – Coach Tom Bass
YOU’VE GOT QUESTIONS,
WE’VE GOT PRIZES
Ask and you shall receive. USA Football is here for you – the
coach, the official and the league administrator. That’s why
we’re so interested in continuous feedback from all of our
members. And that’s why “Audibles” is so important to this
magazine. We want to hear your thoughts, your experiences
and your questions. So fire away and keep them coming. Just
to make it even more worth your while to e-mail or snail-
mail us, we’re randomly selecting one out of every 10 letter
writers for a special prize.
3
On the Prowl
Bengals head man Marvin Lewis’ NFL success links directly to
his experiences from his earliest football moments BY TIM POLZER
PLAYING SMALL-TOWN YOUTH
FOOTBALL SEEMS LIKE LIGHT YEARS
away from roaming the sidelines as the
head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals. But
Marvin Lewis has not forgotten the way
home – or the youth coaches who helped
him make the journey.
“I remember those men’s names. Sam
Edmonds was one of my first coaches. Joe
Almatti, Vic Mazzucca, Bob Cook,” Lewis
told a conference of youth and amateur
football players and coaches. “I remember
the impact they had on me and how they
helped me learn the game of football.”
With his football fundamentals firmly in
place, Lewis went on to run the single-
wing as a quarterback in high school in
McDonald, Pa. It was there that his path
crossed with another future
AFC North division coach,
one who brought home a
Super Bowl ring last season.
Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill
Cowher and Lewis played for
conference rivals in high school.
And their bond was strengthened
at a youth football camp.
After playing the odd
combination of linebacker,
quarterback and safety at Idaho State,
Lewis decided to give coaching a try. He
slowly but surely gained valuable experience
in the college ranks. In 1992, his old high
school rival, now head coach of the Steelers,
offered him a shot at the NFL. He was to
coach linebackers in the Steel City.
Lewis immediately made an impact,
cementing his reputation as one of pro
football’s brightest defensive minds. As
defensive coordinator for the Baltimore
Ravens, a team that boasted one of the all-
time best defensive units, he won his own
Super Bowl ring. In just three seasons,
Lewis guided the Bengals from 2-14 to
the AFC North division title and their
first playoff appearance in 15 years.
4 USA Football Magazine
Thanks to Lewis’ coaching prowess, empower, educate and inspire individuals in
the Bengals entered the 2006 NFL season the Greater Cincinnati area “One Play at a
capable of challenging for a Super Bowl. Time.” Lewis frequently contributes his time
But don’t think that the key to this coach’s and resources to young people. The Marvin
success is some sort of top secret formula. Lewis Community Fund supports numerous
Lewis still relies on the fundamentals that he community programs in the Greater Cincinnati
learned from the moment he pulled on his region including Inner-City Youth Football
first football helmet. Collaborative, helping purchase safe equipment
Lewis has taken the time to teach the and offsetting costs of officials and on-site
lessons he’s learned by speaking to youth supervision for 102 youth football teams.
football organizations and coaches at all levels. “Football teaches lessons in sacrifice,
The Marvin Lewis Community Fund strives to hard work and team work,” Lewis says.
“It teaches you about success and
“I LOVE WATCHING disappointment, and handling the
AND EXPERIENCING ups and downs.”
A PLAYER THAT Lewis makes it a point to mention
MATURES INTO A that his youth coaches never cursed
MAN.” or ranted and raved to make their
point. He tries to follow their
examples when teaching some of the best
football players in the world.
“They taught me how to approach
and speak to people, being corrective
and not critical. Always be positive,”
Lewis says. “You have to be a great
teacher. You have to be able to have
the patience to communicate
with the guy who is extremely
talented that can get everything
the first time to the guy that
has zero talent and it takes
him 10 times.”
Trophies and accolades
represent competitive goals for
coaches at the highest level. But
when asked about why coaching
football gets his engine revved every
morning, Lewis’ answer has little to do with
victory parades or champagne toasts.
“I love the game of football and the
experiences of seeing someone accomplish
a goal or improve,” Lewis says. “I love
watching and experiencing a player that
matures into a man.”
That’s one for the win column, no
matter the final score.
PHOTO: JOHN SOMMERS/ICON SMI
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 [ ]

OFFENSIVE RUN SERIES:

Formation Deception
CENTER
COACHING CENTER

The diagram shows an inside running

play from a “Left Far Wing” formation.
COACHING

The position of the tight end (TE) and

wing back (WB) reveals your offense’s
running strength to be on the left side of
the formation, but your offense also is in
position to run the fullback inside to the
opposite side by using the HB to serve
as a lead blocker on the weakside “Will”
HEALTH & SAFETY CENTER

linebacker (W).

Assignment Breakdown
• The quarterback (QB) can use a
reverse pivot to sell the misdirection
or open to the path of the FB driving to
the gap between the RG and RT
• The HB leads through the 4 hole and
blocks the W linebacker in whatever
direction the defender is moving
• The FB takes the handoff, follows the
path of the HB and cuts opposite the
block of the HB on the W linebacker
LEAGUE ENHANCEMENT CENTER

• Offensive linemen drive block the

defender lined up across from them,
on or off the line of scrimmage
• The WB and split end (SE) block
downfield on defensive backs
EARLY IN THE SEASON, it’s important to have a relatively simple offensive play • After the handoff, the quarterback
system that can be enhanced as your team becomes more experienced and you find should drop straight back and set up
the need to add more plays. Many coaches believe it’s better to have fewer plays to pass. This should set up a possible
— and run them well – than to have a large number of plays that can leave your players play-action pass later in the game and
uncertain in their execution. provide a third option off this formation.
As your team’s offensive strengths become apparent, defenses often will load
up against your best runner and most productive plays. By mixing in a weakside run When practicing this offensive
counter play, your offense can gain crucial yardage and keep the defense honest. series, impress upon your players
To get you started, here is an example of a counter play for your run series. to fire out on the snap, execute their
OFFICIATING CENTER

assignments and run the play correctly

FULLBACK INSIDE RUN RIGHT: “34 SLANT” using the proper technique.
When the defense believes the halfback (HB) is the main player in your running Tom Bass coached in the NFL for 30
game, opposing coaches will begin to overplay your formation by cheating their years as a defensive coordinator, offensive
linebackers and safeties, or slanting the defensive linemen to the tight end side of the and defensive assistant with the Cincinnati
formation. You can vary your attack and counter the stacked alignment by using the HB Bengals, San Diego Chargers and Tampa
as a lead blocker and handing off to the fullback (FB) or “3 back” who runs between Bay Buccaneers. He serves on the USA
the right guard (RG) and right tackle (RT) or “4 hole.” Football technical advisory committee.

6 USA Football Magazine P

Blueprints For Coaching Success
Positive leadership, organization and clear communication can produce
an enjoyable – and winning – experience for your team BY COACH TOM BASS
COACHING FOOTBALL AT THE YOUTH
LEVEL offers an opportunity to introduce
young players to one of America’s greatest
games and a tremendously rewarding
experience.
You strive to experience the pleasure of
watching your players evolve from awkward,
young athletes into a smooth, efficient team.
To realize this goal, it is important to ask
yourself what your role and philosophy is as
a coach.
Remember, as a coach you are first and
foremost a teacher. Considering the many
complex issues facing coaches today, being a
teacher may seem to take a backseat at times, but
it shouldn’t. All great coaches are great teachers.
Safety and Enjoyment
Your first responsibility is to provide a
safe and enjoyable setting for learning. This
involves:
> Inspecting the field before the first player
arrives for practice
> Greeting each player by name
> Making a quick check of each player’s
equipment
> Pre-planning the practice, so drills are
conducted in a safe manner and the
techniques that are taught emphasize
proper and safe body movements
> Being aware of any strangers who may be
PHOTO: CYNTHIA HOBGOOD
loitering around the field
> Having one coach remain at the field until
the last player has been picked up
> Having a pre-arranged plan for any
potential medical problem
Practice Preparation
Preparing yourself – and your assistants
– to accomplish your everyday goals may
make it necessary to meet as a staff prior to
each practice, each meeting and each game
in order to outline the goals for that day.
Coaches need to understand not only what
they will teach, but also how it fits into the
bigger team picture.
Player Participation and Fun
Youth teams should be geared to allow
even the least skilled players to enjoy
participating in games and practices. During
your practices try to:
> Make sure every player participates
> Use drills that teach only one skill, rather
than running one drill that involves
multiple skills, giving playing as many
repetitions as possible
> Keep lectures to a minimum
> Keep it fun and always be upbeat
Positive Communication
Coaches always should communicate
in a positive manner. Consider what you
want your players to do and instruct them
in a step-by-step manner. In addition, stay
positive in your conversations with parents,
regardless of the subject being discussed.
One of the greatest lessons you can teach
your players is how to communicate with
officials during a game. Show the officials
the respect they deserve and save any
discussions or questions for a time-out or
at halftime.
Leadership
Your players are going to look to you for
leadership during practice and at games,
and their attitudes will reflect yours. Young
players want and expect you to provide
instruction, structure and discipline, so
don’t let them down.
Players come to the practice field wanting
to learn and have fun. They hope you will
understand that they will make errors and
that they will need encouragement. Every
player wants to play on a team in which
everyone is coached with kindness rather
than criticism.
Remember, coaching is a tremendous
responsibility. Parents entrust you with their
most precious possession; their child. It is
your responsibility to treat each child with
respect and care.
7
USA FOOTBALL

COACHING SPOTLIGHT:
Todd Casey, Vienna, Va.

All Smiles
Father and son dentist team drill at the office and on
the field for the benefit of all involved BY TIM POLZER few things that rarely change.
“You can never assume they know
anything. You have to approach each
aspect of the game as if they’re just
starting out,” Casey says. “Games are easy.
Games are fun. Practices are tougher.
You have to go in with the idea that you’re
teaching them and challenging them
every day.”
Casey has managed to coach successful
teams without leaving any kids behind.
He has found a way to make every player
feel a part of every team.
“Everybody wants to be a running
back or quarterback. But by stressing
the fundamentals, kids can enjoy
playing every position,” Casey explains.
“In fact, I think you’ll find that many
of the larger kids who may start youth
football as linemen eventually evolve
THE ROOTS OF TODD CASEY’S CONTRIBUTIONS to youth football run deep. Casey, a into quarterbacks and running backs as
dentist in Vienna, Va., need only look to his father and dental practice partner, George, they get older.”
as the person who got him started in youth football and, eventually, coaching. One of Casey’s most cherished youth
Todd began playing youth football in the late ’70s with his father as his coach, and football memories was taking his Steelers
the pair has remained active ever since. After Todd’s playing days were over, he decided to Minnesota to play in last year’s USA
to continue his youth football experience through coaching. Football Classic. The total experience,
Casey coaches the Vienna Steelers in the 110-pound division of the Fairfax County including fundraising efforts and
Youth Football League, an organization serving more than 20 youth sports and reaching out to community sponsors,
recreation clubs in northern Virginia. Casey has coached or co-coached in 13 County created a need for teamwork off the
Championships, six Metropolitan Super Bowls, the 95-pound American FCYFL field. Along the way, Casey said the team
Championship and a national championship game at last year’s USA Football Classic. enjoyed a unique bonding experience
While Casey’s father got him started as a youth player, it’s the joy of helping kids between coaches, players and parents.
learn the game that energizes him as an adult coach. The Caseys’ family affair with youth
“It’s really fun watching the kids evolve. It’s amazing how much they learn football already spans more than 30 years
and change from the first day of practice to the last game,” Casey says. “Their and there looks to be no end in sight —
enthusiasm keeps me going.” Todd’s 5-year-old son, Patrick, already is
Casey’s years of experience coaching seventh and eighth graders has taught him a running wind sprints in the backyard.

8 USA Football Magazine PHOTOS: CYNTHIA HOBGOOD

Sportskool_USA football_8_14 8/14/06 3:31 PM Page 1
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