(NAME)

PLAYBOOK
(GENERAL PLAYER INFORMATION)

2014
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 EAGLES PLAYBOOK

The primary purpose of the EAGLES PLAYBOOK is to educate you on philosophies, schemes and
techniques of our program. The EAGLES PLAYBOOK will not win us a championship; YOUR
perfecting and executing the schemes and techniques discussed in this Playbook will!

YOU are responsible to read, know and understand the contents of this Playbook. In the event
you do not understand something, it is YOUR responsibility to bring it to the Coach’s attention
so we can assist you in learning and understanding the contents.

1. THIS EAGLES PLAYBOOK IS THE PROPERTY OF THE EAGLES FOOTBALL CLUB!

2. This EAGLES PLAYBOOK has been assembled by the coaching staff for you to use as a
reference for learning. Players learn by:
a) LISTENING – to others when they speak in meetings or practices,
b) WRITING – notes in EAGLES PLAYBOOK during meetings or when viewing video,
c) READING – the EAGLES PLAYBOOK or other writings that coaches give you,
d) OBSERVING – notes or diagrams on chalkboard, video studies, or on field
demonstrations,
e) PRACTICE – participation in drills, workouts and scrimmages,
f) REPETITION – of any or all of the above!

3. The EAGLES PLAYBOOK will be the source for our COMMON LANGUAGE and will put us “ALL
ON THE SAME PAGE!” Take thorough notes during meetings and after practice so you can
study and review them later.

4. BRING THE EAGLES PLAYBOOK AND SOMETHING TO WRITE WITH TO ALL MEETINGS!!

5. CARE OF THE EAGLES PLAYBOOK

a) Report any missing page(s) (either lost or stolen) immediately to your coach and
he will provide you with replacement page(s).
b) Report a missing PLAYBOOK (lost or stolen) immediately to your coach. He will
provide you with a replacement PLAYBOOK for the cost of reproduction.
c) DO NOT share the contents of the EAGLES PLAYBOOK with anyone outside the
team (this includes family and friends).

Use your EAGLES PLAYBOOK to help you WIN!

 Table of Contents

Page
Section 1 WHO WE ARE
Why the Eagles are Here 1
What the Eagles Want to Do 1
Philosophy Statement 1
How the Eagles Will Do It 2
Teamwork 2
Performance 2
Mental Toughness 2
Physical Toughness 2
What it takes to be a Great Team 3
Honour System 3
Leadership 3
Performance Expectations & Standards 4
Skills & Techniques 4
Football Knowledge 5
Evaluation of Performance 6
Individual Evaluations 6
Team Evaluations 7
Recognition of Performance 8
Training Awards 8
Practice Awards 8
Game Achievement Awards 9
Game Star Awards 9
Season Awards 9
League Awards 9
Random Thoughts to Help You Succeed 10
Building a Championship Player 10
Change 10
Playing Criteria 11

Section 2 POLICIES, REGULATIONS & EXPECTATIONS

General Comments 13
Clubhouse Policies 14
Locker Room Policy 14
Equipment Policy 15
Therapy Room Policy 16
General Clubhouse Policy 16
Expectation of Injured Players 17
Game Day Injury Policy 17
Regulations for Professional Behaviour 18
General Conduct 18
On-field Behaviour 18
Media Relations 18
Final Word on Professional Behaviour 18
Financial Expectations 19
Players’ Fees 19
Sponsorship Obligations 19
Fundraising Obligations 20
Gate Receipts 20

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Section 3 PRACTICE GUIDELINES & SCHEDULES
General Comments 21
Purposes of Meetings 21
Practice Periods and Tempo 22
Practice Periods 22
Meetings: Video Analysis 22
Warm-up 22
Special Teams 22
Technique Work 23
Walk & Talk 23
Team Take-off 23
Conditioning 23
Strength Work 23
Tuesday Practice Schedule (Offense) 24
Wednesday Practice Schedule (Defense) 25
Thursday Practice Schedule (Full Team) 26
Seven Steps for Maximizing Your Performance 27

Section 4 GAME DAY ROUTINES

Pre-game 29
During Game 30
Halftime 30
Post Game 30
Impact Plays: Crucial Times in a Game 31
Momentum Swings 31
Third Down Situations 31
Three Minute Warning 31
Special Teams Plays 32

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WHO WE ARE
 WHY THE EAGLES ARE HERE
 To develop the people involved with the Eagles Football Club to become the best they
can be (as people, as players, as volunteers, as coaches).

 To field a highly competitive team which reflects the standard of excellence associated
with the Eagles Football Club.

 To provide opportunities for outstanding athletes to develop life skills through

competition and teamwork.

WHAT THE EAGLES WANT TO DO

 Win the League and Provincial Championship.

 Have the best football “team” in the League and Province.

 Develop all aspects of the team and program to the highest level.

TEAM PHILOSOPHY STATEMENT

A “Team Philosophy” is simply a statement of the “purpose” of a team. The purpose of the
Eagles Football Club is to be a successful team. We will define “successful team” as a group of
people performing up to, and beyond, their abilities. Thus, the Eagles Football Club’s philosophy
is for everyone associated with the team to strive to:

BE THE BEST PLAYER YOU CAN BE!!

EAGLES - 1
 HOW THE EAGLES WILL DO IT
It is the Eagles Football Club’s expectation that all players must strive to develop and improve
themselves in the qualities and attributes needed to succeed. The qualities and attributes are:

Teamwork

 Everyone must commit to the team and to their teammates.

 Everyone must align their individual goals with the team’s goals.
 Everyone must be prepared to do what has to be done in order to help the team win.

Performance (Skills & Techniques and Football Knowledge)

 Everyone must commit to a relentless process of improving their performance daily.

 Everyone must strive to master the skills and techniques of their position.
 Everyone must strive to understand the rules of football, the concepts of play, the
assignments of their position (football knowledge), and, the recognition of the
opponent’s tactics and strategies.
 Everyone must approach perfection in performing their role on the team.

Mental Toughness

 Everyone must perform with intensity regardless of circumstances.

 Everyone must block out all factors that are not relevant to your performance (i.e.
score, weather, pain, momentum changes).
 Everyone must focus on their personal performance during adversity.
 Everyone must remain calm and remain together as a team.

Physical Toughness & Aggressiveness

 Everyone must commit to hard work.

 Everyone must work through fatigue and pain to perform.
 Everyone must thrive on the physical aspects of the game – make a hit on every play.
 Everyone must expect to compete with and control the player across from you.
 Everyone must hustle until the whistle.
 Everyone must assert themselves – step up and take the victory!

EAGLES - 2
 WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A GREAT TEAM
“PERFECTION CAN NEVER BE ACHIEVED – BUT THE QUEST FOR PERFECTION
IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL GREAT ACHIEVEMENT!”

GREAT TEAMS ARE:

 not perfect; they simply overcome their imperfections.

 made up of players who put the team first.
 made up of players who seize the opportunities presented to them.
 made up of players who support their teammates.
 made up of players who perform to their maximum on every play.
 invincible; they never beat themselves.

GREAT TEAMS EXPECT TO WIN TOGETHER!

The Eagle’s destiny is controlled by your attitude, your work ethic,

your motivation, and your desire to succeed!

HONOUR SYSTEM
Each player should be on guard for teammates who are loafing (physically or mentally) because
they are stealing your victory (Join the ‘Performance Police”). If the guy next to you is giving
less than 100% he is cheating you. Call him out! Point out he is cheating you and himself.

Be a leader – help everyone be successful!

Leadership is when you show your strong desire to excel. As a leader you put peer pressure on
others to work hard. As a leader you demand effort from everyone to become better!

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 PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS & STANDARDS
High performance is the ability to produce a desired result consistently. Players much approach
perfection in performing their role on the team.

To achieve this desired outcome an athlete must have a clear vision of what is involved in
producing such a performance: Skills & Techniques and Football Knowledge; and continually
improve in both knowledge and skill. The Eagles Football Club will only be as strong as the
individuals that make up the team.

SKILLS & TECHNIQUES

Skills & Techniques are the foundation of successful performance. They are the fundamentals
of the game!

Each position will have its own specific fundamentals (a list is appended to this section) and the
players will be trained in them by their position coach during on-field practices. These
fundamentals fall into three broad categories:

a) Position specific movements (stance, footwork, running, changes of direction, pursuit)

b) Playing the man (blocking, shedding blocks, tackling, avoiding tackles)
c) Playing the ball (passing, catching/intercepting, carrying, stripping, recovery, kicking)

Players must strive to improve in performing the skills & techniques correctly and at a
continually faster speed against greater resistance. There are only five reasons that a player
does not improve:

1) The player resists being coached.

2) The player will not work at the tempo required.
3) The player does not do enough reps.
4) The player does not possess the athletic ability to perform (this is mostly an excuse).
5) Poor teaching / coaching (and the Eagles Football Club will correct this immediately).

Let us not allow these reasons to take hold!

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 FOOTBALL KNOWLEDGE
Football knowledge is the understanding of and the recognition of when, where, why and what
skills & techniques to apply in competition.

The players will be taught this knowledge and coached in the process of recognition by their
Position Coach, the Coordinator and the Head Coach during meetings and on-field practices.
Football knowledge falls into six broad categories:

a) Rules of the game (scrimmaging, penalties, scoring)

b) Concepts of play (methods of attack/defend, points of attack/defend)
c) Personal assignment (responsibility; alignment, adjustments, reads, reactions)
d) Situation recognition (down & distance, field position, game time, score)
e) Opponent recognition (formation, personnel, tendencies)
f) Game plan (specific information to guide your play/performance)

Through increasing your football knowledge you will begin to see clearly what our team is trying
to do and align your efforts with our team’s objectives. By speeding the process of recognizing a
situation and what our opponent is trying to do you will begin to respond more proficiently and
thus improve in your performance.

Mastering of skills
(a little better, a little quicker, a little stronger)
and mastery of knowledge
(a little smarter, a little more observant)
comes through practice and meetings!

EAGLES - 5
 EVALUATION OF PEFORMANCE
Individual Evaluations:

A graded Player Evaluation will occur after each game using the available game video. The
purpose of this Player Evaluation is threefold. First, it indicates the outcomes needed to be
successful. They are “Initial Movement’, Fulfill Assignment’ and “Follow up’. Second, it will be
used to measure a player’s achievement with respect to the play outcomes. Third, it will
indicate areas of play that a player will need to improve upon to achieve future success.

The form used is illustrated:

PLAY NUMBER

ASSIGNMENT
OPPONENT'S

MOVEMENT

FOLLOW UP
PLAY CALL

PLAY CALL

FULFILL
INITIAL

SCORE

COMMENTS

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The following explains the form and how it is to be used.
IDENTIFICATION
At the top of the form is the Player’s name and number along with the name of the opponent
team and the half being evaluated.
SCORING NOTATIONS
There are four levels of performance and one notation for when the video does not provide
enough evidence to grade a player (“0”). The “++” indicates the player ‘DID EXCEPTIONAL’ in
fulfilling their assignment or follow up. The “+” indicates the player ‘DID’ their assignment as
expected. The “-” indicates the player ‘DID NOT’ fulfill their assignment. And, the “--” indicates the
player committed a ‘VITAL ERROR’ on the play that led to unnecessary yardage being lost (i.e.
major or unnecessary penalty, missed tackle or block).
PLAY
Along the side is the PLAY NUMBER indicating the sequence of plays recorded on the game video.
Next is the PLAY CALL indicating what play we called. Next is OPPONENT’S PLAY CALL indicating
what the opponent play was.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
The next three columns are used for scoring the players performance on INITIAL MOVEMENT,
FULFILL ASSIGNMENT, and FOLLOW UP.
INITIAL MOVEMENT: means you are lined up where you are supposed to and you move instantly
and aggressively to your assignment.
FULFILL ASSIGNMENT: have you met all the responsibilities of your assignment?
FOLLOW UP: maximum, aggressive effort until the whistle.
RESULTS
The next two columns are used for recording your results.
SCORE: is where the total of your marks is recorded. A “+” mark and a “-” mark will offset each
other for a total of zero. An expected score for each play would be 2 or better.
COMMENTS: is where your coach will indicate what he saw on the video that will assist you to
improve your play.
GRADE: is the score you achieved divided by the possible score you could have achieved. We will
convert this number into a percentage and record it at top of page by your name.
** Each play you participated in is worth 3 points. We multiply the plays times three to arrive at
your possible score you could have achieved.

Team Evaluation
Team Evaluations will occur after each game using available statistics. The purpose of this Team
Evaluation is to identify and focus everyone’s attention on what is required to assure success.
We recognize that individual performance leads to our team’s performance. We need to align
individual performances with those of the team in order to win.
We will measure our team’s performance through a set of criteria which we can observe. Each
team (Offense, Defense, and Special Teams) will have a list of performance targets (i.e. no
penalties, win all 3rd down situations) which will lead to successful outcomes. Achievement of 60%
or more of the targets during any game will indicate successful performance of that team.
Successful performance by 2 of the 3 teams should lead to a winning performance by the Club.
Team evaluations will be reviewed with players during each unit’s Game Review Meeting.

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 RECOGNITION OF PERFORMANCE
During the course of the season we will recognize outstanding individual and team performances.
The purpose of these awards is twofold. First, we want to highlight the type of, and quality of,
football we must play to be successful. Second, we want to honour those players who attain this
level of performance!
Our Awards Program is divided into six categories: Training Awards; Practice Awards; Game
Achievement Awards; Game Star Awards; Season Awards; and, League Awards. What follows is a
brief description of each category.

Training Awards:
1. POWER Club. Members must be able to:
a. SQUAT 2x their body weight
b. BENCH PRESS 1 ½ x their body weight
c. VERTICLE JUMP 60cm
d. HORIZONTAL JUMP 2.4m

2. DASH Club. Members must be able to:

a. RUN 2.4km in under 10 minutes
b. SPRINT
i. 40 yards in 4.8 seconds (for BACKS)
ii. 20 yards in 2.7 seconds (for LINE)
c. 30 SECOND SHUFFLE
i. 13 (for BACKS)
ii. 12 (for LINE)
Any player who can achieve the required levels (or better) in the May Test Week will receive
the award. The award will be in the form of a T-shirt indicating membership in the Club to
which they qualified and will be presented during the Eagles Football Club Kick-off Party

Practice Awards:
1. HUSTLER-OF-THE-WEEK (Kick Unit, Scout Unit, Offensive Unit, Defensive Unit).
Given to the player that inspires teammates through their hustle, focus and
effort during the week’s practice.
2. PLAYER-OF-THE-WEEK (Kick Unit, Scout Unit, Offensive Unit, Defensive Unit).
Given to the player that shows leadership, demonstrates the skill &
knowledge of their unit and puts forth consistent effort during the week’s
practice.
The award will be in the form of a Certificate and will be presented during the Thursday Night
Social.

EAGLES - 8
Game Achievement Awards:
Game Achievement Awards will be presented to players who demonstrated exceptional play
(i.e. great tackle, great block, great effort) during the course of the game. These Awards will
also be presented to all the players of a specific unit who achieve key unit targets (i.e. no
penalties, wins all 3rd down situations).
The award will be in the form of a helmet decal and will be presented during Video Review
Meetings. Players are expected to add decals to their helmets for that week’s Thursday night
practice.

Game Star Awards:

Game Star Awards will be presented to players whose leadership, outstanding effort, hustle and
exceptional performance during the entire game warrants a ‘game ball’. There will be a
maximum of three per game and if no one displays the required criteria there will not be one
presented.
The award will be in the form of a mini-ball and will be presented in the post-game meeting.

Season Awards:
Season Awards will be awarded to:
1. BEST OFFENSIVE PLAYER-OF-THE-YEAR
2. BEST DEFENSIVE PLAYER-OF-THE-YEAR
3. BEST SPECIAL TEAM PLAYER-OF-THE-YEAR
4. BEST LINEMAN-OF-THE-YEAR
The Season Awards will be presented to the players who have demonstrated outstanding
ability, leadership, commitment, athletic ability and sportsmanship throughout the entire
season.
The award will be in the form of a trophy or plaque and will be presented at the Eagles Football
Club End-of-Year Party.

League Awards:
League Awards are presented by our League for outstanding performances and for All-star
performance during the season. These awards are voted upon by players and coaches of the
league (with exception of Scoring Leader) and the names of the recipients are released during
Championship Week. League Outstanding Performers:
1. Scoring Leader Trophy 5. Lineman of the Year Award
2. Most Valuable Player Award 6. Rookie of the Year Award
3. Offensive Player of the Year Award 7. Positional All-stars
4. Defensive Player of the Year Award 8. Pennant Winner Trophy
The League also recognizes championship performances. These awards are presented after the
Championship Game. League Championship Performers:
1. Most Valuable Player
2. Best Offensive Player
3. Best Defensive Player
4. Championship Trophy

EAGLES – 9
 RANDOM THOUGHTS TO HELP YOU SUCCEED
Building a Championship Player
 Our Assumptions (something taken for granted):
1) assume you want to be a better person;
2) assume that you want to be the best football player you can be;
3) assume you want to win championship

 Know these definitions by heart:

a) Discipline: doing what is right when it’s right in the right way;
b) Character: wisdom to know right from wrong, courage to do what is right;
c) Dedication: perseverance after the zeal is gone;
d) Maturity: willing to sacrifice short term pleasure for long term goal.

 Trust: Execute correctly the skills & techniques and schemes you are taught without
changes…changes indicate you don’t believe us, or trust us as coaches

 Focus: there are about 125 plays in a game; the outcome of the game will be based on
3-4 of the plays (and we don’t know which they are); bust your butt every play so when
those 3-4 plays do occur it is turning your way!

 Defeat: when an animal is trapped by a predator it submits to the inevitable: its head
drops, its eyes glaze over, and it stands motionless and accepts its fate. This same
sequence and posture is seen in losers: chin down, head dropped, shoulders slumped,
arms hanging limply.
Do not accept losing as your fate: stand tall, keep head up, shoulders back, keep moving,
demonstrate pride, dignity, defiance!

Change
 Ultimate goal is to change our performance!
 The only things that are going to change you from how you are now to how you are
going to be in five years are: the people you meet, the books you read, and, the habits
you form. It is exceptionally important to identify with good, strong people, read
outstanding books, and, form habits of success.
 Change involves risk and discomfort. This is why many refuse to make the change.
Successful people and teams share a common characteristic of being willing to change
and being adaptable to the situation.

Preparation + Confidence + Character = SUCCESS

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 PLAYING CRITERIA
The preceding information outlines what the Eagles Football club is looking for in our people. Who
plays will be based on who reflects the preceding ideals. The choice of who plays is with the
coaching staff. Their decisions will be based on our TRUST in you.

We TRUST you to know what to do on the field. (Knowledge)

We TRUST you to do what you have to do on the field. (Skills & Technique)

We TRUST you to be mentally and physically tough during a game.

You will play if you can be trusted. You gain trust by practicing hard to improve your knowledge
and skill levels. You gain trust by being honest with the coaching staff, your teammates and
yourself. You gain trust by doing these things consistently!

PLAY LIKE A CHAMPION,

ALWAYS!

EAGLES - 11
POLICIES, REGULATIONS
& EXPECTATIONS
 GENERAL COMMENTS

The Policies, Regulations and Expectations of the Eagles Football Club are not arbitrarily chosen.

They reflect a desire to create a positive environment and a football club committed to team
and individual excellence and success!! They have been put in place to outline the dedication
and commitment required to be a member of the Eagles Football Club.

If you choose to neglect or reject these Policies, Regulations and Expectations you will not be a
member of the Eagles Football Club.

WINNING FOOTBALL IS
DEMANDING!!!

EAGLES – 13
 CLUBHOUSE POLICIES
Players of the Eagles Football Club have access to the Eagles Clubhouse which houses a Locker
Room, and an adjacent Equipment Room and a Therapy Room. The following outlines how we
will properly utilize the Clubhouse facilities. If you have any questions about these policies
please talk with a member of the Equipment, Therapy or Coaching Staffs.

Locker Room Policy:

The Locker Room is where the players dress for practice, store their personal equipment, and
conduct meetings. Every player must do everything possible to maintain a clean and sanitary
environment in the Locker Room area.
1. You will be given a personalized combination code to use on the entry door to the
Clubhouse. For security purposes this code should NEVER be shared with anyone else!
2. Also for security reasons, never ‘prop’ open the entry door or allow visitors into the
Clubhouse. (Tours can be arranged for family and friends – see the Equipment Staff to
arrange this).
3. Food is not allowed in the Clubhouse! Smoking and chewing tobacco are not permitted
in the Clubhouse! Deposit waste outside the house in the garbage cans provided!
4. Keep your specific locker clean and neat. Pick up any debris lying around your locker
and put in appropriate garbage can.
5. Store your valuables (keys, wallet, jewelry) in your locker and keep your specific locker
locked at all times for security reasons.
6. Equipment staff will put a mesh-bag (with your ID number attached) containing a clean,
dry work-out kit (t-shirt, shorts, supporter, 2 pair of socks, 2 towels) in your locker.
Players must put the work-out kit on when they arrive.
7. Equipment staff will also put a girdle, practice pants and practice jersey (with your
assigned number) in your locker before practice.
8. Tape cutters, scissors and tape remover are available outside the shower area by
Training Room; they are to be used in this area and are to remain in this area!
9. Put trash (i.e. old tape, wrap, ice bags) in the garbage can just outside shower area.
10. Used work-out kits and towels are to be put in the mesh bag with your ID readily visible.
Place the mesh-bag and your practice girdle, pants and jersey in appropriate receptacles
after practice. DO NOT LEAVE DIRTY LAUNDRY IN OR AROUND YOUR LOCKER.
11. Your kit and practice gear will be laundered and returned by next practice. NONE OF
THESE ITEMS ARE TO LEAVE THE CLUBHOUSE!
12. Showers are there to be used! Toiletries (soap, shampoo, body lotion, deodorant) are
available for use as well. Each player should bring their own brush or comb if needed.

EAGLES – 14
Equipment Policy:

The Equipment Room is where we store player protective equipment and our practice
equipment and gear. It also houses the office of our Equipment staff that care for the
Clubhouse and the equipment. Every player must cooperate in following the policy to assure
their own safety and efficient distribution of equipment.

1. Protective equipment (helmet, shoulder pads, hip pads, tail pads, thigh pads and knee
pads) will be issued to you when you start play with the Eagles Football Club. We utilize
a computerized inventory program to keep track of who has what equipment. You must
sign for the equipment you are issued. If you misplace, lose or damage any equipment
you are responsible for paying to replace it. PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT SHOULD NEVER
BE TAKEN FROM THE CLUBHOUSE!!
2. Protective equipment is to be worn only for authorized practices and games. You may
only wear equipment issued to you (or approved) by the Eagles Football Club during any
practice or game.
3. Protective equipment is designed to protect you. Make sure all of your equipment fits
you properly. Take care of this equipment and it will take care of you. The body you are
protecting is your own!
4. Equipment staff will show you how to store your protective equipment for best
ventilation and drying. Make sure you store your equipment this way every time.
5. Periodically check on your equipment to make sure it is in good condition. Report any
problems right away; do not attempt to fix it yourself.
6. Do not alter any of the equipment. Any required alterations are to be handled by the
Equipment staff. If the Equipment staff does not make the alterations (and officially
record on your inventory of the alteration) you will be charged for the repair of the
equipment.
7. If you need some kind of special padding due to an injury consult the Equipment staff
and they will see that you get the special padding issued to you.
8. All equipment issues must be dealt with in a timely manner. Do not wait until just
before practice. Dealing with equipment is no excuse for being late to meetings or
practice.

EAGLES - 15
 Therapy Room Policy:
The Therapy Room is located near the showers. It houses our taping and treatment
facilities and is where our Athletic Therapists offices are located. The Room will be used
to tape players, to conduct injury assessments and administer first aid or treatments of
players in need. Every player must comply with these policies in order to contribute to a
safe, sanitary and efficient environment.
1. The Therapy Room will open 3 hours before practice begins to provide taping
and/or treatments. It will remain open for 2 hours after practice ends.
2. Only those being taped or receiving treatments should be in the Therapy Room.
3. Players must wear their work-out kit for all taping and/or treatments. No
equipment or street clothes in the Therapy Room.
4. There will be a sign-up sheet for taping. When you arrive sign-up and then
return to Therapy Room for your assigned time.
5. Therapy Staff will assign appointment times to players requiring treatments
(either before or after practice). It is the responsibility of the player to be aware
of his appointment time. Arrive at Therapy Room for your assigned time.
6. Only Athletic Therapists will conduct treatments. Players should not perform
their own treatments.
7. Players are NOT to use therapy equipment unless under direct Athletic Therapist
supervision.
8. Players reporting late for an appointment (taping or treatment) must wait until
an opening in the schedule.
9. Players are responsible for coordinating their treatment and taping
appointments.
10. Players are expected to be on time for Meetings and Practice! Taping and/or
Treatments are NOT excuses for being late!

General Clubhouse Policy

1. The Equipment Staff and the Athletic Therapy Staff are valued members of the
Eagles Football Club and must be treated with respect. Treat them accordingly.
2. The Clubhouse is your second home during the football season. Your
contribution to the overall positive and productive atmosphere is expected!
3. Players disregarding these last two statements may have their Clubhouse access
denied.

EAGLES - 16
 EXPECTATIONS OF INJURED PLAYERS
Football is a very physical and tough game! Despite everyone’s best efforts, players sustain
injuries. The following outlines the expectations and processes we will use to respond to and
care for injuries.

1. All injuries (small or large) must be reported to a member of Athletic Therapy staff
immediately. If a player does not detect an injury until after you have left the Clubhouse
it must be reported the next day.
2. The Athletic Therapist will conduct an assessment of the injury and provide a prognosis
of its affect on the player’s continued participation in practices and/or games. This
prognosis will be shared immediately with the player and the Coaching staff.
3. The prognosis levels open to the Therapist will be: “Able to return”; “Able to return
with treatment” (both of which mean the player may participate fully in practices and
games); “Injured with limited participation” (which means the player will attend
practices wearing their work-out kit and helmet only and take part in drills which are not
prohibited by their injury); and “injured requiring rehab” (which means the injury is
serious and the player needs to focus on recovering through rehabbing the injury).
4. Players with a prognosis other than “Able to return” will receive a prescribed treatment
schedule (designed in consultation with Therapist, Specialist if needed, and Coaches)
which is designed to support your return to practice or game participation. INJURED
PLAYERS MUST FOLLOW THIS TREATMENT SCHEDULE!
5. Only an Athletic Therapist can change an injured player’s prognosis or adjust
treatments. Players do not make these decisions.
6. Players who disregard the prescribed treatment schedule will be suspended from the
Club until they agree to comply with the necessary treatments.
7. Injured players are expected to attend all meetings during the treatment phase of their
recovery in order to continue the learning process.

Game Day Injury Policy

When a player is injured and the Therapist determines you are “not able to return” to play the
Coach must be notified immediately. Both Therapist and player are responsible for making sure
this communication happens! We are hoping to alleviate unnecessary timeouts or delay of
game penalties due to missing players.

EAGLES - 17
 REGULATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOUR
You should behave in a manner that will make everyone proud of you. Your choices of
behaviour should never reflect poorly on you, your family or the Club. This is what we refer to
as “Professional behaviour”. Professional behaviour falls into three areas: General Conduct, On-
field Behaviour and Media Relations.

General Conduct:

General conduct is the choices of behaviour you make when you are out in public. This includes
where you go, who you hang with and what you do. Make good choices with regards to who,
what and where.

On-field Behaviour:

On-field behaviour is the choices of how you conduct yourself at practice and at games. This
includes your use of language, how you talk to teammates, coaches and officials, and, how you
control your emotions. Make positive choices with regards to your conduct on the field. Do not
attract attention to yourself unless its is for an exceptional play.

Media Relations:

You are now a member of a community football club which attracts media coverage. This also
includes “Social Media”. This coverage should be positive. To assist you in making the coverage
positive, remember:

 the team’s business is just that. We must remain a family.

 be positive in any comments you make. If you have problems tell us, not the media.
 never make a derogatory remark about teammates, coaches, club officials, the Club, or
the league. Trash talk is forbidden
 show respect for your opponent. (Your actions will always speak louder than your
words).

Final Word on Professional Behaviour

“Professional behaviour” is a matter of self-discipline. Disciplined players do what they are

supposed to do, when they are supposed to do it, the way it’s supposed to be done!

Winners and successful people always behave professionally. Represent the EAGLES FOOTBALL
Club, yourself and your family in a class manner!

WE CANNOT CONDONE BEHAVIOURS THAT ARE NOT PROFESSIONAL. Players engaging in these
behaviours will be disciplined (up to and including expulsion from team).

EAGLES - 18
- BLANK PAGE -
PRACTICE GUIDELINE
& SCHEDULE
 GENERAL COMMENTS

1. Practice includes meetings, on-field work and physical training.

2. Practice is meant to help players improve their skills and to increase their knowledge.
3. Practice time is limited. It is essential that practice time is used effectively and that we
do not waste time.
4. All players meet once a week (Offense T; Defense W) and practice two times a week
(Offense T & Th; Defense W & Th).
5. Players who miss a practice for any reason must contact their coach before hand.
Players who miss a meeting or practice may lose their playing privileges.
6. All players must be on time and ready for practice at the scheduled time. It is very
important that we get the most of each practice. Players who are late for practice may
lose their playing privileges.
7. All taping and/or treatments must be done outside of meeting and practice times.
Likewise with all equipment repairs and/or adjustments. No excuses for late or absence!
8. Players must wear the uniform designated for the meeting (work-out kit) and practice
(helmets, shoulder pads and practice jerseys – offense will wear colour of jersey we will
wear on game day). Players not dressed appropriately will not participate and will be
deemed late or absent depending on how quickly they can correct the situation.
9. Players must pay attention to what is going on. Listen and watch what is happening.
Learn while you are listening and watching. Speak only in response to a coach’s
questions.
10. Conversation in meetings and on- field should be about improving your performance.
Social conversation can happen after practice.
11. Be ready to improve!! Be ready to learn!! Remember our Club’s Philosophy: Be the Best
Player You Can Be!
12. If we hope to approach perfection we have to practice that way. Only Perfect Practice
makes Perfect and Permanent!

Purposes of Meetings:

We will use meeting time for several purposes: Play insertion; Concept of play intro/review;
Video: performance review; Target Achievement Awards presented; Video: opponent review;
Scouting Report review; Game Plan introduction. We also use meetings for sharing other
information and team building as needed.

EAGLES - 21
Practice Periods and Tempo:

We will be using several different periods (Video, Warm-up, Special Teams, Technique Work,
Walk and Talk, Team Take-off, Conditioning and Strength Work) during practice and each one
requires a different “tempo”.

“Tempo” refers to the level of intensity and physical effort that players should bring to the
period. Tempo will be indicated in each practice period description.

Practice Periods:

1) Meetings: Video Analysis

a. We will be reviewing our previous games video and evaluating performance
b. We will be reviewing our opponents Scouting Report and viewing our opponent’s
game video and introducing our Game Plan.
i. Bring your Playbook and something to write with.
ii. Pay attention to the video screen. Players should not be talking unless a
coach asks them a question.
iii. Listen to comments of the Coach; they are meant to help you improve.
Praise means you done your job well; continue to perform that way.
Criticism means you have to improve your performance; listen for tips
iv. Take your own notes to learn what is being taught.

2) Warm-up
a. We will be doing calisthenics and a flexibility routine
b. This is a chance to loosen up and be a part of the team.
i. Focus on limbering up and getting your blood flowing
ii. Think about the muscles and body parts you are working to get
connected to your body.

3) Special Teams
a. We will be working on our Special Teams units
b. There will be time for skills work and unit take-off
c. Tempo in this period progresses from “walk through” to “game speed”
depending on what we’re trying to accomplish.

Note: If your Special Team Unit is practicing on a night you are not scheduled to
practice you will have to attend that practice as well! (You may leave after Special
Teams work)

EAGLES - 22
4) Technique Work
a. This is when you learn and perfect your skills & techniques
b. Emphasis is on quality of movement and execution.
c. Tempo in this period progresses from “walk through” to higher levels of intensity
as the skills are learned and perfected.

5) Walk & Talk

a. This is when you focus on teaching and reviewing assignments.
b. Emphasis is on proper alignment, movement and assignment completion.
c. Tempo in this period progresses from “walk through” to “game speed”

6) Team Take-off
a. This is when we work on executing our Game Plan at game speed.
b. Down & Distance situations will be given. (Most often 3 rd down situations)
c. Be prepared for Special Team calls based on outcome of play.
d. Tempo is at “Game Speed” with the following understandings:
i. Tackling and blocking occur above the waist (Tacklers ‘wrap & lift’ ball
carrier only; blockers ‘pop or shoulder’ only)
ii. Do NOT touch QBs (in yellow jerseys)
iii. Play hard to the whistle!

7) Conditioning
a. This is when we improve our fitness and conditioning (the 4 th Quarter will be ours)
b. Each week you will work on speed one night and distance on the other night)
c. Drills are timed. 100% accomplishment of designated time is required or the
repetition is repeated!
d. Rest times are designated to allow you to recover. You will take your Heart Rate
during these rests. Mentally track your rate.
e. Tempo is “very high” to gain greater fitness and conditioned levels.

8) Strength Work
a. This is when we maintain or improve our strength (we want to be able to
physically dominate our opponents).
b. We will utilize “Manual Resistance” and “Body Weight” exercises to work our
upper bodies and core.
c. Tempo will be “very high” to gain or maintain strength.

EAGLES 23
TUESDAY NIGHT SCHEDULE (Offense)

3:00 Clubhouse Open

6:30 – 6:45 Meeting - Video analysis
(Review Previous Game) - Evaluation
- Target Awards Presented

6:45 – 7:05 Meeting - Scouting Report

Preview Next Game - Video analysis
- Preview Game Plan

7:15 – 7:30 Warm-up - Calisthenics (5 minutes)

- Flexibility Routine (10 minutes)

7:30 – 7:45 Special Teams - Punts (& Fakes)

- Placement (& Fakes)
- Kick Return

7:45 – 8:15 Technique Work - skills and drills in groups

Walk and Talk - formation recognition
- Pass plays
- Run plays

8:15 – 8:30 Conditioning

Line: 4 X 350 yd Run - 75 secs to run 350 yards
- 15 secs take heart rate
- 60 secs rest
Rec/RB/QB : 4 Quarters - 5 secs to sprint 35 yards
- 25 secs to walk back
(take heart rate on walk back)
- 1 Quarter = sprint/rest 4 times take a 60 sec break

8:30 – 8:45 Strength Training - work within position groups

- manual resistance exercises
- body weight exercises

11:00 Clubhouse Closes

EAGLES - 24
WEDNESDAY NIGHT SCHEDULE (Defense)

3:00 Clubhouse Open

6:30 – 6:45 Meeting - Video analysis
(Review Previous Game) - Evaluation
- Target Awards Presented

6:45 – 7:05 Meeting - Scouting Report

Preview Next Game - Video analysis
- Preview Game Plan

7:15 – 7:30 Warm-up - Calisthenics (5 minutes)

- Flexibility Routine (10 minutes)

7:30 – 7:45 Special Teams - Punt Defense (& Blocks)

- Placement Defense (& Blocks)
- Kick Off

7:45 – 8:15 Technique Work - skills and drills in groups

Walk and Talk - formation recognition
- Penetrations / Coverages
- Pursuits vs Dives/Off-tackles
Perimeter
Reverses
- Pass rush

8:15 – 8:30 Conditioning

Front: 4 X 350 yd Run - 75 secs to run 350 yards
- 15 secs take heart rate
- 60 secs rest
DBs : 4 Quarters - 5 secs to sprint 35 yards
- 25 secs to walk back
(take heart rate on walk back)
- 1 Quarter = sprint/rest 4 times take a 60 sec break

8:30 – 8:45 Strength Training - work within position groups

- manual resistance exercises
- body weight exercises

11:00 Clubhouse Closes

EAGLES - 25
THURSDAY NIGHT SCHEDULE (Full team)
3:00 Clubhouse Open
6:30 – 6:45 Team Warm-up - made to resemble our Pre-game warm-up
- enter field as team and form lines
- Calisthenics & Flexibility Routine

6:45 – 7:00 Technique Work - skills and drills in groups

7:00 – 7:30 Defensive Take-off - vs 25 of our Opponent’s play

(run by our Offensive team)
- include Defensive Special Team work

7:30 – 8:00 Offensive Take-off - 30 plays vs our Opponent’s defense

(defensive look provided by our Defensive team)
- include Offensive Special Team work

8:15 – 8:30 Conditioning

Front/Line: 4 Quarters - 5 secs to sprint 30 yards (Front & Line)
- 5 secs to sprint 35 yards (Linebackers)
- 25 secs to walk back
(take heart rate on walk back)
- 1 Quarter = sprint/rest 4 times take a 60 sec break
DB/Rec/RBs: 5 X 350 yd Run - 60 secs to run 350 yards
- 10 secs take heart rate
- 50 secs rest

9:00 Team Social - Practice Awards Presented

11:00 Clubhouse closes

EAGLES - 26
 SEVEN STEPS FOR MAXIMZING YOUR PERFORMANCE
1. Learn your assignment completely.
This will allow you to react instinctively during the game instead of having to think about
what you are supposed to do.

2. Review your teammates’ assignments.

This will help you make adjustments and decisions that will work for the entire team.

3. Focus during practice.

Perform your assignment as perfectly and consistently as possible, making a quality
effort each time.

4. Study your opponent.

Look for tendencies, strengths and weaknesses so that you can take advantage of them
when the time comes to compete.

5. Rehearse mentally.
Visualize as many situations as possible, knowing that you will not get to face every
situation in practice before a game.

6. Concentrate during warm-ups.

Use this time to get yourself ready physically and mentally. Working hard can relax you,
prepare your muscles and give you confidence before a game begins.

7. Review your performance.

Your preparation for the next game begins with assessing your previous performance.
Try to correct mistakes and build on your successes and then put the game behind you
and get ready for the next one.

EAGLES - 27
GAME DAY ROUTINES
 GAME DAY ROUTINES
Pregame:
In order to be completely focused and ready for the game Players should arrive at the Stadium
at least 1 ½ hours prior to kick-off. Taping, dressing and checking of Depth Charts must be
completed 1 hour prior to kick-off. When dressed and taped you should report to the bench
area of the Stadium.

Punters, Kickers, Returners, Quarterbacks, Receivers and Running Backs should report to the
field 1 hour before kick-off.

Rest of players must report to the team bench 45 minutes before kick-off. If a player is not at
bench the 45 minutes before kick-off to enter field with team you will not start.

Pd. Time Activity

1) 0:00 - 0:15 Special Teams (Punters, Kickers, Returners, Quarterbacks, Receivers
and Backs Warm up) – see organization illustrated below
2) 0:15 - 0:20 Everyone lines up at Team Bench and enter field as Team
3) 0:20 - 0:30 Everyone engages in Warm-up Routine
4) 0:30 - 0:40 Coverage of Punts/Kick-offs (Returners in End Zone in pairs)
(Everyone else in 6 rows at 45 yard line)
5) 0:40 - 0:45 Technique work in Individual Groups – see locations below
6) 0:45 - 0:55 Team Take-off (Offense scrimmages on 35 yard line vs Defense)
(Everyone else stands on 50 yard line watching)
7) 0:55 - 1:00 Captains Called (Everyone to Bench)

Field Use (Period 1) Field Use (Period 5)

EAGLES - 29
During Game:
1) Bench Organization: Each player will stay with their position group in a designated area
of the bench. Players should not wander around behind the bench unless attended by
an Athletic Therapist or Equipment Manager. Listen to Coaches and concentrate on
your tasks. Do not talk to coaches unless they ask for your input.
2) Substitutions: Coaches make all player substitutions. Inform Coach of all injuries that
require substitutions. All players coming off field in a substitution should report to your
position coach first. Then you may get water. After water return to your position
group.
3) Special Teams: Know the Special Team Units you are on. Anticipate their play. Be ready.
Listen for substitution calls by Head Coach.
4) Time-outs: The Head Coach will instruct captains to call a time-out. When they are
called, the players huddle by ball; an Athletic Therapist will come onto field with water.
Captains come to sideline to talk to Coach.

Half-Time:

We have divided the half-time period into thee periods.

1) At final whistle of half players and Equipment Managers and Athletic Therapists will go
directly to the end zone (or other designated location) as a team. Get your drinks and
refreshments. SIT WITH YOUR POSITION GROUP! Get any equipment repairs or injuries
dealt with immediately. Coaches will
meet near the bench to discuss first half. Spotters will arrange to be at bench by end of
half with all pertinent information tabulated from 1 st Half. Any 2nd Half adjustments will
be determined within 5-7 minutes!

2) Position Coaches and Coordinators will meet with their groups and squads to discuss the
2nd half adjustments and approaches we will use.

3) When captains are called by Officials they will go to mid-field. All other players and
Equipment/Therapy staff will clean up the area and return to bench. When captains
return to bench the Head Coach will address the squad.

Post Game:
1) Congratulate teammates! Shake hands with opponents.
2) Meet with Coaches at bench for Team Meeting.
3) Presentation of Game Ball Awards
4) Attend Club Social!

EAGLES - 30
 IMPACT PLAYS: CRUCIAL TIMES IN A GAME

There are four crucial, impactful types of plays presented during any game of four down
football. The first is a momentum swing caused by a turn-over or long gain or big loss, the
second is 3rd Down situations and the third is the 3 minute warning near the end of each half.
The fourth impact play is Special Teams plays.

1) Momentum Swing:
Momentum swings come in all kinds of situations (turnovers such as fumble & recovery
and interception; long gains through a run or pass, a big loss on a sack, a big play such as
blocked punt or kick). They can be positive or negative depending on who created the
momentum or who is losing the momentum.

The way a team responds to these situations is an indication of the character of the
players. We will have the mindset that these troubles (when negative) or advantages
(when positive) are OPPORTUNITIES TO DISPLAY GREATNESS AS A TEAM!!

Our response will be rise to the challenge of troubles or take control by cashing in on
any advantage presented! This response will be the result of concentration on the task
at hand and commitment to executing our game plans.

2) Third Down Situations:

During any drive the outcome of 3rd down situations plays a crucial part in the success of
the drive. Converting a 3rd down situation into a first down sustains the drive; stopping
a 3rd down situation kills a drive. Both of these situations occur several times during a
game. Our success ratio in these situations will determine the success ratio in the win-
loss column.

We will work diligently as a team to execute, with precision and poise in order to
increase our success ratio in these situations. During practice time our Take-off Period
will be geared to practicing various 3rd down situations to allow us to work on increasing
our success in these situations.

3) Three Minute Warning:

Many games are won or lost during this crucial time in a game. We will work diligently
as a team to execute, without confusion, with precision and poise in order to manage
the time properly and come from behind to win if necessary, or preserve a victory if
ahead. It is very important that everyone on the team know how the timing of the three
minutes is handled so we can manage the time properly.

EAGLES - 31
 During the three minute period the clock stops after every play.

It starts on the Referee’s Signal when:
1) The ball goes dead on field of play
2) The chains are moved at 1st down
3) An injured player taken from field
4) A team calls a time-out
5) A penalty is declined
It starts on the snap of the ball when:
1) The ball goes out of bounds
2) Incomplete forward pass
3) Change of possession
4) Application of penalty
On a touch during a kick off.

4) Special Teams Plays

On every Special Teams play an ‘impact event’ occurs: a change of possession, a sizable
amount of yardage is involved, or, a specific attempt to score occurs. Also, Special
Teams plays occur about every fifth play in a game on average. Both of these facts
indicate we need to execute our special team units with precision to take advantage of
these impact plays!

All of these opportunities allow us to increase our success as a team. We must work very
hard in practice to be able to control these opportunities and bring about team success!

RISING TO A CHALLENGE
SEPARATES
THE WINNERS FROM THE REST!!

TILT THE ODDS IN OUR FAVOUR

BY
DOMINATING IMPACT PLAYS

EAGLES - 32