2011 Pop Warner Rule Book

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2011
POP WARNER LITTLE SCHOLARS
OFFICIAL
RULES
81
Endorsed by National Football League Players
81
Entire Contents Copyrighted 2011, Pop Warner2011 Pop Warner Rule Book PA 19047 Little Scholars, Inc., Langhorne,
2011 Pop Warner Rule Book
SPECIAL DEDICATION:
To All Pop Warner Coaches & Administrators,
Youth across America look up to you as mentors and leaders not only in the game of football, but in the game of life. Remember how important that experience is for them, as it was for me both now and long into the future.
All of us at the National Football League Players Association salute you for your efforts to guide children, both on and off the field, that play the great sport of football.
DeMaurice F. Smith Executive Director, NFL Players Association Chairman, NFL Players, Inc.
2011 Rule Changes
PART V - 11 MAN TACKLE PLAYING RULES Pg. 31: R1: S4: Change Unlimited 11-14 yr. olds 105 lbs minimum
Pg.46: R33: S1- Change: Maximum Players 28
Pg.46: R33: S9- Change: All games will have a running clock except for clock stoppages on timeouts, change of possession and injuries.
Pg.46: R33: S13- Add: Mandatory Play: All players must participate in a minimum of 15 plays per game.
PART VIII- POP WARNER SPIRIT RULES Pg.66; S2- Change to read: TRADITIONAL SQUAD OPTIONS: 1. PRIMARY CHEER SMALL
squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count of twelve (12). (Competition-Minimum 6: Maximum 12) b) Cheer Small Categories-Novice, Intermediate and Advanced
2. PRIMARY CHEER MEDIUM
squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count of twenty four (24). (Minimum 13: Maximum 24) b) Cheer Medium Categories-Novice, Intermediate and Advanced
3. PRIMARY CHEER LARGE
squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count of thirty-
b) Cheer Large Categories-Novice, Intermediate and Advanced
Pg.72; S6- Change to read: Participants on Traditional Pop Warner Squads will be permitted to simultaneously participate in Pop Warner and school programs administered and coached by School District employees.
PWLS NOTE: Beginning with the 2012 season, all Football patches must be on the left front of the Jersey.
* IMPORTANT NOTE - RULE CHANGES *

ALL RULE CHANGES/CLARIFICATIONS FOR 2011 ARE NOTED IN RED INK
Adult Code of Conduct
ADULT CODE OF CONDUCT:

S1: In order to uphold the goals of Pop Warner and ensure that all ment, all parents, guardians and other adults and attendees of Pop Warner events, including but not limited to practices, competitions, and banquets, must behave accordingly in a respectful, courteous and sportsmanlike manner at all times.
S2: Any adult who is using alcohol, tobacco or non-prescription drugs and/or appears intoxicated at a Pop Warner event, and/or
heckles, taunts, ridicules, boos, throws objects and/or uses
volunteer, staff member, participant or other event attendee, must receive a verbal warning and/or be asked to leave a Pop Warner event. The member organization may also provide a written warning to the individual regarding the misbehavior. The adults children may also be removed from the event. Any adult who commits one of the above stated offenses a second time, will be banned from any and all Pop Warner events for a minimum period of one year from the date of the second offense, and their children may also be removed from the program(s) for that time period.
S3: volunteer, staff member or participant or threatens grave bodily harm may be banned from any and all Pop Warner events at a minimum for one year from the date of the offense, and their children may also be removed from any and all Pop Warner programs for that same period of time. After the ban has expired, if the individual commits another offense of the adult code of conduct, the individual will be permanently banned from any and all Pop Warner events and the individuals children may also be permanently removed from any and all Pop Warner programs.
MEMBERS CODE OF CONDUCT

All volunteers and partcipants will abide by a Code of Conduct which includes the following provisions. If any of these rules are broken, the League, Region and/or National Pop Warner shall have the authority to impose a penalty. Members shall: S1: S2: Not criticize players/spirit participants in front of spectators, but reserve constructive criticism for later, in private, or in the
S3: and in competitions as being fair and called to the best ability of
S4: Not criticize an opposing team, its players, spirit participants, coaches, or fans by word of mouth or by gesture. S5: Emphasize that good athletes strive to be good students and that both are physically and mentally alert. S6: Strive to make every football and spirit activity serve as a training ground for life, and a basis for good mental and physical health. S7: Emphasize that winning is the result of good teamwork. S8: Not engage in excessive sideline coaching and shall not leave the bench area to shout instructions from the sidelines. S9: conduct and control of team fans and spectators. Any fan who becomes a nuisance and out of control will be asked to leave. S10: Not use abusive or profane language at any time. S11: Not pile it on; not encourage their team to get a commanding lead and raise the score as high as it can. In these instances, every effort shall be made to let all players play. S12: Not receive any payment, in cash or kind, for services as a coach in Pop Warner Football/Spirit. This includes any coach, expert, consultant or choreographer, regardless of his/her roster status. S13: Not permit or encourage sweating down tactics in order for a player to make the team weight. S14: Not recommend or distribute any medication, controlled or
physician. S15: Not permit an ineligible player or spirit participant to participate in a game. S16: Not deliberately incite unsportsmanlike conduct. S17:Not possess or drink alcoholic beverages and/or use illegal
S18: Remove from a game or practice any participant when even slightly in doubt about his/her health, whether or not as a result of injury, until competent medical advice is available. S19: Be responsible for and control their fans at all times. S20: Uphold all rules and regulations, National, Regional & Local, regarding Pop Warner Football, Cheerleading and Dance. S21: Refrain from engaging in any action within or outside Pop
to, the PW program.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I-THE POP WARNER PROGRAM REGIONS AND NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS NATIONAL REMARKS ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL MISSION STATEMENT GOALS & PHILOSOPHY OF THE POPWARNER PROGRAM PART II-POP WARNER STRUCTURE DEFINITIONS S1-LEAGUE: S2-ASSOCIATION: S3-ADMINISTRATORS: S4-TEAM: S5-DIVISION: INTRODUCTION TO THE RULES 14 14 14 14 14 14 15 12 12 12 12 13 14 12
8-10
PART III-POP WARNER REGULATIONS ALL PROGRAMS: ARTICLE 1: POWERS/AUTHORITY OF LEAGUE ARTICLE 2: BOUNDARIES ARTICLE 3: RESTRICTION AGAINST DUAL MEMBERSHIP: ARTICLE 4: VARIANCE: ARTICLE 5: COACHES REQUIREMENTS ARTICLE 6: REGISTRATION S1-PARENTAL CONSENT: S2-MEDICAL EXAMINATION: S3-PROOF OF AGE: S4-SCHOLASTIC FITNESS: ARTICLE 7: FORMATION OF TEAMS AND SQUADS ARTICLE 8: MANDATORY CUTS ARTICLE 9: VOLUNTARY CUTS ARTICLE 10: CERTIFICATION ARTICLE 11: RETENTION OF ELIGIBILITY ARTICLE 12: DROPS AND ADDS ARTICLE 13: NO ALL-STARS ARTICLE 14: AWARDS ARTICLE 15: PRACTICE ARTICLE 16: CAMPS ARTICLE 17: IMPORTANT POINT-MEDICAL S1-CONCUSSIONS ARTICLE 18: CHARGING ADMISSION ARTICLE 19: PROTESTS ARTICLE 20: PATCH REQUIREMENT ARTICLE 21: MANDATORY BACKGROUND CHECKS ARTICLE 22: PARTICIPANT WAIVERS PART IV-ENFORCEMENT POLICY POLICE POWERS/HEARINGS & APPEALS MINIMUM MANDATED PENALTIES S1-ADULT OFFENSES: S2-JUVENILE OFFENSES: S3-TEAM AND ASSOCIATION OFFENSES: S4REGIONAL AND NATIONAL PLAY-OFFS:
16 16 16 16
16 17 18 18 18 18 19 19 19 19 20 20 21 21 21 21 22 23 23 24 24 24 25 26 27 27 27 27 28 28 28
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S5-ADDITIONAL OFFENSES PART V-11-MAN TACKLE PLAYING RULES RULE 1: AGES AND WEIGHTS S1- JULY 31 CUTOFF: S2- OPERATION OF SCHEMATIC: S3- SPECIAL NOTE FOR MITEY-MITES: S4- TACKLE AGE/WEIGHT SCHEMATIC: RULE 2: INITIAL WEIGH-IN; FIRST PRACTICE RULE 3: IN-SEASON DETERMINATION OF WEIGHT S1-IDEAL METHOD: S2-ACCEPTABLE METHOD: S3-CHALLENGE METHOD: S4-INTEGRITY OF WEIGH-IN: RULE 4: IN-SEASON WEIGHT INCREASE RULE 5: FAILURE TO PASS IN-SEASON WEIGH-IN RULE 6: CUTTING OF PLAYERS RULE 7: CERTIFICATION OF PLAYERS RULE 8: ROSTER SIZE S1-MAXIMUM ROSTER SIZE: S2-MINIMUM ROSTER SIZE: RULE 9: MANDATORY PLAY RULE RULE 10: THE FIELD AND MARKINGS RULE 11: GAME BALL RULE 12: PLAYER DESIGNATIONS RULE 13: REQUIRED EQUIPMENT RULE 14: BLOCKING & TACKLING RESTRICTIONS: RULE 15: LENGTH OF PERIODS RULE 16: INTERMISSION LENGTH RULE 17: TIME CLOCK RULE 18: TIME-OUTS RULE 19: PLAYERS RULE 20: REGARDING INELIGIBLE PLAYERS RULE 21: SCORING VALUES RULE 22: SCORES S1-LOPSIDED/INTENTIONALLY RUN UP SCORES: S2-FULL INVESTIGATION: RULE 23: SIDELINE PERSONNEL: RULE 24: RADIOS & COMMUNICATION DEVICES RULE 25: SCOUTING RULE 26:NO TAXI SQUADS RULE 27: PRACTICE S1-PRE-SEASON: S2-WARM WEATHER PRECAUTIONS: S3-MANDATORY BREAKS: S4-FULL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIRED: S5-CONTROLLED INTER-SQUAD SCRIMMAGE: RULE 28: SCHEDULES S1-SCHEDULED GAMES: S2-SCHEDULING PROHIBITIONS: S3-REQUIREMENTS-ALL SCHEDULING: RULE 29: POST-SEASON BOWL GAMES RULE 30: TIE BALL GAMES RULE 31: CONTACT WITH OFFICIALS RULE 32: REGIONAL/NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP ELIGIBILITY RULE 33: TINY MITES 30 30 30 30 31 31 31 31 32 32 32 32 34 34 34 34 34 35 35 36 36 36 38 38 39 39 39 39 39 39 40 40 40 41 41 41 41 42 42 42 42 42 42 42 43 43 44 44 44 45 45 29 28
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PART VI-6, 8, & 9-MAN TACKLE PLAYING RULES ARTICLE 1:AGES&WEIGHTS ARTICLE 2: ROSTER SIZE ARTICLE 3: POST-SEASON PLAY ARTICLE 4: SLAUGHTER RULE ARTICLE 5: 6-MAN RULE DIFFERENCES ARTICLE 6: 8-MAN RULE DIFFERENCES ARTICLE 7: 9-MAN RULE DIFFERENCES
48 48 48 48 48 48 49 49
PART VII-POP WARNER FLAG FOOTBALL RULES AND REGULATIONS INTRODUCTION ARTICLE 1: ORGANIZATION ARTICLE 2: REGISTRATION ARTICLE 3: DIVISIONS OF PLAY ARTICLE 4: FLAG FOOTBALL RULES RULE 1: PLAYERS RULE 2: PLAYING FIELDS RULE 3: EQUIPMENT RULE 4: PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT RULE 5: REFEREES RULE 6: THE RULES OF THE GAME RULE 7: SCORING VALUES RULE 8: TIE GAME RULE 9: INJURED PLAYERS RULE 10: PRACTICES RULE 11: SCHEDULES RULE 12: TOURNAMENT PLAY RULE 13: PENALTIES RULE 14: PROTESTS PART VIII-POP WARNER SPIRIT RULES CHEER AND DANCE PROGRAM MANAGEMENT POP WARNER SAFETY CHAMPIONSHIPS SPIRIT GLOSSARY
50 51 51 51 51 52 52 52 53 54 54 54 57 58 58 58 58 58 59 61 62 63 76 96 117
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PART I - THE POP WARNER PROGRAM
POP WARNER REGIONS AND NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

The administration of Pop Warner is divided into a series of 8 regions. The number and composition of regions is determined and may be changed from time to time by the Joint Advisory Committee of Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. National Pop Warner Headquarters may be reached at: 586 Middletown Boulevard, Suite C-100, Langhorne, PA 19047 or at www.popwarner.com. When
stationery.
NATIONAL REMARKS
Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. is dedicated to the boys and girls who participate in Pop Warner and to their safety and enjoyment. The rules for Pop Warner activity of any type as published in this book are to be followed scrupulously. Failure to enforce these rules can result in legal action, dismissal and/or loss of charter. Each family and each adult volunteer in the program must be covered by medical and liability insurance of some type. Although participation in Pop Warner is statistically safe, such insurance should include coverage for participant risk. All Programs must have minimum insurance limits of $100,000 Medical, $1,000,000 General Liability, and $1,000,000 Sexual Abuse/Molestation in order to participate. All Pop Warner Football activities are open to both boys and girls, including mixed teams/squads. However, for the sake of convenience, these rules refer to participants as if of the male gender only.
ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL
The Pop Warner Administrative Manual is designed to keep each League and Association current on all administrative matters, as well as to facilitate the daily operational management of those local organizations. This rulebook and the Administrative Manual ARE NOT THE PERSONAL PROPERTY OF THE VOLUNTEER, but belong to the PWLS, Inc. Local organization to which the volunteer belongs. Both are to be returned to the local organization when the volunteers service is completed.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Pop Warner Little Scholars is to enable young people
and structured environment. Through this active participation, Pop Warner programs teach fundamental values, skills and knowledge that young people will use throughout their lives.
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GOALS & PHILOSOPHY OF THE POP WARNER PROGRAM
its youth participants. Since 1929, the programs philosophy has been: academics and athletics go hand-in-hand. At every level, Pop Warner seeks to develop well-rounded young men and women who learn not only the fundamentals of football, cheerleading and dance but also the importance of education, in an atmosphere conducive to developing sound mind, body and character - and having an enjoyable time along the way! The objectives of Pop Warner are to inspire youth, regardless of race, creed, religion or national origin, to practice the ideals of
the life of the late Glenn Scobie Pop Warner. Pop Warner strives to make the game fun for all boys and girls. The program stresses learning lessons of value far beyond the playing or spirit days of the boys and girls involved, such as: selfdiscipline, teamwork, concentration, friendship, leadership, and good sportsmanship. With such goals in mind, and by providing an opportunity to participate in an organized, supervised environment with emphasis on maximum safety and participation, Pop Warner offers young men and women a unique and memorable opportunity to excel.
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PART II-POP WARNER STRUCTURE
DEFINITIONS
S1-LEAGUE
as applicable: or B. It is a grouping of teams of the same ages and weights (playing division) into a league for scheduling purposes.
A League consists of a minimum of four (4) teams playing in the same Age/Weight division. Leagues are issued a charter by Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. All Leagues are responsible to National with the assistance of the appropriate Regional Administrator(s) on behalf of Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. Pop Warner National Staff shall have the right to attend any League/Association function with or without notice.
S2-ASSOCIATION Associations are organizations that sponsor and administer one or more teams. They raise money, buy equipment, recruit coaches, Each Association shall have an Association Board member to be called the Director of Football, Football Commissioner, (or whatever other term is locally applicable), who is an equal voting member of the Association Board and responsible only to that board.
cities, they often adopt commonly understood neighborhood names. In the suburbs, they usually take the town name. In rural areas, an association name may embrace an entire county (or a substantial part of it). An associations recruiting area is approved by its League and is normally consistent with its geographical name.
When there are no associations, a League is intramural.
S3- ADMINISTRATORS All League & Association Administrators must be at least 21 years of age.
S4-TEAM A team is the universal, basic unit of organization. At minimum, a team consists of a group of participants organized under the direction of a coaching staff in a given Age/Weight division. Each football team may have a maximum of three spirit squads.
S5-DIVISION Division has several meanings, the most common of which refers
Mitey-Mite (MM), Junior Peewee (JP), Peewee (P), Junior Midget (JM), Midget (M), Unlimited (UL), Junior Bantam (JB), Bantam
15 (B) Challenger and Flag. The basic ages and weights for each division of play are listed in Rule 1 S:4. Another use of the word is to designate a sub-grouping of a League, such as National-American divisions or East-West divisions. NOTE: Requests from National for division of play refer solely
INTRODUCTION TO THE RULES

S1: The rules contained herein ARE REQUIRED to be enforced by each association, league, conference and federation in Pop Warner Football. Failure to do so shall be subject to
S2: For all purposes, the Pop Warner playing season shall be
or the last All Leagues, administrative personnel, coaches, players and spirit participants are subject to disciplinary action for violations of Pop Warner rules and regulations at any time during a stated playing season.
S3: NO RULES WILL BE ADDED AFTER AUGUST 1st

UNLESS IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE.
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PART III - POP WARNER REGULATIONS ALL PROGRAMS
ARTICLE 1: POWERS/AUTHORITY OF LEAGUE

S1: The League has, among its powers, the obligation and authority to enforce National rules. Leagues participating in Regional and National Play-offs will follow all PW Rules as printed in this book.
ARTICLE 2: BOUNDARIES
S1: A League is responsible for the enforcement of its own boundaries. However, it shall not infringe upon the territorial rights or boundaries of another chartered League. S2: Transfer between Leagues: Any team or association seeking to withdraw from one League to join another League may do so only with the prior written agreement of the Leagues involved and with the written concurrence of the appropriate Regional Director. In the event the two Leagues cannot agree upon the terms of the move, the Regional Director shall rule on the matter, with either party retaining the right to appeal the decision to the National Football Commissioner. S3: Leagues must establish boundaries for their participating
recognizable format, (i.e., town limits, school districts, streets etc.) Failure to do so can result in revocation of charter. Players found to be playing outside boundaries they reside, without proper release from both Leagues & Associations involved,
ARTICLE 3: RESTRICTION AGAINST DUAL MEMBERSHIP

No League or member association holding a Pop Warner charter may enter any one of its teams into membership in any other youth football or cheerleading program and no adult volunteer may serve on the board of a Pop Warner Region, League or member Association while concurrently serving on the board of another youth football or cheerleading organization. Any individual, League or member Association in violation of this rule shall be immediately dismissed from Pop Warner.
ARTICLE 4: VARIANCE OF RULES /CHARTER COMMITTEE

The Charter Committee for Pop Warner consists of the Region Directors and appropriate members of the National Staff. They are responsible for reviewing, granting, suspending or revoking the privileges and conditions of the local leagues charter. When lation, it must submit in writing to the Region Director, who will forward it with their recommendation to the Charter Committee. The appropriate Regional Director will present the variance to the Charter Committee for a decision. S1: Variances shall only be granted upon a written application
17 that the variance sought is based upon good cause and can be shown to be in the best interest of Pop Warner players and spirit participants assuring their safety. S2: Programs granted a variance forfeit their rights to compete in Regional and National Play-offs for the current season. S3: No program granted a variance may compete in post season bowl games that year, unless the opposing team has an identical variance. S4: All variances expire annually on December 31st every year. Only variances which serve in the best interest of Pop Warner both locally and nationally will be given consideration.
ARTICLE 5: COACHES REQUIREMENTS

A coaching staff is in complete charge of the team or squad whenever
to and from practice sessions and games, or together for any team function, such as a banquet. The coaching staff is under the direction of the Head Coach; other coaches are called Assistant Coaches. The Head Football Coach must attend a Nationally Approved Clinic or complete and pass the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) online training to be eligible to coach. Assistant Coaches are strongly encouraged to successfully complete the online course in addition to the Head Coach. Head Football Coaches who fail the ASEP online course will be immediately removed from coaching until they have successfully completed. Head Cheer/Dance Coaches must attend a Pop Warner Nationally Approved Clinic or complete the online ASEP Education and Testing to be eligible to coach. Head Cheer/Dance Coaches who fail to attend a Pop Warner Nationally Approved Clinic or take the ASEP online course will be immediately removed from coaching until successful completion of such clinic. or online course. Successful completion of the Football and Cheer/Dance Coaching programs is valid for 3 years. The following applies to all coaches: S1: The Head Coach, Assistant Coach(s) or Football/Cheer Commissioner must be 21 years or older in order to supervise at all practices, games and functions. The Head Coach can only be rostered as the Head Coach on 1 roster. S2: An Assistant Coach must be at least 18 years of age. A football
maximum of one (1) Coach-Trainee, (1) Equipment Manager, (1) Trainer, (1) Team Parent. (Please note this applies only to Football. See Spirit section for squad coaching members) S3: Teams/squads are permitted to carry a Coach-Trainee, who must be a minimum of 16 years of age and a maximum of 17 years of age. S4: The Head Coach will determine the assignments of the Assistant Coaches. S5: the team/squad in the medical area (physician, paramedic,
in Community CPR and First Aid, or the P.R.E.P.A.R.E. Course by the National Center for Sport Safety (www.sportssafety.org) or their equivalent. S6: Coaches are to be selected by methods approved by League rules and/or by-laws.
18 S7: Once approved for coaching, a coach is automatically terminated at the close of each season. To coach the following year, the same League approval is required. Any violation of the rules committed by a coach during the season, even though the hearing is not held until after the close of the season, is still under the jurisdiction of the sponsoring association and/or League. S8: Coaches do not make Team or League policy. Rather, they carry
staff is in complete charge and shall not be interfered with except in cases of rules violations and any other conduct deemed by higher authority to be contrary to the welfare of youth. S9: her actions, those of his/her assistant coaches, players, staff and parents. S10: Each League shall establish its own rules regarding the placing of coaches with sons, daughters or siblings within its own boundaries.
ARTICLE 6: REGISTRATION
A candidate cannot begin practice with a team or squad until he/she
or guardian must sign the Pop Warner Registration Form. The signup fee, if any, may be collected at this time. All coach trainees and
in the same manner as all other minors participating in Pop Warner Football, Cheer and Dance. All candidates must furnish the following in order to participate and before starting practice: S1-PARENTAL CONSENT The National Participant Contract and Parental Waiver form needs to be completed by either parent or the legal guardian, stating that the child has his or her permission to play, cheer or dance. S2-MEDICAL EXAMINATION A signed statement from a Licensed State Medical Practitioner dated after January 1st of the current year; (i.e. Medical Doctor, Registered Physician Assistant, Registered Nurse Practitioner, etc.) that the
which would contra-indicate playing football or cheer/dance. Note: If regular school medical examination was performed after January 1 of the current year, and the results are releasable to parents, a copy of such a report may be used in lieu of a new examination. SPECIAL NOTE: A person with a loss of limb may participate provided that the individual has a signed statement of approval from an examining physician and that the use of the limb is no more dangerous to players than the corresponding human limb, and does not place an opponent at a disadvantage. S3-PROOF OF AGE
of claimed date of birth and is form of proof most recommended.
wallet-size certificates issued by a state or commonwealth are acceptable. Any other alleged proof of birth date, including photo
19 copies of originals, are to be accepted only upon the willingness of the team administration to have its schedule forfeited should fraudulent application later be determined.
S4-SCHOLASTIC FITNESS Proof of satisfactory progress in school is required. A 2.0/70% or the equivalent shall be the minimum grade point average acceptable to , or if a valid report card is not submitted, the nationally published scholastic eligibility Like all rules herein this rule as it relates to scholastic grades may not be made more stringent by any team, association, or league, as other rules may be. No local team/squad may be allowed to participate in Regional/ National sponsored championships or bowl games if it has not met the nationally published scholastic requirements.
ARTICLE 7: FORMATION OF TEAMS AND SQUADS

Tryouts of any kind within Pop Warner are prohibited. Tryouts are
is placed on a team/squad, including assessments, evaluations, or any other method used to place a participant in Pop Warner. Not more than 35 players shall be assigned to a football team or spirit squad at the start of pre-conditioning on August 1st or the later starting date
ARTICLE 8: MANDATORY CUTS

Any participant must be cut who: S1: is found to have signed up as a result of parental pressure or tells team management he/she does not really want to play/ cheer/dance. S2: refuses or cannot furnish the 4 required items-Parental Consent, Medical Examination, Proof of Age, and Scholastic Fitness. S3: is found to be simultaneously trying out for a school tackle football team, or who, once the season starts, is found to be participating on a school tackle football team. However, participation in a
the school PE program, or participation in non-Pop Warner spirit squad tryouts only, during the Pop Warner season, is allowed. Exception for spirit squads: Participants who tryout and make a school squad of the current season and are members of a Pop Warner Squad will be permitted to simultaneously participate in Pop Warner and school programs administered and coached by School District employees. S4: is a member of any other organized Pop Warner football/spirit team/squad or non-Pop Warner football/spirit team/squad. (Exception: See S3 above) S5: attempts to intimidate fellow participants in practice by word and/or physical deed. No refunding of fees shall be required. S6: is a recurring discipline problem (and then, only with the concurrence of the League).
ARTICLE 9: VOLUNTARY CUTS

A participant shall be considered a voluntary or self-cut participant when he/she simply no longer shows up at practices or games of his/her own free will.
20 While voluntary cuts are not charged to any team for the purpose of these regulations, a coaching staff may attempt to disguise its cutting pattern by arranging practices in such a way as to discourage participants of lesser ability into quitting on their own. While these practices are not common, they have been known to occur and are considered intentional avoidance of the rules and regulations and are, therefore, punishable as a result of a hearing. If a team or spirit squad loses 20% or more of its assigned participants
the causes for the participants voluntarily leaving the team or spirit squad, and take whatever appropriate action may be needed. The results of this investigation shall be reported to the League and the
were taken.
ARTICLE 10: CERTIFICATION

S1:
a complete roster of players and a complete roster of spirit participants for the regular season schedule. S2: the roster through the League One Roster System. roster is one that the League has accepted the information at a pre-season session with its teams and spirit squads, based upon information submitted, and the teams and spirit squads are restricted to these participants for the balance of the season (except for allowed Drops and Adds, see Article 12). S3 Warner Football or Spirit roster. All rosters must be completed online through League One
S4: qualify under the following: A. Eligibility according to residence shall be decided by the League when the candidate resides in an area other than that authorized
to the lowest age and weight division for which he/she is quali-
shall not be permitted to recertify to a lower division of play during the current season under any circumstances, but based on the
to a higher division of play.
6, S3. E. Associations will require a new picture of a football player or spirit participant at least every two (2) calendar years. F. It is the responsibility of the league board members to conduct weigh-ins. Players should be in a stripped mode (gym shorts). A league board member is not permitted to weigh-in his/her own team(s).
ARTICLE 11: RETENTION OF ELIGIBILITY
21 to retain eligibility: S1: Transfer policy in case of change of residence will be decided by the League. S2: Retain parental consent. S3: Maintain sound physical condition. S4: Continue to maintain sound scholastic standards. In cases of doubt, a League shall have the right to require a written statement by the school administration, which shall be deemed
ARTICLE 12: DROPS AND ADDS

S1:
on the team or squad for any valid reason. S2: Each League shall establish its own Drops & Adds cutoff date, but no player or spirit participant may be added to any roster
ARTICLE 13: NO ALL-STARS

All Star teams or squads are prohibited in Pop Warner. Pop Warner rosters are valid from August 1st to December 31st of the current year. Any coach or participant found to play a game(s)/competition with All Star participants from different rosters of regular season teams will forfeit future eligibility for all Pop Warner programs.
ARTICLE 14: AWARDS

S1: In compliance with the team concept and in view of the ages of Pop Warner participants, no participant will be singled out as best lineman, best offensive back, most valuable player/spirit participant, etc., for the presentation of a special award. Such adulation should be given to an athlete after his Pop Warner days, if he/she justly deserves it by performance at the High School level. Individual awards may be presented, but must be given to all team or squad members. S2-SPECIAL NOTE FOR PLAYERS: Awards for individual performances displayed on the helmets are prohibited (i.e., no stars, hatchets, footballs, etc.). The only decal allowed is
ARTICLE 15: PRACTICE

S1-DEFINITION: To prevent possible bending of the rules and
of players or spirit participants, without minimum number, in the presence of at least one (1) coach, where one or more of the following activities take place: A. chalk talk/skull session
C. group conditioning D. individual skills sessions (QB, receiving, blocking, tackling, kicking, etc.) E. group skills sessions F. dummies and other inanimate contact G. play run through without pads (shorts & T-shirt) H. play run through with equipment, but without contact I. Intra-squad scrimmages with full pads and equipment
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are shown, or where football or spirit teams are talked about, can be deemed a practice session, as can a party at a parents home
League is directed to establish a policy with respect to home videos
Pop Warner strongly recommends League/Associations discourage parties/practice sessions at coaches homes. All the activities/ practice sessions that are referenced in A-15-S1, must include a minimum of 2 coaches in attendance the entire session. S2: Pre-season practice shall not begin until August 1st (or later). The actual date will be determined in accordance with climate and other factors determined by the League in establishing a common starting date for all teams within its jurisdiction. S3: All practices must be attended by one person holding a Red
P.R.E.P.A.R.E. Course by the National Center for Sport Safety (www.sportsafety.org) or their equivalent, if not by an EMT or volunteer physician (such as a parent of one of the participants). S4-BEFORE LABOR DAY: No team or squad may schedule more than 10 hours of practice per week before Labor Day.
hours of practice may be scheduled on any one day. S5-AFTER LABOR DAY: Practices after Labor Day weekend are limited to 6 hours per week. Sunday. Practices after Labor Day weekend are not to exceed 2 hours per day. S6-BREAKS: Break time is not counted against the ten (10) or six (6) hours per week or 2-1/2 or 2 hours of allowed practice time. Water breaks should be given as needed and when requested by participants S7-CONTROLLED INTER-SQUAD SCRIMMAGE: After the
second week of practice (10 hours) in pads in which contact has occurred, teams may engage in joint practice sessions with other team(s) in what are called controlled inter-squad scrimmages. So as to avoid any misinterpretation, 20 hours of practice is required before inter-squad scrimmages may occur. S8: Any player added after a team has formed and/or after the season has started, must be subject to the same 20 hours of conditioning as mentioned in S7 of this article. S9: The following exercises and drills are banned from all practices and pre-game warm-ups; leg lifts, neck bridges (sometimes referred to as neck rolls) and bull in the ring. Leg lifts with knees bent are acceptable.
ARTICLE 16: CAMPS

S1: No Pop Warner organization or personnel associated within, shall require or mandate that a Pop Warner football team or spirit squad, in part or in whole, with or without coach(s) attend a football or spirit camp. There shall be no exceptions.
23 However, a Pop Warner football or spirit team/squad, in part or in whole MAY attend a camp if they so choose to, providing the following conditions are met:
MANDATORY. B. Camp provides as part of its services an accident insurance plan for camp participants. S2: Any camp, whether it be for players or spirit participants, shall not be endorsed or sponsored by any League, Association, or Team, which does not provide as part of its services, an accident insurance plan for the camp participants.
ARTICLE 17: IMPORTANT POINT-MEDICAL & CONCUSSIONS

The home team or hosting organization has the responsibility to provide medical coverage at each game or competition. In the absence of a physician and or ambulance on the site, the minimum safety requirement will be the presence of one individual associated with the home team/host organization who is currently EMT
Aid and Safety, the P.R.E.P.A.R.E. Course by the National Center for Sport Safety (www.sportssafety.org), or their equivalent. Work together with your local EMTs to establish an emergency
should include, but not be limited to, the following: A. introduce or identify trainer/health care provider to visiting coach; B. home team/host organization review emergency plan with visiting team; C. designated duties for coaching staff and or athletes; D. how to call EMS next to phone;
service (EMS); F. emergency numbers; G. injury report forms; H. treatment authorization card; I. list of administrators that the coach is required to contact. Practice your emergency plan early in the season, and repeat often throughout the season. A similar plan should be in place for teams traveling to away games. All teams are recommended to have a staff member carry the entire teams medical release forms and emergency numbers for all players and spirit participants in case in an emergency their parent(s) or guardian must be reached. Having the family physicians number opposite the participants name is also recommended. S1: CONCUSSION RETURN TO PLAY GUIDELINES: A participant who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or a head injury in a practice, game or competition shall be removed from practice, play or competition at that time based on evaluation and determination by the Head Coach. However,
medical professional is on site and available to render such
24 removal or return to play of the participant.
or guardian of the injured player is serving as head coach,
the league president, association president or the top ranking assistant head coach; whomever is present and highest in the Pop Warner chain of command.
Any Pop Warner participant who has been removed from practice, play or competition due to a head injury or suspected concussion may not return to Pop Warner activities until the participant has been evaluated by a currently licensed medical professional trained in the evaluation and management of concussions and receives written clearance to return to play from that licensed practitioner.
on removal of a participant for a suspected head injury or concussion. At national events, the National Football Commissioner or National Cheer Commissioner, depending on the sport in which the participant was engaged, or in their
on removal of a participant for a suspected head injury or concussion.
Pop Warner recommends that all decisions be made in the best interest of the children and that when any doubt exists as to the health of the participants, they sit out. Please check www.popwarner.com or www.cdc.gov/concussion for Center for Disease Control (CDC) signs and symptoms chart for concussions.
ARTICLE 18: CHARGING ADMISSION

Reasonable admission fees may be charged to attendees for entry into pre-season, regular season and postseason Pop Warner league, association and team/squad events, however such admission fees shall not be borne by any active rostered individual who is partaking in the event, including both participants and coaches, as well as all pertinent Pop Warner administrators; all of whom shall be admitted free of charge.
ARTICLE 19: PROTESTS

S1: Only protests involving the eligibility of a player or spirit participant shall be considered. S2: Protests are decided in accordance with the administrative procedures of the League. S3: Teams, Associations and Leagues have the responsibility to communicate protests as soon as they are known to exist. Lack
ARTICLE 20: PATCH REQUIREMENT
25
for games and competitions in order to participate. Patches may only be placed on designated areas on the uniforms as determined by National. Football uniforms purchased from Russell Athletic and Cheer uniforms purchased from Team Cheer have the Pop Warner patch sewn on the uniform at no additional charge.
ARTICLE 21: MANDATORY BACKGROUND CHECKS

S1: As a condition of service to a Pop Warner league, all Coaches, Board of Directors members and any other persons or volunteer workers who have repetitive access to or contact with players and/or spirit participants, must complete and
local Pop Warner Association or League. Annual background checks must be completed prior to the applicant assuming his/her duties for the current season, and should be submitted to the League President prior to the start of the current season. Refusal to submit a fully completed Pop Warner Volunteer Application annually must result in the immediate dismissal of the individual or denial of participation for the applicant.
S2: Each League shall require and be responsible for enforcing all league and association personnel to annually submit to
Volunteer Application, prior to the applicant assuming his/her duties for the current season. The Volunteer Application must include signed permission from the applicant allowing the League or Association to perform the necessary background
provincial or national laws. Each League shall also require and
Pop Warner League Confirmation of Compliance with
must be maintained by the League for a minimum of 1 year.
S3: No League shall permit any person to participate in any manner, whose background check reveals a conviction for, or guilty plea to, any crime involving or against a minor. In addition, other charges and convictions may be an indication
any individual from participating as a volunteer if the League
League applies the same criteria uniformly for all individuals seeking to volunteer.
S4: Each League must require that all volunteers undergo a background check screening which at minimum includes a check of the records for the state in which the volunteer resides. Additionally, If a League utilizes a state sex offender
26 registry check, that League must also perform a national database or a Federal background check search, such as those offered by Lexis Nexis. If a local organization becomes aware of information, by any means whatsoever, that an individual, including, but not limited to, volunteers, players and hired workers, has been convicted of or pled guilty to any crime involving or against a minor, the league must
for, or guilty plea to, a crime against or involving a minor, the league must prohibit the individual from participating in any manner.
Due to the fact that Pop Warner Little Scholars Inc. has no direct operational control over the selection of volunteers, each League shall be required to indemnify and hold harmless Pop Warner Little Scholars Inc. against all legal actions based upon allegations arising from a failure to enforce all or part of this regulation. Failure to comply with all or part of this regulation may result in the suspension or revocation of the league charter, the removal of league and/or association volunteers, ineligibility for participation in regional and
ARTICLE 22: PARTICIPANT WAIVERS S1. Waivers shall only be granted upon written application executed
in the Waiver, attesting that the Waiver sought is based upon good cause and can be shown to be in the best interest of Pop Warner players and spirit participants by assuring their safety.
S2. All Waivers expire annually on December 31st. Only waivers, which serve in the best interest of Pop Warner both locally and nationally will be given considered.
27
PART IV-ENFORCEMENT POLICY
POLICE POWERS/HEARINGS & APPEALS All Pop Warner organizations-Leagues, Associations, and Teams/Squads, will be called upon from time to time to do the following: A. Resolve disputes between member organizations and individuals. B. Take action to enforce National and local rules and regulations. C. Discipline both adult and juvenile members. NOTE: NATIONAL POP WARNER DOES NOT HANDLE APPEALS. Each League is advised to set up its own tribunal to handle matters in a timely fashion at the local level. WARNING: Failure to do so could result in being taken to court. National Headquarters will intervene only in rare instances AT ITS SOLE DISCRETION. Please refer to the Pop Warner Administrative Manual for hearings and appeals guidelines.
MINIMUM MANDATED PENALTIES Minimums are established to assure that the punishment for listed offenses will occur in a uniform fashion. More severe penalties may be levied where circumstances warrant or for repeated offenses.
S1-ADULT OFFENSES A. EJECTION FROM GAME - Automatic one week suspension from practice, including the following game. B. RUN-UP SCORE: Probation unless found to be intentional, then suspension for 1 week. C. ENDANGERMENT OF JUVENILES: Suspension for 1 year. D. TEACHING PROHIBITED OFFENSIVE & DEFENSIVE TECHNIQUES: Suspension for 1year. E. FIGHTING: Suspension for 1 year. F. CHEATING: Suspension for 1 year. G. THREATS: Suspension for 1 year. H. GAMBLING ON GAME OUTCOME: Suspension for 1 year. I. LACK OF COOPERATION/ OBSTRUCTION: Suspension until compliance is achieved. J. VIOLATION OF MANDATORY PLAY RULE: Probation unless found to be intentional, then suspension for 1 week. K. FALSIFICATION OF OFFICIAL DOCUMENTATION: Suspension for 1 year. This would include, but not be limited to, parental consent, medical examination, proof of age, and proof of scholastic eligibility, and background screening forms. Upon suspension of any penalty provided herein, an accused shall be placed on probation, among the general conditions of which shall be: (1) that the accused be and remain of good behavior and that he
28 strictly enforce all rules and regulations of Pop Warner; and (2) that the accused prepare and submit to his League his written plan to supervise implementation of the Mandatory Play Rule (MPR). In addition, a player denied his required number of plays will start the next game and receive double the number of mandatory plays in that game. The failure of a convicted coach to comply with this provision will be deemed a second violation.
S2-JUVENILE OFFENSES Fighting, intimidation, or disrespect for authority shall be cause for ejection from a game/competition. Any player/spirit participant ejected from any game/competition for cause shall be ineligible for participation in their next game/competition. A second ejection during the same season shall be cause for removal from the team for the balance of that season.
S3-TEAM AND ASSOCIATION OFFENSES A. FAILURE TO KEEP FAITH WITH JUVENILES & PARENTS or failure of a team or association which placed the health, welfare and safety of juveniles in jeopardy, or exploits or treats them in such a manner that the juvenile becomes a tool of the team.
sociation policy, and not be an aberration of one individual. This implies that the practice is carried out by order of, or with
end it.
MINIMUM PENALTY: Probation of the organization coupled with permanent suspension of its president and all others who participated in the practice. Upon a second offense, suspension
B. FIGHTING/RIOTING/INCITEMENT TO RIOT: Game
the season for second offense within the same season. Scrimmage-related: at the discretion of League.
S4REGIONAL AND NATIONAL PLAY-OFFS Investigations and hearings concerning Regional and National Championships, Competitions and Play-offs will be conducted by
with Pop Warners Dispute Resolution Board as stated in the Administrative Manual. S5-ADDITIONAL OFFENSES Any and all other offenses which are committed by any party may be subject to the minimum penalty of probation.
29
POP WARNER 11-MAN TACKLE FOOTBALL PLAYING RULES

(PAGES 29 - 47)
POP WARNER 6-, 8-, AND 9-MAN TACKLE FOOTBALL PLAYING RULES
(PAGES 48 - 49)
30
PART V - 11-MAN TACKLE PLAYING RULES
are to be played under the state rules (including state adoptions) for varsity football of the applicable governing body-either the individual state member of the National Federation of State High School Athletic Associations or the National Collegiate Athletic Association. It is recommended that each coach have their own copy of the current years high school rules. Write to the National Federation at PO Box 690, Indianapolis, IN, 46206, web address: www.nfhs.org or to the NCAA at PO Box 6222, Indianapolis, IN, 46206-6222, web address: www.ncaa.org.
RULE 1: AGES AND WEIGHTS

S1-JULY 31 CUTOFF-LEAGUE AGE The players age on July 31st of the current year shall be the players age for the coming season.
S2-OPERATION OF SCHEMATIC The schematic provides a uniform series of three basic years of
eligibility falling under more stringent weight restrictions (the older/lighter player). The older/lighter player is indicated by an asterisk. (See Rule 1, S4) In addition, programs may not arbitrarily eliminate any ages from the divisions, i.e. choose not to allow older/lighters etc.
S3-SPECIAL NOTE FOR MITEY-MITES Although the game is serious to the kids, from the adult viewpoint, Mitey-Mite is strictly a training division, completely free of any pressure to win, with a total emphasis on learning. While scores are kept, no local championship may be declared, but post-season play is permitted. of the League. A maximum of one (1) coach per team is permitted
There shall be: 1.) No blitzing
attempting a kick) in Mitey-Mite play. 3.) No more than six (6) defensive players can be on the line of scrimmage or rush the ball. 4.) Defensive players on the line of scrimmage must be in either a three or four point stance and may not line up over center. Penalty for violation of the above: First violation: Warning Additional violations:15 yards unsportsmanlike conduct.
31 S4-TACKLE AGE/WEIGHT SCHEMATIC
Weight
Season Max
TINY-MITE
5-6-7
35-75 lbs.
84 lbs.
MITEY-MITE JUNIOR PEEWEE (older/lighter) PEEWEE (older/lighter) JUNIOR MIDGET (older/lighter) MIDGET (older/lighter) UNLIMITED JUNIOR BANTAM (older/lighter) BANTAM (older/lighter) 12-13-14 15* 13-14-15 16* 120-170 lbs. 120-150 lbs. 135-185 lbs. 135-165 lbs. 179 lbs.** 159 lbs.** 194 lbs.** 174 lbs.** 8-9-10 11* 9-10-11 12* 10-11-12 13* 11-12-13-14 15* 11-12-13-14 60-105 lbs. 60-85 lbs. 75-120 lbs. 75-100 lbs. 85-135 lbs. 85-115 lbs. 105-160 lbs. 105-140 lbs. 105 lbs 114 lbs.** 94 lbs.** 129 lbs.** 109 lbs.** 144 lbs.** 124 lbs.** 169 lbs.** 149 lbs.** Unlimited
7-8-9
45-90 lbs.
99 lbs.**
*The asterisked (*) provisions in each division allow the so-called older but lighter player to also qualify. The last year of eligibility falls under more stringent weight restrictions, per above. A LEAGUE SHALL NOT ADD THE IN-SEASON GROWTH ALLOWANCE AS A MEANS OF UPPING MAXIMUM WEIGHTS OR INCREASING CERTIFICATION WEIGHTS.
RULE 2: INITIAL WEIGH-IN; FIRST PRACTICE
the team to conduct this weigh-in. Its purpose is to serve as one
each player whose weight will bear watching by the team staff, the players, and parents throughout the practice period, because it is slightly below the minimum or slightly above the maximum weight for that particular division. Those failing the initial weigh-in will not continue as eligible candidates for the team (See Rule 6). The initial
than a medical quality scale.
RULE 3: IN-SEASON DETERMINATION OF WEIGHT Each team will have its players checked on Game Day PRIOR TO EACH GAME during the season to assure that the weight standards are being maintained. S1-IDEAL METHOD The ideal method of in-season weight checks can only be used when all playing facilities used throughout the program include dressing facilities. If so, pre-game weigh-ins, in shorts, will be conducted before every game and will be scheduled so that they
medical scale will be used. If not available, a lesser scale may be used if its accuracy can be checked against a weight of know
32 value. The weigh-in will be conducted by a League-assigned Weigh Master.
S2-ACCEPTABLE METHOD The following alternate method of in-season weight check (with uniform and equipment allowance) shall be used where dressing facilities are not available: A. A weight allowance shall be established for the wearing of the uniform and protective equipment which will then be subtracted from the players total scale weight. In cases of marginal overweight or marginal underweight, the team shall be entitled to a strip weight, in shorts, of the player concerned. Strip weight checks will be conducted in dignity, away from unnecessary personnel.
To facilitate the weigh-in process, the scale should be one that can be set up along pass or fail limits, i.e., be capable of being preset to balance at the maximum and minimum allowable weights for the particular division of play. In this way, a line of players can step onto the scale and have their weights quickly judged as falling at or below the maximum. Next, the scale can be reset to balance at the minimum pass weight so players can be judged to weigh at or above the minimum weight. For judging a players weight, all weights shall be rounded to the nearest full pound-i.e., a player weighing less than 1/2 pound above a full pound will be rounded down, while a player at or above 1/2 pound will be rounded up.
B. The following weight allowances for the wearing of equipment and uniform shall be used. All weights are without helmet. Cold climate areas: add 1 pound to all weights given when wearing full sleeve cotton jersey with undergarment.
Tiny Mite & Mitey-Mite......................................7 lbs Junior Peewee & Peewee.....................................8 lbs. Junior Midget & Midget......................................9 lbs. Junior Bantam & Bantam & Unlimited.............10 lbs.
S3-CHALLENGE METHOD Weight check by challenge or other than above prescribed methods is not acceptable.
S4-INTEGRITY OF WEIGH-IN Once a weigh-in has been conducted, no equipment shall be exchanged unless the equipment is found to be unsafe, and/or damaged.
RULE 4: IN-SEASON WEIGHT INCREASE

The allowable increase in maximum weight for any division of
season game: These weight allowances may only be granted after
33
34 1st week 2nd week 3rd week 4th week 5th week 6th week 7th week 8th week 9th week 10th week 0 lbs. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9**
** No more than nine (9) pounds may be added to the maximum weight after the tenth week. Teams advancing to the Super Bowl will be allowed a one (1) pound increase at the national weigh-in.
RULE 5: FAILURE TO PASS IN-SEASON WEIGH-IN

S1- WEIGH-IN BEFORE EACH GAME: A player failing a
only. He may sit with the team on the bench after he has removed his helmet and shoulder pads. S2: Determination of Weigh Master as to the weight eligibility
RULE 6: CUTTING OF PLAYERS

In addition to those reasons listed in Articles 8 & 9, any player must be cut who: A. weighs 6 or more pounds above the maximum weight for the selected division of play, at the time of the initial practice session. B. weighs 3 or more pounds less than the minimum weight for the selected division of play, at the time of the initial practice session.
RULE 7: CERTIFICATION OF PLAYERS
onto a team roster, a player shall qualify under the following:
applicable age/weight schematic. (See Rule, 1 S4)
team he has been practicing with, but falls into the weight bracket of another division, must be moved to the other divi-
C. A League shall not add the in-season growth allowance to
RULE 8: ROSTER SIZE

S1-MAXIMUM ROSTER SIZE
form and play. The League may establish a minimum higher than
35 16 for a team to be allowed to form and participate.
S2-MINIMUM ROSTER SIZE A minimum of 16 players must be dressed and eligible to play at each game. Also, if you start a game with 16 players, you must
with 16 players. Each League may establish a minimum number higher than 16, but once adopted, it must be kept for the entire season, including post-season bowl games. Each League shall have the option to determine whether or not a team which fails to dress the minimum number of players shall forfeit the game or whether the game shall be rescheduled. Any team which forfeits
players shall be investigated by the League for a determination as to whether to forfeit the balance of the season.
RULE 9: MANDATORY PLAY RULE

The following shall be the Minimum Mandatory Play Rule (MPR) for all Pop Warner teams. Each league may set a higher number of Mandatory Plays, but never less than the minimum set by PWLS. All MPRs should be based on eligible players at the time of the game. Jr.Peewee thru Bantam: Mitey Mites Only: 16-25 players - 10 plays 16-25 players - 12 plays 26-30 players - 8 plays 26-30 players - 10 plays 31-35 players - 6 plays 31-35 players - 8 plays Tiny Mites - See Rule 33; S13 for Participation Requirements A. The plays must be from the line of scrimmage. B. Kickoffs, extra points, QB intentionally spiking the ball and ment.
results in a penalty which causes the down to be replayed. D. All players shall be provided their mandatory plays by participation in active plays, without the intent to minimize the action or integrity of the plays. Plays such as, but not limited to, having the center snap the ball to the quarterback, and then the quarterback fall to the ground, while substitutes are playing the other positions, shall NOT be considered as active plays. E. All players shall receive their mandatory plays by the end of the third quarter, or they shall enter the game at the start of the fourth quarter, and remain in the game until they have received their required number of plays. F. Failure to adhere to MRP requirements will result in forfeiture of game in addition to enforcement policies outlined in Part IV S1. Each League shall establish its own system for enforcing the MPR, and must print a simple handout describing its MPR in
throughout the entire League, before the beginning of the season. The Nationally preferred system is that used in the National games.
36
RULE 10: THE FIELD AND MARKINGS

S1: The home team is responsible for the preparation of the playing
equipped and marked in accordance with high school standards. Lime and other caustics shall not be used. S2: The bench area is reserved for players, coaches, and authorized team personnel only. The sidelines areas are reserved for the game physician and chain crew, with the balance of the sidelines kept clear except for the presence of medical and law enforcement personnel, and authorized members of the press. Each League shall be permitted to determine on which side of
stated position, the local high school rules shall apply. S3: Junior Peewees, and Peewees.
RULE 11: GAME BALL

S1: The ball shall be of a good grade of leather, rubber or composite
Divisions of Play Jr. Peewee Jr. Midget Peewee Midget Jr. Bantam Ball Size/Model Number Rookie Gear Junior Youth Mitey-Mite (Official Football of Pop Warner) BF100L BF200L BF100-03 F200-03 Tiny-Mite Mitey-Mite Bantam Unlimited
Manufacturer Spalding
Full
Baden Leather Rubber
Rawlings Wilson K2
RF-5J TDJ
RF-5Y TDY
FX500 or FX550 FX400 ST-5PRO TDP
during Regional & National Championships. Notwithstanding any other provisions in league bylaws, the Spalding/Pop Warner design ball is deemed approved for all Pop Warner play as stated above.
S2: The use of stick-um on the football or the application and use of such on any players hands is not allowed. S3: In the Tiny Mite, Mitey-Mite Division of Play ONLY, it shall be left to the determination of each league which ball shall be used during their games.
RULE 12: PLAYER DESIGNATIONS

S1: Each player shall wear a number between 1 and 99 inclusive. Numbers 0 and 00 are illegal and shall not be worn. No duplicate numbers shall be permitted. Pop Warner does not follow NFHS rules for numbers; therefore any number between 1 and 99 can be worn for any position. S2: During a game in which a PA system is used, the number of any player committing a foul shall not be publicly announced.
37
;LIRXLI*YXYVI SJ*SSXFEPPMW'EPPMRK
-XvW;LEXvWSRXLI-RWMHI XLEX'SYRXW
GMEP,IPQIXERH6IGSRHMXMSRIVSJ4ST;EVRIV*SSXFEPP ERHXLI;SVPHvW1EOIVSJ*SSXFEPP,IPQIXW
38
RULE 13: REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

The following items shall be worn by players in all divisions beginning with physical contact in practice sessions: A. Helmet: Only helmets bearing the NOCSAE Seal of Cer-
NOCSAE approved Warning Label in a visible position on the outside of the helmet. This Warning Label is the same label that is furnished by all helmet manufacturers and quality reconditioners. (Note: Regulations regarding chin straps and face guards are to be followed per the National Federation or NCAA regulations, whichever is applicable.) B. Shoulder Pads C. Pants: One Piece or Shell D. Hip Pads: One Piece or Shell E. Tail Pads: One Piece or Shell F. Thigh Guards: One Piece or Shell G. Knee Pads H. Jerseys I. Mouthguard: All mouth guards must have a keeper strap, and be attached to helmet face mask at all times. Clear or White are not permitted to be used. J. Athletic Supporter or Compression Shorts (male players only) K. Shoes: In all divisions of play: sneakers, molded rubber cleats (soccer style), or detachable rubber or plastic (football style) cleats are permitted. No metal cleats are permitted. Cleats may not exceed a 1/2 in length. Special Kicking shoes are not allowed. L. Eyeglasses: When worn, shall be of athletically-approved construction with non-shattering glass (safety glass) or contact lenses. M. Any additional protective equipment worn by players shall be allowed with league approval. N. Jewelry of any type shall be prohibited, except religious or medical medallions, which must be covered by the players uniform. O. The wearing of headgear containing knots, including beads and/or decorative hair ornaments is prohibited.
on every uniform for games and competitions. Patches may only be placed on designated areas on the uniforms as communicated on the patch placement form on popwarner.com. Failure to have any of the above required equipment during a game, shall subject the participant to be removed until such time as the required equipment has been reparied, replaced or added. The use
in a game.
RULE 14: BLOCKING AND TACKLING RESTRICTIONS

Both the National Federation and NCAA rulebooks contain extremely strong language on blocking and tackling. It is the responsibility of every Pop Warner coach to be fully informed of, and abide by, all such rules of the governing body (National Federation or NCAA) under whose jurisdiction his state falls,
39 and to review same every year. In addition to other specific prohibitions in the National Federation and NCAA rulebooks, no butt blocking, chop blocking, face tackling or spearing techniques shall be permitted. If such techniques or any others forbidden by the National Federation or NCAA rulebooks are taught by Pop Warner coaches, said coaches shall be dismissed from the program, upon being found guilty following a hearing.
RULE 15: LENGTH OF PERIODS

Maximum length of periods by division of play are: (Tiny-Mites-See Rule 33) Mitey-Mite, Jr. Peewee, Peewee , Jr. Midget & Midget......................................10 minutes Jr. Bantam & Bantam & Unlimited..............................12 minutes
RULE 16: INTERMISSION LENGTH

Between 1st & 2nd; 3rd & 4th quarters..........................2 minutes Between 2nd & 3rd quarters.........................................15 minutes
RULE 17: TIME CLOCK
is not equipped with a scoreboard timing device. In any event,
if, in his judgment, the home managements clock operator is not
RULE 18: TIME-OUTS

A team shall be permitted no more time-outs than are permitted by the rules of the current National Federation of State High School Associations or the current NCAA rule book, depending on which body governs a state or section thereof.
RULE 19: PLAYERS

S1: A free substitution rule is always in effect. S2: It is STRICTLY PROHIBITED for a player or group of players to participate in any practice session or game with players from another division of play (i.e., Junior Midget vs. Midget). S3: Injured player: Once removed by reason of injury, a player shall not re-enter the game without the approval of licsened athletic trainer or medical professional who is not a parent/guardian of the player.
RULE 20: REGARDING INELIGIBLE PLAYERS

S1: player, from which there are no appeals. Further, these violations shall result in forfeiture of all games in which the ineligible player was a member of the team. There are no exceptions.
B.
Player overage or underage
40 C. Player residing outside of legal boundaries without mutual agreement (waiver) of appropriate League(s) and/or Associations.
documentation. (Articles:6,10) E. Participation in school tackle football program or
Football in the same season. A player may practice with a
game has started. Players can practice with the school team or the Pop Warner team, but not simultaneously with both. If trying out for the school team, they may not practice with the Pop Warner team until they have been removed from the school team and show evidence of removal. In the case of any other situation resulting in a player being declared ineligible, the result shall be removal of the player from the program, with no penalty against the team.
S2: Participation in Regional/National bowl games may also be prohibited upon recommendation of the League and approval of the Regional Director.
RULE 21: SCORING VALUES

Touchdown .....................................................................6 points Point after TD by run or pass .........................................1 point Point after TD by kick....................................................2 points Safety (awarded to opponent) ........................................2 points Field goal .......................................................................3 points Forfeit (offended team wins by).....................................1-0
RULE 22: SCORES

S1-LOPSIDED/INTENTIONALLY RUN UP SCORES Any time a team goes up by 28 points or more, the following will occur:
can only be stopped for injury of a player or at the discretion of a referee. It cannot revert to a game clock operation for the remainder of the game. B. Once 28-point difference is obtained between the two opponents, the winning team cannot pass the ball or run sweeps outside the tackle. If the winning team fails to abide by this rule, each violation will be a loss of down and a 5- yard penalty. This is at the discretion of the game referee. If at any point during remainder of the game the point difference drops below 28 the clock will continue running; however regular rules would apply, i.e. teams would not be required to run between the tackles etc.. If a 28 point difference is reached again, PW Rule 22 stipulations i.e. running between the tackles etc.. would take effect. C. There will be no Blitzing by either team once the clock becomes a running clock and the lopsided rule is in effect. D. There will be no onsidekicks at kickoff.
41 E. The winning defense team cannot advance a fumble or pass interception. The ball is blown dead immediately. The winning offense may start play action from this point. F. The winning team shall make every effort to replace starting players with reserves. Failure to do so will call for an immediate investigation and possible one game suspension if found guilty. G. Any coach who employs types of plays without the intent to maximize the action of play shall be in violation of this rule. H. The teams are still required to complete the mandatory play rule. I. An investigation will be conducted if a game ends with a score differential of 28 points or more.
S2-FULL INVESTIGATION When the statements of the coaches are in disagreement, the League shall require the Head Coach and all Assistant Coaches of each team to submit written answers to the following questions: A. What in your opinion caused the lopsided score? B. Is there any ill will or animosity among the coaching staff of Team A toward the coaching staff of Team B? C. To your knowledge, have there been any threats between and among the children prior to the game? D. Has your team ever been involved in a lopsided score before? E. What actions were taken by the coaching staff of Team A to prevent the score differential from reaching 28 points after it reached 18 points? F. In retrospect, is there anything you feel could have been done to prevent the score differential from reaching 28 points? If so, what? Based upon the answers to the foregoing questions, the League shall determine whether or not to conduct a hearing. The answers to these questions may not be used in any way at the hearing, unless presented at the hearing by one of the witnesses.
RULE 23: SIDELINE PERSONNEL

In addition to the coaching staff, a team may have additional support personnel positioned within a team box during the game. The total number of team support personnel, including coaches, in a team box shall not exceed 10.
RULE 24: RADIOS AND COMMUNICATION DEVICES

No radios or other communicative devices shall be allowed during game situations to relay information to the coaching staff on the sidelines.
RULE 25: SCOUTING

Scouting football teams is permitted in the form of video tape,
42 a game situation. Scouting any type of practice is strictly prohibited.
RULE 26: NO TAXI SQUADS

No team is permitted to run a taxi or reserve squad.
RULE 27: PRACTICE

In addition to the requirements for practice in Article 15, the following also apply:
S1-PRE-SEASON
and exclusively to conditioning, not wearing pads; however, helmets shall be permitted. Leagues may add more time beyond
S2-WARM WEATHER PRECAUTIONS Teams must guard against serious heat problems, which in extreme high school and college cases have occasionally resulted in death. The training regimen of any team practicing under high heat and/or humidity conditions must: A. Limit or eliminate laps entirely. Do not assign laps for disciplinary reasons. B. Schedule practices for early evening, after sun is low in sky. C. Give players all the water they want to drink, when they want it. Do not substitute soft drinks for water. D. Each coach must keep an eye on all players and his fellow coaches for the slightest sign of heat exhaustion or fatigue.
practice, not to be counted against practice time.
S3-MANDATORY BREAKS A mandatory 10 minute break after each hour of practice shall be required. Break time is not counted against the hours per week or per day allowed practice time. Water breaks should be given as needed and/or when requested by participants
S4-FULL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT REQUIRED At all practices, pre-season or in-season, where person-to-person or person-to-dummy contact takes place, each player must be dressed in the full complement of protective equipment described in Rule 13, Required Equipment.
S5-CONTROLLED INTER-SQUAD SCRIMMAGE
week being conditioning), teams are permitted to engage in joint practice sessions with other teams in what are called controlled inter-squad scrimmages.
43 In a controlled inter-squad scrimmage, there is prior agreement between coaching staffs that:
B. Long time-outs are taken between plays so that coaching staffs can instruct and critique their players. C. Coaching staffs may inform each other of the plays they are going to run so one team can concentrate on its offensive sets while the other improves its defense and vice-versa.
E. Game score is not kept; scoring is not the primary goal. mum is not violated. A mandatory ten minute break is taken at the end of one hour, said break not to be counted against the allowed practice time. G. No player or team is permitted at any time to engage in a controlled scrimmage or any form of contact drills involving a player, players, or team from a different Age/Weight division of play.
RULE 28: SCHEDULES

S1-SCHEDULED GAMES A. The chart in sub-section B summarizes the number and types of games teams may play during a season by each Age/Weight division. B. A League may schedule a maximum number of total season games as shown in Column D. The maximum number of each type of game permitted by division of play is shown in columns A, B, and C. A League may schedule fewer regular season games than the maximums shown in column B, but not less than six (6).
Regular Pre-Season Exhibition (Max.)
(A) Division: TM MM JP P JM M JB ULMT B 1 11 2 13 1 11 2 13 1 11 2 13 1 11 2 13 1 11 2 13 1 11 2 13 1 11 2 13 1 10 1** 11 1 8 0 9 (B) (C) (D)
Total Season Schedule (Max.)* (Max.) (Max.) Bowl Games Games
Post Season/
Num. of
* Regular Season Schedule includes any League playoffs. In any division, a team may play any combination of games in columns A, B, and C (up to the maximum in each column), but shall not exceed the total number of games in Column D. Pre-season exhibitions (Column A), league playoff games (part of Column B), and post-season bowl games (Column C) are not required to
44 be played. Regional/National playoffs and championships are not included in any of the above.
of different leagues. Teams may play post season games within their league as long as the maximum number of games is not exceeded. ** Mitey Mite teams are only permitted to play (1) post-season game either in their own league/conference or in an adjacent league/ conference when overnight travel is not required, upon written approval of both leagues/conferences and the Region Director.
S2-SCHEDULING PROHIBITIONS A. Under no circumstances will a team be allowed to play a game, scrimmage, or practice against a team of another division (i.e., Junior Midget vs. Peewee, Midget vs. Jr. Bantam, etc.). B. No team may schedule a game against a team whose ages and weights are not FULLY in compliance with those printed in this rulebook, unless both teams have identical approved Variances.
S3-COMMON REQUIREMENTS - ALL SCHEDULING The following requirements apply to all scheduling beginning with practice and ending with post-season bowl games: A. No team, on its own, may arrange a game. All games, regardless of type, must be arranged through or with the sanction of the League of which the team is a member. B. Prior account will be taken of all local and state laws pertaining to the scheduling of athletic contests. C. A period of at least four (4) full days (96 consecutive hours) will elapse between the end of any game for a given team and the beginning of the next game for pre-season exhibitions, regularly scheduled league games, post-season and bowl games. A League shall be permitted to waive the four (4) full days (96 consecutive hours) to 2 1/2 days (60 consecutive hours) ONLY to permit the conclusion of the regularly scheduled season.
RULE 29: POST-SEASON & BOWL GAMES

S1: Teams from all divisions are permitted a maximum of two (2) post season Bowl Games with the exception of the Mitey Mites. Mitey Mites are permitted a maximum of one (1) post season game. S2: For a team to be eligible for bowl game participation, the following conditions must be met: A. All requests for Bowl Game participation must be made through the Region Director or his designee. B. The teams League must be represented at its Annual Region Meeting. C. The teams League must have paid any Region Dues by October 15.
45 in October. E. Requests to participate must be made by the designated
F. All bowl game contracts shall require the written approval of the Leagues involved. S3: weigh-ins in accordance with Pop Warners standard weigh-in procedures as outlined in Part V, Rule 3. S4: All special criteria such as fees, etc., shall be immediately sent to a team expressing interest in playing the game. S5: The applicable state standard (NCAA or National Federation) and the Pop Warner National Rulebook will be the only rules in effect at all bowl games, and Regional or National Championships. S6: Any League or team that arranges a bowl game(s) without approval from the Region Director or his designee, will be
to exceed $500.00, as decided by the Region Director.
RULE 30: TIE BALL GAMES

S1: In the Mitey-Mite division, all tie games shall stand as ties. In the other divisions, the League shall have the option of breaking ties in all regular season and post season games. S2: Ties shall be broken in League playoff/championship games using the established high school tie-breaker for the state in question, or a special League plan in case the high school tie-breaker is of a type that does not quickly resolve the tie, and games are scheduled back-to-back on the same facility. Leagues and states shall determine if ties in championship games will be broken in accordance with the playoff game tie-breaker above, or if such ties will result in co-champions. S3: Ties during regular season games are allowed to stand as ties. However, if as the result of any regular season tie, a situation
team has to be selected to represent its league in the League playoff series, a special tie-breaking game (1 extra game) will be played during mid-week, between the last regularly
of Rule 27, S3: Common Requirements to All Scheduling, will apply. S4: In all Regional/National Championship Games, the ten yard overtime procedure tie-breaker as outlined in local National Federation High School Rules will be used without exception.
RULE 31: CONTACT WITH OFFICIALS
shall be subject to suspension and/or being permanently banned from Pop Warner activities.
46
RULE 32: REGIONAL/NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP ELIGIBILITY

S1: Must be declared League/Conference Champions. S2:
S3: It is highly recommended that football teams competing be accompanied by the corresponding spirit squads at all games, except when the region cheer championships are being held at the same time. S4: -
S5: roster must accompany said team. S6: All fees (Regional & National) must be paid prior to participating in post season. Failure to do so may result in
S7: Championships are held in four divisions: JPW, PW, JM, M.
RULE 33: TINY MITES

followed for the Tiny Mite Division. S1: Players: Maximum 28, Minimum 16 S2: S3: Scholastic Fitness: Report card from school or letter from parent. S4: Coaches: Two coaches from each team are permitted
S5:
S6:
S7:
S8:
S9:
S10:
S11: S12:
S13:
from huddle, coaches must stay back 10 yards from the line of scrimmage. If associations have more than one team, age groups must be equally distributed across team roster. If one team, associations cannot stack by age group. No kick offs, at the start of the game, the ball will be placed on the 30 yard line. No punting. On 4th down, a team has the option of (a) running or passing the ball from scrimmage (b) move the ball back to opponents 30 yard line and start offensive play from there. Penalties: Major penalty 10 yards. Minor penalty 5 yards. Game Time and Time Outs: Each half is 22 minutes. Game will consist of two (2) halves. Half time will be 10 minutes. All games will have a running clock except for clock stoppages on timeouts, change of possession and injuries. Each team is allowed two (2) time outs per half. No score will be displayed on scoreboard. No tie breakers. No try for point after touchdown. Ball will be blown dead if fumbled behind the line of scrimmage. However, ball will be live if fumbled beyond the line of scrimmage. Playing Time: All players must play a minimum of 15 plays per game. It is recommended that a 2 platoon
47 system (offense/defense) be utilized to help teach the game. Each team must have three (3) captains per game. Every player on the team must be given an opportunity to be a captain. S14: Offense: All offensive backs must be lined up behind the offensive line in some type of formation. You will be allowed, however, to split one offensive back no more
S15: Defense: No defensive player can be placed directly over the center. Player must be three (3) yards off the center. Defensive line must be one (1) yard back from the offensive line. Defense must run 6,4,1 set. No more than six (6) defensive players can rush the ball. No blitzing. S16: Game ball should be the Spalding Mitey Mite size. S17: Mitey Mite (Rules) plus R-1: S-3 Special notes. S18: No post-seasons games. Teams may play a combination of 9 total games; a maximum of 1 pre-season game and 8 regular season games for a season total of 9 games.
48
PART VI-6, 8, AND 9-MAN TACKLE PLAYING RULES
All Pop Warner Rules and Regulations apply to 6, 8, and 9-man football except for those differences outlined in the National
will be used to suit the philosophies of Pop Warner Football. These options are available for those areas which are sparsely populated and whose high school football programs are involved with 6,8, and 9-man football. Others wishing to implement 6, 8, and 9-man football, which are not in the areas mentioned above, must give reasons for the request and have written permission from the National Football Commissioner.
ARTICLE 1: AGES & WEIGHTS

Without exception, the same ages and weights apply to 6, 8, and 9man football as are used in all Pop Warner 11-man tackle programs. (See Rule 1, S6)
ARTICLE 2: ROSTER SIZE

minimum 10 12 14 maximum 15 18 20
6-Man Football 8-Man Football 9-Man Football
ARTICLE 3: POST-SEASON PLAY

Post-season play is allowed in 6, 8, 9-man Pop Warner Football. Post-season play must be against chartered Pop Warner League 6, 8, 9-man football teams of similar ages and weights. Under no circumstances may 6, 8, 9-man Pop Warner teams be merged to play against 11-man teams at any time. Further, 11-man teams may not drop players to permit playing a game with 6, 8, 9-man Pop Warner teams.
ARTICLE 4: SLAUGHTER RULE
half or it takes this lead during the second half, the game is ended at that point.
ARTICLE 5: 6-MAN RULE DIFFERENCES
yards wide with 15-yard side zones. The location of the goal posts will remain the same. 11-man rules are used for 6-man football with these
49 Rule 1: The offense must advance the ball 15 yards instead of 10 in four downs. Rule 2: At least 3 offensive players must be on the line of scrimmage. Rule 3: There will be no direct running of the ball across the line of scrimmage. Rule 4: The ball may be advanced across the line of scrimmage in the following ways: A. Kick B. Forward pass C. Clear pass (lateral) behind the line of scrimmage, e.g., the receiver of the snap (quarterback, tailback, etc.) must execute the clear pass (lateral) to another player before the ball can be advanced beyond the line of scrimmage. Rule 5: If a fumble occurs before a clear pass (lateral) and if an offensive player recovers it, he may not carry it beyond the scrimmage line. Rule 6: If a passer catches his own forward pass, it is incomplete. Rule 7: All players are eligible to catch a forward pass except the passer. Rule 8: Kickoffs are made from kickers 30-yard line. Rule 9: and is free kicked after a safety from the 15-yard line.
6-man football. 11-man rules are used for 8-man football with these
Rule 1: At least 5 offensive players will be on the line at the snap. Rule 2: Only players at the right and left ends of the line are eligible pass receivers. Rule 3: All backs are eligible pass receivers if they are legally behind the line of scrimmage at the snap. The passer cannot catch his own pass. Rule 4: Direct running is allowed in 8-man football. Rule 5: and is free kicked after a safety from the 15-yard line.
11-man rules will apply to 9-man football with these
Rule 1: yards of their free kick line. Rule 2: scrimmage line at the snap of the ball.
50
POP WARNER CHALLENGER & FLAG FOOTBALL RULES AND REGULATIONS

(PAGES 50 - 61)
51
PART VII-POP WARNER CHALLENGER & FLAG FOOTBALL RULES AND REGULATIONS
INTRODUCTION
In addition to the general regulations found in Parts I-III, the following Pop Warner Flag rules govern all participants playing Pop Warner Flag Football (PWFF). Please contact Pop Warner for MORE SPECIFIC Challenger Division Rules. Membership is open to any legitimate sponsor, such as recreation departments, YMCAs, Boys Clubs, PAL, and so forth. Requests for flag leagues to operate in chartered Pop Warner tackle league territories will be considered by the National Football Commissioner. Flag leagues become members of Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. If sponsoring PWFF, tackle leagues (already members) do not gain a second membership. Separate registration fees are charged for
ARTICLE 1: ORGANIZATION
The LEAGUE is the basic unit of organization which consists of a minimum of four (4) teams in the same age division.
ARTICLE 2: REGISTRATION
Each league must conform to the insurance provisions found in Part 1 National Remarks.
ARTICLE 3: DIVISIONS OF PLAY

S1: League age cut-off date is July 31st of the current year a n d shall be the participants league age for the coming season. S2: There are no height or weight restrictions on players. Division Name: Cat Cub Bobcat Wildcat Panther Challenger 5-6 5-6-7 8 - 9 - 10 11 - 12 - 13 14 - 15 - 16 5-18 Ages:
S3: Cheerleaders shall follow the overall age and division of play
must follow Pop Warner Spirit Guidelines as outlined in the spirit section of this rulebook. S4: 6, S-3. S5: that division. S6: A player is ineligible if he is a member of a school tackle program or if he is playing Pop Warner tackle football. He
52 program (unless as part of school curriculum). S7: A player shall furnish a written consent to play from either a parent or legal guardian. S8: A signed statement from a Licsensed State Medical Practitioner
conditions which would contra-indicate him playing football or her cheering. Note: If regular school medical examination results are releasable to parents, a copy of such report, if not older than January 1st of the current year, may be used in lieu of a new examination.
ARTICLE 4: FLAG FOOTBALL RULES

RULE 1: PLAYERS S1: A game is played between two teams consisting of eight (8) players each. S2: Each team roster shall have a maximum of 24 players, and a minimum of 10 players. A forfeit will result when the minimum is not met. S3: Only players appearing on the official team roster form (supplied by HQ) are to be counted as players. The Roster is
S4:
formation except in kicking situations. S5: Mandatory Play Rule: All players will play a minimum of 10 plays. Failure to abide by this rule will result in forfeiture of that game. S6: A team will have 30 seconds to put the ball in play after the ready signal. RULE 2: PLAYING FIELDS S1: conform to either of the two designs mentioned below.
yards in length, divided into 5 zones of twenty yards each between two end zones of ten yards each. It is 53 1/3 yards wide.
divided into 4 zones of twenty yards each between two end zones of ten yards each. Itis 40 yards wide. C. Goal Posts are unnecessary as points after TD (conversion)
goals kicked. D. A conversion line will be marked 3 yards from the goal line and at an equal distance from each sideline. E. A kickoff area will be marked (usually by an X) as follows:
zone and equal distance from the sidelines). S2: A. A Down Marker will be used to indicate the number of the down.
53 B. A Zone Marker will be used to indicate the distance to go for
sections of the end zones and the sidelines. Soft pylons may
RULE 3: EQUIPMENT S1-GAME BALL Each PWFF league will determine which ball will be used during its games. S2-FLAGS
designated as standard by the league, which will be
third will hang from the rear of the players body. C. Flags will be 14-20 inches long and a minimum of 2 inches wide. D. The belt must be tight to prevent being turned around during
provided by S-2-B, is illegal.
the ball. I. Flags are to be of contrasting colors, different from game
jersey.
S3-GAME UNIFORMS A. All team members must wear the same color jersey.
C. D.
E. F.
Patch displayed in the designated areas as determined by National. All jerseys will be numbered, front and back. Any type of pants may be worn provided said pantsbhave no front or side pockets. Jerseys will be tucked in at all times. Sneakers are the preferred shoe; however, non-detachable, rubber-cleated shoes are allowed. No other footwear is acceptable.
S4-EYE GLASSES Eye glasses, when worn, shall be of athletically-approved construction with non-shattering glass (safety glass). S5-MOUTHGUARDS Mouthguards are required and cannot be clear or white, no
54 keeper strap is necessary. RULE 4: PROHIBITED EQUIPMENT S1: Spiked or street shoes. S2: Padding of any kind, including hard surface padding such as shoulder pads, hip pads, and helmets. S3: Hard metal or any other hard substance on a players clothing or person. S4: S5: Slick or sticky substances such as grease or glue. S6: Any equipment, in the opinion of the referee, that will endanger or confuse players. RULE 5: REFEREES S1: There will be at least two (2) referees. S2: The league may assign more than two referees for a game. S3: There shall be at least three (3) referees for a sanctioned PWFF playoff or championship game. S4: whenever an infraction occurs. RULE 6: THE RULES OF THE GAME S1-PLAYERS The free substitution rule is always in effect and a player may enter the game any time the ball is dead. S2-TEAM CAPTAINS
times during the game. B. The captain will address the referees only on matters of interpretation and to obtain information. S3-TEAM COACHES:
and Bobcat Divisions only. S4-TIME There will be: A. Two 15-minute running clock halves for the Cub, Bobcat and Wildcat divisions. B. Two 20-minute running clock halves for the Panther division. C. Three (3) time-outs per half. D. Ten (10) minutes between halves. S5-KICKOFFS Each half will start with a kickoff.
line. (Although this yard line is not diagrammed, the kickoff line will be marked with an appropriate symbol, usually an X.) C. There shall be no on-side kickoffs permitted, and the kicking team shall not be permitted to recover the kickoff under any condition.
55 D. When a kickoff goes out of bounds the receiving team shall have the option of: 1. Taking the ball at the point where it went out of bounds OR
be placed on 30 yard line.
S6-PUNTING A. The offensive team may punt at any time. B. A punt is always a free kick. C. Punting intentions are announced to the referee by the captain, or acting captain. D. Rushing the punter is prohibited. No offensive or defensive player may move across the line of scrimmage until the kick has been made. E. Free Catch-There shall be a free catch of a punt. The receiver shall signify his intentions for a free catch by waving his hand clearly over his head.
take over where down ends.
S7-DOWNS (First down and zone to go) A. Each team will have four consecutive downs to advance the ball into the next zone or to score a touchdown.
a new series of downs begins. C. A team failing to move the ball into the next zone will lose possession. The opposing team takes over at the point
down and zone to go. D. The forward part of the ball touching any line will be the
E. A down will be repeated if provided for by the rules (See Rule 13.) F. When the offensive team is within the last zone and has a
G. At the conclusion of each down, the referee will place the
not on a hash mark). S8-DE-FLAGGING A. There shall be no tackling of the ball carrier, passer, or kicker. B. The player carrying or having possession of the ball is down
still. C. The defensive player cannot hold or push the ball carrier to
however, touching of the head or face shall be considered a violation. D. A defensive player may not run over, push, or pull a blocker
56 away from him. He may push him sideways if he gets past him, but he cannot push the blocker down.
touch the passers arm. S9-BLOCKING A. A blocker must be on his feet at all times while blocking. All linemen, except the center, must not assume the three point stance or otherwise spring rom a coiled or crouching start. Instead, they must simply stand at the line of scrimmage and await the snap. The center, though crouching, if he is to block,
B. Cross body and roll blocking are not permitted. C. A blocker cannot use his hands. D. Blocking shall be done with the arms and body in the form of shoulder and brush blocking only. E. A defensive player cannot block or push a ball carrier out-ofbounds. F. Butting, elbowing or knee blocking is not permitted. G. There will be no two-on-one blocking for the ball carrier beyond the line of scrimmage. H. Blocking a player from behind is not permitted (clipping). I. There will be no interlocking blocking. J. A defensive player will be restricted in the use of his hands to the blockers body and shoulders. S10-BALL CARRIER A. The ball carrier cannot use his hands or arms to protect his
B. The ball carrier cannot lower his head to drive or run into a defensive player. C. Stiff-arming by the ball carrier is illegal. D. The ball carrier cannot spin or hurdle to prevent a defensive
E. He may run in any direction until the ball is declared dead. S11-CENTER (also see S9:A) A. The center must snap the ball between his legs. B. He must have both feet on the scrimmage line with no part of his body beyond the forward point of the ball. C. He may adjust the long part of the ball at right angles to the scrimmage line for one time only. S12-PASSING
B. Passing will be attempted from behind the line of scrimmage only. C. A lateral pass is a pass thrown parallel to the line of scrimmage or back toward the passers own goal line. A lateral pass is not considered a forward pass. D. A forward pass is a pass thrown from behind the line of scrimmage toward the defensive teams goal line.
57 S13-RECEIVING A. All players are eligible to receive forward passes. B. A receiver may catch a ball even if he steps out-of-bounds or out of the end zone as long as he comes down with one foot in bounds. C. Two or more receivers may touch a ball in succession resulting in a completed pass. D. If an offensive and defensive player catch a pass simultaneously, the ball is declared dead at the spot of the catch and the passing team is awarded possession. E. An offensive player cannot be out-of-bounds and return in-bounds to catch a pass. This will be ruled an incomplete pass. S14-DEAD BALL All balls touching the ground are immediately dead (except kickoffs and punts). For example, the ball is declared dead at the following times: A. When the ball carrier touches the ground with his body, other than hands or feet.
at that spot). D. Following a touchdown, safety or touchback. E. When the ball goes out-of-bounds for any reason.
man. G. When the ball hits the ground as a result of a fumble or muffed ball. THERE ARE NO FUMBLE RECOVERIES IN PWFF! H. If a lateral pass touches the ground (ball is declared dead at that point). If a lateral pass goes out-of-bounds, the ball is ruled dead at the point it crosses the boundary line. I. If a forward pass strikes the ground or is caught at the same time by an opposing player(s). J. When a player on the kicking team touches a punt before a player on the receiving team. K. A free catch (cannot be advanced). S15-GAME TERMINATION
half or it takes this lead during the second half, the game is ended at that point. THIS RULE ALSO APPLIES TO TOURNAMENT PLAY. RULE 7: SCORING VALUES Touchdown Safety Points after touchdown: Passing Running Forfeit (offended team wins by) 6 points 2 points
2 points 1 point 1-0
58 RULE 8: TIE GAME S1: Tie games will go into the record as such and will not be played off in regular season play. S2: All Tournament Games:
toss a coin in the presence of the two team captains. The winning captain will have the option of putting the ball in play at
B. Each team will have four (4) consecutive downs and the winner will be the team gaining the most yardage in its series of downs (penetration). C. Penalties will count as plus or minus yardage. D. Intercepted passes will count as incomplete passes. E. If the yardage is still the same at the end of each teams four down series, the series will be repeated. RULE 9: INJURED PLAYERS Once removed from a game because of injury, a player must sit out at least one down, and may not re-enter the game without the approval of attending medical personnel. RULE 10: PRACTICES S1: In the USA, practice cannot begin until August 1. S2: Practices are limited to three days per week, not to exceed 11/2 hours each practice, while school is in session, and when school is not in session, practices are limited to four days per week, not to exceed 2 hours duration. RULE 11: SCHEDULES S1: Maximum number of games per season shall be as follows for each division of play: Pre-Season Regular Season Tournament Division Cat 0 8 No Cub 0 8 Yes* Bobcat 1 8 Yes* Wildcat 1 10 Yes* Panther 1 10 Yes* * Whatever number needed in the tournament program is allowed. RULE 12: TOURNAMENT PLAY S1: If a league decides to enter tournament play, it must have all
S2: The league must have two tournament team rosters. One is retained by the tournament team and the other is sent to National Headquarters. S3: Teams for which a tournament team roster copy has not been
Tournament Director. A. Each team arriving at the tournament site brings its tournament roster. B. This roster will be matched against the PW Headquarters copy, which is sent directly to the Tournament Director.
59 S4: All divisions are allowed to enter Pop Warner Flag Tournaments upon approval of their leagues. S5: Tournament teams will be allowed to play as many games as it takes to win at a tournament level, but may not play more than two (2) games in one day. S6: PWFF Tournaments will consist of not less than two (2) nor more than four (4) teams per division of play in either a single or double elimination tournament. NOTE: Tournament Director must notify all participants of type of tournament at least one week in advance. S7: PWFF Playoffs or Invitational Tournaments are played only as post-season games. S8: Tournament teams will be selected by any method the league chooses. S9: Players competing in tournament play must be listed on league and tournament rosters and must have played in at least onehalf (1/2) of the teams regularly scheduled games prior to the start of tournament play. S10:Particulars regarding Playoff and Invitational Tournaments will be available each year from the National Football Commissioner. S11-Awards for PWFF Tournaments A. Each participating team shall receive a trophy for its place
host site. B. Participant awards for individual players will be left to the discretion of the host league. S12:The host league shall determine which of the two standard
Director will inform all participants of same at least one week in advance. RULE 13: PENALTIES
references to penalties will be given as (15-10) and (5-5) in the following listings. S1-KICKOFFS If either team is offside on the kickoff, the penalty will be (5-5) and the ball will be kicked over again.
S2-LINE OF SCRIMMAGE-Centering A. Offside, defensive or offensive (5-5) B. Illegal snap (5-5) C. Failure to observe 30 second rule (5-5)
E. Illegal formation, offense (5-5) S3-PUNTING A. Failure to announce to the referee-(5-5) and punt is repeated, or the receiving team may take the ball at the spot where the ball is declared dead.
60 B. If the kicking or receiving team enters the neutral zone before the punt-(5-5) from the spot where the ball is declared dead after the kick. sive or defensive team-(5-5) from where the ball is declared dead after the kick.
the spot of the foul. S4-PASSING A. If an illegal forward pass is thrown and intercepted, the play will continue until the ball is declared dead. The intercepting team has the option of possession from that spot or accepting the penalty (5-5). B. Passer crosses the line of scrimmage-(5-5) and loss of down. C. Intentional grounding-(5-5) and loss of down. D. Offensive pass interference-(15-10) from line of scrimmage and loss of down.
for the offensive team. S5-DELAY OF GAME A. Continuing to play after the ball is dead-(5-5) from spot where the ball is dead. B. Recovering a fumble or falling on the ball (5-5). C. Advancing a fair catch (5-5). D. Unnecessary delay of game for any reason (5-5). S6-FLAG WEARING AND DE-FLAGGING A. Tackling (15-10).
C. Ball carrier using his hands to prevent a defensive player from
- (15-10).
foul.
S7-ILLEGAL HAND-OFF A. If the ball is handed forward beyond the scrimmage line(5-5) and loss of down. B. Handing or snapping a ball to a lineman (5-5). S8-ILLEGAL SUBSTITUTIONS
B. Substitution(s) while the ball is in play or before it is declared dead (5-5).
S9-BLOCKING A. Leaving feet to block (15-10). B. Cross body blocking or roll blocking (15-10). C. Illegal use of hands by blocker (15-10). D. Holding a defensive player (15-10). E. Defensive player blocking or pushing the ball carrier out of
61 bounds (15-10). F. Butting, elbowing or knee blocking (15-10). G. Defensive player using hands illegally (5-5). H. More than two blockers for the ball carrier (on one defensive player) beyond the line of scrimmage (5-5). I. Clipping (15-10). J. Interlock Blocking-(15-10) from spot of foul. S10-BALL CARRIER A. Stiff arming-(15-10) from spot of foul. B. Lowering head to drive or run into defensive player (15-10). C. Use of head (15-10).
E. Spinning or hurdling (5-5). S11-UNNECESSARY ROUGHNESS A. Offensive and Defensive (15-10).
S12-UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT A. Fighting (15-10)-offenders ejected from game.
ineligible for play (15-10). C. Insulting and abusive language (15-10). D. Interference with progress of the game by coaches or any other team personnel (15-10). E. Illegal play (15-10).
G. Failure of home team to control players or fans (15-10). H. Forfeit if not controlled.
RULE 14: PROTESTS S1: Only protests involving rules interpretations or the eligibility of a player shall be considered-never the judgment of an
S2: Protests are decided at the local level in accordance with the administrative procedures of the league.
62
Program Management:
(PAGES 62 - 136)
63
PART VIII - POP WARNER SPIRIT RULES
Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. has established one (1) set of spirit rules for all spirit participants. In addition to the general regulations found in Parts I-IV in this book, which is the Spirit Coaches responsibility to read and adhere to. Pop Warner Spirit Squads shall follow the rules outlined in this section. The term Spirit includes all squads, cheer and dance. This section incorporates the current rules of the National Federation of State High School Associations, the National Spirit Group and existing Pop Warner rules/limitations. No rules will be added after August 1st unless it is a safety issue.
SPIRIT ORGANIZATION S1-LEAGUE LEVEL A. Each League shall have a Cheer and Dance Coordinator (or Vice-President or applicable local title) who is a voting member of equal status on the League Board. B. shall chair all League spirit meetings, often held separately from the football meetings. He/she shall be a delegate to the
alternate in his/her absence. C. The League Cheer and Dance Coordinator is responsible for completing the Spirit Reporting Forms. The forms are now available on www.popwarner.com. Please review the Spirit Forms as follows: 1. League Information Sheet (Must be submitted to the PWLS August 31st of the current season.) 2. Spirit Rosters (Squad Staff must be listed with appropriate titles.) 3. Absentee Forms (Absentee forms should be kept with Spirit Roster for Book Check Purposes) D. The following forms must be submitted by their listed deadlines by all leagues/conferences whether or not you participate in league/region or national competition: League Spirit Information Sheet and the Spirit Roster. E. The League Cheer and Dance Coordinator must attend a Pop Warner Nationally Approved Clinic or complete the online ASEP Education and Testing to be eligible to coach. F. All League/Association Administrators must be at least 21 years of age. S2-ASSOCIATION LEVEL A. Each association shall have a Cheerleading/Dance Coordinator, to whom all squad spirit personnel report. B. Each association shall have an association board member to be called the Director of Cheerleading/Dance, Spirit Coordinator (or whatever other term is locally applicable) who is an equal voting member of the association board and responsible only to that board. C. The Association Cheer and Dance Coordinator must attend
64 a Pop Warner Nationally Approved Clinic or complete the online ASEP Education and Testing to be eligible to coach. . S 3 - S Q U A D L E V E L , C H E E R / D A N C E , S TA F F REQUIREMENTS A squads coaching staff is in complete charge of the squad
as a group to and from practice sessions, games and competitions, or together for any squad function, such as a banquet. The coaching staff is under the direction of the Head Coach; other coaches are called Assistant Coaches. The following applies to all coaches:
A. The staff positions for a spirit squad are as follows: 1. The Head Coach of each spirit squad must be 21 years old by the start of the season, August 1. The Head Coach can only be rostered as the Head Coach on one roster. a) actions, those of his/her assistant coaches, spirit participants, staff and parents. The Head Coach will determine the assignments of the Assistant Coaches. Every squad shall have at least one adult volunteer as head
(including mascots) there must be an assistant volunteer coach (18 years old or older) for every 12 participants. The number of adult volunteers shall, therefore, determine the maximum squad size (one 21 year old or older head coach maximum 12 participants; 13-24 participants must have one 21 year old or older head coach and one 18 year old or older assistant volunteer coach, etc.). Head Cheer/Dance Coaches must attend a Pop Warner Nationally Approved Clinic or complete the online ASEP Education and Testing to be eligible to coach. Head Cheer/ Dance Coaches who fail to attend a Pop Warner Nationally Approved Clinic or take the ASEP online course will be immediately removed from coaching until successful completion of such clinic. or online course. Successful completion of the Cheer/Dance Coaching programs is valid for 3 years. 2. An Assistant Coach must be at least 18 years of age. A squad may have a maximum of four (4) assistant coaches. a) It is highly recommended that all Assistant Coaches participate in a valid Pop Warner endorsed, Spirit Coaches Education Training Program or or complete the online ASEP Education and Testing course. 3. with the squad in the medical area (physician, paramedic, specially trained volunteer) one of the coaches must be the
and First Aid or its equivalent or the P.R.E.P.A.R.E. Course by the National Center for Sport Safety (www.sportsafety. org) or their equivalent. 4. Teams/squads are permitted to carry a maximum of 3 CoachTrainees, who must be a minimum of 16 years of age and a maximum of 17 years of age. a)
65 as all other minors participating in Pop Warner Football, Cheer and Dance i.e., parent permission, physical, proof of age, scholastic eligibility, photo ID. (Refer to guidelines as
Coach-Trainees must also follow the guidelines for a student demonstrator listed below in 5, b through i. It is highly recommended that all Coach Trainees participate in a valid Pop Warner endorsed, Spirit Coaches Education Training Program or or complete the online ASEP Education and Testing course. 5. Each squad is permitted to carry up to four Student Demonstrators. Please follow all guidelines listed below: a) A Student Demonstrator must be at least 15 years old. A Student Demonstrator for a cheer/dance squad must have had at least two seasons prior cheer/dance experience. The Student Demonstrator must only work with squads that are younger than his/her current age. The oldest girl on the squad that the student is assisting must be at least two years younger. A student can participate as a student demonstrator but may not be involved with any other cheerleading program with the exception of their high school cheerleading squad. e) A rostered cheerleader may not also serve as a Student Demonstrator. Student Demonstrators must be under the direct supervision of the Head Cheer/Dance Coach. g) Student Demonstrators must be rostered as part of the coaching staff of the squad with which they are volunteering. h) All student demonstrators under the age of 18 must be certified in the same manner as all other minors participating in Pop Warner Football, Cheer and Dance i.e., parent permission, physical, proof of age, scholastic
Article 6-Registration.)The Student Demonstrator may be used to demonstrate moves, techniques and may teach words to cheers. He/she is not allowed to coach or conduct a practice. i) It is highly recommended that all Student Demonstrators participate in a valid Pop Warner endorsed, Spirit Coaches Education Training Program or or complete the online ASEP Education and Testing course. 6. A squad is allotted a total of 4 student demonstrators/ coach trainees combined (i.e., 1 coach trainee and 3 student demonstrators, 2 coach trainee and 2 student demonstrators, 4 student demonstrators and 0 coach trainee, etc.). B. Coaches are to be selected by methods approved by League rules and/or by-laws. C. Each League shall establish its own rules regarding the placing of coaches with sons, daughters or siblings within its own boundaries. Further note: All participants and/or mascots must be placed in an age appropriate division. D. Coaches do not make squad or League policy, they carry it out. However, the coaching staff is in complete charge and shall not be interfered with except in cases of rules violations and
66 any other conduct deemed by higher authority to be contrary to the welfare of youth. E. Reference Coaches Code of Conduct Beginning of PWLS Rulebook; Coaches shall not receive any payment, in cash or in kind, for services as a coach in Pop Warner spirit. This includes any coach, expert, consultant or choreographer, regardless of his/her roster status. F. Once approved for coaching, a coach is automatically terminated at the close of each season. To coach the following year, the same League approval is required. Any violation of the rules committed by a coach during the season, even though the hearing is not held until after the close of the season, is still under the jurisdiction of the sponsoring association and/or League.
FORMATION OF SQUADS S1: The following requirements are taken from Part III, Article 7 as follows: Tryouts of any kind within Pop Warner Spirit Squads are
the level whereby a participant is placed on a squad, including assessments, evaluations, or any other method used to place a participant in Pop Warner. Not more than 35 participants shall be assigned to a spirit squad at the start of pre-conditioning on August 1st or the later starting date of the association, whichever
S2-TYPES OF POP WARNER SPIRIT DIVISIONS, TRADITIONAL AND YEAR-ROUND A. TRADITIONAL SQUAD Referenced from Part II, S3 Pop Warner Structure A team is the universal, basic unit of organization. At minimum, a team consists of a group of participants organized under the direction of a coaching staff in a given Age/Weight division. Each football team may have a maximum of three spirit squads. For all purposes, the
December 31st.
Situation: If a football team folds before October 1, can the cheer/dance team continue? Yes, if all of the guidelines are met that are referenced below under cheer/dance without a football team. Situation: If a football team folds after October 1, can the cheer/ dance team continue? Yes, with written approval from the
TRADITIONAL SQUAD OPTIONS: 1. PRIMARY CHEER SMALL a) to a squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count of twelve (12). (Competition Minimum 6 Maximum 12) Cheer Small Categories-Novice, Intermediate and
details..
2. PRIMARY CHEER MEDIUM
67 a) Not more than twenty four (24) participants may be
total count of twenty four (24). (Minimum 13 Maximum 24) Cheer Medium Categories-Novice, Intermediate and
details.
3. PRIMARY CHEER LARGE a) to a squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count
Cheer Large Categories-Novice, Intermediate and
details.
4. DANCE a) to a squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count
5. DANCE AS THE PRIMARY SQUAD a) A primary squad may elect in August to be a Dance squad and be rostered as a Dance squad, and only dance during games and halftimes. They cannot and will not perform any stunts or any other activity limited to cheer squads with the exception of crowd participation sidelines/chants.
to a squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count
6. CHEER/DANCE SQUADS WITHOUT A FOOTBALL TEAM
with a corresponding football team in any particular division during the playing season, and has other cheer squads matched with football teams within the same association, may form a cheer or dance squad to be a traditional squad provided they act as a traditional squad during the season with the following requirements: a) The squad must be age eligible for that division. The cheer/dance squad must perform during the associations football games at another levels assigned games. The cheer/dance squad must compete only in the traditional league/region/national competitions. Additional Insurance is required per participant. e) to a squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count
Not more than twelve (12) to a Small Cheer Squad roster. Mascots are not included in the total count of twelve (12). g) Not more than twenty-four (24) cheerleaders may be
68 included in the total count of twenty-four (24). h)
7. FLAG CHEER & DANCE a)
B. YEAR-ROUND CHEER & DANCE SQUADS Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. has two types of spirit squads as follows: Traditional (August 1st to December 31st) and Year-Round (January 1st to July 31st). 1. In this tenth year of the Year-Round program, August 1, 2010, the following will take place: a) All Traditional and Year-Round squads will follow the same procedures and calendar as the Traditional program for registration, insurance and roster submission. (i.e.,
Year-Round Rosters are due by February1. i) A Traditional squad continuing on to the Year Round Program must have participated in the Pop Warner League, Region and National Traditional Spirit Championships in order to be approved for the Year Round Season. ii) Year Round Head Cheer/Dance Coaches must attend a Pop Warner Nationally Approved Clinic or complete the online ASEP Education and Testing to be eligible to coach. Head Cheer/Dance Coaches who fail to attend a Pop Warner Nationally Approved Clinic or take the ASEP online course will be immediately removed from coaching until successful completion of such clinic. or online course. iii) The Year Round Squad Declaration Form must be approved in the same manner as the Traditional season under the guidance of the League and Region Cheer/Dance
Roster. Year-Round squads are only rostered from 1/1 to 7/31 of each year. There will be no Year-Round squads during the Traditional Pop Warner season. Year-Round Participants must have participated in the traditional season (8/1 to 12/31) in order to participate in the Year Round program in the Junior Peewee, Peewee, Junior Midget and Midget Divisions. Note: Tiny Mite and Mitey Mite participants (from 8/1 to 12/31) are not permitted to roster in the Year Round Program (from 1/1 to 7/31). i) (Exception to c) If a Year Round Participant did not cheer or dance in the previous Traditional season with Pop Warner, and during that same time period the child did not cheer/ dance on a non-school or All Star cheer/dance squad, then
S4: prior to that squad submitting a Year Round roster to Region/National. ii) (Exception to c): A Mitey-Mite participant may register
69 on a Junior Peewee Year -Round Squad provided they are old enough to be placed on that level. Upon returning to a Traditional squad they are not permitted back to the MiteyMite level for the next Traditional Season. A Year-Round squad must compete in one competition during the Year Round season, January 1 to July 31. Only those squads that are rostered as Year-Round will be permitted to compete in competitions from 1/1 to 7/31. All Year-Round Spirit squads must follow the rules and
Warner competitions must adhere to the same guidelines and age groups as Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. i) The squad that is competing must submit a copy of the competition guidelines (non-Pop Warner) to the League Cheer Coordinator for review and approval by the Region Cheer & Dance Coordinator. ii) All Year-Round Squads must register and identify themselves as a Pop Warner Squad in all non-Pop Warner competitions/events. We also require that each squad member wear the official Pop Warner patch for the competition/event. iii) The PWLS Squad must compete in a Youth/Recreation or similar division in a non-Pop Warner competition. e) All Year-Round participants must return to their respective association spirit squads on 8/1 immediately following the Year-Round season.
2. The PWLS Spirit Championships will consist of Traditional Spirit Divisions only. There will not be a Year-Round division in the Pop Warner National Championships in December.
CHEER/DANCE COACHES RESPONSIBILITIES A. The Head Coach, Assistant Coach(s) or Association Coordinator must be 21 years or older in order to supervise
one rostered coach must be 21 years of age supervising at practices games and functions.) B. emergency procedures. Coaches should develop an emergency plan for dealing with injuries at practice/games. Participants should be made aware of these procedures. C. Coaches should remain up-to-date on all new techniques, progressions and safety regulations by attending conferences/ clinics and rules meetings. The staff includes the head coach, assistant coaches, coach trainees and a specialized, trained
physician, paramedic, specially trained volunteer/athletic trainer). D. The coach should approve all cheers, chants, posters, music and other spirit activities of the squad. Inform squad that all
prior to performing them. E. A coach must not permit a squad member to participate if in the judgment of the coach, the participant does not conform to PWLS rules. F. All squad personnel including coaches, coach trainees and
70 student demonstrators and any other staff adhere to the same safety guidelines that the participants are held to (i.e., appropriate hair, nail length, etc.) G. It is highly recommended that the rostered coaching staff does not stunt with the squad or an individual member during a game or performance. It is the squads time to shine and enjoy working with each other as a group. H. The coach cannot make it mandatory to participate in camp, clinic, classes, etc. I. The coach must establish a line of communication within the associations spirit squads, the football personnel and the League Cheerleading/Dance Coordinator. J. actions, those of his/her assistant coaches, staff, squad participants and parents. K. CONSEQUENCES: It is recommended that the League create a policy for their Pop Warner coaches that take a Pop Warner squad and/or its participants to a competition or camp/clinic without submitting prior written approval/Event Request Form.
SPORTSMANSHIP/CONDUCT A. All participants and coaches agree to conduct themselves in a manner displaying good sportsmanship beginning August 1st and throughout the regular and post season events. The head coach of each squad is responsible for proper conduct of squad members, coaches, parents and any other persons
B. A participant, coach, substitute, trainer or other squad attendant must not commit an unsporting act. This includes, but not limited to, acts or conduct such as: 1. competition judge or gesturing in such a manner as to indicate resentment. 2. Using profane or inappropriate language or gestures. 3. Baiting or taunting an opponent intended to embarrass, ridicule or demean others under any circumstances including on the basis of race, religion, gender or national origin. 4. Using tobacco or smokeless tobacco.
AGE DIVISIONS S1: The ages of all spirit participants in the program shall correspond to the overall ages that the League is permitting for players, unless League rules dictate that the ages of the spirit squad shall correspond to the playing ages of the squad with which they are associated.
71 TACKLE AGE SCHEMATIC FLAG AGE SCHEMATIC Division Name Ages Division Name Ages TINY-MITE 5-6-7 CAT 5-6 MITEY MITE 7-8-9 CUB 5-6-7 JUNIOR PEEWEE 8-9-10-11* BOBCAT 8-9-10 PEEWEE 9-10-11-12* WILDCAT 11-12-13 JUNIOR MIDGET 10-11-12-13* PANTHER 14-15-16 MIDGET 11-12-13-14-15* CHALLENGER 5-18 JR. BANTAM 12-13-14-15* BANTAM 13-14-15-16* UNLIMITED 11-12-13-14** *The asterisked (*) provisions in each division are for those leagues/ associations that carry older but lighter football players. The age of the spirit participant may match the age of the football players in that same division. (i.e., if the league permits a football player to be a 13 year old, older-lighter junior midget, then the spirit squad may also sign-up a 13 year old participant on the corresponding cheer/dance squad.) The spirit participant is matched in age only, weights do not apply. **Football teams do not carry older but lighter participants in the Unlimited Division.
S2: Only a League that requires the ages of the spirit squads correspond to the playing ages of the team with which they are associated shall be permitted to send spirit squads to any competitions sanctioned by PWLS outside their League. Outside
Competition.
S3: A squad, regardless of the ages of its spirit participants, must
football team with which it is associated (e.g., it cannot cheer at midget games and compete as a junior midget cheer squad). The only exception to this rule is a squad registered as Cheer/Dance
of Cheer/Dance without Football.
S4: The participants age on July 31st of the current year shall be the participants age for the coming season (Traditional and Year Round).
S5-MASCOTS A. The use of mascots is at the discretion of the League. B. However, within Leagues that permit mascots, the following shall apply: 1. There shall be no tryouts for mascot. 2.
division of Tackle Football. 3.
any division of play in the League or Association, with the
Cub or tackle Tiny-Mite Division, then the participant
72 may only be rostered as a mascot in the lowest age division.) Example, An 8 year old participant can only be rostered as a mascot in the Peewee Division if the Association does not have a Junior Peewee Division. Or, a 5 to 7 year old participant may only be rostered as a mascot in the Junior Peewee Division if the Association does not have a Cub or Tiny Mite Division. 4. participant status during the season. 5. spirit squad. 6. The number of mascots permitted per squad shall be left to the discretion of the League. However, a squad cannot consist solely of mascots. A squad may not have more than 50% of its members rostered as mascots. 7. A mascot cannot and will not perform any stunts or any other activity limited to cheer and dance squads with the exception of crowd participation sidelines/chants. The safety concern caused by the variance in age, maturity and skill level between the mascot and the rostered participants limits the mascot in their activities. Crowd participation sidelines or chants are small spirit segments (i.e., PWLS, Lets Go! or P W L S, Yell It, P W L S!) that entice the crowd to participate in supporting the football team. A mascot can perform these segments of cheer and dance on the sidelines or as part of the halftime routine but cannot perform any stunts or other activity limited to cheer and dance squads. In most instances, a mascot is a participant at the beginner level of cheer/dance and needs to learn the basics of spirit leading, safety and supporting the team. 8. squads. S6-MANDATORY CUTS For complete requirements for Mandatory Cuts, reference Part III,
Participants on Pop Warner Squads will be permitted to simultaneously participate in Pop Warner and school programs administered and coached by School District employees.
PRACTICE S1: The following practice requirements are taken from Part III, Article 15 as follows: A. To prevent possible bending of the rules and as a protection
spirit participants, without minimum number, in the presence of at least one (1) coach, where one or more of the following activities take place:
2. Group conditioning 3. Individual skills sessions 4. Group skills sessions 5. Cheers, sidelines, chants, dance, music, etc. 6. Stunting, Jumps, Gymnastics, etc. 7. Camps/Clinics As can be seen, a so-called party at a coachs home, where
73
talked about, can be deemed a practice session, as can a party at a parents home where one or more coaches are present.
of a practice session. Each League is directed to establish a
competitions and the viewing thereof. Pop Warner strongly recommends that Leagues/Associations discourage parties/practice sessions at coaches homes. All the activities/practice sessions that are referenced in S1 above, must include a minimum of (2) two coaches in attendance the entire session. B. Pre-season practice shall not begin until August 1st (or later). The actual date will be determined in accordance with climate and other factors determined by the League in establishing a common starting date for all squads within its jurisdiction. C. All practices must be attended by one person holding a
equivalent, if not by a volunteer physician or EMT (such as a parent of one of the participants). D. BEFORE LABOR DAY: No team or squad may schedule more than 10 hours of practice per week before Labor Day.
hours of practice may be scheduled on any one day. Note: Practice is up to 10 hours per week. It is not mandatory for a squad to practice the full 10 allotted hours. (Year-Round Cheer squads should follow these hours of practice rules Before Labor Day from 1/1 to 7/31.) E. AFTER LABOR DAY: Practices after Labor Day weekend
Sunday. Practices after Labor Day weekend are not to exceed 2 hours per day. Note: Practice is up to 6 hours per week. It is not mandatory for a squad to practice the full 6 allotted hours. F. BREAKS: Break time is not counted against the ten (10) or six (6) hours per week or 2-1/2 or 2 hours of allowed practice time. Water breaks should be given as needed and when requested by participants. G. CONDITIONING: for conditioning, and after the second week of practice (10 hours) for conditioning, performer readiness evaluation and/or camp/clinic the squad may engage in regular practice sessions and/or pre-season games. (The Second Week may include basics in Warm-Ups, Conditioning for Jumps & Tumbling, Arm Motion Drills, Progressions in Novice Stunting, Conditioning, etc.) So as to avoid any misinterpretation, 20 hours of practice is required for all Pop Warner Spirit squads before the squad may engage in regular practice sessions and/or pre-season games. H. Any spirit participant added after a squad has formed and/or after the season has started must be subject to the initial 20 hours of conditioning/practice as mentioned in this article. I. All spirit squads should develop a conditioning and strengthbuilding program. J. WARM-UP & WARM-DOWN: At least 10 minutes of warmup exercises (to stretch and to limber-up) shall be included
74 prior to spirit practice, with a maximum of 30 minute warmup period prior to games and competitions. Warm-up and stretching should precede and conclude all practices, games, performances and competitions. K. No additional practice for post-season play shall be authorized beyond the hours of practice per week currently authorized by these rules. L. No practice, or participation at games/competitions, shall be
Cheer/Dance Staff Requirements. M. All practice sessions should be held in a location suitable for the activities of cheerleaders/dancers, i.e., use of tumbling mats is highly recommended, away from excessive noise and distractions, free from obstruction, etc. Stunts (mounts,
the performing surface/area. The spirit surface, location, and weather conditions should be taken into consideration before engaging in physical activity. N. Advisors/coaches must recognize the entire squads particular ability and limit the squads activities accordingly. O. Accessories, apparel, and hair-style should be conducive to safe practices and performances. P. Participants are not permitted to chew gum or have candy in their mouths during practices and performances. Q. Participants may individually enroll in non-Pop Warner
cheer and dance squad participation is not permitted during the Pop Warner season.
EMERGENCY PLAN S1: An emergency plan is a necessary tool in preparing your spirit squads for the upcoming season. All Head Coaches are required to submit a general emergency plan in writing to their staff. The Head Coach should then discuss and review these procedures with assistant coaches, participants, volunteers and parents. The following are a few suggestions: A. An Emergency Medical Authorization Form should be on hand for each participant at all times. B. Prepare a list of local emergency numbers in addition to calling 911: Rescue Unit/Ambulance, Fire Department, Police Department, Hospital, etc. C. volunteers in case of emergency. The following are a few emergency duty suggestions: Assess the injury, remove the remaining squad, secure the area, contact emergency numbers and parents, assist emergency personnel in preparation of transportation to medical facility, travel to facility with patient, prepare an incident report, etc. D. Practice your plan at the beginning of the season and review periodically. (i.e. Location of exits, location of readily available emergency phones, directions to the nearest hospital, etc.) E. Injured player: Once removed by reason of injury, a player shall not re-enter the game without the approval of
75 licsened athletic trainer or medical professional who is not a parent/guardian of the player. CAMPS S1: Please refer to Part III, Article 16.
GAMEDAY, SUPER BOWL & BOWL GAMES RULES & REGULATIONS FOR SPIRIT SQUADS A. It is highly recommended that football squads competing be accompanied by the corresponding spirit squads at all games, except when the region/national spirit championships are being held at the same time. B. Tiny-Mites, Mitey-Mites, Flag Cheer and Mascots can participate with their spirit squad at League, Region and National Football Games. C. Twisting (mounts/dismounts and transitions) and basket tosses
76
GENERAL SAFETY GUIDELINES
CHEER & DANCE
77 POP WARNER GENERAL SAFETY GUIDELINES Please review the sample skills category breakdown for skill limitations in
in the safety sections listed in this section, Pop Warner Safety. (Note: Please reference the Spirit Glossary in the last section for all Bolded/ Underlined Words.) All skills permitted for a particular level include the skills permitted in the preceding level.
PARTICIPANT APPAREL Cheer and Dance Apparel of any kind (i.e., post earrings, friendship bracelet, watch, necklaces, rings, pins, body piercing, etc.) will not be worn at practices, games or competitions, except religious or medical medals, which must be secured to the body (without a chain) with tape under the apparel. 1. Cheer participants are not permitted to wear ornaments/decorations on their shoes/sneakers that would hinder the safety of a stunting squad (i.e., yarn pom-poms, ribbons/bows, bells, etc.) 2. Situations: A participant is wearing (a) jewelry in the naval (b) a
(c) tape over earrings (d) jewelry or stickers adhered to the faces. RULING: All are illegal. B. Fingernails appropriate for safe participation. The appropriate length for all members of a stunting squad means the nails are not visible
Further note: Nail polish is not permitted at practices, games and competitions. 1. It is highly recommended that all rostered staff members who participate in instruction and spotting of partner stunts should follow
C. For stunting squads, all squad members shall wear their hair pulled back and away from the face. 1. Hair, for cheer and dance squads, must be worn in a manner to minimize risk for the participants. Hair devices, if worn, must be secure and appropriate for the activity. 2. For stunting squads, Hair Ribbons/Bows must also be pulled back and away from the face. 3. Hair Beads are not permitted for spirit participants. The beads may interfere with the safety of other squad members while performing in practice, games and competitions. 4. Bobby Pins are permitted. D. (i.e., plastic, vinyl, metallic, etc.) are an optional item of the basic cheer/dance uniform. 1. USE OF POMS- The use of poms is not permitted during tumbling, partner stunt/pyramid building, transitions which require the use of hands and all dismounting. Mounting and/or dismounting with poms in hand is not permitted. A person up in a stunt may be handed poms, but they must be discarded before dismounting. 2. When discarding poms, the participants must gently toss or place props so that they are under control. (i.e. throwing a pom across the
to a participant on the ground or drop the poms where it will not interfere with your dismount or other participants. The poms should be placed far enough away so as not to interfere with subsequent portions of the performance.
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79 E. Signs 1. The use of hand signs is permitted in sideline/half-time cheers in game situations. The signs must be placed outside of the football playing area (i.e., bench area, coaches box, 25-25 yard lines). The use of signs creates crowd participation and enthusiasm. 2. The use of signs is not permitted during tumbling, partner stunt/pyramid building and transitions that require the use of
Mounting and/or dismounting with signs in hand is not permitted. A person up in a stunt may be handed signs, but they must be safely discarded before dismounting.
a sign once secure at Prep Level, after mounting, and then the
would be considered a transition without the use of hands and permitted. The sign must be discarded prior to the dismount.
is transitioned to a Straddle Sit with sign in place, no use of hands during the transition, that would be permitted, as long as the sign was discarded prior to dismount.
handed a sign once secure at Prep Level, after mounting, and is then transitioned to a Thigh Stand, without the use of hands, sign in hand, that would be permitted as long as the sign was discarded prior to dismount. 3. When discarding props (signs, etc.) that are made of solid material or have sharp edges/corners, team members must gently toss or place the props so that they are under control.
issue.) You can also hand the sign down to a participant on the ground who should then lay the sign back on the ground or drop the sign where it will not interfere with the dismount or other participants.
1. Participants shall wear apparel (uniform, costume, shoes, etc.) that is appropriate for the activity involved. Uniforms
undergarments should be worn at all times. Please use discretion in judgment in selection of uniforms.
When standing at attention, cheer and dance apparel must cover the midriff. The midriff is considered the middle section of the bodice, front and back. Also, note that nude bodysuits are not acceptable; the intent of the rule must be obvious to everyone.
a) MALE CHEERLEADER / DANCER*: i) Top- Sweater, Shell, T-shirt, Polo, Etc. ii) Bottom- Short, Pant, Dance Pant*, Sweat Pant iii) Sneakers, Soft-Soled Shoes*, Socks iv) Megaphone
80 i) Top- Sweater, Shell, Dance Wear*, T-shirt, Polo, Etc. ii) Bottom- Skirt, Short, Dance Pant*, Sweat Pant iii) Bloomers, Tights* iv) Poms v) Sneakers, Soft-Soled Shoes*, Socks vi) Bow/Ribbon
Sequin letters on a uniform must be securely placed on the uniform. They must be used as the squad letters (i.e. PWLS or striping by all squad members and not used as a prop in competitions Dancers must wear soft soled dance shoes (jazz boots, jazz shoes, etc.) e) Megaphones are considered a prop and therefore, not permitted in competition. Gloves may be worn at games and/or practices provided no stunting is involved. g) Knee socks are not permitted for stunting squads. h) Squads are permitted to place a mascot on the briefs/ bloomers/tights as long as everyone on the team has the same item (same paw print etc.), it is uniform and more importantly age appropriate. The squad or individual should not display the mascot rather it should only be visible from natural movement in stunting or tumbling.
2. Required Equipment (Reference Article 20 Part III) a) A spirit participant must have a Pop Warner patch on the cheer or dance uniform in order to participate in football games and League, Region and National Championships. A patch must also be displayed on the uniform for all events, Pop Warner and Non-Pop Warner events, and approved on the Pop Warner Event Request Form. (i) If the patch placement is on the top/shirt/sweater/shell, then it should be 2 from bottom of top towards the left front. (ii) If the patch placement is on the skirt, then it should be 2 from the bottom centered on the middle of the left leg. (iii) If the patch placement is on the pant, short, etc. then it should be 2 below the belt on the front left side or 2 below the belt on the left side. (iv) For dance squads only, if the above patch placements do not display the patch due to costuming, please contact your Region Cheer & Dance Coordinator for more options. PWLS Spirit patches may be sewn, ironed, glued or attached with Velcro. They may not be stapled or pinned to the uniform. 3. - Coaches should not permit loose, slick, baggy clothes, nylon hose/tights which are not appropriate for stunting squads. 4. Glitter is not permitted for cheer and dance squads. Glitter/ Shimmer to hair, face, body, costume and uniform is not permitted. Glitter may be used on signs and props if laminated or sealed. Participants must cover any visible body art/body tattoos (i.e., band-aide).
81 5. Tattoos, face paint, hair mascara, etc. are not permitted for cheer squads. However, a Team Mascot painted on the face or a transferable Mascot Tattoo is permitted during games for cheer squads. It is not permitted during cheer competitions. i. Note that a dance squad may wear a mascot print painted on the face or a transferable mascot tattoo for games and/ or competitions. These items should also be listed on the Prop Approval Form for competition. 6. is permitted. It is the responsibility of the Head Coach to advise the participants on appropriate use of makeup for a youth squad. 7. etc. which are hard and unyielding or have rough edges or surfaces shall be appropriately covered. A participant wearing a cast (excluding a properly covered air
This rule was referenced from the NFHS Football Rules Book and should be adhered to for spirit participants as follows: Hard, abrasive unyielding substances on the hand, wrist, forearm or elbow of any participant must be covered on all exterior sides and edges with closed cell, slow recovery foam padding. NFHS Football rules require no less than (1/2) inch foam padding or an alternative material. Padded knee and ankle braces which are unaltered from the manufacturers original design/production do not require any additional padding. The rationale is to protect the other members of the squad from being accidentally struck by an uncovered hard cast. Any questions regarding casts should be referred to the Region Cheer and Dance Coordinator in writing. 8. MUST be secured by a sport band while performing to ensure safety (i.e., Eyeglasses shall be secured to the head and under the hair with a sport band). Note: Eye glass bands must not be knotted or have beads on it. 9. It is highly recommended that wrist tape, tumbling wraps, wrist supports, etc., should be approved by and maintained under the direct supervision of a trainer, doctor and/or medical staff. The primary use of wrist aides is to provide support or assist in the healing process of an injury. A wrist aide is not to be used as a uniform accessory for effect. 10. All of the above items pertain to all events Pop Warner and Non-Pop Warner events (i.e., football games, jamborees, performances, competitions, etc.)
PARTNER STUNTS & PYRAMIDS A. All mounts and/or are limited to high, meaning the top person receives primary support from a base(s) who is in direct, weight-bearing contact with the performing surface. B. A pyramid is a grouping of connected stunts, individuals standing at ground level may be incorporated into the grouping. C. Partner Stunts, pyramids and individuals may not pass over, under or through other partner stunts, pyramids or individuals. 1. Exception when the individual is actively involved in the skill being performed (i.e., Leap Frog Stunt) 2. Exception: An individual can walk under the arms of
82 another participant (as in a chorus line) as long as all members have two feet on the ground. This is usually performed in a portion of dance or cheer choreography and not a safety concern. a. Not Permitted: An individual crawling under the legs of another participant standing on the ground. Not Permitted: An individual kicks a leg over another individual on the ground. D. Hanging mounts are not permitted. E. Suspended Splits - Split mounts are not permitted. Single and Multi-Based suspended splits are not permitted (i.e., split catch). See Advanced Category, Partner Stunts for Exceptions. 1. A spirit participant in a split position must not support any additional weight. 2. A spirit participant shall not be held in a split position off
F.
SPOTTING A. A spotter must be in the proper location with the appropriate
B. A spotter shall not provide primary support; meaning the mount or pyramid would remain stable without the spotter(s). C. The spotter must have hands up and maintain constant visual contact at all times with the Top Person/Flyer
other stunt personnel. D. A spotters torso cannot be under a stunt. E. A person is not considered a spotter if the hand position includes: 1. Grabbing the sole of the foot of the partner (see exception below) 2. Grabbing the hand(s) of the base(s) beneath the top persons foot. F. the wrists of the bases. Exception: A spotter may grab the sole of the foot as long as the other hand is on the ankle. A spotter
necessary for the arms to be completely straight but they must be in a ready position. G. Spotters are required until a stunt, mount, pyramid and
before progression at all times including practices, games and competition.) H. Required spotters for all levels must be your own squads members. I. A spotter is required for a Swedish Falls and Triple Based Straddle Lift. Spotter must be positioned to protect the head/
DISMOUNTS A. All dismounts from shoulder height or above (extension prep
83 is considered shoulder height) must have assisted landings. B. No skill (toe touch, twist, etc.) without constant hand to hand contact shall be performed prior to landing on the performing surface (i.e., A toe touch dismount is permitted when performed to a cradle; it may not be performed to the performing surface.). C. Dismounts from multi and single based stunts to a cradle must have an additional catcher/spotter under the head and shoulder
D. Non-extended stunts and extended stunts (single and multibased) may dismount directly to the cheering surface with at least one spotter (can be original base(s)) assisting on the landing, must be hands on. E. may only be performed on a matted area. F. Dismounts passing through an inverted position are not permitted. Forward Face Down dismounts are not permitted. Exception: Advanced Category Forward Suspended Rolls. G. not permitted.
DROPS/MOVING TO THE GROUND FOR CHEER AND DANCE SQUADS A. Knee, seat, thigh/jazz, front, back or splits onto the performing
borne on the hands/feet, or is controlled to absorb the impact of the drop. B. Knee, seat, thigh/jazz, front, back or splits onto the performing surface from an airborne position are not permitted. C. Practicing/performing controlled impact (listed in A) to the surface should be performed on a mat to avoid repeated/ overuse on hard unyielding surfaces. D. E. Front drops from an airborne position are not permitted F. Tension Drops are not pemitted.
PENDULUMS & FLATBACKS A. Pendulums are permitted, provided: 1. It is performed from shoulder height or below; a pendulum may not begin in an extended position; 2. It doesnt pass through an extended overhead position; Pendulums must progress to the upright position. 3. The top is caught in a face-up or face-down position; Head stays in alignment with body, no inversion/arch. 4. There are at least four catchers (on each side of a full pendulum); 5. The catchers remain in original positions; 6. No one is between the bases and catchers; 7. The base(s) have constant visual contact with the catchers (full pendulum & half pendulums require two bases); 8. The bases remain stationary. B. Only the top person in a pendulum may turn. C. A pendulum may end in an extension. D. A Half Pendulum requires two bases and a separate spotter on the opposite side of the bases from the catchers in order to
84 have constant visual contact with the catchers. E. Side Pendulums are not permitted. F. is a horizontal, face-up or face down position of a
provided: 1. to a horizontal straight body position between two original bases. 2. At least two additional catchers catch the upper body of
3. References categories for permitted flatback stunt variations. 4. Head stays in alignment with the body, no inversions/arch. 5. Flatback position is a stunt that transitions from/into another stunt. G. Dead Man Lift is a stunt that requires two bases and a spotter
from below prep level and does not transition into or from another stunt.
TOSSES A. at the Intermediate and Advanced Levels. 1. and similar multi-base tosses, are prohibited on surfaces other than a mat. a) All tosses must be performed from ground level bases. Basket tosses must not involve more than four tossers, including the person who may set or load the top person. i) toss. ii) tossers and have a separate head and shoulders spotter who was one of the original tossers. In all tosses: i. The top person must be directed vertically. ii. Participants must not pass over or under other participants. iii. The catchers and spotter must remain in their original positions unless making adjustments for safety purposes.
during the toss, no intentional traveling tosses. iv. Tosses into stunts are permitted (i.e., toss to hands, toss to extension, toss to chair, etc.) in the Intermediate and
the height of the intended stunt. e)
to the performance surface. Tosses through a prop are not permitted. g) Toe and thigh pitches to a jump or tumbling skill (including a suspended roll) are not permitted. h) Tosses to a split or straddle position are not permitted. i) A twist that occurs during a toss must not involve
85 more than two complete rotations. Reference Category Descriptions for further details.. j) Swan Dives are not permitted.
of alignment with the torso (where eyes are not looking forward). (No arch back permitted.)
TUMBLING
appropriate to the performing surface, area or situation. Proper matting should be used when needed (or appropriate). A. Tumbling with poms is B. All gymnastic stunts must originate from ground level. The person performing a gymnastic stunt(s) may rebound (without hip over head rotation) from his/her feet into a cradle. C. Participants may not tumble over or under individuals or over, under or through partner stunts or pyramids. D. Spotted or assisted tumbling is E. Toe pitches and leg pitches are F. Participants may not land in a partner stunt or in a catching
a tumbling pass into a cradle is not permitted; however, rebounding from a back handspring into a cradle is permitted.) a. A participant cannot be tossed from a cradle to a round-off, as all gymnastic skills must originate from ground level. The partner can be released/set down from the cradle to two feet and then start the tumbling pass G. H. The use of springboards and mini-tramps is I. Dive rolls are J. s are A double cartwheel is a stunt where two partners perform cartwheel(s) while holding each others thighs, waist, etc. (i.e., Head Over Heels Rotation)
CHEER CATEGORIES DEFINED
There are three categories for Traditional Cheer Squads, Novice, Intermediate and Advanced in the Junior Peewee, Peewee, Junior Midget, Midget, Junior Bantam, Bantam and Unlimited Divisions. It is the responsibility of the Head Coach to declare their squads category through the League Cheer Coordinator to the Region Cheer & Dance Coordinator by the deadline, September 15. The Head Coach decides the level based on the category description listed in this rulebook, ability of their squad and past championship performances.
Tiny-Mite, Flag (Cub/Cat), Mitey-Mite and Challenger Cheer Divisions are permitted to follow the Novice Category Only.
discretion of the Region. The Region will confer with the National
The squad will perform in this designated category until the close of the season.
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NOVICE CATEGORY A. NOVICE STANDING TUMBLING 1. Skills must involve constant physical contact with the performing surface. (Exception:
2. All tumbling must originate from and land on the performing
3. Front and back handsprings are not permitted. Dive rolls are not permitted. a) Forward/Backward Roll, Handstand, Cartwheel, Roundoff, Front/Back Walkover, One arm cartwheel (near and far hand), Timing Cartwheel (legs close at top of cartwheel and open again), Switch Leg Cartwheels, All combinations/series of these skills are permitted.
B. NOVICE RUNNING TUMBLING 1. Skills must involve constant physical contact with the performing surface. (Exception: Block Cartwheels/Roundoffs) 2. Forward and backward rolls, front and back walkovers, handstands, cartwheels and round-offs are permitted. 3. Front and Back Handsprings and Dive Rolls are not permitted. a) : Forward/Backward Roll, Handstand, Cartwheel, Roundoff, Front/Back Walkover, One arm cartwheel (near and far hand), Timing Cartwheel (legs close at top of cartwheel and open again), Switch Leg Cartwheels, All combinations/series of these skills are permitted.
C. NOVICE PARTNER STUNTS 1. A spotter is required from shoulder height and above (Exception: Shoulder Sit and Prep Level Straddle Sit). 2. Multi-Based Two Leg Extended Stunts are permitted. (Single Based Two Leg Extended stunt(s) are not permitted.) 3. Multi Based One Leg Stunts are permitted at Shoulder (Prep) Level. A single leg stunt may not be held at or pass through a position above prep-level. If it is obvious to a safety judge that the intent of the stunt was to gain a competitive advantage by passing through an extended position, then it is a violation of the rule and a deduction. Taking the top person above the head of the bases would not be permitted. (Single Based One Leg Prep Level Stunts are not permitted.) 4. Transitional stunts may not involve changing bases. Physical contact must be maintained between the top person and the base(s). 5. Twisting Stunts and Transitions are permitted up to a twist by the top person at prep level and/or below. 6. Base(s) cannot turn during mounting while top is in upward or downward motion. Bases can move after building is completed. Bases can move in sponge position. a) Permitted: Basic, required positioning in order to perform a novice stunt correctly.
87 Not Permitted: Traveling Show and Go, bases move
Permitted: Pony to Prep Permitted: Prep Level Liberty transitions to Prep Level
to transition to Scorpion. e) ground position max 1/2 turn. Flyer may not be transitioned from/into a stunt or load position to another skill. 7. Flatback Stunt is a horizontal, face-up or face down position
stunt is permitted provided: a) prep level and is transitioned to a horizontal straight body position between two original bases at prep/shoulder level
At least two additional catchers catch the upper body
8. Inversions (head over heels) during stunts, pyramids are not permitted. (Further, a participant is not permitted to connect a back bend, headstand or handstand position to an individual, partner stunt or pyramid). 9. See Novice Pyramids for further restrictions and/or exceptions. 10. Sample Novice Partner Stunts a) Pony Mount/Sit, L/V Sit, Thigh Stand, Shoulder Sit, Shoulder Stand, Prep Level Straddle Sit, Extended Straddle Sit, Prep (Extension Prep), Extension, Retake, Reload from Cradle, Triple Based Dead Man Lift , Swedish Falls, Chair,
Transitional Stunts (Same Bases) Table Top to Prep Level; Pony to Prep Level; Shoulder Sit to Prep Level; Double Based Thigh Stand to Prep Level Straddle Lift; Pendulum; Floor to Prep Level Flatback; Cradle to Prep Level Flatback; Prep Level Flatback-Reload to Prep; etc.
D. NOVICE DISMOUNTS 1. Only straight pop downs and basic straight cradles are permitted. Cradles are permitted from Two Legged Extended Stunts. 2. Backward and cradle dismounts (see glossary) to different
3. turns are permitted. All other positions (i.e., toe touch, pike, tuck, etc.) are not permitted. a) Basic Cradle, Cradle Reloads, Pop to Performance Floor
E. NOVICE RELEASE MOVES 1. No release moves allowed other than those permitted at Novice Level in Dismounts. a) Release moves/cradles may not land in a prone position (Reference Novice Level Dismounts). Release moves must return to original bases.
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F. NOVICE PYRAMIDS Pyramids must follow partner stunts and dismounts rules and are permitted up to two (2) high with the following exception: 1. Extended two leg stunts may not brace another extended stunt. 2. Single Leg stunts (extended) in a pyramid must be braced on both sides by prep level or lower stunts with hand/arm connection only. The connection must be prior to executing an extended single leg stunt and must be made at or below prep level. Extended single leg stunts in a pyramid are not permitted to cradle above prep level. a) Single leg Stunts (extended) in a pyramid once braced on both sides by prep level or lower stunts with hand/arm connection are then permitted to brace the foot. This is only permitted after the hand/arm connection has been made and maintained throughout the pyramid. A below, prep level hitch is permitted in the Novice Level.
the lower back of a base (standing on the ground) would be
thigh stand level) are on bases that are on the ground. 3. Transitional pyramids may not involve changing bases. Physical contact must be maintained between the top person and the base(s). a) Center Extension with side Extension Preps (any variation of these types of stunts), Three two-leg Preps Connected, Connected Totem Pole (Basic Variation) 4. Inversions (head over heels) during stunts, pyramids are not permitted. Further, a participant is not permitted to connect to a back bend, head stand or handstand position to an individual, partner stunt or pyramid.
G. NOVICE TOSSES 1. No basket, sponge, squishy, scrunches tosses permitted. 2. Helicopter tosses are not permitted.
INTERMEDIATE CATEGORY A. INTERMEDIATE STANDING TUMBLING 1. 2. Airborne skills must involve hand support with both hands when passing through the inverted position. 3. Series front and back handsprings are permitted. 4. No twisting while airborne. (Exception: Round offs) a) to): Forward/Backward Roll, Handstand, Cartwheel, Round off, Front/Back Walkover Standing Back/Front Handspring; Toe Touch Backhandspring; Standing Front Handspring Walkout All combinations/series of these skills are permitted.
B. INTERMEDIATE RUNNING TUMBLING 1. Series front and back handsprings are permitted.
89 a) Sample Intermediate Running Tumbling (Not limited to): Skills mentioned above in Novice Running Tumbling plus Cartwheel, Backhandspring; Round off Backhandspring; Front Handspring series; Front Handspring Walkout, Cartwheel, Backhandspring; Front Handspring Walkout, Round off Back Handspring(s); All combinations/series of these skills are permitted. 2. Airborne skills must involve hand support with at least one hand when passing through the inverted position. a.) Exception: Flips may only be performed in a tuck position from a round off or round off, one back handspring. In all
preceded by either a Roundoff or a Roundoff, One Back Handspring. You may perform other Novice, Intermediate skills prior to the Roundoff, Tuck or Roundoff, One Back Handspring, Tuck as long as the skill leading into the tuck is the Roundoff or Roundoff, One Back Handspring. A tucked
No twisting while airborne. (Exception: Round offs)
C. INTERMEDIATE PARTNER STUNTS 1. Single leg extended stunts are permitted. 2. Single Based Two legged Extended Stunts are permitted. 3. Twisting mounts and transitions are permitted up to one twist by the top person. Full twisting transitions must land or originate from prep level or below only. (i.e., full up to an extended stunt would not be permitted.), (i.e., up to an extended stunt or down from an extended stunt is permitted.) a from bases) and land back in a sponge position to transition to the next move in the Intermediate Division. 4. In transitional stunts, at least one base must remain in contact with the top person. a) When the transitional stunt involves changing bases, the new bases must be to the side or in front of the person moving the stunt except when the top person remains upright (vertical) throughout the transition to the new bases with the person moving the stunt making no more than a half turn to face the new bases. Spotters may also be counted as a base in some cases (i.e., transitional stunts). 5. Flatback is a horizontal, face-up or face down position of
stunt is permitted provided: a) prep level and is transitioned to a horizontal straight body
reload to prep). At least two additional catchers catch the upper body
6. Inversions (head over heels) during stunts, pyramids and basket tosses are not permitted. (Further, a participant is not permitted to connect a back bend, headstand or handstand position to an individual, partner stunt or pyramid).
90 7. A Vault is a stunt in which the hands of the top person are used to assist forward in clearing a base(s). Vaults that involve head over heels rotation are not permitted. A vault must progress forward from one set of stationery bases to a new set of stationery bases in place prior to the transition. The base/post must have two feet on the ground. (i.e., A Leap Frog Vault to New Stationery Bases, Permitted in the Intermediate Category) a) Skills mentioned above in Novice / Intermediate Partner Stunts, Extension; Ground Up Extension; Awesome; Liberty; Arabesque; Scale; Hitch; Heel Stretch; Pull Through; Bow & Arrow; Show-N-Go; Show-N-Go Bottle Rocket; Stepping Stone Pyramid
Single Based: All Girl, Extension, Extension Prep; Co-ed Toss Chair; Co-ed Toss Hands/Prep
Transitional Stunts: Show-N-Go Bottle Rocket to Extension, Hands/Prep Level to Extension; Chair to Hands/Prep Level
Stone Transition, Vault to new bases.
D. INTERMEDIATE DISMOUNTS 1. Only straight pop downs, basic straight cradles and quarter turns are permitted from extended stunts. Exception: Reference Backward and Cradle Dismounts. a) Backward and cradle dismounts (see glossary) to different
a partner may dismount to a new set of bases if caught by two additional stationary bases and an additional spotter at the head and neck. Top person may not lose contact with original bases throughout dismount to new bases. (Original
2. Up to one twisting rotation, dismount to cradle, is permitted from an extended two legged stunt. Up to one and one quarter twisting rotation, dismount to cradle, is permitted from a one legged prep level stunt. Twisting mounts may only be performed on a matted area. a) Basic Cradle Only from One Leg Full Extended Stunt; Pop to Performance Floor; Basic Cradle, Straight Ride Cradles from one leg and two legged stunts; Arabesque (1/4 turn) Cradle Dismount (Side facing one legged stunt)
E. INTERMEDIATE RELEASE MOVES No release moves are permitted other than those permitted at the Intermediate Level in Dismounts and Tosses. a) Release moves/cradles may not land in a prone position (Reference Intermediate Level Dismounts). Release moves must return to original bases.
F. INTERMEDIATE PYRAMIDS 1. Pyramids must follow Stunts and Dismounts rules and are permitted up to two (2) high.
91 2. Top persons must maintain contact with a base at all times. 3. Top person in Two (2) Leg Extended Stunts may brace another two legged extended stunt limited to 3 max connected. 4. Extended single leg stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunt. Single leg stunts in a pyramid may be braced hand/arm or hand/foot connection as long as the
5. Transition in a Braced Pyramid to a face up position (i.e., Flatback, Ball-up, Seat) or any variation (Face Down positions
from a vertical position to a face up horizontal position and back to a vertical position between two original bases has at least two additional catchers to catch the upper body of the
stunts and cannot be released from original bases. A release of
a) Three Two Legged Extensions Connected; Inside Single Leg Stunt Hitch connected on one side to bracer, by foot, on the other side to bracer by hand/arm connection; Connected Totem Pole; Prep Level Stunt connected to two outside Prep
foot or hand/arm connection. 6. Inversions (head over heels) during stunts, pyramids are not permitted. Further, a participant is not permitted to connect to a back bend, head stand or handstand position to an individual, partner stunt or pyramid.
G. INTERMEDIATE TOSSES 1. Up to one skill/trick/body position (i.e., toe touch, ball, pike open, pretty girl, kick, etc.) permitted during a toss. No twisting tosses permitted. a) Exception to Intermediate Tosses: Log Roll/Barrel Roll is permitted, reference Spirit Glossary. 2. of alignment with the torso (eyes are not looking forward). Arch back dismounts to a cradle are considered inverted and not permitted. 3. All types of tosses (i.e., basket, squishy, scrunch and/or sponge) are permitted. 4. Helicopter tosses are not permitted. a) Toe Touch Basket or Sponge Toss
ADVANCED CATEGORY A. ADVANCED STANDING TUMBLING 1. one twisting rotation. 2. twisting rotation are not permitted (Double backs or double full twists are not permitted). a) Skills mentioned above in both Novice and Intermediate Categories. Standing Back Tuck; Standing Back Handspring
92 Back Tuck; Standing X-Out; Standing Arabian; Standing Back Full; Standing Toe Touch Back Handspring(s) Back Tuck; Standing Toe Touch Back Tuck;
B. ADVANCED RUNNING TUMBLING
twisting rotation. (Double Backs and Double Twists are not permitted). a) Skills mentioned above in both Novice and Intermediate Categories, Round off Back Tuck; Round off Back Half Twist; Punch Front Flip Walkout Round off Back Handspring(s) Back Half (can walkout of any back half and connect to a round off.) Round off, Back Full; Round off Back Handspring, Back Full; Punch Front Flip Walkout Round off, Back Handspring, Back Full (can tumble out of any back full and connect to a round off.)
position according to the level description, the following positions would also be permitted: X-Out, Pike, Layout, Layout Walkout, etc.
C. ADVANCED PARTNER STUNTS 1. Single leg extended stunts are allowed. 2. partner is centered directly over the base. You must have one spotter and it must cradle to the single base person and the
be positioned (either beside or directly behind the stunt) to
3. Twisting load-in skills limited to one twist. 4. transitioned from a vertical position to a horizontal position between two original bases is permitted. At least two
5. Leap Frog Stunt-A braced top person is transitioned from one set of bases to another or back to the original bases by going through the arms of the brace. The top person remains upright and stays in continuous contact with the brace while transitioning. The brace/post must have two feet on the ground throughout the transition. Leap Frog is permitted in the Advanced Category Only. 6. except for the following: a) When beginning a stunt from an inverted position on the performing surface, which goes directly to a non-inverted position shoulder height or below. This stunt must include a base or spotter who protects the head/neck/shoulder area
longer inverted. Permitted: Handstand on the ground to a non-inverted stunt
93 (i.e., handstand to shoulder sit) Double Based suspended forward rolls where the top person has continuous hand-tohand contact with two primary bases or with two posts that are controlling the top person are allowed to a cradle or the performing surface. They may not land in a loading position for a stunt. The top person cannot have contact with one base and one post. The top person begins from the performing surface or from a stunt shoulder height or below. (Bkwd rolls not permitted) Not Permitted: Going from a cradle to a handstand or from a prone position to a forward roll. Not Permitted: Handspring into a stunt. A participant cannot rebound from an inverted tumbling position into a stunt, two feet
Skills mentioned above in both Novice and Intermediate, Leap Frog (see glossary), Half to Extension, Full Twist Up to Extension, Cupie
7. A Suspended split originating at shoulder level or below and ending at any level is legal provided all the following conditions are met: a) There are at least two bases.
extended position. 8. Suspended splits not involving bracer(s) that originate from above shoulder height and drop to any level are legal provided all the following conditions are met: a)
reaches the full split position and
thighs and legs prior to reaching the full split position or In forward facing splits, four bases slow the momentum of the
the full split positions
D. ADVANCED DISMOUNTS 1. Cradles from all stunts are limited to two and one quarter (2 ) twists by the top person. 2. Flips are not permitted. 3. Backward and cradle dismounts (see glossary) to different bases
dismount to a new set of bases if caught by two additional stationary bases and an additional spotter at the head and neck. Top person may not lose contact with original bases throughout dismount to new bases. (Original Bases may not travel, you may turn to dismount the
Skills mentioned above in both Novice and Intermediate Single or Double Twist Dismounts
E. ADVANCED RELEASE MOVES 1. Release moves are permitted but must not exceed more than eighteen inches above extended arm level. (A release is a stunt free of contact or surface. A transition may be a release.) 2. Release moves may not land in a prone position.
94 3. Release moves must return to original bases. a) Sample Advanced Release Moves Tick-Tocks; 360 Up (Not Connected to Base); Show-and-Go Extension, Release at Top, Sponge Down;
F. ADVANCED PYRAMIDS 1. Pyramids must follow partner stunt and cradling rules and are permitted up to two (2) high. 2. Top person in Two (2) Leg Extended Stunts may brace another two legged extended stunt limited to 3 max connected. 3. Extended single leg stunts may not brace or be braced by any other extended stunt. 4. In transitional pyramid, physical contact must be maintained between the top person and the base(s). Exception when all of the following conditions are met in the Advanced Category only: a) least one bracer during the entire loss of contact with his/ her base(s). is braced.
helps to provide stability to a Top Person/Flyer without having weight-bearing contact.) e) The loss of contact is continuous up and down movement that is not supported by the bracer(s) and does not stall at the top.
g) h) The bracers do not intentionally increase the height of
5. Transition in a Braced Pyramid to a face up position (i.e., Flatback, Ball-up, Seat) or any variation (Face Down positions
from a vertical position to a face up horizontal position and back to a vertical position between two original bases has at least two additional catchers to catch the upper body of the
to a catch in a layout position is not permitted 6. Suspended splits involving bracer(s) that originate at any height and drop to any level are legal provided all the following conditions are met a)
EXCEPTION: Bracers in shoulder sits or thigh stands. e) bases the bracer(s) must maintain hand/arm contact with the
95 bases the release must be continuous vertical up and down
the entire loss of contact with the bases.
G. ADVANCED TOSSES 1. Tosses, basket or sponge that exceeds eighteen inches above extended arm level must be caught in a cradle. Partner/Flyer must be caught by original bases. 2. of alignment with the torso (eyes are not looking forward). Arch back dismounts to a cradle are considered inverted and not permitted. 3. Helicopters (180 degrees) are permitted given the following: a) There are at least four bases who serve as tossers and catchers. At least one tosser/catcher must be in position to support the head and neck area. 4. Flipping (front or back) and traveling tosses are not permitted. 5. Triple twists are not permitted. Skills mentioned above in both Novice and Intermediate Categories. Basic or Sponge Toss Dismounts: Arch/Ball Out, Toe Touch, Pike, Bottle Rocket, Pretty Girl Scissor, Full Up Toe Touch; Log Roll with Single or Double Twist; Helicopters (Face Up), Double Twist Dismounts, (Twisting up into a Basket Toss is permitted It will be considered a portion of the Total Twist Count to a Max of Two Twists.) Kick Double Twist Toss;
96
CHEER & DANCE CHAMPIONSHIP SECTION
97 COMPETITIONS S1: Pop Warner Spirit Squads may enter competitions ONLY as follows: A. A competition or event sponsored by a Pop Warner organization, a group of Pop Warner Leagues or a Pop Warner Bowl/Festival, which occurs during the accepted Pop Warner season and follows all Pop Warner safety rules. B. A competition or event sponsored by a non-Pop Warner organization if it follows all Pop Warner safety rules, occurs during the accepted Pop Warner season, and if permission to participate is granted in writing, in advance, by the League, the Region, and the National Cheer & Dance Commissioner. 1. A squad must participate in the Pop Warner League, Region and National Spirit Championships in order to be approved for a non-Pop Warner event or competition. Any events after January 1, the squad must participate in the Pop Warner Year Round Program. S2: There shall be no individual competitions. S3: Competition among squads shall be limited to squads from the same division of play competing against one another. S4: There shall be no cutting from the regular season roster for competition, nor shall substitutions be permitted, unless there is a written medical reason. In addition, note that the Drops and Adds, Article #12 applies, no spirit participant may be added to any roster
no substitutions may take place after October 1st. S5: No squad shall engage in more than one (1) competition per week; said competition shall count as one practice or as the game for that week. S6: The sponsoring organization of an open competition may not limit the size of the squads invited to said competition. Note:
organization for an unlimited number of spirit participants. S7: Pop Warner Spirit Squads may accept a squad award for their achievement in a competition.
REGION / NATIONAL SPIRIT CHAMPIONSHIP RULES & REGULATIONS S1: The squads performing in the Pop Warner Regional and/or National Championship Program(s) must abide by the following guidelines. A. as outlined in Regional/National Championships General Information listed below. B.
D. roster must accompany said squad. E. The Cheerleading and Dance Championships will consist of the following divisions: Junior Peewee, Peewee, Junior Midget, Midget, Junior Bantam and Bantam. In addition, the Cheerleading Championships will consist of a Small, Medium
98 and Large category in each division. The categories are further subdivided into Novice, Intermediate and Advanced. F. Only registered cheer squads may qualify and compete in cheer, and only registered dance/auxiliary squads may qualify for the dance championship. All participants must be
Warner squad. Absentee Forms must be processed prior to the competition. PWLS reserves the right to penalize or disqualify
of participation from its spirit leaders. G. Spirit squads participating must have at least six (6) members. H. Monday in October. Please note that the number of actual cheerleaders determines Large Squad versus Small Squad. Since mascots cannot participate in competitions, they do not count on the squad numbers (even though listed on the roster for registration and insurance purposes.) I. Tiny-Mites, Mitey-Mites, Flag Cheer and Mascots are not eligible to compete in League, Region or National Cheer & Dance Competitions with their squad that is being scored. They can participate in an exhibition performance at the League and Region Championships within their age appropriate category (i.e., exhibition with a squad of mascots, exhibition with a Mitey-Mite Squad). J. Rostered Cheerleading Squads with more than 2 male participants (3 or more) will be placed in a Co-ed Category within their age division for Pop Warner Competitions, League/Region and National. K. Safety - In concentrated efforts to reduce the risk of injury to participants, every regional/national event will use every possible means to obtain performance mats for safety, as well as to secure professional spotters. a) The use of mini-tramps, spring boards or any apparatus used to propel a participant is not permitted. L. All fees (Regional & National) must be paid prior to participating in post season. Failure to do so may result in
M. documents may result in forfeit of player and or team.
S2-REGIONAL/NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS GENERAL INFORMATION A. Proper roster, competition, and scholastic forms must be submitted in accordance with national requirements in order to participate. B. Competition Forms include: 1. Championship Articles of Understanding (Head Coach signs and sends to National Office prior to Region Championship) 2. Prop Approval Form for Dance Squads only (Head Coach sends to League/Region Cheer & Dance Coordinator prior to Region Championship) 3. Event Request Form (Head Coach completes this form for events other than the League/Region/National Playoff
99 Competition System. a) Permission to participate in an event (i.e., Tournament, Bowl Game, Competition, Parade, NFL Halftime participation, etc.) is granted only if it is in writing, in advance, and approved by the League, Region and National
4. Pop Warner Score Sheet Package includes Score Sheets, Point & Legality Deduction Sheets, distributed to Head Coach immediately following the event. 5. Competition Report Forms League Cheer & Dance
Wednesday immediately following the League Championship. This form includes a list of Finalists and Advancing Squads. 6. Dance Coordinator can refer to this form to assist in securing championship judges.
C. LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP CHEER DIVISION The league championship/competition must be registered and approved by PWLS. 1. Cheer Small Division Min. 6 - Max. 12 participants a) Each cheer small division will advance two squads to the Region Championship in each category Novice, Intermediate and Advanced. The Third Place squad may advance to the Region Championship if the First or Second Place squad chooses
league approval. 2. Cheer Medium Division Min. 13 - Max. 24 participants a) Each cheer medium division will advance two squads to the Region Championship in each category Novice, Intermediate and Advanced. The Third Place squad may advance to the Region Championship if the First or Second Place squad chooses
league approval. 3. Cheer Large Division Min. 25 - Max. 35 participants a) Each cheer large division will advance two squads to the Region Championship in each category Novice, Intermediate and Advanced. The Third Place squad may advance to the Region Championship if the First or Second Place squad chooses
league approval. (Cheer squads from Alaska and Hawaii must send a video of
to the respective Region Championship for advancement to the National Championship.)
B. LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP - DANCE DIVISION The league championship/competition must be registered and approved by PWLS. 1. Dance Divisions will advance two squads in each division (Junior Peewee, Peewee, Junior Midget and Midget) to the Region Championship.
100 2. The Third Place squad may advance to the Region Championship if the First or Second Place squad chooses
league approval. (Dance squads from Alaska and Hawaii must send a video of
to the respective Region Championship for advancement to the National Championship.)
C. REGION CHAMPIONSHIPS/QUALIFIERS - CHEER AND DANCE 1. Cheer Small Division Min. 6 - Max. 12 participants a) Each cheer small division will advance two squads in each category Novice, Intermediate and Advanced to the National Championship. 2. Cheer Medium Division Min. 13 - Max. 24 participants a) Each cheer medium division will advance two squads in each category Novice, Intermediate and Advanced to the National Championship. 3. Cheer Large Division Min. 25 - Max. 35 participants a) Each cheer large division will advance two squads in each category Novice, Intermediate and Advanced to the National Championship. 3. Dance- Maximum 35 participants a) Dance Divisions will advance two squads in each division (Junior Peewee, Peewee, Junior Midget, Midget) to the National Championship. 4. In the event that the First or Second Place squad in any sub-division cannot attend the National Championship, the invitation will be extended to the third place squad in that sub-division. 5. Cheer squads are not permitted to compete in any of the dance divisions. Dance squads are not permitted to compete in any of the cheer divisions. 6. program, as well as the national program, will be made available as the season progresses.
EVENT GUIDELINES A. ROUTINE TIMING 1. Each cheer squad will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed (2:30) two minutes and thirty seconds; up to (90) ninety seconds may be performed to music. 2. Each dance squad will perform a choreographed routine not to exceed (2:30) two minutes and thirty seconds. 3. sound of music or word by the squad after its name has been called to perform. If a squad exceeds either time limit, a point deduction will be assessed. We recommend that you time your performance several times prior to attending the competition and give yourself AT LEAST FIVE SECONDS of cushion to allow for variations in sound equipment. There will be no grace period allowance at the National Championship.
B. PERFORMANCE AND WARM-UP AREA
101 1. The matted competition area for national competition will be approximately 54 x 42 deep. 2. Any form of cheering, dancing, stunting, jumping and/or tumbling on/off of the matted competition area during your routine is a safety issue. It is important to choreograph your routine for the safety of the participants due to over-rotation of tumbling and uneven surfaces. 3. It is highly recommended that an auxiliary gym should be in place to serve as the warm-up area just prior to performance. This area is secured from non-participants and spectators, and includes a matted surface for tumbling and/or stunt warm-up. 4. Stunting or tumbling on concrete surfaces or in other unsafe environments (poor lighting, obstructions, etc.) is strictly prohibited.
C. ENTRANCES AND EXITS 1. All introductions (i.e. formal entrances, chants, spell-outs, silent building, etc.) are considered part of the routine and timed as part of the performance. Formal entrances are not recommended, starting a routine with a mount is permitted, however the build starts the clock and is scored. Cheerleaders must have at least one foot on performing surface when the routine starts. Exception: Athletes may have their feet in the hands of the base(s) if the base(s) hands are on the performing surface. 2. start of the routine that involve organized cheers or run-ons with jumps, tumbling or stunts. Your routine entrance to the
walking, running, etc., to your starting line-up position (i.e., Spirit On, etc.). Squads should enter the performance area in a timely fashion. 3. Exits are not included as part of the routine; therefore, there should not be any organized exits or other activities after the
4. Any jumping (toe touch, pike, etc.), tumbling or stunting
permitted.
D. CHEER & DANCE ROUTINE 1. Coaches must recognize the entire squads particular ability level and limit the squads activities accordingly. 2. Music selection should appeal to the audience to get them involved in the performance. Routines must be appropriate for family viewing and listening. Any vulgar or suggestive movements (hip thrusting, inappropriate touching/slapping/ positioning to one another), words or music will result in a 5 point deduction. Please note that removing improper language and replacing it with sound effects still constitutes inappropriate. 3. integral part. 4. Squad names will be called three times: once as the team
begin the routine.
102 5. Cheerleaders must have at least one foot on performing surface when the routine starts. Exception: Athletes may have their feet in the hands of the base(s) if the base(s) hands are on the performing surface. 6. When competing, a squad may not use the name of another squads town any time during the routine. Squads may use generic mascot names (i.e., nicknames-Tigers, Rams, Bears, etc.). Words in the routine shall not be aimed at other squads, but an example of what gets positive crowd response at games. A squads performance at competition shall be an extension of what the squad does at games, supporting its team and squad.
E. PARTICIPANT APPAREL 1. Please reference Participant Apparel in the Safety Section for a complete list of guidelines. 2. Appropriate use of make-up and uniform selection or routine movements for a youth squad (i.e., improper/revealing uniform
length of skirt, etc.) is the responsibility of the Head Coach. Please use discretion in judgment in selection of uniforms. Uniforms should be properly fitted to each participant. Appropriate undergarments should be worn at all times 3. Hair, for cheer and dance squads, must be worn in a manner to minimize risk for the participants. Hair devices, if worn, must be secure and appropriate for the activity 4. Eyeglasses MUST be secured by a sport band while performing to ensure safety (i.e., Eyeglasses shall be secured to the head and under the hair with a sport band). Note: Eye glass bands must not be knotted or have beads on it. 5. If a participants shoe falls/comes off on the performance
shoe on the foot prior to participating further. (Shoes must be
put the shoe back on, the Head Judge will decide if the safety of the participant is at hand and may warrant a deduction. If safety is the issue it would be a 5 point deduction. (General
then no stunting/jumping/tumbling, etc.) 6. A squad may use standard poms throughout the competition
with their poms, this is not a safety issue.) Hiding poms anywhere on the body or uniform is a safety issue and therefore, a point deduction. a) When discarding poms, the participants must gently toss or place props so that they are under control. (i.e., throwing a pom across the mat would be a safety issue.) You can also hand the poms down to a participant on the ground or drop the poms where it will not interfere with your dismount or other participants. The poms should be placed far enough away so as not to interfere with subsequent portions of the performance. Poms may be partially touching out of bounds without penalty. A participant may touch a pom that is partially out of bounds as long as that person does not reach or touch
103 out of bounds to retrieve or discard the prop. Stepping on or touching the edge of the mat is not a deduction for a participant. Stepping on poms may interfere with the safety of the performance and therefore, is a point deduction. A participant may kick a pom out of the way or step over a pom as long as they do not step or slip on the pom. A competition spotter can move poms out of the way if the spotter cannot safely reach/spot a stunt/pyramid. Prior
are the participants responsibility. e) be utilized during the routine. There is not a minimum or maximum number of pom-pons required for your performance. Glitter may be used on poms if laminated or sealed to keep
7. Competition Guidelines for Signs a) The use of signs is permitted in all categories, Novice Intermediate and Advanced in all local, regional and national competitions. i) The use of signs is not permitted during tumbling, partner stunt/pyramid building and transitions that require the use of
Mounting and/or dismounting with signs in hand is not permitted. A person up in a stunt may be handed signs, but they must be safely discarded before dismounting.
a sign once secure at Prep Level, after mounting, and then
that would be considered a transition without the use of hands and permitted. The sign must be discarded prior to the dismount.
a sign once secure at Prep Level, after mounting, and the
use of hands during the transition, that would be permitted, as long as the sign was discarded prior to dismount.
a sign once secure at Prep Level, after mounting, and is then transitioned to a Thigh Stand, without the use of hands, sign in hand, that would be permitted as long as the sign was discarded prior to dismount. ii) When discarding props (signs, etc.) that are made of solid material or have sharp edges/corners, team members must gently toss or place the props so that they are under control. (i.e., throwing a sign across the mat would be a safety issue.) You can also hand the sign down to a participant on the ground who should then lay the sign back on the ground or drop the sign where it will not interfere with the dismount or other participants. iii) The signs should be placed far enough away so as not to interfere with subsequent portions of the performance. If a participant steps or slips on a sign, it would be a safety hazard and a deduction. Signs may be partially touching
104 out of bounds without penalty. A participant may touch a sign that is partially out of bounds as long as that person does not reach or touch out of bounds to retrieve or discard the prop. Stepping on or touching the edge of the mat is not a deduction for a participant. iv) Glitter may only be used on a sign only if it is laminated
or the participants. v) Hiding Signs anywhere on the body or uniform is not permitted. Fans may be permitted by hosting/sponsoring organization to hold or display signs. Refer to hosting league competition rules for guidelines. 8. Cheer Apparel Situations Hair Color Situation 1: A squad wants to wear blue hair extensions (clip in, bow type with blue hair). Since many squads wear the wiglets (curly and/or straight pony tails) and as long as everyone had them, would this be OK or considered a prop? :The Blue Hair color for the entire squad would be considered a prop. This type of accessory with hair color is reserved for Dance Squad Costuming only.
Situation 2: A squad would like to wear colored hair buns over their hair to hold in place. Not permitted, would be used as an enhancement.
Situation 3: Can a cheerleading squad wear a bow that opens to a new color during the routine, as part of the routine? Not permitted, this would be considered a prop and reserved for dance teams.
Situation 4: Can a participant wear a medical alert tattoo? A participant is permitted to wear a medical alert tattoo for the added safety of the participant. The parent/ guardian should put in writing (to the Head Coach) that the child will wear the tattoo and the location. This will insure that the Head Coach knows how to handle properly and promptly in case of emergency. For competition/championships, the
(LCDC, RCDC or NCDC) at book check, so that the Event
this is a tattoo for medical purposes and can aid the child, if necessary.
F. ADDITIONAL DANCE SPECIFIC GUIDELINES 1. Dance Routines should incorporate a combination of styles including Pom, Jazz, Kick, Hip Hop, etc. Dance Routines must incorporate at least two of these styles. Squads may incorporate costumes and a theme that is fully developed throughout the dance, but are not required. Emphasis will be on projection/showmanship, choreography, precision, and execution/overall appeal.
105 2. Soft-soled dance shoes (jazz boots, jazz shoes, sneakers, tennis shoes, etc.) are required. All Dance Squads must wear athletic shoes or appropriate dance shoes that cover the toes and entire sole of the foot. 3. Costuming and accessories are permitted. All costuming, costume make-up and accessories need to be approved by the League, Region and National Cheer and Dance Commissioners by completing a Prop Approval Form prior to competition. a) Uniforms - Dance Squads with Glitter sealed in uniform are permitted. Glitter that adheres to uniform and will not come off; it is a part of the material. Uniforms- rhinestones, beads or sequins, etc. on the uniform. The listed items must be securely placed on the uniform and should not come off (i.e., sewn on, punched on, etc.). It is a part of the uniform, securely fastened and permitted. 4. Wigs are considered as part of the costume for a dance squad. Wigs must be pre-approved on the PWLS Prop Approval Form. 5. Dance Apparel Situations:
Situation 1: A dance squad wears a plastic beaded necklace that knots in the middle down the front of the uniform (below the chest). Is this permitted? Wearing Hard Jewelry is not permitted except
and will not interfere with the safe execution of a dance move. Religious or medical medals that are taped to the body under the apparel without a chain are permitted.
Earrings Situation 2: A dance team would like to wear Rhinestone earrings, is this permitted? Situation 2A: Can a dance team wear post earrings (i.e., star stud earrings)? : No, Jewelry is not permitted. Rhinestones adhered to the face are considered jewelry and not permitted.
Situation 3: Can a dance team wear tattoos? A dance squad can wear a mascot print painted on the face or a transferrable mascot tattoo for games and/or competitions.
Situation 4: Can a dance team wear drawn on tattoos (i.e., words, phrases, art)? Words/ phrases and art are not permitted. Drawn on Tattoos will be considered (i.e., stars as a part of costuming theme) as each Prop Approval form is submitted and will be shared with the dance regions.
Soft soled dance shoes are required. All dance squads must
106 wear athletic shoes or appropriate dance shoes that cover the toes and the entire sole of the foot. Situation 5: A dance team would like to wear dance taps on the bottom of the shoe, is this permitted? They would also
No, to both situations, a dance team is only permitted to wear soft soled shoes. Further, a piece of wood
cause unsafe conditions for the participant(s) and would not be approved; It would also be considered a stationery prop.
a) Dance squads may use props. Props that are stationery (e.g., scenery), as well as those that may puncture the performance surface are not permitted (i.e., chairs, ladders, saw horses, hollow boxes, and other similar props with legs). All props must be pre-approved by the National/Regional Cheer & Dance Commissioner. Hand held props are permitted. All props must be utilized during the dance routine. Stationary scenery is not permitted. Coaches are not permitted to place props for the squad. e) An individual may stand or sit on a prop. i) When moving from one prop to another prop, the top person must have visual contact with the new prop prior to, beginning the transition. ii) When moving from one prop to another prop on wheels, rounded surfaces, the new prop must be to the side or in front of the person moving. iii) When a prop used as a base has wheels, rounded
with fabric and is moving, a spotter is required. Props may not be used to base a base person in a stunt. g) Tumbling onto, under, over, through or off props is not permitted. Headstands & handstands are not permitted on a prop. Flips and rolls are not permitted as a dismount from a prop.
a) LIFTS
which a dancer(s) is elevated from the performance surface and set down. i) A lifting dancer must maintain direct contact with the performance surface at all times. ii) At least one Lifting/Supporting Dancer must have hand/arm/body contact to hand/arm/body contact with the Elevated/Executing Dancer(s) at all times during the Lift, Trick or Partnering Skill. iii) A lifting dancer must maintain control of the momentum, positioning, changes in position and return to the performance surface of the lifted dancer(s). . PARTNERING
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action in which two dancers use support from one another but are not elevated. i) Partnering skills are permitted and must maintain bodyto-body contact throughout the duration of the skill. One partner must maintain constant contact with the performance surface. DANCE LIFTS AND DANCE PARTNERING GUIDELINES: i) Jumping or Tossing from one dancer to another is not permitted. ii) Jumping or Tossing from one dancer to or from the performance surface is not permitted. iii) All cheer stunts and/or pyramids are prohibited (exceptions: Pony sit, thigh stand, shoulder sit, back arch) A Back Arch is permitted when abiding by the following procedures: The lifting dancer(s), base(s) and/or spotter(s) must maintain direct contact with the performance surface at all times. The lifting dancer(s), base(s) and/or spotter must maintain ultimate control over the momentum, positioning, changes in position and return to the performance surface of the lifted dancer(s) through hand/arm to body contact. iv) Jumping, tumbling or leaping off another dancer while sitting, standing or stepping on the dancer is not permitted. Further, a dance cartwheel over another person or switch kick on another dancer is not permitted. v) An individual cannot pass over, under or through another individual, dance lift or partnering skill. vi) Swinging Lifts are not permitted. vii) Hip over Head rotations of the lifted dancer(s) are not permitted. TUMBLING Tumbling is allowed in all divisions as long as one hand, foot or body part remains in constant contact with the performance surface. These skills can be performed individually or in combination. Airborne skills are not allowed when hip-overhead rotation occurs. i) Permitted Skills: Forward/Backward Rolls; Shoulder Rolls; Cartwheel; Headstands; Handstands; Backbends; Front/Back Walkovers; Stalls; Windmills; Kick up ii) Skills Not Permitted: Dive Rolls; Roundoffs; Aerials; Front or Back Handsprings; Front or Back Tucks; Side Somi; Layout; Head Springs; Double Cartwheel. iii) Skills Not Permitted: Tumbling while holding poms or props is not permitted. iv) Skills Not Permitted: Tumbling with gloves, non slip or palm side, is not permitted.
JUDGING CRITERIA & PROCEDURES S1: impartial parties. If and when it becomes necessary to utilize as a judge an individual from an organization participating in the competition, it is imperative that judges be drawn from other participating organizations as well, to discount as much as possible any local (or regional) bias.
108 S2: In a Pop Warner Bowl festival, as well as in any Pop Warner invitational competition, particulars regarding judging (including how performances will be evaluated, etc.) will be sent in writing by the host to all participants not later than one month before the event. S3: Pop Warner Judging Procedures A. Judging Procedures: 1. The League/Region events have the option to utilize 3 to 5
Sheets. 2.
B. Following the guidelines set by the National Spirit Group (NCA, NDA, Cheerleader & Danz), the scoring process for the Pop Warner Championships will also be similar to that
points (i.e., 5.5, 9.2, etc.) These scores will be totaled and then averaged. All point deductions and/or penalties will be deducted from the averaged score to get a Final Score. C. In addition, the necessary deductions for any safety violations will be taken by the legalities judges. Every effort will be
Talking between judges will be limited to points of necessary
report to the National/Regional Cheer & Dance Commissioner
D. After penalty points are assessed, the squads overall grand total will be used to determine rankings and winners. E. Judging Panels 1. Head Judge- The Head Judge is responsible for overseeing the entire Judging Panel that consists of: Panel Judges, Legality Judge and a Point Deduction Judge. The Head Judge will also
Judges scores will carry the same weight as a Panel Judge. 2. Panel Judges are responsible for scoring each squads performance based on the PWLS score sheet. Each panel
within any particular division. Panel judges judge technical ability and overall routine, but they do not determine or judge deductions or safety violations. Decisions made by Panel
3. The Legality Judges are responsible for administering all safety violations, time violations and boundary violations.
one Legality Judge per scoring panel. 4. Point Deduction Judge The Point Deduction Judge is responsible for assessing deductions in each routine for obvious bobbles or falls from technical skills. Decisions made
Deduction Judge per scoring panel. 5. Verbal Critique Judge (Optional/at the discretion of the Region/National Office) This judge is responsible for verbally critiquing squads as they perform. The Verbal Critique Judge does not score the squad (exception at some
109 championships). Squads will be provided with a cassette tape of the recording.
F. CHEERLEADING SCORE SHEET 1. The judges will score the cheer squads according to the following criteria: CHEER SCORE SHEET: Cheer Projection.......... (5 points) Fundamentals ................................ (60 points) Motion Technique Jumps Tumbling Partner Stunts Pyramids Basket Tosses (Intermediate/Advanced) Dance/Choreography.................................. (10 points) Timing/Transitions.................................... (10 points) Overall Performance.................................. (15 points)
2. FUNDAMENTALS CATEGORY - Judging Scale for Cheerleading Squads The lowest score a squad can receive in the fundamentals area, if they do any type of skill in a certain category, is 5. This is done to keep a team from dropping too low in one category. If a squad does not do a skill (i.e., no tumbling) then they will receive a 0, but only if every judge on the panel agrees that they did not see any of those skills.
A squad is judged on the skill that is performed A Novice level squad should be scored for their skills between 5 and 7 points (i.e., stunts, pyramids and tumbling). An Intermediate level squad should be scored for their skills in a range between 5 and 9 points. An Advanced squad can score between 5 and 10 points; If an Advanced squad performs novice skills in those categories then the max score in that skill category would range between 5 and 7 points. (Example: An Advanced Squads performs thigh stands, the score for that novice level skill would fall between a 5 and 7 and not the squads category; in this case Advanced.)
a) i. Range of Scores 5-7 Points Skill- Beginning-Intermediate Motions/Dance (i.e., executed at a slow pace, low to average level of technique, lack of movement during transitions, minimal variety of moves, motions and level changes). ii. Range of Scores 7-9 Points Skill - Intermediate-Advanced motions/dance performed by the majority of the squad (i.e., executed at an average pace, average to good level of technique, moderate amount of foot and body movement during transitions, moderate variety of moves, motions and level changes). iii. Range of Scores 9-10 Points Skill- Advanced-Elite motions/dance performed by the majority of the squad Jumps (i.e., executed at fast pace, strong level of technique,
moves, motions and level changes to enhance the visual effects of the squads movements).
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i) Range of Scores 5-7 Points Skill- Beginning-Intermediate Jumps (i.e., tuck, spread eagle, herkie, double hook) performed by the squad, and/or Intermediate-Advanced jumps executed with sub-standard technique and perfection. ii) Range of Scores 7-9 Points Skill - Intermediate-Advanced Jumps (i.e., toe touch, side hurdler, front hurdler) performed by the majority of the squad with a high level of perfection, and/or Advanced-Elite jumps executed with sub-standard technique and perfection. iii) Range of Scores 9-10 Points Skill- Advanced-Elite Jumps (i.e., toe touch, side hurdler, front hurdler, pike, combination jumps) performed by the majority of the squad with strong execution and variety.
i) Range of Scores 5-7 Points Skill- Beginning-Intermediate Tumbling Skills (i.e., forward rolls, cartwheels, round-offs, etc.) performed by the majority of the squad, and/or Intermediate-Advanced tumbling skills executed with sub-standard technique and perfection. ii) Range of Scores 7-9 Points Skill - Intermediate-Advanced Tumbling Skills (i.e., back handspring, round-off back handspring, round-off back tuck, standing back tuck) performed by the majority of the squad with a high level of perfection, and/or Advanced-Elite tumbling skills executed with sub-standard technique and perfection. iii) Range of Scores 9-10 Points Skill- Advanced-Elite Tumbling Skills (i.e., standing back, standing back handspring back tuck, round-off back handspring back tuck, etc.) performed by the majority of the squad with a high level of perfection and numerous strong specialty passes (layouts, whips, fulls, etc.) also executed with a high level of perfection.
i.) Range of Scores 5-7 Points Skill- Beginning-Intermediate partner stunt/pyramid/basket toss skills (i.e., thigh stands, shoulder stands, extension preps, pyramids primarily built by combinations of thigh stands, shoulder stands, extension preps, etc. and/or basket tosses) performed by the squad, and/or Intermediate-Advanced partner stunt/pyramid/basket toss skills executed with sub-standard technique and perfection. ii) Range of Scores 7-9 Points Skill - Intermediate-Advanced partner stunt/pyramid/basket toss skills (i.e., extensions, full-downs from non-extended stunts, pyramids built by combinations of extension preps, extensions, full-down stunts, etc. and/or multiple basket tosses) performed by the majority of the squad with a high level of perfection, and/or Advanced-Elite partner stunt/pyramid/basket toss skills executed with sub-standard technique and perfection. iii) Range of Scores 9-10 Points Skill- Advanced-Elite partner stunt/pyramid/basket toss skills (i.e., extensions from liberty variations, pyramids primarily built by combinations of extensions, liberty variations, full-
111 downs from extended stunts, etc. and/or multiple specialty basket tosses) performed by the majority of the squad with a high level of execution and perfection.
G. DANCE SCORE SHEET 1. The judges will score the dance squads according to the following criteria: DANCE SCORE SHEET Fundamentals ............................................ (30 points) Motion Technique Dance Style Execution
Dance/Choreography.................................... (20 points) Visual Effect Originality, Variety Flow of Routine, Level Changes, Floor Work Squad Precision. (30 points) Uniformity of Style Precision, Timing Syncronization Formations, Spacing, Transitions Overall Appeal.......... (20 points) Overall Performance, Delivery Showmanship, Spirit, Energy, Crowd Appeal
2. FUNDAMENTALS CATEGORY - Judging Scale for Dance Squads [Levels, Motions, Placement (jumps, kicks)] i) Range of Scores 5 -7 Points Skill- Beginning-Intermediate Motions/Dance (i.e., executed at a slow pace, low to average level of technique, lack of movement during transitions, minimal variety of moves, motions and level changes). BeginningIntermediate technical skills (i.e., jumps, kicks, etc.) performed by the squad and executed with sub-standard technique; and very few Intermediate-Advanced technical skills performed by the squad executed with good technique. ii) Range of Scores 7-9 Points Skill - Intermediate-Advanced technical skills performed by the majority of the squad executed with good technique; and/or very few Advanced-Elite technical skills performed by less than the majority of the squad executed with strong technique. (i.e., executed at an average pace, average to good level of technique, moderate amount of foot and body movement during transitions, moderate variety of moves, motions and level changes). iii) Range of Scores 9-10 Points Skill- Advanced-Elite motions/dance performed by the majority of the squad and executed with strong technique. (i.e., executed at fast pace, strong level of technique,
use of moves, motions and level changes to enhance the visual effects of the squads movements). -Placement (leaps, turns), Extension (legs, arms) i) Range of Scores 5-7 Points
112 Skill- Beginning-Intermediate Technical skills (i.e., leaps, tuck jump, grand jete, turns, pirouettes, pique turns) performed by the squad and executed with sub-standard technique; and/or Intermediate-Advanced technical skills performed by the squad and executed with good technique. ii) Range of Scores 7-9 Points Skill - Intermediate-Advanced technical skills (i.e., leaps- hitch kick, saut de chat, switch leap/ turns- double triple pirouettes, axle, etc.) performed by the majority of the squad executed with good technique; and/or very few Advanced-Elite technical skills performed by less than the majority of the squad executed with strong technique. iii) Range of Scores 9-10 Points Skill- Advanced-Elite Technical skills (i.e., leaps-switch leap, switch to second, switch tilt/ turns-fouettes, fouette a la seconde, triple/quad pirouettes/kick) performed by the majority of the squad and executed with strong technique.
Jazz, Pom, Funk/Hip-Hop, Kick i) Range of Scores 5-7 Points Skill- Beginning-Intermediate dance/choreography executed with sub-standard technique. (i.e., executed at a slow pace and with low stamina). ii) Range of Scores 7-9 Points Skill - Intermediate-Advanced dance/choreography performed by the majority of the squad with good technique and performed at an average pace. (i.e., crediting the performers extension, variety of styles, kick series, musical interpretation, uniformity, visual effects/poms, level changes, body alignment, control, etc.) iii) Range of Scores 9-10 Points Skill- Advanced-Elite dance/choreography performed by the majority of the squad executed with strong technique and performed at an average/fast pace. (i.e., crediting the performers superior variety of visual effects, groundwork, level changes, musical interpretation, control, extension and body alignment, kick series, variety of styles, etc.) H. POINT DEDUCTIONS 1. Pop Warner has adopted a new deduction system with the assistance of the National Spirit Group (NCA/NDA/Cheerleader & Danz). We plan to keep the current PWLS Cheer & Dance Scoresheets in place for competition (100 point system). Our plan is to administer a fair scoring system that applies technical deductions appropriate to the violation (i.e., stunt missing a backspot vs. hair bow falling out). 2. A squad with a point deduction may advance to the next level of competition. However, the head coach under the direction of the
& dance coordinator) is responsible for removing the technical deduction from the routine prior to the next level of competition (i.e., illegal stunt, pyramid, tumbling, etc.) after reviewing the competitions point deductions. The following scoring process was taken directly from National Spirit Groups Scoring System a) Minor errors during technical skills (i.e., hand(s) down on tumbling (minimal weight bearing); obvious missed skills; shaky stunts/ pyramids, incomplete twisting cradles; obvious errors during dance maneuvers; etc.) will result in a .5 deduction for each mistake.
113 Reserved for OBVIOUS mistakes that would result in a fall if they would not take evasive action. Balance checks are not reason for deduction. In cradles, a full twisting dismount must OBVIOUSLY
land ON THEIR STOMACH in order to receive a deduction.
Major errors during technical skills (i.e., falls from individual stunts;
an individual stunt performs an error during a pyramid sequence) will result in a 1point deduction for each mistake. Any body part other than hands and feet hitting ground when transitioning warrants a major mistake. (Example of an exception: A front spot hitting their knee when helping support a fall will not result in a technical deduction, although it could affect their overall technique score.)
Major falls during technical skills or other obvious severe mistakes (i.e., multiple falls, in a single sequence/series by a single couple/ stunt group; pyramids that fall, collapse or that are severely missed; tumblers hitting) during the performance will result in a 2 point deduction. Before a deduction is given, confer with the Head Judge.
Each boundary violation will result in a .5 deduction per occurrence. Deductions for boundary violations are given for stepping off (the entire foot) or touching (the entire hand or other body part) outside the performance area or an object outside the performance area. Stepping on or touching the edge of the mat does not constitute a violation. Props may be partly touching out of bounds without penalty. A squad member may pick up or set down a prop that is partially out of bounds. However, a squad member may not pick up or set down a prop that is completely outside the performance area.
e) Time Limit Violations, 1, 3, 5 Competition timing is done by the Legality Judge for each panel. Time limit violations (for both the music portion and/or the total routine time) are as follows: 1-5 seconds overtime 1 point deduction 6-10 seconds overtime 3 point deduction 11 or more seconds overtime 5 point deduction
will be given per occurrence for each general competition guideline violation (i.e., 5 point penalty will be assessed for jewelry, etc.). Safety violations are in effect until
be assessed, a majority of + 1 of the legalities judges must agree that the violation did occur. A will be given for any skill performed that is Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced (i.e., a twist down performed from a cradle in the Novice Category would receive a 5 point deduction). The inappropriate skill would not be scored by the panel judges. should appeal to the audience to get them involved in the performance. Routines must be appropriate for family viewing and listening. Any vulgar or suggestive movements (hip thrusting, inappropriate touching/slapping/positioning to one another), words or music will result in a 5 Point Deduction. Please note that removing improper language and replacing it with sound effects
114 still constitutes inappropriate. A will be given if Participant Apparel becomes unsecured and/or falls to the performance surface. However, if an Apparel Item (i.e., ribbon, wiglet, eyeglasses, etc) becomes
will decide if the safety of the participant(s) is/are at hand and may warrant a (i.e., Stepping on or slipping on a device, etc.). will be given to a squad/participant that tumbles, jumps while entering (Entrance Area) or exiting (Exit Area) the performance area. g) The warning box: The judge has the option to give a warning instead of the violation. A warning should be given when: i) The judge is UNSURE as to whether or not what you saw was an infraction. If there is the slightest doubt in what they saw, the Legality judge should only give a warning. Always rule in favor of the PW squad when unsure. ii) The skill was ALMOST illegal, and for some loop-hole reason avoided being truly illegal i. Legality Deduction vs. Infraction, a skill that is attempted but performed incorrectly is not necessarily considered a safety violation, rather a Minor Mistake (0.5 pts.) or Major Mistake (1.0 pts.). 1. Infraction: Hand/Arm Connection in a Pyramid, As long as the attempt to connect hand/arm is in place, the deduction for
stunt. If there is no attempt to connect then there would be a safety deduction. 2. Infraction: Swedish Falls Flyers head falls, out of line, below waist, error in performance not a safety deduction. 3. Infraction: Pendulum- Flyers head falls below waist, considered an error in performance, not a safety deduction. 4. Infraction: Basket Toss- Kick Double Full Twist, head falls below waist, considered an error in performance, not a safety deduction.
I. INTERRUPTION OF PERFORMANCES 1.
facilities, or other factors attributable to the championship event rather than the squad, the squad affected will be allowed to present its routine at the end of the division. If there is an error in music caused by the venue system, a squad is permitted to re-do the performance and re-score from the point that the Head Judge stopped the routine. 2. In the event a squads routine is interrupted because of failure of the squads own equipment, the squad must either continue the routine or withdraw from the competition. a) perform an exhibition performance at the end of their division. The original score will stand, they will not be re-scored. 3. In the event that an injury causes the squads routine to be interrupted, the squad may either continue the routine or perform at the end of the division at the discretion of the National/Regional
115 the right to stop the routine due to injury, if it is deemed necessary. a) If a participant is bleeding, has an open wound or an excessive amount of blood on the uniform, the participant shall stop performing to receive proper treatment. In accordance with Part III, Pop Warner Regulations - All Programs, Article 17: Important Medical, S2 when a participant is rendered unconscious or apparently unconscious, that participant shall not be permitted to resume participation until that participant has been evaluated by a licensed medical professional trained in the evaluation and management of concussions and receives written clearance to return to play from that licensed practitioner.
J. COACHING 1. Coaching during the performance is not permitted (e.g., yelling instructions or motioning directions to squad members). Spirited crowd response, however, is welcomed from any and all fans, including members of the coaching staffs.
K. DISQUALIFICATION Any squad that does not adhere to the terms and procedures of the competitions Articles of Understanding may be
any right to any prizes or awards, and may also forfeit the opportunity to participate in regional and/or national championships.
L. HOW TO HANDLE PROCEDURAL QUESTIONS Any questions concerning the rules or procedures of the championship will be handled exclusively by the head coach of the squad and will be directed to the competition coordinator. (i.e., League / Regional / National Cheer & Dance Commissioner)
M. FINALITY OF DECISIONS 1. By participating in a competition, each squad agrees that
be subject for review. Each squad acknowledges the necessity
in this competition and each squad therefore expressly waives any legal, equitable, administrative or procedural review of such decisions. 2. For Interpretations: The Rules Committee for competitions will consist of the Events Cheer & Dance Commissioner (League/Region or National), the Head Judge, and the safety
3. All decisions of judges, including mandatory safety judges
N. COACHES TECHNICAL/STUNTING QUESTIONS As a coach, it is important to be current on the PWLS Safety Guidelines. If you have questions concerning any safety
116 and/or dance skills, please follow these steps. This will insure that you receive a timely and accurate response to your questions. 1. All questions must be in written form due to the differences in interpretation and terminology. No phone calls will be accepted. 2. For Partner Stunt and/or pyramid approval, you must send a VHS videotape/ DVD which includes the mounting and dismounting of the stunt and/or pyramid in question. 3. The above requests must be sent directly to the League Cheer & Dance Coordinator for review/approval to be forwarded to the Region Cheer & Dance Coordinator. All requests must be received at least two weeks prior to the event (PWLS League, Region and National Championship) in order to be reviewed. 4. Please include your name, address and daytime contact number on all requests.
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CHEER & DANCE GLOSSARY
118 SPIRIT GLOSSARY S1-CHEERLEADING TERMS Aerial- A cartwheel or walkover executed without placing hands on the ground.
To be free of contact with a person or performing surface.
An aerial maneuver involving hipover-head rotation in which a participant uses their body and the performing surface to propel himself/herself away from the performing surface.
A arabesque stunt is a stunt in which the working leg is extended behind (close to 90 degrees) while the supporting leg is in the hands of the base(s). Partner and bases using body position as in the liberty, turn to the side. Partners chest is up with legs
An arch is a position in which the back is curved.
An entrance skill into a stunt in which the top person performs a hip-over-head rotation while in direct physical contact with a base or top person when passing through the inverted position.
Any form of physical assistance to an individual performing a tumbling skill. This does not apply to gymnastic oriented stunts permitted at each level.
Awesome- An extended stunt where the top person has both feet tightly together in the bases hand(s), also referred to as a Cupie.
A non-aerial tumbling skill where one moves backward into an arched position, with hands making contact with
are in contact with the cheering surface and the hips are pushed upward into an arched position.
The participant in the back of a stunt mainly responsible
controlled dismount or fall.
A non-aerial tumbling skill where one moves backward into an arched position, with the hands making contact
on one foot/leg at a time.
The top person dismounts backwards, with feet being held, to catchers who are not the original bases to the performing surface from a stunt. Backward and cradle dismounts
the Intermediate and Advanced Categories. However, a partner may dismount to a new set of bases if caught by two additional stationary bases and an additional spotter at the head and neck.
119 Top person may not lose contact with original bases throughout dismount to new bases. (Original Bases may not travel, you may
A non-aerial tumbling skill where one rotates backward into/or through an inverted position by lifting the hips over the head and shoulders while curving the spine to create a
Ball-X- A body position (usually during a toss) where the top person goes from a tucked position to a straddle/x-position.
Base- A participant that is in direct weight-bearing contact with the performance surface and provides support for another person. The participant that holds, lifts or tosses a top person into a stunt. Main Base- When using two or three bases, the main base has the
When using multiple bases, the Secondary Base is the base across from the main base and will usually be on the foot (single leg stunt) or have both of the feet (two-leg stunts). New Bases- Bases not previously in direct contact with the top person in a stunt. A base shall not assume a back-bend, headstand or handstand position.
A toss with no more than four bases, two of which have their hands interlocked.
Bear Hug Dismount- The spotter stands to the side and slightly in front of the person dismounting with their arms up in the air. As the person dismounts the spotter makes contact above his/her head and places the outside arm and shoulder in front of the person dismounting and the head, other arm and shoulder behind the person dismounting. The spotters arms wrap around the person like a bear hug so as to cushion the impact of the person dismounting. The
A gymnastic term referring to increasing in height created by using ones hand(s) and upper body power to push off the performing surface during a tumbling skill. The momentary airborne position created by blocking (through the shoulders) is legal in all levels.
A physical connection that helps to provide stability to a Top Person without having weight-bearing contact.
A person who stabilizes a stunt by direct contact with a top person. The stunt would remain stable without the bracer.
top person holds the extended foot with the opposite hand. The extended knee/leg usually touches the ear.
Cartwheel- A non-aerial gymnastic skill where one supports the
120 weight of the body with the arm(s) while rotating sideways through an inverted position landing on one foot at a time.
One of the person(s) responsible for the safe landing of a top person during stunt entry, transition and/or dismount.
Chair- A single based stunt in which the base places the right hand in the center of the partners seat with arm locked. The bases left
support. The Top Person/Flyer is in a sitting position on the hand of the base. A Chair is a stunt where the bases arms are extended overhead but are not considered an extended stunt since the height of the body of the top person is similar to a shoulder/prep level stunt. A spotter is recommended for all stunts at prep level but is not required for the chair as an exception to the rule.
Chant- A short repetitive yell performed continually throughout a football game. A chant is a short routine to encourage crowd participation.
Cheer- A longer, spirited yell incorporating motions and stunting
cheer should also encourage crowd participation.
two other cheerleaders with locked arms and waist. A Chorus Line Flip is not permitted.
A basic push-up performed on the ground by individuals in a grouping (bowling ball formation). Participants are face down on the ground with back straight, palms on the
them. Together the group begins to lift and lower their bodies by pushing upward until arms are fully extended while toes/feet are connected to the back/shoulder area of two participants behind them. Permitted for cheer squads, not permitted for dance squads as this is viewed as a weight bearing skill.
Physical contact between two or more individuals performing tumbling skills simultaneously. Connected Tumbling is not permitted under Pop Warner guidelines.
A release move in which catchers, with palms up, catch the
face up in a pike position. A cradle catch is considered the end of a stunt. The movement from the cradle to the performing surface is not considered to be a dismount.
A crunch is a stunt position where both of a partners feet or legs are in the hands of a single base whose hand(s) are in front of his/her body near the waist level.
is a stunt that requires two bases and a spotter at
121
below prep level and does not transition into or from another stunt.
Dismount- The movement from a stunt or pyramid to a cradle or the performing surface. The movement from a cradle to the performing surface is not considered to be a dismount.
Dive Roll- An aerial forward roll where the hands and feet are off of the performing surface simultaneously.
A tumbling skill with two consecutive backward somersaults (tuck, pike, open, layout) done in the same skill movement. This is not permitted in Pop Warner skills.
A partnered or paired cartwheel where two partners perform cartwheel(s) while holding each others hand/ ankle or arm thigh connection. This stunt is not permitted in Pop Warner.
A gymnastic tumbling skill consisting of a single layout salto with two twists, also called a Double Twist. This is not permitted in Pop Warner skills.
A stunt or pyramid in which an inverted top persons center of gravity is moving toward the performing surface. This downward inversion is not permitted in Pop Warner.
The movement of ones center of gravity towards the performing surface.
Dropping to the knee, seat, front, back, thigh/jazz sit or split position onto the performing surface from an airborne position or
hands/feet which breaks the impact of the drop.
the hands/feet, or is controlled to absorb the impact of the drop.
surface from an airborne position are not permitted.
surface should be performed on a mat to avoid repeated/overuse on hard unyielding surfaces.
The maximum distance allowed between the highest point of a bases extended arm, and the lowest point of a top persons body during a release move in Intermediate and Advanced only.
The beginning or mounting phase of a tumbling skill or stunt.
The distance from the performing surface to the highest point of a bases arm(s) when standing upright with the arm(s) fully extended over the head. Extended arms do not
122 The supporting arm(s) of the base(s) is/are fully extended above the head. Note: The spotter must have hands up and maintain constant visual contact at all times with the Top Person/Flyer (from shoulder height and above) except when it is
Extension- A stunt in which the supporting arm(s) of the base(s) is/are fully extended above the head and the top person is standing with both feet in the hand(s) of the base(s). Each foot of the extended partner must be supported by at least one hand that is not supporting the other foot. All extensions require a spotter.
level by the base(s), a non-extended stunt position.
Not Permitted, A pyramid where top persons/
give the appearance of a fan-effect. Situation: Double Based (two bases) Table Top (on the
effect) and become weight bearing on two individuals standing on the ground (to the side of the bases) while bracing the inside
A base is a participant in direct weight bearing contact with the performance surface and provides support for another. Further, a brace may not share/hold the majority of the top persons weight. In this situation, the weight of the two outside
creating a safety issue. Although this pyramid appears easy to perform, it does not fall within PW basic guidelines.
A horizontal, face up or face down position of a top person between two or more bases. Flatback position is a stunt that transitions from/into another stunt.
a horizontal straight body position between two original bases. 2. At least two additional catchers catch the upper body of the
4. Head stays in alignment with the body, no inversions/arch.
without contact with the performing surface as the body passes through the inverted position.
A person who receives primary support from another person anytime during a stunt, a person who
A basket toss or multi-based toss with a
is not permitted per PWLS guidelines.
123 A basket toss or multi-based toss that travels and is cradled by a new set of bases. This toss is not permitted per PWLS guidelines.
A non-aerial tumbling shill where one rotates forward through an inverted position by lifting the hips over the head and shoulders while curving the spine to create a motion
A non-aerial tumbling skill where one rotates forward through an inverted position to a non-inverted position by arching the legs and hips over the head and down to the performing surface landing on both feet/legs at the same time.
A person positioned in front of a stunt that may also add additional support or height to that stunt.
A tumbling skill in which the tumbler generates
punch front.
A non-aerial tumbling skill where one rotates forward through an inverted position to a non-inverted position by arching the legs and hips over the head and down to the performing surface landing on one foot/leg at a time.
Full Twist- A full is a 360 degree twisting rotation.
a dismount or toss) in which one performs a 360 degree turn before executing a toe touch.
To be at the height of or supported by the performing surface.
The physical contact between two or more individuals using the hand(s)/arm(s).
The physical contact between two or more individuals using hand(s), foot/feet, arm(s).
The partner and the base interlock hands as if they were shaking hands.
A springing off the hands by putting the weight on the arms and using a strong push from the shoulders; can be done either forward or backward.
An inverted, straight body position where the arms are extended straight by the head and ears (the hips are over the head and shoulders).
A pyramid in which one or more persons are suspended off the performing surface by one or more top persons. Hanging pyramids are not permitted in Pop Warner.
124 Situation: Hanging T, Ground Level Is a hanging T where
up with extended arms in a T position. If yes, can they move
A Hanging/Suspended Position is not permitted in Pop
at all times so that the top person is never considered suspended, then it is permitted. It gives the illusion of being suspended when in fact the weight of the top person is on a third base. The back
It also has to be quite clear / visible that the back person is in place and holding on (so as to appear in an up and down motion rather than suspended).
holds the leg in an extended position while the other leg remains in the hands of the base(s). Partner pulls body to a High V position. Proper spotting is required.
A stunt where a top person in a horizontal position is tossed to rotate around a vertical axis (like helicopter blades) before being caught by original bases.
are in hands of the bases. A prep level hitch is permitted in the
A below, prep level hitch is also permitted in the Novice Level
lower back of a base (standing on the ground) would be viewed
level) are on bases that are on the ground.
A position in which the persons head/shoulders are below his/her waist. An inverted stunt is not permitted see exception in Advanced category only. (Examples: Chorus Line Flip, Assisted Back Handspring, Assisted Back Tuck, not permitted.)
An airborne position not involving hip-over-head rotation created by using ones own feet and lower body power to push off
Glossary.
Skill, typically in a toss that involves a kick and a 360 degree twisting rotation. A quarter turn performed by the Top Person/Flyer during the kick portion is customary and permitted to initiate the twist.
A layout is a position where the partner is in a face-up
A braced top person is transitioned from one set of bases to another or back to the original bases by going through the arms of the brace. The top person remains upright and stays in continuous contact with the brace while transitioning. The base/ post must have two feet on the ground. Leap Frog is permitted in
125 the Advanced Category Only.
as much of the foot as possible while controlling the front to back motion of the partners foot. The side base should grab underneath the foot with the right hand, on top of the foot with the other hand and control the side-to-side motion of the partners foot. The back spot needs to hold the partners ankle and seat of the partner with
should push off the bases shoulders and step up into a liberty position while locking her leg and lifting to a high V.
A position where the top person is off the ground in continuous movement that puts the bases and top in a position to end the movement in a stunt.
Log Roll (Barrel Roll)- A top person cradled in a horizontal position is tossed, rotates parallel (twists) to the performing surface before being caught by the original bases. A log roll /(barrel roll) is permitted in the Intermediate & Advanced Category the top person is not in contact with a person in another stunt. (no more than one rotation Intermediate, no more than two rotations Advanced) i) In a single based log roll, the top person a. Must initiate the rotation toward the base. b. Must begin and end in a face-up, pike-cradle position. ii) In multi-base log rolls a. With fewer than four catchers, the top person must begin and end in a face-up, pike-cradle position: b. With four catchers, the top person may be caught in a face-up, face-down position, and/or in a pike-cradle or layout position. This is an exception to the swan dive and dismount rules. iii) A Log Roll (Barrel Roll) performed by an individual on the ground in a straight body position is permitted. This may be performed as long as another individual does not go over (jump, hop, tumble, walk, etc.) the individual rolling on the ground per the under/over rule.
Mount- Any skill in which one or more persons are supported by one or more persons.
A stunt having 2 or more bases, not including the back spot.
New Baseof a stunt(s).
Starting from a Back Handspring position after pushing off, the tumbler performs a twist to the hands, ending the skill as a front handspring step out.
Original Basesduring the initiation of the stunt.
A stunt in which the top person in a layout position falls forward and/or backward away from the bases to the required
126 number of catchers while maintaining constant hands-to-feet/legs contact with the bases. It is not a dismount.
Body bent forward at the hips while the legs are kept straight.
A controlled pushing motion upward by a base(s) to increase the height of the top person or release the top to a cradle catch.
Post- A person on the performing surface who may assist a top person during a stunt or transition.
Power Press- A stunt where bases bring the top person from an extended position, down to a prep level or below, and then reextend.
The height of the bases hands and at least one foot of the top person are at shoulder level (also known as shoulder-height or half/approximately at chest height). Note: The spotter must have hands up and maintain constant visual contact at all times with the Top Person/Flyer (from shoulder height and above) except when
Supporting a majority of the weight of the top person.
Prone Position- A position where the partner is supported by bases
An object that can be manipulated.
A pyramid is a grouping of connected stunts, individuals standing at ground level may be incorporated into the grouping.
A gymnastic term referring to an airborne position not involving hip-over-head rotation created by using ones own feet and lower body power to bounce off the performance surface from a tumbling skill. Sometimes referred to as a Punch.
A re-grab is landing from a multi-based toss in a new toss, stunt or any other position other than a dismount.
Release Move- When the base(s) and the top person become free of contact with each other and the top person comes back to the original set of bases. A single base toss to a stunt from the ground is neither considered a release move nor a toss. If a release move exceeds the maximum height permitted, the skill is considered a toss and must adhere to toss level guidelines.
Returning to a loading position with both feet of the top person in the hands of the bases.
the ground prior to reloading.
one leg straight up in a kick position while the other foot remains
127 in constant contact with the bases. The proper spotting techniques for shoulder height and above must be followed. A spotter is required on stunts in which the supporting arms of the bases are fully extended.
The tumbler, with a push-off on one leg, plants hand(s) on
snap down together landing at the same time to the performing surface.
Tumbling that is performed with a running start and/or involves a punch, cartwheel, roundoff, roundoff handspring, etc., used to gain momentum as an entry to another skill. Any type of forward
as running tumbling.
A sailor roll is permitted in the Intermediate and Advanced Divsions and requires an additional head-and-shoulders spotter.
over the leg in the bases hands. Flyer/partner places hands on hips. Proper spotting is required.
ankle and pulls it up.
From a liberty position, turned to the side, partner reaches
Multiple front and/or back handsprings performed consecutively by an individual.
A stunt in which the partner sits on the shoulders of a base. All dismounts from shoulder height or above shall have assisted landings. No skill without constant hand-to-hand contact shall be performed prior to the landing on the performing surface.
A stunt in which the partner stands on the shoulders
the knee, pulling down and pulling elbows forward. Dismounts from a single based stunt to a single-based cradle shall have a separate head-andshoulder spotter. All dismounts from shoulder height or above shall have assisted landings. No skill without constant hand-to-hand contact shall be performed prior to the landing on the performing surface.
A transitional stunt where a stunt passes through an extended level and lands into a loading position or non-extended stunt.
A stunt in which the top persons hips are at the same height they would be if in a shoulder stand. The height of the
known as prep-level.)
A stunt using a single base for support.
128 A stunt from an elevator and/or an extension where
in the starting position.
The spirit participant drops forcefully to the surface from a jump or a stand, landing with legs extended at right angles
weight on the hands to break the impact of the drop. A split drop is not permitted.
thrown into the air by his/her feet. Also known as Squishy and Scrunch. A Spotter is a person who is in direct contact with the performing surface and may help control the building of, or dismounting from, a mount.
A tumbling skill (series of skills) performed from a standing position without any previous forward momentum. Any number of steps backward prior to execution of tumbling
The stepping stone is viewed as a transitional stunt where at least one base stays in contact with the
as constant contact is maintained. It is an Intermediate Level stunt.
(sometimes called a V-Sit) can be double based or triple based at prep level (i.e., double based prep level = 2 bases and one spotter, triple based prep level = 3 bases and one spotter.). Extended Straddle Lifts must be triple based and have an additional spotter for the head and shoulder of the top person (i.e. Triple Based Extended Lift = 3 bases and one spotter). The
into a sitting straddle position with legs open in front (Knees facing up). A spotter is required on stunts in which the supporting arms of the bases are fully extended (similar position to a Double Based Elevator/Extension Prep.) Situation: A participant is transitioned from a cradle-catch to a triple-based, fully-extended straddle sit with a separate spotter; legal if constant contact is maintained. Spotter should be positioned directly behind the stunt to insure safety for head/
A release move from a stunt to a catching position where no skill (i.e., turn, kick, twist, etc.) is performed.
The body position of a top person performing a toss that doesnt involve any trick in the air. It is a straight line position that teaches the top to reach and to obtain maximum height on the toss.
Stunt- Any tumbling skill, tosses, mount or pyramid. Any skill in
or more persons, also referred to as a mount. A stunt is determined
129 to be Single or Double leg by the number of legs that the top person has being primarily supported by a base(s).
Swan Dive- An aerial stunt in which the top person is caught in a prone (face down) position. This is not permitted in PWLS.
position, generally supporting his/her own upper body on a base, while being supported on her lower body by a base(s) with extended arms. One
position, generally supporting his/her own upper body on a base, while being supported on her lower body by a base(s) with extended arms. One
A stunt in which the partner is standing on the back of the
the back of the k Table Top A stunt in which the partner is standing on the back of the base(s) who is leaning forward. (i.e., Base Kneeling on
stands on the back of the kneeling base is permitted. Although at least one foot of the base is not on the ground, the base position has support evenly distributed on the ground.)
The bases start in a lunge position with the bent knee directly over the ankle and the back leg is straight. The bases
partner starts with each hand on the bases shoulders and steps up into
outside hands of each base while the bases place their hands underneath
always recommended for safety purposes.
A move within a stunt in which the partner is in an extended liberty variation and simultaneously switches (or hops) to the opposite supporting leg she is standing.
A single or multi-based toss in which the base(s) push upward on a single foot or leg of the partner to increase the partners height. Toe and thigh pitches to a jump or tumbling skill are not permitted.
The person(s) on top of a stunt or toss. Also referred to as the Flyer or Partner.
the lower part of her body turned to one side while the upper part of the
Torch held at prep/chest level is a stunt where the bases arms are extended overhead but are not considered to be an extended stunt since the height of the body of the top person is similar to a shoulder/prep level stunt.
130 Toss- An airborne stunt where the bases execute a throwing motion from waist level to increase height of the top person. Top person becomes free from all bases. Top person is free from the performing surface when the toss is initiated (i.e., basket toss or sponge toss) Note- Toss to hands, toss to extended stunts and toss chair (Generally Co-ed Stunts) are not included in this category.
Totem Pole- A multi-based stunt which creates a tiered appearance by connecting stunts of increasing height, one behind the other. Totem Poles are permitted provided that each person leaning forward is stabilized / supported by the stunt directly in front, and that no extended stunt stabilizes/supports another top person. Appropriate spotting must be in place for shoulder height and above stunts.
A top person moving from one stunt to another. The transition may involve changing bases, however at least one person at prep level or below must maintain constant contact with the top person.
Transitional Stunt- Top person(s) moving from one stunt to
Any gymnastic or acrobatic skill executed on the performing surface.
Twist- A twist is a release involving rotation around the bodys
a 180 degree twist before executing a toe touch.
Twisting Mount- Mounts that begin with a twisting motion of the top person within the vertical axis (can be as few as twist up to two twisting rotations) that end up either in a prep level stunt, in a loading position prior to the execution of a stunt or in a fully extended stunt.
Twisting Toss- Any type of toss that involves the top person rotating at least rotation around the vertical axis of the body.
All top persons in the pyramid / mount who are not in contact with the performing surface(top) must be primarily supported by one or more individuals who are in direct weightbearing contact with the performing surface(base).
Extended stunts that are above prep level in which the top person is bearing weight on both feet and both feet are in the hands of the base(s).
Vault- A vault is a stunt in which the hands of the top person are used to assist in clearing a base(s). Vaults that involve head over heels rotation are not permitted. A vault must progress from one set of stationery bases to a new set of stationery bases in place prior to the transition. The base/post must have two feet on the ground. (i.e., A Leap Frog Vault to New Stationery Bases, Permitted in the Intermediate Category)
131 partners holds the leg straight out to the front, leaning back just a little.
Weight Bearing- Supporting a majority of the top persons weight. If a person in a partner stunt or pyramid is used as a brace for an extended stunt,that brace must not be supporting a majority of the top persons weight. (To demonstrate this, the foot of the top persons braced leg must be at or above the knee of their supporting leg.) Flip or somersault, with feet coming up over the head and the body rotating around the axis of the weight, while the body remains in an arched position (not tucked or layout position). A whip has the look of a back handspring without the hands contacting the ground.
X-Out- Flip or somersault skill performed that involves spreading the
S2-JUMPS Banana A jump in which you arch your back and reach upwards.
A jump where the arms and legs are in the same nine position. Bring legs to arms and keep your head up.
A jump where one knee is bent facing down and other leg is straight facing forward.
A hurdler is a jump where the bent knee faces the crowd and you sit in a hurdler position. There are three positions, Front, Right Side and Left Side Hurdlers.
A jump where you bring the legs to the arms in a pike position while keeping the head up.
This jump is a straddle in the air but you do not need to rotate your hips. Keep the knees forward and a straight body in the air without piking.
A jump where you keep the head and chest up, pull legs to arms and reach for the arch of the foot.
A jump where your arms hit a high v while your legs tuck up to the chest, not behind. Be careful not to drop the chest to the legs.
S3-PARTNER STUNT PROGRESSIONS (RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PROGRESSIONS) 1. These progressions are general in nature, and do not attempt to list every skill. All spirit stunts should be learned according to accepted progressions, which means lower to higher and from easy to more complex. 2. Proper progression and spotting techniques shall be used until stunts are mastered. It is highly recommended that matting be used until stunts are mastered 3. All spirit participants should receive proper training before attempting any form of cheerleading partner stunts, pyramids or dance moves. Training in proper spotting techniques should be mandatory for all squads. 4. Recommendation: Every stunt should be done to a count so that
132 everyone in the stunt has the same timing. Every position in the stunt (Flyer, Bases, Spotters) should understand their responsibilities in the stunt prior to building/mounting to include mounting, spotting, arm motions/movements and dismounting.
5. Partner Stunt Progressions Step-up Drills Double Base Thigh Stand Double Base Shoulder Stand Single Base Shoulder Stand Extension Prep, Step Off Dismount Cradle Drills Extension Prep, Cradle Dismount Press Extension, Return to Shoulders, Cradle Dismount Press Extension, Cradle Dismount Full Extension Step-Up Liberty, Ground-Up Liberty Skills to Cradles (i.e., toe touches, twists, etc.) Basket Toss Drills Basket Toss Skill Execution (i.e., toe touches, twists, etc.)
6. Dismount Progressions Step Off Drill Shove Rap/Bear Hug Cradle Drills (i.e., Fall Back, Rebound into Cradle Catches, Extension Prep Cradles, Prep Twist Cradles, Extended Twist Cradles, etc.) Full Twist Drill Front Spot Assisted Full Down Full Down (Single Twist)
7. Prior to attempting a full twist cradle, it is highly recommended that a stunt group master a pop cradle from an elevator (prep position) and an extension.
S4-DANCE STYLES A dance which utilizes intricate rhythms, and the latest in progressive, street dance styles.
Jazz- A dance that incorporates technical dance moves along with use of formations and traveling steps.
Military style is primarily made of continual formation changes and marching with military style. Sharp and precise arm and head motions are the key.
A creative dance that acts out the music style. It usually incorporates props and costumes.
Pom- The squad uses poms throughout their performance. A pom squad may incorporate funk or kick sections but does not regularly perform dance styles other than pom.
A dance that uses a hand held accessory to enhance motions.
S5-DANCE TERMS
133 To be free of contact with a person and/or the performing surface.
A position in which the working leg is extended behind while balancing on the supporting leg; can be executed as a turn. A position in which the working leg is extended in front, to the side, or behind with a bent knee while balancing on the supporting leg; can be executed as a turn.
Axle- A turn in which the working leg rond de jambes to pass as the supporting leg lifts off the ground and tucks under the body after rotation in the air, landing on the original supporting leg.
Ball Change- A ball change is a shifting of weight from the ball of one
- A non-airborne tumbling skill where one moves backward in an arched position, with hands making contact with the ground and then rotates the hips over the head and lands one foot/leg at a time.
Battement- A battement is a kick in which the working leg is brushed or raised from the hip, with a straight knee, into the air and brought down again.
Cartwheel- A non-airborne gymnastic skill where one supports the weight of the body with the arm(s) while rotating sideways through an inverted position landing one foot at a time.
Chaine- A chain or a series of linked turns; Step Right, together with the Left, step Right and then together with the Left. The turn is complete as the Left pulls in.
Chasse- Chasse means to chase or called step-together-step.
The repetition of a movement from one person to the next.
Jewelry that enhances the costume and is worn by all members of the team.
A coupe means to cut or cutting, when one foot quickly takes the place of the other.
Any skill in which one or more dancers supports another dancers body weight away from the surface.
Demi Point- A dance position on the balls of the feet.
(To develop) A skill that draws the working leg up to the supporting leg to pass, then extending the working leg to an open position.
Dig- The ball of one foot is next to instep of other foot.
Dropping to the knee, thigh, seat, front, back or split position onto the performing surface from a jump, stand or inverted position
134
the impact of the drop
Extension- A term used to describe the ability of the dancer to raise and hold the extended leg in the air.
Fouette Saute- The term means whipped jump. A jump where you lift the working leg front and keep the supporting leg straight as lifting off
direction of the supporting leg so that when landing on the supporting leg, the working leg is now in back.
A non-airborne tumbling skill where one rotates forward through an inverted position to a non-inverted position. Arch the legs and hips over head and down to performing surface landing one foot/ leg at a time.
A split leap where you brush the Right leg front as you push off with Left leg. The landing is on the Right leg in a plie.
Items that are used by performing squad as an extension of the arm/hand, that are easily carried by one person. Hand held props include, but are not limited to, boas, scarves, to phats, derby hats, chairs, stools, or canes.
A straight body inverted position where the arms are extended straight by the head and ears.
A hip hop technique in which the dancer spins on his/her head and hands to aid in speed. The head can be held in a variety of positions.
To extend past the correct position.
Isolation- A movement separating one part of the body from the other parts.
Movement taking off and landing on the same foot or both feet.
A leap is a movement in dance when taking off from one foot and landing on the other foot. The use of a plie when leaping will achieve height and emphasis is on proper form. (i.e., upper body lifted, arm placement, extension, height, tight legs, pointed toes)
An action in which the partner is elevated to any height and set down.
Line- The outline presented by a dancer while executing steps and poses, with emphasis on the arrangement of the head, body, legs and arms in the movement.
Partnering- Any type of trick that uses two individuals, one uses the other for support.
A stepping back-side-front, also called back ball change. It is three steps executed in releve, releve and plie.
135 Cats Steps the step owes its name to the likeness of the movement.
Passe- The foot of the working leg touches the knee of the supporting leg, toe to knee. This can be executed either turned out or parallel.
A turn executed with the working leg held straight and next to the supporting leg.
The pique term means stepping directly onto a straight leg in releve.
A turn usually done toward the supporting leg, step on the straight/working leg, bring the supporting leg to passe.
Pirouette- A turn done on the supporting leg as the other leg pulls to passe.
Pivot- A movement step used to change direction; working leg steps forward assuming weight of body, body changes direction, support leg reassumes weight of body; can b executed front to back, side to side.
Plie- A plie is a bending of both knees or of the supporting leg, opening
except second.
Releve- A releve is raised on the balls of the feet.
This is a round movement of the leg on the ground or in the air.
Russian- A russian is a Grand jete to the side.
Saut de Chat is also termed a cats jump. This is performed similarly to the grand jete except instead of brushing a straight working leg, it is developed from a bent to straight leg as the supporting leg is pushing off.
Saut- A dance term that means jumping and landing on the same foot, toes should be pointed in the air.
A forward or backward roll starting from a squatting or tucked position, where the back of the shoulder is the contact with the
Sousus-
The leg that supports the weight of the body. Switch Leap- A leap that swings one leg forward and then back, lifting into a split leap.
Hitch kick; battement one left, switch it with other leg in the air, can be executed to the front, side or back.
Stretched, used to describe the straightened working leg. A tendu is to stretch, pushing the foot away from the supporting leg while keeping
136 This is a turn performed with three steps; step to Right side, cross over with Left as body faces the back wall, step back around to the front with the Right.
Toe Roll- Executed on releve and hinged; body arches back arms in high
movement, hands catch body weight.
Tombe means to fall or step down. The working leg falls into plie, usually done to build momentum.
Turn Out- A position in which the legs are rotated outward from the hip joints so that the thighs, knees, and toes face away from the center of the body.
Twist- A twist is a release involving rotation around the bodys vertical axis.
The leg that moves, stretches and/or extends, the leg that is performing is the working leg.
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2011
COMPLETE SET OF OFFICIAL RULES
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Endorsed by National Football League Players
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