? 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