🟥 AVE MARIA TACKLE FOOTBALL

6U DEVELOPMENT DIVISION (MODIFIED FLAG RULES)

🏈 PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The 6U Development Division is a modified flag football program designed to introduce young athletes to the game in a safe, structured, and instructional environment.

This division focuses on:

• Learning fundamentals
• Building confidence
• Developing teamwork
• Preparing players for future tackle football

👥 TEAM FORMAT

• Games are played with 9 players on the field per team
• Teams will consist of a mix of:
  • Linemen (center + guards)
  • Skill players (QB, RBs, WRs)

👉 This keeps the game simple and organized for young players

🚫 NO TACKLING (FLAG RULES)

• This is NON-TACKLE football
• Players must remove a flag to stop the play
• No tackling, pushing, or aggressive contact allowed

Penalties:

• Tackling or excessive contact = 15-yard penalty
• Tripping or unsafe contact = 15-yard penalty
• No stiff arms allowed

🏃 GAMEPLAY BASICS

• All fumbles are live balls
• Players may recover and advance the ball
• Forward fumbles will be placed at the spot of the fumble

🧠 OFFENSIVE STRUCTURE (Simplified)

• Must have:
  • 1 Quarterback
  • At least 1 Running Back
  • 2 Receivers on the line
• No complex formations
• No motion allowed

👉 Keeps the game easy to learn and coach

🛡️ DEFENSIVE STRUCTURE

• Defensive players must line up:
  • At least 3 yards off the ball (except linemen)
• No early movement before the snap

👉 Promotes fairness and safety

🚫 SPECIAL TEAMS (SIMPLIFIED)

• No kickoffs
  • Ball starts at the 20-yard line
• No live punting
  • Ball advances 20 yards automatically
• No field goals
• Extra Points:
  • Run or pass only
  • No kicking required

⏱️ GAME FORMAT

• Games consist of:
  • 4 quarters (approx. 10–11 minutes each)
• Short halftime break
• Focus is on learning and participation

🔁 PLAYING TIME

• All players are expected to receive meaningful playing time
• Coaches are encouraged to rotate players and positions

👉 Development > winning at this level

🛑 SAFETY RULES (VERY IMPORTANT)

• No contact to the head or neck
• No leading with the helmet
• No aggressive blocking

👉 Safety is the top priority at all times

🧢 EQUIPMENT (PROVIDED)

Ave Maria will provide players in the 6U Development Division with:

• Helmet
• Shoulder Pads
• Flag Belt (for gameplay)

Equipment is introduced at this level to help players become comfortable and confident as they prepare for future tackle football.

🛡️ SAFETY & CONTACT LEVEL

• This is a Modified Flag Football Division (No Tackling)
• Players will wear helmets and shoulder pads, but:
  • No tackling is allowed
  • No intentional contact is permitted
  • All plays are stopped by removing flags

👉 This creates a safe, controlled learning environment

🧠 WHY EQUIPMENT IS USED

The purpose of introducing equipment at the 6U level is to:

• Help players get comfortable wearing football gear
• Teach proper movement and positioning early
• Prepare athletes for a smooth transition into tackle football
• Build confidence without exposing players to full contact

⚠️ EQUIPMENT RESPONSIBILITY

All equipment is loaned for the season.

Parents/Guardians agree:

• Equipment must be returned at the end of the season
• Equipment must be kept in good condition
• Lost or damaged equipment may result in a replacement fee

🎯 COACHING ON THE FIELD

• Coaches may be on the field during plays
• Coaches may guide players before the snap
• Coaches must move out of the way once play begins

👉 This helps teach the game in real time

🔥 GAME DAY ENVIRONMENT

• Instruction-focused
• Positive and encouraging
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• Clean music and respectful behavior