This sport is for children, and inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated, regardless of the level of competition.
TYFA enforces a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct.
Show respect to opponents, referees, players, volunteers, parents, and spectators.
Do not verbally abuse referees, regardless of your opinion on their calls. Referees are essential for the game to continue.
TYFA events are a place for sportsmanship, not a platform for racism, gender bias, or any form of hate.
Parents can and will be disciplined for conduct that is inappropriate or unbecoming.
Q: Why are the players not taking a knee during an injury?
A: Because by rule they do not have to. UIL does not require the knee either. With players down and out of the game for at least one play, the coaches must speak with the other players to make changes to the lineup.
Q: Where are the schedules?
A: TYFA.COM in the Game Center [CLICK HERE]
Q: Why are there games in Bad Weather?
A: TYFA plays games in the Heat, Cold and Rain because of the limited weeks to finish a season.
Q: Why are games on a Sunday or Holiday?
A: TYFA plays games on Sundays and Holidays like other sports because of the limited weeks to finish a season.
Q: What rules are used by TYFA?
A: TYFA uses NCAA, not UIL rules for Tackle with modifications. TYFA uses its own rules for Flag. TYFA uses YCADA with modifications for Cheer & Dance.
Q: Can I get a copy of the rules?
A: Regrettably, our Football and Cheer rulebooks are shared exclusively with our volunteers and board members. However, we are happy to help with any specific questions you may have! Please reach out to HelpDesk@tyfa.com.
Q: In the Spring, what team will my child play on?
A: In the Spring, kids play on the teams they will play on in the Fall. Example: An 8 year old who will be 9 by 8/1/current year, will play as a 9 year old.
Q: Can Parents/Spectators fly drones?
A: No I am sorry. There is a limited amount of drones that can fly at a game and that is set aside for the teams and TYFA. Additionally, some facilities do not even allow it. Also, it is law that drone users be licensed.
Admissions: Most organizations charge admission for entry to game venues. TYFA limits general admission to a maximum of $10.00 per person.
Concessions: Concession items, availability, and pricing are determined solely by the host organization and may vary from venue to venue.
Accepted Forms of Payment: The host organization determines which forms of payment will be accepted at its venue. Accepted payment methods may include cash, credit cards, debit cards, and electronic payment platforms.
Credit Card & Electronic Payment Convenience Fees: Host organizations may assess a convenience fee for credit card or electronic payment transactions at the admission gate and concession stands.
For admission purchases, the convenience fee cannot exceed $2.00 per transaction, regardless of the number of admission tickets purchased in that transaction.
Helmet Compatibility and Appearance
Guardian Caps must be worn over helmets that meet all critical specifications outlined below.
All Guardian Caps MUST match the primary shell color of the helmet worn by the team to ensure uniformity in appearance.
For example, if a team’s helmets are red, the Guardian Caps worn must also be red.
If Guardian Cap does not match the primary color worn by the team, it cannot be worn
Compliance with NCAA Rule 1-4-4-a
All helmets (with or without Guardian Caps) must comply with the following NCAA equipment standards:
Helmet Specifications:
Must include a facemask and a secured four- or six-point chin strap. All straps must be fastened while the ball is in play.
All team helmets must be of the same color and design.
Helmets must include a warning label regarding injury risk and display certification from the manufacturer or reconditioner confirming compliance with NOCSAE safety standards.
Manufacturer Responsibility
Organizations are strongly encouraged to consult with their helmet manufacturer to understand any implications regarding warranty and liability when using Guardian Caps or similar aftermarket products.
TYFA’s decision to adopt this policy is in alignment with UIL and NCAA guidelines and reflects our continued efforts to support innovation in player safety while preserving competitive integrity.
The following devices are NOT PERMITTED AT A GAME:
Artificial noisemakers such as handheld air horns
whistles
train horns
propane tanks
drums
and any items intended for percussive noise.
Permitted examples: jugs with beads, inflatable boom sticks, clackers, cowbells.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct penalties and forfeits against the teams may occur.
TYFA Staff
Who are Black Shirts? They are league representatives, and can either be Chapter Directors, Cheer Staff or Senior Executive Staff members of the league. Regardless of their position within the league, they are still league representatives responsible for ensuring compliance with TYFA rules and maintaining order at events.
Black Shirts are the primary attire for TYFA staff members while performing rule enforcement duties at events. On occasion, especially during multi-day events, they may wear other colored shirts, but they will always be clearly identifiable.
Black Shirts serve as the primary representatives of their respective TYFA chapters, acting as the eyes and ears of their chapter.
TYFA Black Shirts are not game officials. They are solely responsible for rules enforcement and compliance.
All Black Shirts must be treated with equal respect, regardless of gender.
Black Shirt Duties & Responsibilities
ENFORCE TYFA policies and rules that organizations, volunteers, athletes, and spectators may be violating.
NOT stop a game to correct a situation on the field that the referees may or may not have caught.
CORRECT the referees during a stoppage in the game, such as halftime, for the "game going forward" — they cannot change the result of a play from the past.
ASSIST the referees if they ask for help.
ADVISE and EDUCATE officials on rules to ensure proper understanding and application during the game.
VISORS MUST BE CLEAR. CLEAR MEANS CLEAR.
There are no exceptions for Doctor’s excuses.
Goggles may be dark as they can be removed without moving a player’s head during an injury.