Contents

Mission Statement

Philosophy

Requirements for Coaches

Role of the Coach

Facilitator

Positive Role Model

Teacher

Know Your Audience

Four Truths About Children and Sports

Player Motivation

Age Group Characteristics

Ages 7-9

Ages 10-12

Responsibilities and Guidelines

Coaches’ Code of Conduct

Offenses and Penalties

Player Participation Policy

Playing Time

Practice Requirements

Excused Absences

Unexcused Absences

Expectations for Practice

Player Safety Policy

Care and Prevention of Injuries

Injury Policy

Players’ Code of Conduct

Player Discipline Policy

Suspensions

Coaches’ Resources

Mission Statement

Our mission is to develop young athletes through positive coaching, teamwork, and character-building experiences. We strive to create a program where every child feels supported, challenged, and proud to represent the Stow community.

Philosophy

We are not just coaching football. We are developing the next generation of husbands, fathers, and leaders in our community. Football is the mechanism we have chosen to support and enable that development.

We have chosen football because many of the skills and qualities required can help a person become successful in the game of life:

• Discipline
• Hard work
• Cooperation
• Communication
• Commitment
• Continuous Improvement
• And many others…

“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” – Fredrick Douglas

This quote emphasizes that proactive nurturing, education, and moral guidance in childhood are more effective than attempting to fix damage or instability in adulthood. With that in mind, we aim to empower our young people to take on challenges and do difficult things. In doing so, we also aim to support and mentor our young people to maintain a positive attitude, manage their emotions in difficult situations, and NEVER GIVE UP!

If we are successful in our coaching endeavors, we will help create a better community and ultimately create a better world. It’s a marathon… not a sprint.

Requirements for Coaches

Coaches are role models and teachers of the fundamentals, sport-specific skills, tactics, strategy, and sportsmanship. Coaches are responsible for their personal conduct and behavior, as well as the conduct and behavior of their assistants and players. All coaches will follow the rules and guidelines laid out in this handbook. Any violations will be investigated by the Director, and the findings will be reviewed with the coach.

All coaches in the SYF program are considered “at will” coaches. A coach can be dismissed from the program at any time, with or without cause. Prior participation in the program, in any capacity, does not imply or guarantee future participation in the program.

Before a coach is allowed on the field with players, they must:

• Pass a background check
  • Returning coaches will be re-checked every 3 years
• Complete the USA Football coach’s certification
  • Must recertify, as required, every year
• Complete the prescribed concussion certification
  • Must be recertified, as required, by the certifying organization (NFHS, CDC, etc.)
• Acknowledge and agree to abide by the rules and policies laid out in the SYF Coaches’ Handbook

Role of the Coach

As a coach of a youth sports team, one must assume the responsibility of ensuring that each athlete has a safe and positive experience. To fulfill this responsibility, a coach can wear many different hats.

Facilitator

• Create the conditions for a positive and fun learning environment
• Give positive feedback (sarcasm and negativity should never occur)
• Encourage players to give each other positive feedback
• Be enthusiastic, organized, patient, sincere, and fair
• Minimize emphasis on winning and losing. Instead, emphasize learning, improvement, positive attitude, and giving your best effort
• Invite and encourage parents to help and participate in the program

Positive Role Model

• Work with all players equally, according to their ability
• Treat all players, coaches, officials, etc. with dignity and respect
• Maintain your composure, especially in difficult and stressful times
• Respect the game and play hard, within the rules, emphasizing sportsmanship and fair play

Teacher

• Be knowledgeable about the game, the rules, required skills, tactics, and strategy
• Use various methods to communicate your knowledge and instill it in your team
• Adapt and adjust your methods to ensure all players understand the lessons
• Review and evaluate all players to ensure they grasp the concepts and can perform the required skills
• Remediate lessons as required to ensure understanding
• Guide players towards other sources of knowledge to strengthen their understanding

“A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit.” – Greek Proverb

Know Your Audience

Many research studies have shown that youth sports can improve a child’s physical health, academic achievement, self-esteem, psychological development, etc. Many studies focus on the 5 C’s: Competence, Confidence, Connections, Character, and Caring, which are considered critical components of youth development.

Four Truths About Children and Sports

• Fun is pivotal. If it isn’t fun, kids will drop out of sports
• Skill development is a crucial aspect of fun
• Intrinsic rewards (personal pride, achievement, enjoyment) are more important in the long run than extrinsic rewards (trophies, medals, attention from others)
• The most rewarding challenges of youth sports are those that lead to self-knowledge, self-improvement, self-confidence, and self-esteem

Player Motivation

We know that kids play sports for various reasons. Some play for the love of the game. Others play to spend time with their friends. Unfortunately, some kids are pressured to play by their parents or another family member. The point is, all kids are NOT the same and they should be treated as individuals. It is the responsibility of the coach to learn what drives each player and use that to inspire everyone to be the best version of themselves.

Age Group Characteristics

Children grow and mature at different rates. To be an effective coach, you should understand the characteristics of the players on your team. You need to adapt your style to best connect with the kids and set them up for success.

Ages 7-9

At this point in their development, players begin to understand the concept of teamwork. (i.e. passing to a teammate, working together to achieve a goal, etc.)

Physically, they tend to lack a sense of pace and can exert themselves to the point of exhaustion. They have confidence in their physical abilities, and they enjoy running, climbing, jumping, etc. To keep them focused, keep them ACTIVE. Minimize down time and long periods of talking through instructions, concepts, etc.

Mentally, they believe that, if they tried hard, they performed well, regardless of the outcome. They can struggle with multi-step instructions or activities. Try and make it as simple as possible and focus on one thing at a time. Encourage and reward EFFORT.

Socially, they will start to form small groups of friends. They still need adult approval and like to “show off” individual skills. They want everyone to like them. Negative comments carry great weight. So, it is imperative that you are positive and encouraging.

Ages 10-12

Children in this age group are at the point where childhood starts to turn into adolescence. It can be a difficult time for many kids.

Physically, strength and power become more of a factor in performance. Their muscles start to mature and their coordination improves. However, rapid growth can affect their physical abilities. For example, something they could do well last year can become a struggle this year because they must “re-learn” how to use their bodies.

Mentally, they can sequence thoughts better and perform more complex tasks. You can expect players to better understand the nuances of the game, tactics, and strategy. Engage them… Explain WHY we do things a certain way. They are usually eager to learn, and they are more likely to give a better effort if they understand what they are doing and why they are doing it.

Socially, they are starting to develop their own identity. They can experiment with different clothing or hairstyles. They can start to show more interest in friend relationships than family and identify with a group that shares similar interests. They usually enjoy working together in groups. These factors can be leveraged to build a strong team dynamic. Be supportive and encouraging but also allow them some freedom to find their own way.

“…people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou

Responsibilities and Guidelines

Coaches participating in Stow Youth Football shall:

• Be reliable and on time
  • We understand that everyone has a life outside of football. If you have an issue, communicate it to the Director
• Keep the whole team informed of practices, games, special events, and any changes to the schedule
  • Via the Sports Plus App
• Keep emergency contact info for all players readily available during practices, games, and other program activities
  • Available in the Sports Plus App
• Keep a first aid kit stocked and readily available during games and practices
  • A first aid kit will be issued to the head coach by SYF
  • If you need to replenish your kit, communicate it to the Director
• Ensure all players receive practice reps and playing time according to OGYFA rules and SYF policies
• Never allow an injured player to return to the game or practice without proper clearance from medical personnel and/or the parent/guardian
• Conduct themselves in a professional manner and refrain from directing abusive, sarcastic, derogatory, and/or offensive language and/or gestures towards any other person
• Serve as a role model for players, other coaches, and spectators
• Maintain and keep accountability of all SYF equipment
  • Report any loss or damage to the Director
• Leave the facility in the same (or better) condition than how you found it
  • Pick up your trash
  • Put things back where they belong
  • Take all equipment, water bottles, clothing, etc. with you when you leave
  • Do not abuse, vandalize, or mis-use any facility or equipment

Coaches’ Code of Conduct

I will honor the fact that youth sports exist for the youth, not adults.

Expected Behavior:

• Maintain a positive attitude
• Exercise your authority/position to positively influence the behavior of others
• Accept both victory and defeat with class
• Adhere to all league and program rules and policies
• Adopt a “children first” philosophy
• Encourage players to give their best effort and play within the rules
• Emphasize learning, improvement, effort, and fun

I will do my best to ensure that every child has a positive and rewarding football experience.

Expected Behavior:

• Recognize and treat each player as an individual
• Demonstrate concern for each player’s needs and well-being
• Encourage all players, regardless of skill, to be included as a member of the team
• Recognize that some tasks, drills, and demands are not appropriate for all children
• Recognize that children can vary greatly in their physical, mental, and social maturity and consider these factors when setting up competitions and when interacting with the kids

I will do my best to organize practices that are fun and challenging for all players.

Expected Behavior:

• Establish practice plans that are interesting, varied, productive, and aimed at improving the skills and abilities of all players
• Devote appropriate time to the individual improvement of each player
• Conduct practices of reasonable length and intensity, appropriate for the age and level of conditioning of all players

I will exercise good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game, practice, and/or other special events.

Expected Behavior:

• Adopt the Golden Rule “Treat others the way you would want to be treated”
• Abide by and support the rules of the game
• Provide an environment of fair, healthy competition
• Use appropriate language, in appropriate tones, when interacting with officials, players, parents, and spectators and treat everyone with dignity and respect
• Rotate positions and call plays to avoid major scoring discrepancies

I will make sure all children play in a safe, healthy environment.

Expected Behavior:

• Maintain awareness of potentially unsafe conditions
• Protect players from any form of abuse or exploitation
• Correct and/or avoid unsafe playing conditions
• Use appropriate safety equipment to protect all players
• Ensure adequate adult supervision while the players are under your care

I will insist that my team exercise good sportsmanship towards coaches, officials, fans, and other players.

Expected Behavior:

• Learn and understand the rules, regulations, and policies applicable to your team
• Teach and require compliance with the rules among all players
• Teach skills and techniques that will reduce the risk of injury to any player
• Discourage illegal contact or intentionally dangerous play and discipline any player involved in such activity

I will provide a sports environment that is free from drugs, alcohol, and tobacco.

Expected Behavior:

• Remain clean and sober at all team activities and/or in the presence of players
• Refrain from the use of any type of tobacco at all team activities and/or in the presence of players (vaping included)
• Encourage parents and spectators to refrain from the public use of tobacco and/or alcohol at all team activities and/or in the presence of players

I will place the development of my players ahead of my personal desire to win.

Expected Behavior:

• Include all players in team activities without regard to race, religion, sex, body type, nationality, ancestry, disability, ability or any other legally protected classification
• Play every player according to the participation rules and policies
• Encourage kids to participate in other sports and activities to promote all aspects of their development
• Allow reasonable absences from practice

I will support other coaches and league officials.

Expected Behavior:

• Honor and support the rules, regulations, and policies of the league and the organization with players and parents
• Communicate any problems, questions, and/or concerns to the Director in a timely manner
• Refrain from criticizing another coach or official in front of players and parents
• Cooperate and help whenever possible

I will safeguard all Personal Identifying Information (PII) in my possession.

Expected Behavior:

• Keep control of any rosters or electronic devices that contain PII
• Do not share anyone’s phone number, address, email, birthday, etc. without approval from the individual, the parent/guardian, and/or Stow Youth Football

I will always remember:

1. This is just a GAME.
2. The players are CHILDREN.
3. The coaches are VOLUNTEERS.
4. The referees are HUMAN.
5. No CONTRACTS or SCHOLARSHIPS will be awarded today.

Offenses and Penalties

OGYFA By-Laws state:

15.24 Head coaches will receive the following warnings for unsportsmanlike conduct by them or anyone on their staff. 1) First offense – Official warning. 2) Second Offense – 15-yard penalty. 3) Third Offense – Head coach and the 3 ^rd offender ejected

15.24.1 Any coach or player ejected from a game for unsportsmanlike conduct will be ineligible for all games that day, as well as the next scheduled game for all levels. A coach who is ejected must leave the premises immediately. Neither player nor coach will be allowed on the premises for the one-game suspension.

For the following offenses and penalties:

• Stated penalties are not necessarily preceded by a warning.
• Minimum – The coach will receive at least the prescribed penalty.
• Maximum – This is the highest penalty the coach may receive.
• Multiple offenses will result in the doubling of penalties and may result in dismissal from the program.
• Penalties apply to both regular season and playoff games.
• Penalties include coaching or assistance with any other team in the program.
• Penalties apply to all SYF activities, not just practices and games.
• Coaches with children in the program…
  • May attend SYF activities as a parent/spectator, but will not act as a coach or in any other official capacity
  • Will conduct themselves as a role model for other parents/spectators
  • Any action, such as negative cheering, coaching from the sideline, etc. will result in immediate removal from the premises and suspension for the remainder of the season

Offense - Failure to follow established guidelines, rules, and/or policies

Penalty -

• Immediate ejection and removal from the premises
• Minimum - 1-week suspension
• Maximum – Dismissal from the program

Offense – Malicious, obscene, profane, and/or vulgar verbal abuse and/or gestures directed towards another individual

Penalty -

• Immediate ejection, removal from the premises
• Minimum - 2-week suspension
• Maximum – Dismissal from the program

Offense – Hateful (racist, sexist, homophobic) and/or otherwise inflammatory language or behavior used in any way, at anytime

Penalty –

• Immediate ejection, removal from the premises
• Dismissal from the program

Offense – Acts of physical aggression towards another individual (i.e. pushing, kicking, hitting, throwing things, etc.)

Penalty –

• Immediate ejection, removal from the premises
• Report the violation to the appropriate authorities, as required
• Dismissal from the program

Offense – Any violation of the law that results in arrest and/or criminal charges

Penalty –

• Immediate ejection, removal from the premises
• Indefinite suspension, until the charges are formally resolved
• Failure to report any violation to the Director in a timely manner will result in immediate dismissal from the program

“Culture is defined by the worst behavior tolerated.”

– John Amaechi

Player Participation Policy

In order to foster enjoyment and development, coaches are expected to adhere to the following guidelines.

Playing Time

OGYFA By-Laws state:

15.11.1 There will be a ten (10) play minimum for all divisions. Players must attend practice during game week to qualify for this minimum. This applies to all games and playoffs, including the championship.

SYF defines a “play” as a live down. “Dead-ball” plays, such as punts and kicks, will not count towards the 10-play minimum. Any play that is blown dead by an official prior to the completion of the play will not count towards the 10-play minimum.

After minimum requirements are met, coaches are encouraged to give additional playing time, based on the game situation. For example, if you are up by 2+ scores in the second half, it’s time to start rotating in players. Additional playing time should also be given as a reward for positive attitude and effort during the week.

Practice Requirements

To ensure the safety of all players involved, athletes must participate in practice during the week leading up to the game. Practice is the time to learn and rehearse skills and develop the physical conditioning required. Missing practice is unfair to the team and the coach. It can also hurt the individual player if they fail to acquire the skills and understanding of the game to play safely and fairly.

To support the overall development of our youth, we encourage players to participate in other activities that may interfere with football.

“A society that separates its scholars from its warriors will have its thinking done by cowards and its fighting done by fools.” – Thucydides

If a player needs to miss practice for any reason, they must communicate it to the coach as soon as possible.

• An excused absence is one that is communicated to the coach prior to the absence and for a valid reason (doctor's appointment, visiting family, previously approved activity, etc.)
• An unexcused absence is one that is either not communicated to the coach or for an unapproved reason

Any reduction in playing time must be communicated to the Director, the player, and the family prior to the game. The following penalties will apply to players who miss practice:

Excused Absences

Practices Missed	Penalty
1	None
2	Min reduced to 8
3	Min. reduced to 5
4	Min. reduced to 3

Unexcused Absences

Practices Missed	Penalty
1	Min. reduced to 8
2	Min reduced to 5
3	Min. reduced to 3
4	Will not play

Expectations for Practice

Practice is the time for all players to learn and rehearse skills, tactics, strategy, etc. All players should be engaged as much as possible during practice. Practice routines will change throughout the season based on the needs of the team and the situation at the time. However, most practices should include time blocks and activities for the following:

• Basic athletic development
  • Speed
  • Strength
  • Coordination, etc.
• Individual football skills
  • Blocking
  • Tackling
  • Throwing
  • Catching, etc.
• Position group skills
  • Zone blocking scheme
  • Defensive line stunts
  • Route running
  • Zone coverages
  • Blitzing, etc.
• Team skills
  • Offensive and defensive plays
  • Personnel packages and substitutions
  • Special teams
  • 2-minute drill, etc.
• Competition
  • Scrimmages
  • Competitive drills
  • Relay races, etc.

When players stand around, it looks bad, and it’s not helping anyone. Maximize your practice time by being organized and prepared. Minimize downtime by rotating groups between stations. You can also divide players into smaller groups based on skill level and assign a coach to work with each group. If you need help… ask.

Player Safety Policy

As a coach, you have been entrusted with the care, custody, and control of other people’s children. In this capacity, you have the potential to both create and prevent accidents and injuries.

• Provide adequate supervision for your players
  • Never leave players unattended
• Evaluate players to determine any limitations
  • Ensure players are physically and mentally capable of performing the task
• Structure drills and competitions to ensure safe and fair matchups
• Evaluate injuries as they occur
• Report injuries and/or unsafe conditions to the Director, as required

Care and Prevention of Injuries

The first line of defense against injuries is prevention. Factors that can prevent injuries are:

• Proper use of equipment
• Allow for adequate water breaks and rest periods
• Do not allow players to return from injury before they are ready
• Do not play or practice under any dangerous conditions

Care for an injured player begins the moment an injury occurs. Upon seeing an injured player, a coach should:

• Stay composed
• Determine if the player is conscious and coherent. (If not, call 911)
• Question the player to determine how the injury occurred
• Do not move a player if the injury appears to be serious
• Comfort and reassure the player
• Administer first aid and/or facilitate medical attention as required
• Notify the parent/guardian and the Director, as required

Injury Policy

Any athlete that suffers an injury that requires medical attention shall not participate in any games or practices without a written medical release from a doctor or other qualified medical professional (submit a copy to the Director). For minor injuries (bumps, bruises, scrapes), parent/guardian approval will suffice.

Players’ Code of Conduct

Youth football & cheer is more than just a game; it's an opportunity for young athletes to develop essential life skills. This code of conduct outlines the core values we expect from all participants. We believe that fostering a positive and respectful environment, built on the foundations of good sportsmanship, respect, and GRIT, is crucial for the growth and development of our players.

I pledge to uphold the following principles of sportsmanship and good conduct:

Respect: I will treat all participants, including teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, and fans, with respect at all times. I will refrain from any form of discrimination or bullying.

Sportsmanship: I will demonstrate good sportsmanship by exhibiting fair play, graciousness in victory, and resilience in defeat. I will encourage positive behavior from all involved in the game.

Commitment: I will make every effort to attend practices and games, and I will provide timely notice to my coach if I am unable to participate. I understand that consistent attendance and effort are essential for team success.

Teamwork: I will be a supportive and cooperative teammate, always striving to contribute to the team's success. I will prioritize the team over individual achievements.

Personal Development: I will strive to improve my skills and knowledge of the game through hard work and dedication. I will learn from my mistakes and use them as opportunities for growth.

Responsibility: I understand that my actions reflect on myself, my team, and the Stow Youth Football & Cheer program. I will conduct myself in a manner that brings honor to the organization.

Fair Play: I will adhere to the rules of the game and compete with integrity. I will accept the decisions of officials without arguing or displaying negative behavior.

Safety: I will prioritize safety by following all equipment and safety guidelines. I will report any injuries or concerns to my coach immediately.

Player Discipline Policy

All players are expected to behave in a manner consistent with the Players’ Code of Conduct and abide by all the rules and regulations of the league and the organization.

*Stow Youth Football will NOT use exercise as punishment.*

Exercise is a tool to build your body and train your mind. While having kids run or do push-ups can be a quick and easy way to correct bad behavior, it creates a negative association between exercise and punishment. It can also create stress and fear that inhibit a child’s ability to learn and perform.

Alternative methods of behavioral consequences include:

• Praise Good Behavior
  • Instead of drawing prolonged negative attention to a misbehaving child, loudly praise teammates who are paying attention and following directions
• Time-Out
  • Briefly remove a player from a drill to let them calm down and/or observe how their teammates are executing the task correctly

If bad behavior continues, it may be necessary to escalate to suspension.

Before a player is suspended for any reason, report the situation to the Director.

The Director, the Coach, the player, and the parent/guardian will meet to review the child’s behavior, the Player Code of Conduct, and discuss the consequences.

Suspensions

OGYFA By-Laws state:

15.24.1 Any coach or player ejected from a game for unsportsmanlike conduct will be ineligible for all games that day, as well as the next scheduled game for all levels. A coach who is ejected must leave the premises immediately. Neither player nor coach will be allowed on the premises for the one-game suspension.

For violations of the code of conduct:

• Suspensions may or may not be preceded by a warning.
• Multiple offenses will result in the doubling of the suspension and may result in dismissal from the program.
• Suspensions apply to both regular season and playoff games.
• Suspensions include participation with any other team in the program.
• Suspensions apply to all SYF activities, not just practices and games.
• Players with other family members in the program…
  • May attend SYF activities as a spectator
  • Will conduct themselves as a role model for other players/spectators
  • Any negative action, such as negative cheering, abuse of property, etc. will result in immediate removal from the premises and suspension for the remainder of the season

Coaches’ Resources

https://www.stowyouthfootball.org/

• Program registration
• Organization by-laws
• Parent and Player Codes of Conduct

https://www.ohiogridiron.com/teams/?u=OHIOGRIDIRON&s=football

• Official website for our league, Ohio Gridiron Youth Football Association (OGYFA)
• Contact info for all directors and league officials
• Addresses for fields, stadiums
• League by-laws
• Official schedule, game results, and standings

https://usafootball.com/

• Training and certification
• Football Development Model
• Contact Manual

https://www.hudl.com/

• Film storage and review
• Accounts available for Sophomore, Junior Varsity, and Varsity levels

https://www.nfhs.org/

• Training and certification
• Rules, regulations

https://www.ohsaa.org/

• Rules, regulations