1. Capital District Pop Warner Coaches’ Education Program 2013

2. Coaches Education Training
Unit 1: Clinic Introduction/PWLS Overview
Unit 2: Risk Management
Unit 3: Pop Warner Forms, Championships & Scholastics
Unit 4: Coach-Athlete Communication Why Children Play Youth Sports Coach & Parent Behavior Coaches Code of Conduct
Menu Page
The Menu is designed to help the trainers present the program in
sections.
You can run the program from beginning to end. Or
Pick the Unit that you want to present and click on the icon next
to the Unit Title. This will take you to the set of slides that you want
to present. When are done with this unit, you will be returned to
the Menu automatically.
Closing Remarks and Questions

3. Capital District Pop Warner Volunteer Training
The Coaches Education Training is for all Presidents, Commissioners, Coordinators, Head Coaches, and Assistant Coaches working with your children in Pop Warner today.
Consistent training between coaches and commissioners
Coaches are responsible for managing the team/squad
Commissioners are responsible for administrating the game and rules.
Staff responsibilities are identified by the Certified Roster and during games by the required Field ID Tags.
EVERYONE is responsible for following the rules!

4. 2013 Pop Warner Coaching Clinics
Football and Spirit Coaches training will be on-line. Please go to popwarner.com ( and click the coaches course either under football or cheer.
NOTE: Please remember to print off the certificate that is awarded at the end of the on-line course. Certificates must be in your books.
Other Clinics:
CDPW Commissioners Clinic
CDPW Coaches Clinic
CDPW Mitey Mites Clinic 6:30 PM
CDPW Flag Football Clinic 6:30 PM

5. UNIT ONE:
Introductory Slide to Unit One
POP WARNER OVERVIEW

6. Unit 1: Pop Warner Overview
Brief History of Pop Warner
Goals/Philosophy
Pop Warner Structure
National, Regional, League, & Association
Authority/Powers of the Region
Authority/Powers of the League
Association Responsibilities
Protests/Complaints
This is the second intro slide for Unit One. It highlights the topics to be
covered in this unit.
In this Unit, we will go over a brief history of Pop Warner
and
Give a brief run through of the Pop Warner structure including: National,
Regional, League/Conference, & Association Structures.
We will discuss the Authority/Power of each Level in the Structure.
Finally, we will go over the Responsibilities of the local Association, and
Briefly discuss the procedure for filing a protest or complaint.

7. Pop Warner is…
The largest and oldest national youth football and cheerleading program.
Endorsed by the NFL and the NFL Players Association.
The only youth sports program to emphasize education.
Pop Warner DEMANDS THAT ALL PARTICIPANTS BE ACADEMICALLY FIT AS WELL AS PHYSICALLY FIT.
Pop Warner recognizes and awards scholar-athletes for their performance in the classroom.
Awards include scholarships to the top award winners.
What is Pop Warner?
This slide shows the key points that make Pop Warner unique.
Pop Warner is the ONLY real national youth football and spirit program with
a real National competition and a true Super Bowl (unlike some other programs
that claim to be a national program, but lack some of these key elements).
Pop Warner is the only Youth Sports program to emphasize education. This
fact alone makes Pop Warner unique. Very few young athletes move on the
become professional athletes. Youth must learn the importance of an
Education ,and it is important to reward them for their academic success.

8. POP WARNER HISTORY Founded in 1929 by Joe Tomlin.
Based on the relationship between scholastics and athletics.
Named for Glen Scobie (Pop) Warner.
Occurred after he was the only coach invited to teach at a clinic that actually showed up.
Pop Warner Actually began as an attempt to get young vandals off Philadelphia
Streets by providing an alternative activity.
“Gangs” of youth roamed the streets breaking windows in downtown businesses.

9. NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL POP WARNER
United States
Russia
Guam
Germany
Japan
Canada
Mexico
Scotland
American Samoa
Over 370,000 registered Participants
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL POP WARNER
NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
Langhorne, PA.
WORLD WIDE PARTICIPATION .
The Pop Warner national headquarters in Langhorne, PA (Philadelphia).
The program has spread worldwide with teams in several countries around the
World.

10. PWLS GOALS & PHILOSOPHY
Academics and athletics go hand in hand.
Development of well rounded young men and women.
Teach fundamentals of Football and Cheerleading.
Stress the importance of Education.
PWLS Goals and Philosophy.
These are taken directly form the National Rule Book
Review Slide
Pop Warner is the only youth sports program with this philosophy
We are concerned with much more than sport.
Emphasis should be on teaching, not winning
The tie between education and athletics is one of the founding tenants of the
program. Few participants will excel at sports in later life, but they all can
benefit from education.
As presenters review the contents of this page, this would be a good time to
point out that the name of our national organization is:
POP WARNER LITTLE SCHOLARS!
Not Pop Warner Football and Cheerleading.

11. GOALS & PHILOSOPHY
Provide an atmosphere conducive to development of sound mind, body, and character.
Stress importance of making this a fun experience.
Inspire youth regardless of race, creed, religion or national origin.
Practice the ideals of fellowship, sportsmanship, scholastics, and physical fitness.
Review the contents of this slide.
Point out that Pop Warner is interested in developing well rounded young
people, not just football players and cheerleaders.
This can be accomplished by being a positive influence, teaching appropriate
physical techniques, and by talking with and mentoring to the participants in
your charge.
Children are all about fun. If the experience is not enjoyable, they will
not return. Pop Warner can be fun and instructional at the same time.

12. GENERAL OBJECTIVES
Teach lessons of value in self-discipline, teamwork, concentration, friendship, leadership, and sportsmanship
Provide all an opportunity to participate in an organized environment that places emphasis on maximum safety and participation.
Provide a safe environment that is structured of all participants.
Safety is Key:
No activity should be undertaken without ensuring maximum safety of the
participants.
And
All activities should be designed to provide each child an equal opportunity
to participate..
The age/weight schematic for establishing divisions of play is another of the
cornerstones of the program. These age/wt. restrictions reduce the
chance of injury making the game safer.
These age/wt. divisions have been established by years of experience and
are based on a knowledge of child development.

13. POP WARNER STRUCTURE National Pop Warner
Regional Pop Warner (example: Eastern)
League/Conference
(example: Capital District)
Association
(example: Albany)
Team (Division Pee Wee)
This slide is an advanced organizer to give new coaches a quick snap shot of
of the overall structure. Details of each level are defined in the slides to
follow.
Pop Warner Structure has 5 basic levels.
At the top is the National Level.
Then there is the Regional (section of the country)
Then there is the local league or conference.
Each league has several neighborhood Associations.
And each Association has its teams and age divisions

14. Pop Warner Little Scholars National Staff
This slide shows the Pop Warner national staff.
These are the people who have committed themselves to overseeing the
PWLS program around the country.
The national staff work full time and do receive a salary.
Below this level (Regional on down) everyone else in Pop Warner is a
Volunteer.
Review Slide
Beth Dietz
Events Coordinator
Phyllis Farruggio
Office Manager
Trevor Scholl
Recruiting and Marketing

15. Pop Warner Little Scholars Eight Regions
National
Pop Warner
New England
Eastern
Mid-South
Southeast
The administration of Pop Warner is divided into 8 Regions.
This slide shows the current regions
The number of regions can be changed by Pop Warner National if need be.
Review Slide
Mid-America
Southwest
Wescon
Pacific
Northwest

16. National Authority Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. (PWLS)
Parent Organization
Provides the National structure for the organization
Has the final authority over all rule changes
Administers the All-American Scholastic Program.
Operates the National Championships for Football, Cheer and Dance.
Licenses vendors for Pop Warner logo merchandise
All Authority for the program emanates from National
They establish the structure and operating mechanism for the program.
National has the final say on all proposed rule changes
The scholastic program has two main thrust:
1) All participants must have an overall GPA of 2.0 or 70%,
or completing the scholastic eligibility form.
And
2) the Scholastic All-American Program
which recognizes our best and brightest for their accomplishments in
the classroom and within their community.
We will talk more about the Scholastic Program in a few minutes.
National oversees all aspects of the National Championships including site
selection, costs and criteria for participation.

17. Eastern Region Management Team Structure
Harry Harrington
Regional Director
VRD
Boyd Woodhams
RCDC
Cindy Machan
Avie Sanders
Scholastics Coordinator

18. REGION AUTHORITY
The Region is an extension of Pop Warner Little Scholars.
Oversees the business/operation of the Region.
Enforces policies.
Conducts hearings and accepts appeals.
Disciplines when necessary.
Certifies teams for National competition.
The Region is an extension of National
Like National, Regional hears appeals at its sole discretion.
Disciplinary action most often involves Conference level situations
Region verifies weight and certification paperwork to certify eligibility
for Regional Championships

19. League (Conference) Structure
League Board
President, Commissioner, Spirit Coor. Scholastic Coor. Secretary, Treasurer, etc.
Association 1
(Association Board)
Midget
Jr. Midget
PeeWee
Jr. PeeWee
Mitey Mite
Tiny Mite
Flag
Association 2
(Association Board)
Midget
Jr. Midget
PeeWee
Jr. PeeWee
Mitey Mite
Tiny Mite
Flag
Association 3
(Association Board)
Midget
Jr. Midget
PeeWee
Jr. PeeWee
Mitey Mite
Tiny Mite
Flag
Association Etc.
(Association Board)
Midget
Jr. Midget
PeeWee
Jr. PeeWee
Mitey Mite
Tiny Mite
Flag
The term league has two meanings:
A) it is a group of associations, also known
as a Conference, which has been chartered by National to participate in the Pop
Warner program.
B) it is also a group of teams in the same playing division that
Are placed together for scheduling purposes.
Associations are the neighborhood programs that manage the teams.

20. Capital District Pop Warner Board of Directors 2013
Dan Martuscello
President
Joe Pryba
1st Vice-President (Football)
Yvonne Cleveland
2nd Vice-President (Cheer)
Steve LaFever
Secretary
Tom Hindes
Treasurer & Challenger Commissioner
Don Delong
Pee Wee & Jr. Midget Commissioner
John Anastasi
Jr. Pee Wee Commissioner
Cheryl Von Fricken
Flag Commissioner
Drew Giungo
Mitey Mite Commissioner
Web Master
League One Commissioner

21. LEAGUE POWERS & AUTHORITY
Enforce National & Local rules.
Establish Association Boundaries.
Select Membership.
Training of it’s members.
Police powers/hearings & appeals.
Discipline members (adult & juvenile).
Summary Dismissal Authority
By National directive, the Conference has the authority to make rules to
govern the operation of the league.
Boundaries are established to provide for an equitable distribution of the
available number of participants and to protect association integrity
Conference approves new associations and removes those that are not
operating in accordance with rules and procedures
The conference is responsible for dissemination of necessary information
Hearings are conducted in accordance with Pop Warner rules and procedures
The conference administers appropriate punishment
The conference has the authority to dismiss any volunteer or participant for
cause.

22. Association / Neighborhood Program
24 Associations and 7 Counties
Albany
Averill Park
Ballston Spa
Bethlehem
Burnt Hills
Colonie
Columbia County
Duanesburg
East Greenbush
Greene County
Guilderland
No. Columbia County
North Colonie
Ravena
Rensselaer
Rotterdam
Saratoga
Schenectady-Belmont
South Glens Falls
South Troy
Troy
Watervliet
Association / Neighborhood Program
*FOOTBALL
*CHEER/DANCE
*SCHOLASTICS
This slide is an introduction to the next section to denote a shift from discussing
the national, regional, and conference levels to the local Association level.
Associations are organizations that sponsor and administer one or more teams.
Associations are characterized by specific geographical coverage (boundaries).

23. Whatever you think would help your Association run very efficiently.
ASSOCIATION BOARD
Personnel may also include:
Registrar
Fund Raising Chairman
Concession Stand Manager
Equipment Manager
Weigh Master
Whatever you think would help your Association run very efficiently.
Personnel should include (Minimum)
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Football Commissioner
Cheerleading Coordinator
Scholastic Coordinator
These are the minimum positions necessary to operate a Pop Warner
Association.
Variations and additional positions depend on the Associations By-Laws.

24. ASSOCIATION RESPONSIBILITIES
Also include -
Fund raising
Buy equipment
Recruit coaches
Secure field
Liabilities
Insurance
Registration
ASSOCIATION RESPONSIBILITIES
Enforce National & Local rules.
Write & Maintain Association by-laws
Keep Financial Records & Accounting Data
Police - Boundaries/Members.
Hold Hearings & Appeals.
Discipline members (adult/juvenile).
Set Grievance Procedures
Work together enforcing league policy and rules.
Association are also expected to “police” themselves to enforce local, league,
regional, and national rules.
Each group should have their own by-laws.
They are responsible for keeping good financial records that may be subject to
public review.
If need be, the Association may need to hold hearings to enforce PWLS rules
And the Code of Conduct (to be discussed later).

25. ASSOCIATION KEYS TO SUCCESS
The representatives of your association should attend a monthly meeting to receive information so that your association will be well informed and prepared for your season of football and cheer/dance.
Failure by your representatives to attend will create an uninformed association.
Review Slide
Being informed and represented at conference meeting is key.
Information & Knowledge = Empowered volunteers

26. ASSOCIATION KEYS TO SUCCESS
Background Checks: A background check will be done on all volunteers and administrative personnel.
All Volunteers must complete the PWLS Volunteer Application for the current year.
The minimum will be a check of the Federal Sex Offender Registry (
Discretion should be top priority on information received.
One affidavit per association (including a list of individuals checked) should be forwarded to the League (CDPW) by 08/1.
League to National.
2013 Form Available at CDPW.org/forms
Review Slide
All volunteers must now undergo a background check. At the very least,
Volunteers must checked against the Sexual Predator registry.
When issues do arise during a background check, be discrete. If you have to
reject a coaches application, you are still responsible to protect their privacy.
Limit the number of people who see background information.
Once an Association has completed its background checks, they sign a
sworn affidavit that goes on file with the league office.
Once each association has completed its checks, the league, in turn, sends
sworn affidavit to nationals verifying that all the volunteers have been cleared

27. KEYS TO SUCCESS
To be a successful league and association it is important that your league and your association work hand in hand with open communications and a clear direction.
It is imperative that your board accept responsibilities when it comes to informing your coaches and members, plus discipline when needed.
Please ask questions if you do not understand.
Review slide:
Team work is not only the key winning games and competitions; it is the key to
a successful Association and a successful league.
If you hear something that does not sound right, it is probably not right. Never
jump to conclusions or make ASSumptions.
The dumb question is the one that you don’t ask.

28. The Squad Squad Staff Head Coach Assistant Coaches Coach Trainee
Student Demonstrators
Equipment Manager
Trainer
Team Parent
Association Cheer Coordinator
The team is the basic Pop Warner unit.
Football coaches need to remember that no more 10 staff members, including
the coaches may be on the sideline (in the team box) during games,
and all coaches should be listed on the roster for both football & cheer.
The head coach must be 21 years old
Assistant coaches must be at least 18 or a high school graduate
The coach trainee Must be at least 16
and student demonstrators at least 15 ( see rule book for the
other restrictions that apply to student demonstrators)
These positions relate directly to the positions listed on the National Rosters.
They are the positions allowed by Pop Warner.

29. Football Squad Staff A total of ten (10) staff positions
1 Head Coach (21 or older) and 5 Assistant Coaches (18 or older)
Ratio of children to coaches (21+) (12:1) at all events (practice, game, competition)
Must supervise all practices, games, etc.
1 Coach Trainee (16 – 17 years of age)
1 Equipment Manager
1 Trainer
1 Commissioner
Only staff with a CDPW Tag will be allowed on the field.
Neville’s Slide

30. Cheer Squad Staff A total of nine (9) staff positions
1 Head Coach (21 or older) and 4 Assistant Coaches (18 or older)
Ratio of children to coaches (21+) (12:1) at all events (practice, game, competition)
Must supervise all practices, games, etc.
Maximum of 3 Coach-Trainees (16 – 17 years of age) and a maximum of 4 Student Demonstrators (15 – 17 years of age)
Maximum of 4 Student Demonstrators and Coach Trainees Combined.
Neville’s Slide

31. Coach-Trainees and Student Demonstrators
Certified like a spirit participant (BC, physical, parental approval, scholastic fitness, etc.)
Must be at least 2 years older than the oldest child on the squad
Must have at least 2 years of prior Cheer/Dance experience.
Student Demonstrators Demonstrate! No hands-on coaching, may only demonstrate moves and teach words to cheers.
Neville’s Slide

32. Formation of Squads Cheer Squads structure all levels
Small squad (6 – 12)
Medium (13-24)
Large squad (25 – 35)
When there are multiple teams/squads for the same division, they are split alpha (Mitey Mite through Midget)!
The Alpha rule does not apply to the flag division.
Flag Football teams should have equal distribution of 5, 6, and 7 year olds.
Neville’s Slide

33. Squad without Football Team
Any cheer or dance squad w/o team
Must be age eligible
May compete League/Region/National
May be large, Medium or small
A cheer or dance squad does NOT have to be attached to a football team.
Neville’s Slide

34. Special League Rules (Mascots)
Associations choice whether or not they will have mascots
No mascots if Assoc. has Cub Cheer
Maximum of 2 per squad
Must be at least 5 years of age
Can NOT perform stunts, may only perform sidelines / chants and crowd participation
Can not perform at competition

35. Team Authority
Enforce National, Regional & Local rules and procedures.
Train Participants
Discipline Participants (Limited Authority).
The team is responsible for enforcing all national, regional, and local rules.
Avoid disciplinary action & Be your own police.
Must adhere to appropriate standards for training.
Learn what things are prohibited and refrain from using these techniques.
(prohibited techniques are found in the rule book.)
Any disciplinary action should be designed to teach as well as
correct inappropriate action. Consult with your commissioner or cheer
coordinator when necessary.

36. COACHES COMMITMENT
It is the Volunteer’s responsibility to support the goals and philosophy of the Pop Warner program. Please work with your local associations in supporting and making your League and National Pop Warner the best youth program in the country.
This slide was moved into this first unit so that the each will know what
they are getting into, and that the program expects their support &
cooperation.
Working as a team, coaches can help make..
* the Pop Warner Program the best youth program in the country.
More on this topic will be discussed in the Unit on the
Code of Conduct which is found in the front of the National Rule Book and
will be reviewed later in this presentation.

37. PROTESTS/COMPLAINTS
Only Protests involving the eligibility of a participant shall be considered.
Complaints or Grievances may be filed on all other concerns that may arise during the season.
Both protests and complaints must be filed in a timely fashion.
This comes right out of the rule book
Procedures for filing protests and complaints can be found in your league’s
Procedural manual.
This would be a good time for the local conference to review any specific
rules or procedures that they may have related to protests and grievances.
Review Slide
Any item that does not constitute a protest, is handled as a complaint

38. UNIT 2: RISK MANAGEMENT
Presenters should stress that this is the most important Unit.
Unfortunately, we exist in a society that is sue happy.
This makes it necessary to always be aware of potential risks.
More importantly, this Unit will help make the Pop Warner experience
safer for our young athletes.

39. RISK MANAGEMENT DEFINITION
Directing or controlling the interests and performance of your program by teaching, guiding, and inspiring others to provide a safe and healthy experience for its participants.
Like any good class, we need to start by defining our important terms. So..
What is Risk Management?
Definition: Directing or controlling the interests and performance of your
program by teaching, guiding and inspiring others to provide a safe and
healthy experience for its participants.

40. Risk Management "Father sues team for not naming son MVP"
AP/ESPN, Nov. 7, 2002
"A Canadian father is suing the Amateur Hockey Association after his 16-year-old son failed to win the league's most valuable player award.  The dad is seeking about $200,000 in psychological and punitive damages from the association.
He also demands that the MVP trophy be taken from the winner and given to his son. 
"Parents suing youth football league". 
Houston Chronicle, August 28 --
Texas: "Parents of a fifth-grade boy asked the courts Tuesday to throw a yellow penalty flag on the Youth Football league over a rule change…. that switched players to different teams after practice started. In a lawsuit filed Tuesday, an attorney sued the Youth Football league on behalf of his son. The boy had played with his grade-level team before being switched because of age to a junior high-level group with "significantly larger" players. The parents are asking a judge to order the league to revert to rules in place when children registered in May." (Jo Ann Zuniga, Aug. 20).
“Settlement ends paralyzed boy's lawsuit: $2 million deal reached over soccer field injury”
“A Waukesha, Wisconsin County Circuit Judge ordered the approval of the settlement between the parents of an 11-year-old youth soccer player, and the insurance companies…”
“The top bar of a goalpost tipped over and struck the boy on the head and shoulders when his teammates … were attempting to move the soccer goal by pushing it from behind.”
By Linda Spice, Journal Sentinel staff, Last Updated: Nov. 24, 1999
“Losing Season Prompts Dad to Sue Son's Coach."
This is NOT a joke.
After a dismal season, a baseball coach was sued in small-claims court for being a lousy coach.
The father of the 16-year-old catcher demanded $2,000, "the estimated value of a seven-day Florida trip the team could have made, had it not lost every game. Most by a 10-run mercy rule." He claimed the team played so poorly that his son lost out.
Source: “Parents take sportsmanship out of kids' sports "
Jewish World Review Dr. Laura, March 1, 2000 /24 Adar I, 5760
“Lawsuit Clouds Play At PONY Tournament”
Sports Headline from the Tampa Tribune Published on August 5, 2003
Lawsuits are more and more common.
How many newspaper stories have appeared lately regarding lawsuits and youth sports?
Why is Risk Management so important/
Well,
Every one has seen the news stories and heard about many sports related
lawsuits.
Ask participants in the audience to volunteer some of the stories that they have
heard about.
Take about 3 responses and then move on to the next slide.

41. RISK MANAGEMENT
The majority of litigation dealing with coaches involves negligence.
Negligence: Defined as the failure to use reasonable and prudent care in a situation that may cause harm to someone or something.
While some articles that we have reviewed are frivolous, most cases focus
on coaching who were negligent.
Review Slide.

42. Risk Management IN THE SUPREME COURT OF CALIFORNIA 8/28/03
Plaintiff  vs  - EAST SIDE UNION HIGH SCHOOL
“Coaches could be legally liable for injuries sustained by young athletes under their control, …”
Reported by DAVID KRAVETS, AP Legal Affairs Writer
Can a youth coach really be held liable for injuries to young athletes?
Here is a headline to think about.
In a recent ruling in CA, their Supreme Court made it real clear that
Coaches can be held legally liable for injuries to young athletes.

43. RISK MANAGEMENT
One key component of being a responsible coach is to learn the Pop Warner rules and the expectations set by your local board.
Official Rule Book: Know and understand the rules of Pop Warner.
League Rules & Procedures: Make sure that you understand your responsibilities and that you carry out the expectations of your board.
Pop Warner Coaches Risk Management Handbook.
Review Slide.
Coaches and administrators are responsible for all information contained in
National Rule Book and local publications. Just knowing the rules and
guidelines goes a long way toward avoiding litigation and being a
responsible coach.

44. TOP DUTIES OF A COACH B. Properly plan the activity.
C. Provide appropriate supervision.
D. Provide proper instruction.
E. Provide adequate and safe equipment.
F. Evaluate for injury or incapacity.
G. Provide safe physical environment.
H. Match athletes appropriately
I. Warn of inherent dangers
Initiate medical response.
Where’s Letter “A”?
Actually, these letters come straight out of the PW Coaches Risk Management handbook available in your binder or at
The nine reasons behind a Head Coach
Use this as a check list for your responsibilities

45. B-Properly plan the activity
Plans must be reasonable, well thought out, based on past experience with the athletes’ readiness in mind.
All plans should be reviewed continuously and kept for the record.
Finally, plans should contain properly written performance objectives and documented logical sequences and progression for learning the skill.
Review Slide:
Stress that good coaches (both football & cheer) come to practice with pencil
and paper.
The next slide will go into how to write this “lesson plan.”

46. We don’t plan to fail; We fail to plan. Risk Management Review Slide.
Pause for effect. Go to next slide.

47. Warm-up and Cool down
A proper warm-up and cool-down helps athletes train and compete without being injured.
Guidelines for Warm-up/Cool down are found in the Pop Warner Coaches Risk Management Manual as well as the Pop Warner Rule Book. They include –
Minimum 10 minute warm-up before and 10 minute cool down after practices and games
No more than 30 minutes of warm-up before games and competitions
Stress the importance of warning up and cooling down.
A good Practice Plan includes a set time for warming up and cooling down.
Proper stretches are those that focus on increasing flexibility.
AVOID BOUNCING – When stretching.
Many coaches don’t know that Flexibility is a form of Strength. Flexible
Muscles not only reduce the chance of injury. They tend to be stronger.

48. Guidelines for Training can be found in your Risk Management Manual.
Training methods and type, frequency, duration, and intensity of practices should vary among athletes, depending on the athlete’s age, physical conditioning, mental state, and training goals. The purpose of training is to prepare for competition. Training is not to be used as a disciplinary activity, unsupervised play, or competition itself.
Guidelines for Training can be found in your Risk Management Manual.
It is important to work to improve the athletes physical conditions. To help them
Get “IN-SHAPE.” But remember this a gradual process.
Work on gradually improving conditioning.
Try to avoid techniques such as running laps for punishments. It does not do
a whole lot to improve conditioning and just takes the athlete away from a chance
to learn.

49. C-PROVIDE APPROPRIATE SUPERVISION
General supervision is the oversight of all area and events taking place during the session, whether training or competition.
Specific supervision is the oversight of specific elements or skills being performed.
Coaches should avoid any situation where a single coach is alone with one or more minors (always have 2 or more coaches)
Guidelines for Supervision can be found in your Risk Management Manual.
There are two basic types of supervision: General and Specific.
Review Slide.
Stress the importance of never being alone (one on one) with an athlete and
stress the importance of never leaving a coach alone with an athlete.
Being alone with a minor is a risk that you just can’t take.
The reality, is that you never who is child predator – yet to get caught, and
You never know which child may accuse an adult of doing something that
they did not do. Believe it or not, there have been cases of children lying
about being abused to get attention. .
Both situations are truly avoidable.

50. D-Provide Proper Instruction
Sports coaches are responsible for instructing athletes on sport-specific techniques and skills, game rules, safety rules, and sportsmanship.
Introduce the Skill
Demonstrate the Skill
Explain the Skill
Pay attention to Athletes Practicing the Skill
Guidelines for Proper Instruction can be found in your Risk Management Manual.
Remember you can be held responsible for what you should have known
and/or done as well as what you do. When you agree to accept the
responsibility of coaching, you will be held to a minimum standard of
knowledge necessary to perform that function.
Review Slide

51. RISK MANAGEMENT
The number one law suit for youth sports is teaching improper technique.
As a coach it is your responsibility to improve your coaching skills by taking classes, reading books, going to clinics, or reviewing tapes that will allow you to give proper instructions on technique.
As a coach, do not attempt to teach skills that YOU DO NOT know or understand.
And the answer is…
Review the slide.
Point out that:
Coaches may go to camps & clinics to learn skills,
and note that many high school coaches and college coaches
are open to letting youth coaches observe practices – especially, if
you are coaching players that will eventually play or cheer for them.

52. E- Provide Adequate and Safe Equipment
Equipment should be fitted properly.
Inspected daily and maintained at all times.
Guidelines for Safe Equipment can be found in your Risk Management Manual.
Review Slide:
You can trust that in case of a lawsuit, the big time equipment manufactures
can afford better attorneys than most youth football coaches.
More details on the next slide.

53. F- Evaluate for Injury and Incapacity
Coaches have a duty to evaluate the physical fitness, the mental condition and the skill level of athletes.
Coaches must be able to accurately identify other conditions that must be attended to in a timely manner.
Forcing athletes to participate is not an acceptable behavior.
Guidelines for Injury and Incapacity can be found in your Risk Management Manual.
Review slide.
More on this topic will be discussed in the section when we review the
Emergency Action Plan.

54. G- Provide Safe Physical Environment
Although facility managers, building owners and other operators have certain responsibilities for providing a safe environment in and around their facilities, coaches are responsible for inspecting all areas to be utilized in practice and competition to identify hazards.
Review the slide.
Point out that each practice should begin with a walk through of the field to
check for anything unsafe.
Especially those that use city and county parks for practice, God only knows
what goes on at those parks when you are not at practice.
Check the field daily.
Also, be sure that if the park has “off-limits” areas that they are clearly
marked.
Tell your commissioner or cheer coordinator about any unsafe conditions,
Guidelines for Safe Physical Environment can be found in your Risk Management Manual.

55. INCLEMENT WEATHER
Monitoring weather condition is the responsibility of the game official, Coaches, Association and League Commissioners.
Discuss the procedures you will follow if inclement weather becomes an issue (PW rules require that you have a plan!!)
Presidents are responsible for notifying the League Commissioner when, due to weather, a game(s) can not be played.
Everyone is responsible for keeping up with weather.
Discuss with your Commissioner or Cheer Coordinator to set-up a bad weather
plan.
More on this issue will be discussed after our Lightning Video.

56. H – Match Athletes Appropriately
Coaches must be sure their participants are not at a serious disadvantage by improperly matching them for practices or competition.
Skill, experience, height, weight, age, injuries, maturity, mental state and gender ALL must be considered in matching participants.
Review Slide.
Mismatching athletes is not only dangerous, it is also a good way to destroy
an athletes confidence.
Conversely,
Properly matching athletes is not only safer, it also builds confidence.
It is not unusual for a young athlete who starts playing Pop Warner with
little confidence, maybe afraid to make contact, to become good
hitters by the end of the season – IF – he is not put in situations that make him
loose confidence.
Our Goal is to build confidence. In both football and cheer or dance, give
the athletes tasks that they can accomplish, and then gradually increase the
level of difficulty.
Guidelines for Match Athletes can be found in your Risk Management Manual.

57. I- Warn of Inherent Risks
Coaches must warn athletes of the risks of the skill, drill, or game.
Participants need to be informed of the risks in using improper, dangerous and unethical techniques.
Guidelines for Inherent Risks can be found in your Risk Management Manual.
Failure to inform parents and participants of potential risks has resulted
in successful lawsuits.
Make sure parents have read and signed the age/wt. card.

58. Inherent Risks
Meet with the parents of your athletes and explain the Dangers of Playing Football and Cheer/Dance.
Review “Article 6” in Pop Warner Book.
Review slide:
Article 6 is outlined in the next slide.

59. RISK MANAGEMENT Warm Weather Precautions:
Discipline of participants
Scheduling of practice
Provide plenty of water
Mandatory breaks
Be aware what will cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
In addition to lightning, the heat is another big concern that must be included
in a risk management discussion.
No laps for discipline. Discipline should be as non-physical as possible.
Try to schedule practices for the coolest part of the day.
NEVER DENY WATER. And MAKE CERTAIN that WATER IS ALWAYS
AVAILABLE AND IS PROVIDED ANYTIME A PARTICIPANT
ASKS FOR IT.
Mandatory 15 minute break at mid-point IN ADDITION TO THE 10 MINUTES
REQUIRED EACH HOUR.
Learn the signs and the differences between heat cramps, heat exhaustion
and heat stroke.
Give out Handout Keep handout available and learn it. 59

60. J- INITIATE MEDICAL RESPONSE
Provide Appropriate Emergency Assistance.
Check the scene for safety.
Check the injured athlete and protect from further harm, following universal precautions when appropriate.
DO NOT MOVE THE ATHLETE
Activate your “Emergency Action Plan” (PW rules require that you have a plan!!)
Care for the injured athlete until EMS Arrive
Review slide.
Know when to call for help and utilize 911.
Never help an athlete up or carry them off the field or mat.
If you think an injury is minor, let the athlete get up on their own and prove it.
Handout Emergency Action Plan
Guidelines for Medical Response can be found in your Risk Management Manual.

61. NOAA's National Weather Service Heat Index61

62. INITIATE MEDICAL RESPONSE
Plan: Work together with your local EMT’s to establish an Emergency Action Plan that will fit your specific area and needs.
Plan should include informing visiting team of medical staff available, emergency numbers, directions to emergency medical facilities. The CDPW Game Report requires that this information be recorded BEFORE the start of a Game.
Reminder – calling 911 from a cell phone is not as responsive as utilizing a “land line”
The CDPW Game report MUST identify the individual responsible for medical emergencies (medic).
CDPW requires that a medic be identified for ALL practices locations.
Review contents of the slide.

63. Concussion Awareness

66. US Dept of Health Concussion Awareness

70. Helmet Reconditioning

71. RISK MANAGEMENT Article 6 Football participants or Cheerleaders
Informed Parental consent
Medical examination
Proof of age
Scholastic
ID card with picture
Waivers
Accurate/Completed official rosters
All in a TEAM I.D. book. With you at all times
ALL OF THESE ITEMS ARE REQUIRED BEFORE A CHILD BEGINS ANY
PRACTICE OR OTHER POP WARNER ACTIVITY
Parental consent must be signed by a parent or Legal Guardian.
It is your responsibility to make certain they are aware of the risks involved in
football or cheer and dance.
A Physical (medical exam) must be current as of January 1st, must be signed and
dated by a Doctor, and must contain language releasing child for specific sports
activity.
Birth Cert. issued by governmental agency, passport, or military ID
Scholastic eligibility- 2.0 OR 70% average from previous year report card or
scholastic eligibility form completed. Some conferences may use an alternative
method to the scholastic eligibility form that requires bi-weekly monitoring of the
child’s progress..
ID Card- issued by SE Region. All information must be completed, with all
necessary signatures.
Where granted, a copy of the waiver must accompany other certification paperwork.
You have a Copy of yourcompleted National roster
All necessary information is to be kept in team book in specific order (covered later) 71

72. RISK MANAGEMENT
Mandated insurance: Is required for all associations who are members of Pop Warner. This will provide protection for practice fields, game fields, fund raisings, volunteers and drivers.
CDPW accident insurance is a secondary policy with a $100 deductable – an Injury Report MUST be submitted to the League Commissioner for that division within 5 days of injury.
CDPW also maintains $1 million liability with $1 million excess liability coverage.
CDPW DOES NOT provide liability coverage for Association Officers or Directors. This coverage may be obtained through PWLS.
Coaches Training: All coaches MUST be trained through the Little Scholars training Program.
Review slide.
Two big advantage of being in Pop Warner is the low cost group insurance,
And this Coaches Training Program.

73. Unit 3: Pop Warner Forms, Championships, and Game Guide

74. TEAM / SQUAD BOOK Should contain - Orange Sportsmanship Card
Yellow Field Tag Identification Card
Copy of National Pop Warner Rule Book
Copy of Commissioner’s Game Guide
Completed Preliminary Roster(s)
Older/lighter players must be on red-inked cards – do NOT cut and staple a card to make it from a regular card – directors can stamp the cards at certification if necessary
Head Coaches ID card
Players ID Cards with paperwork in the format shown on separate sheet
Picture (head and shoulders, wallet-size)
Parent or guardian’s permission
Emergency contact person (other than parent)
All identification information
Birth Certificate
June 2012 report card or Scholastic Eligibility Form
2012 Physical Fitness and Medical History Form 74 74

75. Book Format
2013 Season

76. Little Scholars
CDPW Forms Page. CDPW.Org/Forms

77. Spirit/Dance Declaration
CDPW.org/forms or Popwarner.com

78. ALPHA SPLITTING
When two teams (spirit or football, Mitey Mite through Midget Divisions) are entered in the same division, the front half of the alphabet will be the “A” team and play in the American Conference and the back half will be the “B” team in the National Conference.
In the event there are three (3) teams or more, the third team will be Team C and play in the American Conference (or in the third conference if one is established), which shall be evenly divided by thirds (1/3) in alphabetical order.
The alphabetic split of players into teams must occur after the first ten (10) hours of team practice.

79. ALPHA SPLIT (CONTINUED)
A roster must be submitted on paperwork day corresponding to the player participation ID cards being certified.
A head coach or an assistant coach’s son or daughter may play on the team their father or mother coaches no matter where their name falls in the alphabet. This will be considered before the split occurs. Family members may also remain together.

80. Rules 6 and 20
Rule 6 – Cutting of players – any player must be cut who weighs 6 or more lbs. above the max weight for division or weighs 3 or more lbs. less than minimum at the time of the initial practice session.
Rule 20 – Forfeiture of all games in which ineligible player was a member of the team. There are NO exceptions

81. Cheer Eligibility Clarification
Participants may individually enroll in non-Pop Warner affiliated instructional classes. However, a participant may not be officially enrolled in another competitive cheer or dance squad that is not a High School affiliated “winter sport” program. Junior High, Elementary, All-Star and other Recreational cheer and dance squad participation is not permitted during the Pop Warner Season.

82. COMMISSIONER / ADMINISTRATOR’S GAME GUIDE
RESPONSIBILITIES – following each football game
Copy cdpw.org/forms
The Home Team’s Game Commissioner shall be responsible for filing the Game Report and associated Statistician Reports with the appropriate League Commissioner.
The Home and Visiting Team’s Commissioner shall be responsible for recording remarks involving the character of the game, players, and coaches. They are both responsible for identifying and reporting (on the Game Report) any possible violations of rules (Federation or National). Both Commissioner/Administrators are responsible for signing the FINISHED game report acknowledging all comments (even though the Commissioner may not agree with the content).

83. COMMISSIONER FIELD IDENTIFICATION CARDS
There shall be one (1) Home Team Game Commissioner who shall be solely responsible for the control of the game and shall be assisted by a Commissioner from the visiting team.
All Commissioner must be certified for the current season.
Any Association president acting as an assistant coach may be the Association Head Commissioner, but cannot be certified to act as a Game Commissioner.
Each football team and cheer/dance squad must have an adult coach 21 years of age or older, for every 12 participants, to be present at all practices and games. Head coaches and all assistants must be certified by the Federation Board of Directors.
All Association Presidents, Cheer Coordinators, Coaches, Commissioner, Trainers, Equipment Personnel, Statisticians, and Spotters may only be on the field of play by wearing the appropriate field identification tags.

84. Injury Report
Must be filled out anytime a participant must be withdrawn from game or practice due to injury.
Injury reports must be filed immediately with the league.
Parent or guardian should acknowledge receipt of the insurance form by signing the Injury Report.
Game injury reports MUST be sent with game report

85. Tie Ball Games
In the event a game ends in a tie, the National Federation of State High School Associations shall govern the tiebreaker:
4 downs from the 10 yard line
NO GAMES (except Mitey Mite) will end in a tie.

87. Number and Payment of Officials
All Tackle Division Games
4 officials should be assigned, a game may be played with a minimum of 3
If less than 3 officials, NO GAME and NO SCRIMMAGE.
Head Game Commissioner must pay officials during halftime (payment must be in the form of an Association Check).

88. Player Eligibility
If a player or spirit participant is ejected from a game, ejection MUST be noted on the Game Report.
Ejected child shall be ineligible for participation at next game.
If the child is ejected from a second game (same season), child will be ineligible for remainder of season.

89. Medical Coverage
Medical coverage during games and practices is the responsibility of the HOME association.
Ranking of Medical Coverage:
A physician
A licensed physician’s assistant
A nurse practitioner
A paramedic
An emergency medical technician (including EMT-FR)
A certified multi-medical Red Cross card carrier or equivalent (nurses do not qualify unless they fall into at least one of the above categories)
When available coverage is equal rating, the home team coverage will prevail.

90. Pre-Game Requirements
Team book turned over to Game Commissioner 1 hour prior to game. (Players ID Cards must be alpha)
Introduce yourself to the officials and record their names and category next to their game assignment of the game report…
Introduce yourself to the head coach of each team and introduce the officials to the coaches…
Obtain 3 individuals (at least 16 years old) for down marker and yardage change. Visiting team should supply at least 1 person.
Check size of football(s) to be used.
Sideline officials (statisticians, spotters, chain crew) should refrain from cheering, etc.

91. Statisticians
Record names of both statisticians on game report. (Must be at least 16 years old). Obtain a spotter for each statistician. Remember: statisticians and spotters must wear white Field ID Tags.
Home team statistician shall record the minimum plays for the visiting team side of the field. Visiting team statistician shall record the minimum plays for the home team players on the home side of the field.
At half time, request the statistician count of players who have not completed the required number of plays and inform the respective head coach. Repeat at the end of the 3rd quarter (if necessary).
Notify each head coach when all of his players have completed the minimum play requirements.
Be sure statisticians have signed and dated the Statistician Reports.
Attach both Statistician Reports to the game report.

92. STATISTICIAN SHEET

93. Minimum Play Rule Coaches shall follow the minimum play rule.
16 – 25 players  10 plays (12 for Mitey Mite)
26 – 30 players  8 plays (10 for Mitey Mite)
31 – 35 players  6 plays (8 for Mitey Mite)
Flag – All players will receive 10 plays.
The following do not count toward MPR
Kickoffs, extra points, and free kicks
Plays that result in a penalty and are replayed
A non-active play – for example, the QB takes a knee
MPR must be met for all players by start of 4th Quarter or
ALL players with less than minimum MUST enter the game and remain in game until MPR is met.

94. 28 Point Rule The official clock becomes running clock
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.
There will be no Blitzing
There will be no on-side kicks at kickoff.
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.
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.
Any coach who employs types of plays without the intent to maximize the action of play shall be in violation of this rule.
The teams are still required to complete the mandatory play rule.
An investigation will be conducted if a game ends with a score differential of 28 points or more.

95. Full Investigation
When the statements of the coaches are in disagreement, the Federation requires responses to the 6 questions listed in the game guide.
Based on answers, the Federation shall determine whether or not to conduct a Hearing.

96. 16 Player Rule Tackle
There needs to be a minimum of 16 eligible players to start a game.
If a player becomes injured in the course of the game, and is unable to return to the game (as determined by the officially designated medical personnel), and the count of eligible players falls below 16, then the game will immediately be suspended.
The Federation Commissioner should be notified immediately, and the game will be played as a continuation on the following Wednesday evening at a place to be determined by the Federation Board. If the injured player(s) are not able to return to the game at that time, the team falling below 16 players will forfeit the game. Only players who started the game will be allowed to play in the continuation game.
If a game is suspended for any other reason (power failure, etc.), the game will also be continued following the procedures outlined above. However, if there were any players injured at the time the game was suspended, they will not be allowed to re-enter the game. Only players eligible to play at the time the game was suspended will be allowed to play in the continuation game.

97. Minimum Player Rule Tackle Flag
There needs to be a minimum of 16 eligible players to start a game.
If a player becomes injured in the course of the game, and is unable to return to the game (as determined by the officially designated medical personnel), and the count of eligible players falls below 16, then the game will immediately be suspended.
The Federation Commissioner should be notified immediately, and the game will be played as a continuation on the following Wednesday evening at a place to be determined by the Federation Board. If the injured player(s) are not able to return to the game at that time, the team falling below 16 players will forfeit the game. Only players who started the game will be allowed to play in the continuation game.
If a game is suspended for any other reason (power failure, etc.), the game will also be continued following the procedures outlined above. However, if there were any players injured at the time the game was suspended, they will not be allowed to re-enter the game. Only players eligible to play at the time the game was suspended will be allowed to play in the continuation game.
Flag
There needs to be a minimum of 10 eligible players to start a game.

98. Other Procedures
Each team shall furnish at game time a numerically listed statistician form including starting offense and defense, and player's jersey number in the number of play square.
For Tackle games, the Home teams shall furnish an upright scale to be used by the Game Commissioner for the pre-game weigh-in. A certified weight shall be used to check the accuracy of the scale. A certified weight must be present or the game is forfeited.
The home team shall provide a suitable enclosure to be used for pre-game weigh-in. Enclosure shall provide adequate cover, and be out of view of fans.
Players late for pre-game weigh-in:
15 minutes before start of game, cannot play first half.
Any part of first half weigh-in at half-time may play second half.
After the end of second quarter - not qualified to play.
Once a game has started, only the head official can call the game off. A Game Commissioner may request from the head coach a time out to talk to the referee if there is a circumstance pending on the field. A Game Commissioner cannot call a time out.

99. 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. Coaches may remain on the field, at the option of the League. A maximum of one (1) coach per team is permitted on the field except during kick-offs and punts.
There shall be no blitzing, no rushing of: punts, field goals or point after touchdown (while attempting a kick) in Mitey-Mite play.
A special CDPW Note – Coaches will be allowed on the field during the first TWO (2) WEEKS of the season.

100. Sportsmanship Statement
As part of routine operation at all football games and the cheerleading competition, we would like to have the NYS Public High School Athletic Association statement on Sportsmanship (as modified to reflect Pop Warner as being the requiring authority) read over the loud speaker (if a PA system is available) or at the Official’s meeting at the 50 yard line prior to the coin toss).
Sportsmanship Statement
The Capital District Pop Warner Football Federation requires officials to enforce all sportsmanlike rules for athletes and coaches. We will not tolerate negative statements or actions between opposing players, especially trash-talking, taunting or baiting of opponents. If such comments are heard or actions seen, a penalty will be assessed immediately. We have been instructed not to issue warnings. Let today’s contest reflect mutual respect.

101. Pre-Game Weigh-In
Only certified Commissioners may be Game Commissioners and conduct weigh-ins.
The decision of the weigh-master is final.
Weigh-in must begin one (1) hour prior to scheduled start of game and be completed within 15 minutes of kickoff.
Weigh-in home team first.
A representative, preferably the Commissioner of the visiting team, must be present during weigh-in. Coaches are allowed in the pre-game weigh-in area for disciplinary reasons only (at the discretion of the Game Commissioner.)
Game Commissioner shall personally:
Check and sign cards
Check players' jersey number by having each player give number aloud.
Check helmet of each player for achievement or incentive awards. (They are not allowed.)
Record date and place your initials and indicate the player’s status for each game where indicated on ID card.
Players will be weighed according to the Acceptable Method described in National Rule Book (full equipment without helmet). If a player fails to meet the weight requirement when using the Acceptable Method, they will be given an opportunity, after the other players have been weighed, to be weighed using the Ideal Method (without equipment; gym shorts and socks).

102. Acceptable Method
Player weighed with uniform and protective equipment (no helmet).
Pass / Fail limits
Weight allowances for equipment
Mitey Mite 7 lbs.
Jr. Peewee & Peewee 8 lbs.
Jr. Midget & Midget 9 lbs.
Decision of weigh master is final!
Once weigh-in is completed, no equipment shall be exchanged.
1 lb per week beginning week 2 to max of 9 lbs. on week 10.

103. Spirit Participants
The cheer/dance squad team book(s) are to be turned over to the Game Commissioner prior to the start of game.
Immediately following the players' weigh-in, the Game Commissioner will take attendance and initial each ID card, including coaches’ ID card, and Commissioner/Administrators’ ID card. Participants should line up in alphabetical order and present themselves to the game commissioner certifying the book.
If an injury or disciplinary action occurs during game conditions, it will be noted on the game report. (Same as for players.)
Cheer/dance participants not present at the time attendance is taken may not cheer the first half. If a cheer/dance participant arrives prior to the end of the second quarter they may participate during the second half, providing the Game Commissioner is notified and the ID card is initialed accordingly.
If a cheer/dance squad does not have an adult coach (21 years or older) for every 12 participants present at the game, the squad or squads may not participate during the game.

104. During the Game
Inside the 25 yard markers and within the coaches’ box on the playing field, each team may have, in addition to the players, a maximum of seven team personnel. This includes 5 certified coaches, 1 equipment person, and 1 certified trainer. All others must stay behind the restraining device, except for the pre-game identified medical person.
Cheer/dance participants may be within five (5) yards of the playing field, but may not be within the 25-yard markers. The exception to the “25 yard markers rule” will be those fields with suitable space behind the football player’s bench (e. g. fields having a running track around the field). In these cases, the cheer/dance participants may cheer within the 25-yard markers, BUT MAY NOT be inside the football player’s “box”.
It shall be the responsibility of each team to maintain spectator control during the game. The Game Commissioner may ask the officials to penalize the team that fails to maintain control after one (1) warning. Each team must maintain control over its coaching staff during the game. Failure to maintain spectator and/or coaching staff control in pre-game, game and post-game situations could lead to an extreme penalty such as game forfeiture.
The Game Commissioner shall personally check with medical personnel on all injuries. If an injury report is filled out, the information must be listed on the game report and the injury report(s) sent along with the game report.
Maintain a record of score by quarters (not a running score) and record final score on game report.

105. During Game - Continued
As noted in the National Rules: 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. This includes the use of Cellular Telephones. Teams violating this restriction will be subject to disciplinary action.
Games may be videotaped but videotapes cannot be shown at half time, per Regional Rules.
If a problem arises call the Federation Commissioner of the given division.
Home team is not required to furnish visitors with enclosure unless they use enclosure themselves. If this is the case, they must also provide a suitable enclosure for the visiting team.

106. Field ID Tags
Tags must be worn in plain view around the neck. Tags will be color-coded as follows:
Yellow = CDPW Board, and Association Presidents
Orchid = Association Spirit Coordinator
Blue = Football Team Head Coaches
Green = Football Team Assistant Coach
Orange = Football Team Trainer and
Orange = Football Team Equipment Manager
Red = Game Commissioner
White = Statistician
White = Spotter
Violet = Spirit Head Coach
Lime Green = Spirit Assistant Coaches
Tan = Spirit Squad Commissioner

107. Post Game
Record all football game violations and/or suspected game violations and/or any comment from the coaches and/or officials on game report including any incidents involving cheer/dance participants.
Mail on Monday, with statistician and injury reports, to designated division Federation Commissioner.
All scores must be reported (this includes Mitey Mite). The Home Association is responsible for reporting game scores as follows: All Games Reports, Injury Reports, and Statistician Reports shall be filed with the Federation Commissioner. The Home Game Commissioner is responsible for ensuring that all forms are filled out in their entirety, and submitted in a timely fashion.
Game scores, results and standings (except Mitey Mite) will posted weekly on the website.

108. Rulebook Guidelines for Practice
BEFORE LABOR DAY: No team or squad may schedule more than 10 hours of practice per week before Labor Day. A week is defined as seven (7) consecutive calendar days. Not more than 2-1/2 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.)

109. Rulebook Guidelines for Practice
AFTER LABOR DAY: Practices after Labor Day weekend are limited to 6 hours per week. A week is defined as seven (7) consecutive calendar days. 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.

110. Rulebook Guidelines for Practice
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.
CONDITIONING: After the first week of practice (10 hours) 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. 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.

111. Rulebook Guidelines for Practice
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 S7 of this article.
WARM-UP & WARM-DOWN: At least 10 minutes of warm-up exercises (to stretch and to limber-up) shall be included prior to spirit practice, with a maximum of 30 minute warm-up period prior to games and competitions. Warm-up and stretching should precede and conclude all practices, games, performances and competitions.

112. Capital District Competition
10/13/2013 at the SEFCU Arena (SUNY)
Mat – 54 x 42
Performance Timing
Cheer (JPW, PW, JM, M) – 2.5 min overall / 90 sec music
Dance (JPW, PW, JM, M) – 2.5 min
Mitey Mite and Cub – 2 min overall / 60 sec music
Interruption of performance
If a failure of official / host equipment, squad will be allowed to present at end of division
If failure of squad’s equipment, squad must continue or withdraw from competition

113. Advancement
Eastern Region Cheer and Dance the NJ Sunbank Arena, Trenton, NJ 11/9 & 11/10 the Albany Times Union Center 11/16 & 11/17
Capital District will be participating in Empire in 2013.

114. UNIT 4 COACH-ATHLETE COMMUNICATION – BEING A GOOD TEACHER OF THE GAME
&
WHY CHILDREN PLAY YOUTH SPORTS
This Unit outlines important topics in youth sports psychology.
We will discuss the issues important to making your coaching experience one
that will be beneficial and memorable for the athletes.

115. Coach-Athlete Communication
Effective Communication
Get to know your participants
Communicate that you care
Let them know that they matter to you
First things – First. To be an effect communicator, coaches must start by
creating a relationship with their players.
Review the slide.
Note: Coaches don’t need to be buddy-buddy with the players, but it is important
that you take time to get to know each player as a person.
Good coaches communicate with the players on personal level.

116. Coach-Athlete Communication
Giving Effective Feedback
Catch athletes doing things correctly.
Be Specific & Concise.
Focus on Strengths more than Weaknesses.
Give feedback promptly – Immediately.
Be sincere when giving praise.
Reward Improvements – Not Perfection.
Reward Effort as well as Outcome.
Avoid being insulting and negative.
Effective Feedback is one of the keys to being a good teacher of the game.
Point out that for children to learn a new skill, effective teachers use 5 times
as many positive statements as they do negative statements. (research based).
Review Slide
Go through each point with a brief explanation of each.

117. WHY CHILDREN PLAY YOUTH SPORTS
This is the intro slide into the section when we discuss why children play
Youth Sports.
Knowing why children have signed up for football and cheerleading is key to
maximizing their experience in Pop Warner.
WHY CHILDREN PLAY YOUTH SPORTS

118. WHY CHILDREN PLAY SPORTS
SURVEY SAYS…
TOP 5 REASONS WHY YOUTH SAY THAT THEY PLAY SPORTS
******************************************
Have FUN!!!
Be on Team – Be with Friends
Learn New Skills
The Excitement of Competition
Get in Shape
Reason 5 = Get in shape.
Football players and cheerleaders like to be in good shape. Many play sports
for this reason.
Have the participant with the last walnut, “Get in shape” come forward.
Demonstrate that when we put the adult motives for being in youth sports
(winning championships, beating the cross town rival, going to Disney in Dec.)
that we can not fit in the reasons why children want to play youth sports. This
is the reason why we have so much turn-over and why so many lose
interest in sports later on.
Now, put the nuts in the empty sugar jar, pointing out each of the five reasons
why youth play sports as you put them in the jar.
After all the nuts are in the jar, pour in the sugar from the 1st jar. Point out that
when we put the reasons “why children play youth sports” first, then some of the
other things can fall in place. Championships and a winning season may be the
result having your priorities in the right order.

119. WHY CHILDREN PLAY SPORTS
Top 5 Reasons
Why Youth Drop Out of Sports
1. Lost interest (boring.)
2. I was not having fun.
3. It took too much time.
4. Coach was a poor teacher (always hollering.)
5. Too much pressure (worrying about the coach getting mad.)
Now that we have discussed the 5 reasons why children play sports, let’s go
through these top 5 reasons (according to research) as to why youth drop
out of sports.
This slide is designed to have each reason fade in.
Click the slide to make the list appear as you review the slide.
Note that…
The reasons for leaving are directly related to the reasons
that they play in the first place.
If their reasonable expectations are not met, they will not return.

120. WHY CHILDREN PLAY SPORTS
How to Keep Young Athletes Involved
in Football & Cheerleading
Emphasize Learning New Skills and Improving Existing Ones.
Have Fun.
Maintain a Safe Environment.
Challenge Athletes with Physical Exercises in a Creative Way.
Give participants a Sense of Belonging to a Team
Review slide.
Here are some key points to avoid having athletes drop out of the program.
If you have a team with a lot of drop outs, coaches may want to be sure that
they are doing these 5 things.
1. Let the athletes be proud that they are learning new skills and the sport.
2. Be positive, have fun yourself.
3. Use prudent care. Keep the kids safe physically and emotionally – do NOT
allow players to tease or ridicule each other. Some teams have a rule
that players must always say positive things to other players.
4. One creative way to do conditioning is with relay races & challenges.
5. Do all you can to keep and maintain that feeling of “team.” Consider a
team slogan, team shirts, etc.

121. THE CONCERN
Pop Warner has been increasingly concerned about the numbers of incidents of parental violence and misbehavior of coaches. As a member it is your responsibility to change this trend and harness the energy for a more positive result.
With increases in problems in youth sports around the country. Pop Warner
has taken action to try to prevent problems at Pop Warner events.
Pop Warner has adopted a new, comprehensive code of conduct which extends
to parents and spectators. As a volunteer, you are responsible for your own
conduct and for helping to control the conduct of those in your charge and
those who attend your games.

122. Coach & Parent Behavior
The news papers and TV are full of stories about youth coaches and parents ruining youth sports for the kids.
Audience participation.
By now everyone has seen the news stories such as the “Hockey Dad” and
“Texas Cheerleading Mom”. Ask participants to give other examples of
bad conduct from coaches and parents.
Take about 3 responses and then move on to the next slide.

123. COACH/PARENTAL BEHAVIOR
What about the parent who:
Uses Verbal Abuse
Attempts to Intimidate
Is Flagrantly Rude
Cannot Control Their Language or Actions
Now that we have seen some parents and coaches who have made the news
in a negative way, what can we do to prevent these problems
Review the 4 bullets on the slide.
These are examples of fan behavior that will no longer be tolerated.
As administrators and coaches, you are responsible to distribute this
information to your parents and other fans.
Ask the questions on the bottom, then advance to the next slide for more
discussion.
The answer, of course, is that we need to let parents know, at the start of
the season, that these things will not be tolerated.
Should This Individual Be Removed From Pop Warner?
What if it was a…
(A Board Member, Coach, Football Player, or Cheerleader)

124. COACH/PARENTAL BEHAVIOR
Does a coach have the right to be belligerent?
Does a winning coach have the right to be treated differently than a coach who does not have a good season?
If a coach physically abuses an official, administrator, or any Pop Warner volunteer, what should happen to him/her?
Review the Slide.
Discuss each point.
1. Disruptive individuals must be removed for the sake of safety and the
integrity of program
A coach has the right to make his point. He does not have the right to cross
the line into disrespect or belligerence.
All coaches expend their time and energy for the benefit of the children in their care.
One is not entitled to better treatment than another on the basis of win/loss records.
4. Physical abuse, by anyone in any fashion, is grounds for permanent removal
from the program. This behavior may also be met with an arrest and legal
consequences.

125. COACH/PARENTAL BEHAVIOR
As a Coach it is your responsibility to control these types of behaviors.
CDPW, as the governing body, will assist your Association in dealing with problem behaviors and disruptive individuals .
CDPW, along with your Association, MUST have a zero tolerance for aggressive, disruptive, and disrespectful behavior.
Review slide
If we all work together, we can reduce, if not eliminate, instances of
inappropriate behavior.

126. COACHES BEHAVIOR Leadership
Lead by example.
To be a good leader, you must be a good follower.
Review slide.
A coach is a leader. Not just of the team, but of the parents and the
community that have trusted the coach to teach their children.
Coaches who show respect for the authority and the game officials, will
have parents and players who do the same.

128. Unit 9 PWLS Members Code of Conduct

129. PWLS Members 2012 Code of Conduct

130. Required Reference Material
PWLS Official Rules
PWLS Risk Management Manual
NFSHSA Rule Book (Football and Spirit)
Capital District PW Policy Manual
Commissioners’ Game Guide

131. Patch Placement
131

132. Patch Order Form
132

133. CDPW
League Web Site
Cdpw.org
CDPW contacts:

134. Questions