We’re excited you want to be part of the WYFL family!

Football is one of the most rewarding youth sports. Athletes build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Because it is a contact sport, our program emphasizes preparation, safety, and commitment from both players and families. Please review the information below so you know what to expect during the season.

Time Commitment & Season Timeline

Please avoid scheduling vacations beginning mid-July whenever possible.

June to July: Summer conditioning (strongly encouraged)
Early to mid July: Equipment handout (physical required, one assigned evening)
Week of July 24: Tryouts (4th to 8th grade)
Last Week of July: Practices begin
Early August: ThunderJam scrimmage event
1st or 2nd Week of August: Official weigh-ins (one assigned evening)
Mid-August to Early November: Regular season games and playoffs

Commitment, Attendance & Safety

Tackle football is a full-season commitment. Once teams are formed, roster spots cannot easily be replaced. Football relies on timing, trust, and repetition. Missing extended time impacts not only your athlete but the entire team.

Because football is a contact sport, athletes must consistently practice techniques that protect themselves and others. Regular attendance is essential once practices begin. Missing practice affects both development and safe participation in games, and athletes who miss early practices are at a safety disadvantage.

If a conflict arises during the season, please communicate early with your coach so we can plan appropriately.

Weather & Playing Conditions

Football is played in real conditions.

Practices and games rarely cancel, so please dress your athlete accordingly. We play in rain, wind, cold, and snow.
Late season temperatures can be near or below freezing. Athletes should arrive with layers, dry clothing for after practice, and proper hydration.

If weather ever becomes unsafe due to lightning or dangerous field conditions, coaches and league officials will notify families.

Injury Reporting & Return to Play

Players must report injuries immediately.
Concussion info
Coaches may hold a player from participation for safety reasons.

Weigh-Ins (Conference Requirement)

Weigh-ins occur one assigned evening in early August and are scheduled by the conference. Teams cannot choose or change their time.

Players who miss weigh-ins are designated an X-Man, which limits how they may participate during games until a makeup weigh-in is completed if one is offered.

Please plan to be in town during August so your athlete can attend their assigned weigh-in.

Tryouts & Team Placement (4th to 8th Grade)

Players must attend tryouts so coaches can properly evaluate skill level and ensure athletes are placed where they can develop and play safely.

Attendance is required to be considered for an A team.

Teams are formed with long-term athlete development and player safety as the priority. Placement is not a ranking. It reflects the environment where a player can learn, contribute, and succeed at this stage of development.

Playing Time

Tackle football is a competitive team sport. Playing time is not equal.

Coaches consider:
• Attendance
• Effort and attitude
• Assignment understanding
• Safety readiness
• Game situations

Each eligible player will participate in at least 10 plays per game per conference rules. Plays may occur at any point in the game and are not guaranteed to be consecutive or at a specific position.

Physicals & Equipment Pickup

Equipment handout will be one assigned evening in early to mid July.

 A completed physical form must be uploaded before equipment can be issued. Sports physicals are commonly available from doctors, urgent care clinics, or pharmacies.

A posted-dated CHECK must be received with the equipment agreement to pick-up equipment.

 Players must have equipment to participate in tryouts.

Registration Includes:
• Custom Game Jersey and Game Pants (yours to keep)
• Helmet & Shoulder pad rental
• HUDL Game Film
• Team Equipment
• WYFL Provided Green Space
• UYFC Fees

Families Must Provide:
• Cleats (non-metal)
• Mouthguard (attached)
• Practice pants
• Practice jersey
• Large water bottle

Team Fees & Financial Expectations

Registration covers league participation and core equipment, but teams also organize team activities and player recognition items throughout the season.

Each team typically collects a team fee after rosters are formed. Funds are coordinated by the team parent and used only for team-related experiences for the players.

Common team expenses may include:
• Player recognition and awards
• End-of-season party or celebration
• Team swag (bags, socks, shirts, sweatshirts, etc.)
• Team banners or photos
• Small team activities or traditions during the season

Team fees vary by team and grade level. Please plan for an additional seasonal cost beyond registration.

Summer Conditioning (Strongly Encouraged)

Athletes who attend typically:
• Adjust to pads faster
• Reduce injury risk
• Gain confidence early
• Build relationships with teammates and coaches

Parent Sideline Expectations

We want games to be a positive experience for every athlete. Players learn best when they can focus on one clear voice, their coach.

To help them succeed:
• Cheer and encourage all players
• Avoid giving instructions during plays
• Save coaching and corrections for practice time
• Discuss questions or concerns with coaches after games or practices
• Show respect to officials, players, and volunteers

Limiting sideline instruction helps athletes stay confident, safe, and focused during games.

Communication

League updates are sent through your registration email and optional text alerts.
Families are encouraged to sign up for text notifications here: Text SignUp

Schedules, standings, and field information are posted online and available in the TeamSideline app. Families are strongly encouraged to download the TeamSideline app:

Get it on Google Play

Download on the Apple App Store

After teams are formed:
• Coaches or team parents will set team-specific communication (commonly GroupMe or similar)
• Team reminders and weekly details will come directly from your team staff

Please ensure your contact information in your registration account stays current so you don’t miss important updates.

Conference (UYFC) rules & policies

We’re excited for a great season and appreciate your support in creating a positive experience for all athletes.

We look forward to seeing your family at the field!