2025 Parent Handbook

Traditions Are Built Here!

La Pine Youth Football

Email: Lapineyouthfootball@gmail.com

WWW.LAPINEYOUTHFOOTBALL.COM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

• La Pine Youth Football
• Organization Structure

• Board Meetings

• Volunteer Driven
• Communications

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• Football Age Restrictions
• Physical Examination
• Injured Players

REGISTRATION, FEES & OTHER COSTS

• Registration Fee
• Registration Day
• Refund Policy

LPYF (La Pine Youth Football) PROVIDED EQUIPMENT

• Equipment Loss/Damage Fee
• Care of Uniforms
• Football Equipment Pickup

PLAYER PROVIDED ITEMS

• Football Player Provided Items List

PRACTICES & SCHEDULE

• Absenteeism
• Early Summer Skill-Camps
• Summer Practice Schedule
• Regular Season Practice Schedule
• Practice Location
• Walking/Riding Waiver
• Team Assignments/ Games
• Play Time/ Field Equipment

TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont’d)

CODE OF CONDUCT

• Parent Code of Conduct
• Parental Concerns & Problem-Solving Protocol
• Player Code of Conduct

FUNDRAISING

AWARDS CEREMONY

• Banquets

SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

• Basic Outdoor Safety Rules for Sever Weather
• Lightening

Appendix A - Contact Information

• Board Members
• Clarkston Chiefs Official Website
• NYFL Official Website

NOTICE: INFORMATION SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Although we strive to provide the best and most up-to-date information in this handbook,

the information contained herein is subject to change without notice.

La Pine Youth Football’s Mission Statement

• To provide youth flag and tackle football programs for K-6 students in Southern Deschutes and Northern Klamath counties.

• To promote sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal development through organized football activities.
• To provide a safe, structured, and educational environment for young athletes to develop their skills.

Our Vision

Put Kids First!

Our Values

Place the emotional and physical well-being of players above any personal desire to win.

Treat each player as an individual and provide a safe playing environment.

Lead by example in demonstrating fair play and good sportsmanship.

Use coaching techniques that are appropriate for the player's age and skills being taught.

A SUCCESSFUL SEASON

A successful LPYF season is one where our kids have fun, improve their skills, become better people, and want to play again next year.

Introduction

Welcome to the La Pine Youth Football, LPYF. The organization was formed in 2025 by local youth football enthusiasts. Our primary focus is on developing a competitive spirit to succeed with fun for all participants, while never compromising the welfare and safety of our children. We have served the youth of our community for over 50 combined years and are a not-for-profit organization. We hope your family finds participation in the LPYF to be enjoyable, rewarding, and exciting.

As with any organization, there are rules and policies that must be adhered to in order to maintain a safe environment for all participants and ensure efficient functioning of our activities. This handbook provides information about our mission, requirements, rules, and policies that govern participation in the La Pine Youth Football. Please read this handbook carefully and feel free to contact any Board Officer (see Appendix 'A') or your child's team Head Coach or team Directors with any questions. Throughout this handbook, the word "player" is used to represent a football, cheerleader, or mascot participant. Remember we are a youth sports organization, and the games are for the kids, not for the adults.

Central Oregon Recreation League Youth Tackle Football League

  was formed for "the kids" to promote youth football, cheerleading and mascots. The LPYF currently has 5 local communities supporting Bend, Or, of which LPYF is one of those. The other communities are: Sisters, Madras and Prineville.

Organization Structure

La Pine Youth Football is certified by the Oregon Corporation and Securities Commission as a Not-for-Profit Corporation, governed by our Bylaws, and managed by the volunteer CFA Board Members and Executive Board Members that oversee the operations of the organization. This dedicated group of volunteers helps ensure the success of the organization and a great experience for the players. Please see Appendix 'A' for a listing of Board positions and contact information. Our Bylaws are available on our website.

Board Meetings

 The La Pine Youth Football board meetings are typically held once a month (except December). The board meetings are open to everyone per request, and parents are encouraged to attend.

 Volunteer Driven

We are a totally volunteer organization with dedicated people working hard to ensure all participants have a fun and fulfilling experience. Most of our volunteers work fulltime and have many commitments, but they recognize the benefit of helping to ensure LPYF continues to support and teach our youths. Your involvement will help your child gain a sense of community, good sportsmanship, and satisfaction of accomplishments as a team. Since your child is a participant in the LPYF, so are you. Your involvement is very important and enhances your child's experience. Volunteering is a requirement and is what makes our organization great.

Communications

 Email is the primary method that we communicate information to our participants. If you would like your email addresses added to our distribution list, please send your request to Lapineyouthfootball@gmail.com. Please send us all emails you would like added. Also, our website & Facebook page are great sources for the latest information.

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

The LPYF teams are divided into two divisions- 5th/6th grade tackle and NFL Flag. Each division has specific age (or weight) requirements that are mandated by the LPYF. There are no weight restrictions for NFL Flag.

Football Age Restrictions

In order for a player to be eligible to play football in a specific division they must meet the division's age requirements (See Figure 1). To determine the age eligibility of a player, it is the player's age as of August 1, 2025. Therefore, any child that has not had their ninth (9th) birthday on or before August 1, 2025 will not be able to participate in active play without a waiver signed by the child's parent/legal guardian and such waiver must be approved by the assigned team Head Coach and LPYF board. 12-year-olds may play if they provide proof of being in the 6th grade. Other restrictions may apply.

A child moving up must have played at least one year in the league they wish to move up from. If there is a special request to move a  player up, the board will consider the request. The board will make the final decision after taking consideration from the players past coach(es) and future coach(es). LPYF will consider request to move players down on a case by case basis

Football Weight Restrictions

Prior to the season, in order to be eligible for ball carrying or skill positions, football players will be weighed and must not exceed their division's weight requirements (see chart below). Any player who doesn't make weight will not be able to play an offensive skill position. Weights are actual body weight, without wearing football equipment.

Injured Players

Sometimes it is necessary for injured players to seek medical assistance. When this happens, the player will be ineligible to practice or participate in any games until they obtain a medical release from a physician. The release must specify the date the player is allowed to return to practice. Players WILL NOT be allowed to practice or participate in any game until the release is provided to the players’ Head Coach so it can be kept on file with the player's records. Also, if your player is sick, for the protection of the team, please do not send them to practice.

REGISTRATION, FEES & OTHER COSTS

LPYF has a formal registration process for both returning players as well as for new players desiring to join our premier youth football league.

Registration Fee

LPYF has a simplified registration fee structure (see chart below). The registration fee covers equipment, field rental, stadium costs, referee costs, and other miscellaneous operating expenses (each jersey is customized with the player's last name). All fees must be paid prior to the players first game. Registration fees constitute a payment for participation. Participation guidelines are set by La Pine Youth Football.

*Scholarships are available on request and availability.

Player Registration

Registration will be available on our website. Registration is online. All registration forms and payment will be done ONLINE. There will also be player registration in-person.

Refund Policy

Upon payment of the registration fee, the balance of the registration fee is 50% refundable until the first scheduled game of the season, after which time, the balance of the registration fee is non-refundable. All requests for refunds must be made in writing via email to Lapineyouthfootball@gmail.com. Verbal refund requests will not be accepted. Refunds are typically issued within 30 days after approval of the refund request. No refund will be issued until all equipment provided to the player has been returned to the LPYF.

LPYF PROVIDED EQUIPMENT

LPYF will issue each player their basic equipment (see Figure 4). Players must wear the LPYF provided game uniform. Each registered player will be notified prior to the start of the practice season of where and when to pick-up their equipment. Each player is responsible for the care and return of all LPYF equipment issued to them. At the end of the season each player will be notified as to when and where to return their equipment.

Equipment Loss/Damage Replacement Fee

It is the responsibility of each player to return LPYF equipment that has been issued to them, in good condition except normal wear and tear. For any equipment that is not returned or is returned in poor condition, or is lost, the player will be assessed an Equipment Loss/Damage/Altered Replacement Fee at fair market rate.

*Unauthorized alterations of any kind to LPYF provided equipment is strictly prohibited and may result in the player not being able to participate and/or will be subject to the above Equipment Loss/Damage Replacement Fee policy.

Care of Uniforms

It is important that all players take good care of their equipment. Football game uniforms MUST be clean for each game. DO NOT USE BLEACH! All possible care should be taken to prevent the colors from bleeding. We suggest washing uniforms inside out and soaking for a period before washing in lukewarm water with mild detergent, NOT a strong detergent. Helmet, chin strap, ear pads, shoulder pads and girdle pads should all be wiped down with a mild cleaner. Pads should never be submerged in water. Helmets should contain no stickers or permanent markings.

Football Equipment Pickup

Football equipment pickup is typically scheduled in early August. Head football coach will have a scheduled date and location to pick up equipment. It is the player/parents responsibility to pick up their equipment. Information on equipment pickup will be posted on our website and provided at the first skills camp.

Player Provided Items

There are a few personal items (see lists below) that are the responsibility of each player to provide for themselves. These items are not included in the registration fee and are the responsibility of each player's parents to purchase.

Football Player Provided Items List

The following is the list of personal items that are the responsibility of each football player to provide for themselves:

•Approved rubber cleats. Metal cleats are prohibited.

•Personal mouthguard (must be attachable for tackle players).

•If your player wears glasses or special orthodontic devices, special facemasks to provide additional protection can be purchased. Please contact the LPYF Board as they have sole authority to alter any of LPYF furnished helmets or other equipment.

PRACTICES & SCHEDULE

Our coaching staff adheres to the schedule unless the Head Coach elects to shorten their team’s practice. Under no circumstances are teams or Head coaches allowed to lengthen practices beyond the league prescribed practice guidelines.

It is important to realize there is a big difference between backyard football or flag football and playing in a competitive tackle football league. In order to assure that your child will be in a position to safely participate, it is imperative that they attend all practices. Please understand the time commitments that are required to be made to this program do not allow your child to also participate in other competitive sport programs. Additionally, when planning your vacations, please be aware of practice start dates as it is very difficult for the player to make-up what they miss during the practices.

Absenteeism

It is very important in any team sports for players to be at all practices for their team to be successful. Players or parents must advise their team Head Coach, prior to practice, of any absences due to illness or other personal activity. If a player misses two or more practices in one week, they will be ineligible to play in that week's game.

Tackle Summer Practice Schedule

Our summer practice schedule starts August 11th for 2025 (Tackle) until our first game the beginning of September. All teams practice every Tuesday through Thursday for 1.5 hours each day (typically 6pm-7:30pm).

Tackle Regular Season Practice Schedule

The practices will typically be three days a week for 1.5 hours each day in the evening hours. We will never meet more than 4 times a week, including game day.

Tackle Practice Location

Our summer practices and regular season practice are typically held on the practice fields at La Pine High School. It is the parent's responsibility to get their player(s) to and from practice. Detailed information about the summer practice and regular season practice dates, location, and times will be provided by email, Facebook page, or our website. Occasionally it may be necessary for us to change a practice location or possibly a practice date/time. If there is a change to the practice schedule, you will be notified by your team's Head Coach. We will do our best to provide as much advance notice of a schedule change. In the event of bad weather, parents must promptly pick-up their player(s). In case of lightning, please pick-up your player(s) immediately. PLEASE ALWAYS BE ON-TIME TO PICK UP YOUR PLAYER FROM PRACTICE.

Walking/Riding Waiver

No player will be allowed to walk/bike ride to and from our practices. If a player lives within walking/bike riding distance from our practice location and desires to walk/bike ride to and from practice, their parent or legal guardian must sign a walking/riding waiver form and return it to the player’s Head Coach. A walking waiver form is available on our website or can be provided by the team’s Head Coach.

Team Assignments

We strive to take siblings into account during team assignments. Team assignments will be released prior to the start of team practices.

Games 

Games begin in early September, continuing through the end of October and are played on Saturdays. A complete schedule will be posted on our website when it is finalized. There are no practices or games on Labor Day weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday).

Play Time

Our football teams are the equivalent of other traveling sport teams in that while there is a minimum play requirement, playing time/position is earned based on performance. The object is to ensure every player has an opportunity to play and field a winning football team.

Field Equipment

The official type of football sanctioned by the LPYF is a Wilson/Baden brand made of either leather or composite leather. See figure 7 for the size of official footballs for each division is:

Code of Conduct

The focus of LPYF is to provide a safe, fun, learning environment for the youth of our community. We strive to create an opportunity for kids to work together as a team toward common goals. We emphasize sportsmanship, teamwork and respect.

Establishing proper ethics is essential for the success of our program; therefore, La Pine Youth Football  has developed code of conduct rules pertaining to all participants.

Parent Code of Conduct

Parents are vital to the development of young athletes. Whether sitting in the stands or helping out as a volunteer, parents must set a positive example. Parents and adults involved in youth sports should be models of good sportsmanship and lead by example on and off the field. Please remember we are an all-volunteer organization. The following is the parent conduct guidelines:

1. I hereby pledge to provide support, care, and encouragement for my child participating in any LPYF program.
2. I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, fans, and officials at every game, practice or other LPYF event.
3. I will demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times and follow the rules of the LPYF.
4. I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my child and the other athletes before any personal desire to win.
5. I will be positive, productive, and professional in my communication regarding coaches, players, directors, and LPYF on social media, including team group chats.
6. I will provide support for coaches, directors and officials working with my child to provide a positive, enjoyable experience for all.
7. I will demand a drug, alcohol, tobacco, and weapon free sports environment for my child and agree to refrain from using them at any LPYF event.
8. I will also refrain from using profanity.
9. I will remember that the game is for the children and will do my very best to make the LPYF program fun for my child and the other athletes.
10.  I will remain in the spectator area during practices and games, unless asked by a coach or director for assistance.
11.  I will insist my child treats other athletes, coaches, directors, fans and officials with respect.
12. I will refrain from addressing any conflict or disagreement with any LPYF player, coach, director, fan, or official in the presence of the athletes or other adults and will follow proper procedures of communication relative to the situation.
13. I understand that if I cannot conduct myself in an ethical & professional manner. I may be asked to leave the property where LPYF activities are taking place for a time determined by the LPYF Board for a "cooling off' period.

Problem-Solving Protocol

It is the expectation of the LPYF that all concerns are handled in a professional, respectful, and caring manner on the part of parents. In the event you have questions or concerns regarding playing time or practice issues, it is the requirement of the LPYF that the parents address the concerns, after a 24-hour cooling off period, with your child's head coach and/or head director. This cooling off period will allow for a clearer evaluation and discussion of your questions or concerns. If a parent feels their questions or concerns have not been adequately addressed, they may submit the issue/grievance, in writing (dated and signed), to the LPYF President/ Vice President for consideration by the LPYF Executive Board. Any problems and/or concerns involving the health and/or safety of any athlete should be brought to the attention of the LPYF Board IMMEDIATELY!

Player Code of Conduct

The focus of the La Pine Youth Football is to provide a safe, fun, learning environment for our athletes. We strive to create an opportunity for athletes to work together towards a common goal. We emphasize sportsmanship, teamwork and respect. Establishing proper ethics is essential for the success of our program; therefore the LPYF has developed code of conduct rules pertaining to all participants. The following is the code of conduct and problem-solving protocol that all players must abide by:

1. I herby pledge to be positive about my youth sports experience, accept responsibility for my participation and will follow this player's code of conduct.
2. I will demonstrate good sportsmanship at all times and follow the rules of the game.
3. I will attend every practice, game and event that I possibly can, and will notify the coach or director if I cannot attend.
4. I will do my very best to listen and learn from my coaches and directors.
5. I will refrain from talking back, using profanity or being disruptive.
6. I will encourage my parents to be involved with my youth sports team, in some capacity, because it is important to me.
7. I will act as a responsible representative of LPYF and will show respect towards my coaches, directors, teammates, officials, fans and opposing players.
8. I will demand a drug, alcohol and tobacco free sports environment and I pledge not to use them.
9. I WILL DO MY BEST IN SCHOOL AND PUT MY SCHOOL WORK AND HOMEWORK BEFORE MY INVOLVEMENT IN THE LPYF PROGRAM.
10.  I understand to be eligible for the Scholar Athlete Award at the end of the season, I must be a returning player, I must have good grades, I must maintain good ratings in the areas of effort, behavior, and attendance from my teacher or all teachers. I must not have discipline actions like detentions or suspensions.
11.  I will be a coachable athlete, good teammate at LPYF activities, and demonstrate good sportsmanship.
12.  I will remember that sports are an opportunity to learn, grow, and have fun.

Problem-Solving Protocol

It is the expectation of the LPYF that all concerns are handled in a professional, respectful and caring manner on the part of players. In the event you have questions or concerns regarding playing time or practice issues, we would like players to first discuss them with their head coach or head director. You should discuss all concerns, issues, or problems with your parents who will work with LPYF representatives to help you. Violation of this code of conduct may result in loss of play time. Any problems and/or concerns involving the health and/or safety of any athlete should be brought to the attention of your parents and the LPYF board IMMEDIATELY!

Volunteer/Committee’s

Please reach out to the LPYF board to learn the General and Game Day opportunities that are required to make our program a success.

SEVERE WEATHER SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Severe weather can and does strike at a moment's notice. High winds, electrical storms, Forest fires and other dangerous weather conditions are fast moving, can be wide-ranging and possibly life threatening. Severe weather conditions must be taken seriously.

LPYF strongly encourages parents, coaches, and players to familiarize themselves with the following information. Knowing the danger signs of severe weather and knowing how to react to it can and does save lives.

Basic Outdoor Safety Rules for Severe Weather

1. If you plan to be outdoors, check the latest weather forecast and keep watch on the weather conditions while outdoors.
2. At the first signs of impending weather or high wind, tune your radio/television in for the latest weather report and store all equipment not in use in its designated areas.
3. During threatening weather, move inside a home or large building or hard-roofed vehicle whenever possible.
4. When caught outside, DO NOT stand under a tree or telephone pole. DO NOT go to high land areas, tops of hills. Search for a low area with thick growth of small trees or shrubs. In an open area, find a ditch.
5. Get out of and away from open water, and open convertible vehicles.
6. Stay away from wire fences, clotheslines, metal pipes, metal backstops, goalposts, metal garbage cans, swings and other playground equipment.
7. If you cannot find indoor shelter when spotting a tornado, find a low clear area and clutch to a heavy, non-metallic object when possible.
8. LPYF follows Bend-La Pine school district guidelines for air quality..
9. REMAIN CALM. TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR GROUP. TAKE A HEADCOUNT. ALWAYS BE AWARE OF YOUR ENVIRONMENT.

Lightning

Whenever lightning is sighted, ALL LPYF activities must be suspended immediately.

All participants must take appropriate cover inside a building or vehicle whenever possible.

Activities will only resume when lightning has left the area. If lightning has not ceased within fifteen (15) minutes, all games/activities will be called off.

Appendix A - Contact Information

Contact Information: Lapineyouthfootball@gmail.com

La Pine Youth Football Official Website

LPYF has a team website that is updated on a regular basis. This site is a great communication tool and source of information. Examples of areas on the site include practice schedules, game schedules, NYFL updates, team rosters, board updates and other key information. Our team website address is:

WWW.LAPINEYOUTHFOOTBALL.COM