NEED TO KNOW INFO | Mariner Jr Football

Parents Need to Know Info

Whether you are new to youth tackle football or a returning family, we understand that the amount of information, schedules, and commitments can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to simplify that process by providing the key details you and your athlete need to be prepared for the season.

What Happens After Registration?

1. Stay Informed
Check the website and your email regularly. Be sure to review and mark all Important Dates on your calendar.

2. Complete National Sports ID (REQUIRED)
All players must be registered with National Sports ID before the first day of practice.

You will need your player’s most recent report card or a utility bill
Players cannot participate in Jamboree or games without this on file — NO EXCEPTIONS

3. Prepare Physically
Players should stay active and hydrated throughout the summer. Conditioning before the season helps prevent injuries and improves performance.

Equipment

Provided with Registration:

Helmet
Chin strap
Shoulder pads
Practice jersey & pants
Game jersey & pants

Required (Not Provided):

Mouthguard
Football cleats
Undershirts
Game-day socks

Important:
Once a helmet is issued, players should wear it 15–30 minutes daily before practices begin to help prevent “helmet headaches.” If discomfort continues, contact your coach.

Personal Equipment

Players may use their own equipment if approved:

Must be NOCSAE certified and up to date
Documentation is required
A Personal Equipment Waiver must be submitted and approved
Helmets must be painted by the program’s approved vendor (family responsible for cost)

Practice Schedule & Location

Pre-season (August): Monday–Thursday, approx. 5:00–8:00 PM
After school starts: 3 days per week (set by Head Coach, no Fridays)
Location: Mariner High School

Practice length:

Pee-Wee: ~2 hours
Older divisions: 2–3 hours

Final schedules will be emailed before practices begin.

What to Expect at Practice

Be on time — lateness affects the entire team
Notify your coach/team parent if your player will be absent or late
Poor attendance may impact playing time

Player Expectations:

Stay hydrated before, during, and after practice
Get proper rest

First 3 Days:

Non-contact (helmet only)
Focus on conditioning, fundamentals, and learning

Day 4 and Beyond:

Full contact begins
Players learn tackling and blocking techniques
Intensity increases each week

The first week is often when players decide if football is right for them. Support and encourage your athlete through this transition.

Games & Season Timeline

Games are typically Saturdays
Season starts before Labor Day, skips Labor Day weekend, and runs through October
Playoffs/Championships: early to mid-November

Schedules may be released close to the first game—please be patient.

Jamboree

Held the weekend before the first game:

Teams play 2–3 short games
Expect a long day outdoors

Come prepared with:

Water
Chairs
Shade
Snacks/protein
Team spirit

Refund Policy

NO REFUNDS

Waitlist Policy

If teams are full:

Players may be placed on a waitlist
Players may be added to existing teams
Additional teams may be created if numbers and coaching allow

Parent & Family Involvement

All families are expected to contribute:

6 volunteer hours per player
Family cap: 10 hours

Volunteer opportunities include:

Coaching
Board participation
Game day roles (concessions, chains, scoreboard, field monitor, etc.)

Sign-ups will be shared once schedules are finalized.

Uniform Care

Wash immediately after use
Turn inside out
Use cold water only
Wash separately

DO NOT:

Use bleach
Use fabric softener
Dry clean
Iron

Drying:

Hang dry preferred
If using dryer: low heat or air dry

Equipment Cleaning

Inside helmet: disinfect with wipes
Shoulder pads: Lysol spray is acceptable
Outside helmet: soap and water only

Do NOT use harsh chemicals

Final Note

Youth football is a challenging but rewarding experience. There will be both successes and setbacks throughout the season. Our goal is to create an environment where athletes grow, learn, and enjoy the game.

Your support, communication, and involvement make that possible.