2013

HUNTLEY

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Coaches Handbook

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WELCOME TO HUNTLEY YOUTH FOOTBALL 2013
Coaching football can be one of the most satisfying experiences in your life. As a football coach, you have the opportunity to make a
positive impact and influence on so many young lives. It is also a responsibility like no other. Huntley Youth Football is only as good as
the people who are involved within the program. We are proud of the program we are building and it is imperative that our coaching
staffs are proficient and dedicated to the program. We recognize these guidelines and coaching requirements are demanding, but we
believe that this will contribute to the development of the best-trained coaches in the area as well as a safe and strong fundamentally
based youth football program. The commitment to this sport for a coach is high, but the reward is unparalleled. Your desire and
dedication to help the youth of our communities learn this very enjoyable and challenging sport is commendable. Your time and
efforts are appreciated by the Board of Directors of Huntley Youth Football, the parents and most of all, by the kids themselves.
Use this Handbook as a guide to prepare for the upcoming season. The time involved is extremely demanding and so are the
expectations which we hold for all of our volunteer coaches. We expect nothing but the best, as do our players and parents. You are
expected to follow these guidelines and these terms are nonnegotiable because the impact of your influence on our players will be
something they carry on for hopefully a very long time. We need to DoItRight!

INTRODUCTION
In an effort to continually improve our youth football program, HYF has chosen to publish a coaching handbook to serve as a
guide for its Volunteer Coaches. We feel that this handbook, when viewed as a whole, will provide you, the Head or Assistant Coach,
valuable information and insights on coaching youth football.
JOB DESCRIPTION HEAD COACH:
Authority The Head Coach is the primary leader on the field, both on game day and during practice. He is responsible for all the
safety and activity that involves the children and coaches. He is the final authority for all matters pertaining to the proper execution
and implementation of the HYF program as it is outlined in the league by-laws and rules. His authority is an extension of the HYF
board of directors.
Chain of Command The Head Coach can design his chain of command below him (offensive coordinator, defensive
coordinator etc) determined by the overall needs of each team.
Roles and Responsibilities - Plan, organize, implement, and direct all team and individual practice and game activities.
Coordinate the development of winning attitudes, fundamental skills, team and individual discipline, sportsmanship and citizenship.
Establish lines of communication with parents and/or guardians of team members. Adhere to the coaching philosophies,
requirements, and guidelines set forth by HYF.
Assembling/managing his coaching staff It is one of the major functions of the Head Coach to assemble and
manage his coaching staff. After the application and background check process is completed; it is the responsibility of the head coach
to insure that his subordinate coaching staff are trained, briefed on his style of leadership and expectations. He is not only
responsible for assembling his staff but in the unfortunate event of misconduct he is responsible to report any disciplinary actions to
the HYF Coaching Committee.
JOB DESCRIPTION ASSISTANT COACH:
Carry out any and all assignments and duties delegated by the Head Coach. Assume all authority, responsibility and teaching obligations in the event the Head Coach is not available.
Conduct - Assistant Coaches are responsible to read and comply with all directives set forth in HYF, this Coaches Handbook and
Game Rules as set forth for by the TCYFL. It is also important that all Coaches instruct each team member fairly and impartially without
demonstrating favoritism or unfair discipline to any child, to include his own.

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Attendance/Commitment - Assistant Coaches will make every effort to attend all practices and games on time. If an Assistant
Coach cannot attend or will be late to a practice or game, he is responsible to notify the head coach in a fair and timely manner. In
the unfortunate event of an unexcused absence, an Assistant Coach may be disciplined up to and including termination. Common
sense prevails, but it is necessary that our Assistant Coaches realize the importance of and the level of commitment this sport requires.
Assignments - Head Coaches will provide clear guidance to each Assistant Coach with regards to their assignments and responsibilities. If the Assistant Coach has questions on tasking or is unclear on duties, it is his responsibility to clarify these issues with the
Head Coach. Assistant Coaches will take ownership of tasks assigned by the Head Coach. This means taking responsibility for the
research, preparation, and execution of proper and fundamentally sound football instruction.
Active vs. Passive Coaching - Active Coaching in this context means engaging in instruction of team players. Passive Coaching is being on the field but not participating in drills or the instruction of team players. (Being on the field with hands in pockets
providing no instruction is an example of Passive Coaching.) It is important that our coaches make the most of every moment we have
with our players. They watch everything you do. If our coaches are lax then our players are lax. If our coaches are well disciplined
and actively engaged in the collective process of coaching impressionable youths on the field; the results will speak for themselves. Be
part of the solution!
Playbook Selection and Execution - All team playbooks are at the discretion of the Head Coach. All Head Coaches will
have an offensive and defensive system and plan in place to insure the learning and development of all players within each team.
Teaching proper fundamentals through a learning progression reinforces the integrity and goals of the program.
Conditions of hire -All Coaches will undergo a background check prior to the start of the season. No coach will be allowed on
the field until he is cleared by the league for the position. All coaches will also become members of USA Football and obtain the tackle
football certification prior to the start of practices. All Coaches must agree to comply with all TCYFL and
HYF directives, HYF Coaches Code of Conduct and this handbook. All Assistant Coaches must be willing to provide unconditional support to the Head Coach.
HUNTLEY YOUTH FOOTBALL COACHING PHILOSOPHY

1. A head/assistant coach has a great amount of influence on the young people on his team. Children notice how coaches
dress, how they talk, how they control or fail to control their emotions, if they are fair, if they know the rules of the game, if
they have a sense of humor and several of other things that will be impressed on their minds for the future. As a
head/assistant Football Coach -- you are not just a person who has graciously agreed to volunteer your time -- you have a
very important job on your hands. Be the best example you can!!!

2. The home life of some of our participants is not always what it should be. As a youth football coach, you can meet some of
the unmet needs of certain youngsters who have serious problems by simply being considerate, caring,
friendly and understanding. Dont forget to listen for things that are not always said. Hear what they are not saying!!

3. Winning is important -- it is the cornerstone of athletic endeavors -- but it should not supersede other values. Youth football
coaches are encouraged to teach in defeat also. Show how to fight back from adversity, how to get ready for the next game
and how to never give up, regardless of the odds. Teach players how to win but remember you never know how good it feels
to win until youve lost a few times. Instruct rather than criticize teach rather than berate.

4. Seek cooperation, suggestions and involvement from parents. Be aware and understand that some parents, at times, become
irrational about their children. Emotions sometimes boil over. The best way to handle a problem is to discuss it calmly and
face to face. Most problems can and will be solved with proper communication and dialog. In the case of a constant and
extreme problem, notify the HYF Coaching Committee. Remember, although we are seeking parent involvement, unqualified
parents are not allowed on the playing or practice field due to liability reasons.

5. The HYF Board of Directors advises you to:


Inspect players equipment and promptly advise replacement of any defective equipment. Do not allow any player to
participate with defective or damaged equipment under any condition.

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Use restraint in periods of hot weather. Be constantly aware of the possibility of exhaustion, dehydration and heat
stroke. Make sure every player has access to water often. Never deny a water break for any reason.


Practice emotional control. Never berate or unduly criticize a player. Encourage and teach. Never use psychological,
physical, or verbal intimidation.


Explain and illustrate, not just once -- but many times, the proper placement of the head and neck in tackling, blocking,
and as a ball carrier. Absolutely never allow the use of the head, helmet or facemask to spear, lead or block with.
Remember!!! Teach The USA Football Heads Up Tackling method.


In case of injury -- remain cool, calm and collected. Try to calm the injured player. It is better to be safe than sorry.
In the event of any doubt, contact an EMT or Doctor immediately. Never assume the role of a physician.
Only perform activities that insure the safety and well being of each player. Keep head, neck, back, and compound
fracture injuries immobile until a Doctor or EMT arrives.


Be complete and thorough in everything you do. Take a professional attitude. Accept the responsibility that goes with
the job.
Four Goals For A Successful Coaching Experience:

1. Provide experiences that will develop a desire in the players to continue participating in sports. Teach sound football
fundamentals; let the players have fun and winning will take care of itself!

2. Provide experiences that will enable each participant to see his or her worth or value as an individual. Stress the importance
of each individual team member. Good teams beat great players every time.

3. Provide experiences that will teach principles and attitudes that will benefit the participant later in life. Always emphasize the
importance of the commitment to excellence in academic and humanitarian endeavors. DoItRight!!!

4. Provide experiences that will prevent a child from dropping out of the program. Teach basic skills, do not criticize or berate
players. Emphasize equal participation. Let kids learn from success and failure.
Coaching Requirements And Rules: HYF and TCYFL rules will be followed with the following
exceptions and additions:

1. All coaches, including assistants must obtain USA Football certification and be approved by the HYF Board of Directors.
Certification requirements can be found at USAfootball.com.

2. All coaches will adhere to the HYF Coaches Code of Conduct, which can be found on the HYF website and shall be drug,
tobacco, and alcohol free at all HYF activities. Coaches are representatives of the entire league and any behavior that reflects
badly on the league whether at an HYF event or not can result in the coachs suspension.

3. All coaches pledge to teach proper and safe technique and will refrain from teaching or conducting dangerous drills
and/or activities.

4. During hot weather coaches are responsible to see that every player receives proper amounts of water during practice.

5. The Head Coach is responsible to have a cellular phone available at all practices and games in the event of an emergency.

6. All coaches will consider any head, neck, or back injury a serious and potentially dangerous situation.
In the event of such injury the coach should:


Never remove the helmet or shoulder pads (unless absolutely necessary to provide CPR).


Immediately check for unconsciousness, tingling sensations in arms or legs, and paralysis.


Keep the player immobilized -- calm the player.


Call 911 or an ambulance service if any doubt exists about the players condition.

7. All coaches will be required to provide an enjoyable learning environment for all HYF participants. Attention should be
devoted to the participants physical, social and personal development while adhering to the following HYF coaching values:


Teach Sportsmanship


Promote Growth through Participation


Promote Fitness Teach Coping with Success and Failure


Develop Skills Develop Positive Authority Attitudes

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Instill a Desire to Succeed

8. All coaches will help contribute and support team participation in all HYF events. Walk-a-thon, Tackle For Pink and our
team Super Bowl Squares are all important events that support continued growth within the HYF program and our
DoItRight philosophy.
PRACTICE SCHEDULE AND RULES

1. The weekly practice schedule is as follows: Practice begins on the first Monday following the two week evaluation period and
will be every day until the start of school. Once school begins practices will be limited to three days per week with games
scheduled for Saturdays or Sundays when the season starts. Practice schedules can be modified due to holidays or major
school events as determined by each head coach and/or HYF.

2. When practice is over, at least one coach must stay with the team until every player has been picked up. Never leave a
player unattended.

3. To be in good standing, the player must attend all practice and game activities unless he is granted an excused absence.
Any player missing 3 practices unexcused during a year can be dismissed from the team. Any player missing a combination
of 7 or more games and practices, excused or unexcused, can be dismissed from the team at the determination of the head
coach and the HYF coaching committee. An excused absence will be granted for illness, school, church or family reasons.

4. Players may be required to sit out of a game or partial game for disciplinary actions, but the parents of the player and the
opposing coaches must be made aware of this before the start of the game or the night before the game for away games.

5. Equipment is expensive! Do not allow players to sit on or throw helmets. Any player caught throwing a helmet can be
suspended for one game.
GAME DAY -- FIELD RULES

1. Only coaches, players, water boys and chain crew may be on the sidelines. Coaches and players must remain inside the
coaches restriction box during a game (the 40-yard area between the 30-yard lines). Chain crews should be limited in age
to ensure adequate understanding of official instructions. The total number of coaches allowed on the sideline is 6. You are
allowed up to 2 photographers or videographers, but they are restricted from coaching functions. No ONE besides members
of the team and coaching crew are allowed on the sidelines or field!

2. Parents and other spectators must remain behind the track, restrictive fence or other established barriers.

3. Trash clean-up will occur after each game. Failure to clean up trash after the game may cause the league to lose the privilege
of playing on the District 158 fields. Remember we are guests of the facility. Lets act accordingly. The Head Coach is
responsible to see that the team cleans up the trash on the sideline after the game.
DEALING WITH PARENTS
Coaching HYF is exciting and rewarding, but from time to time, you may experience difficulty with parents. Some may want their
children to play more or they might question some of your judgments as a coach. This is normal, so dont feel that youre alone if this
happens.
Here are a few thoughts to remember when dealing with parents:

1. Always listen to parents ideas and feelings. Remember, they are interested and concerned because it is their children that
are involved. Encourage parental involvement however resist unfair pressure. You are the coach and its your responsibility to
make the final decisions. Most importantly, be fair. If you treat all players equally, you will gain respect!

2. No coach can please everybody. Dont try! Know what your objectives are, communicate them to the parents and do what
you believe to be of value to the team, not the parents.

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3. From the very beginning of the season, make certain all parents know your ground rules. Have rules, regulations, your
philosophy, your phone number, practice dates/times, etc., printed on a sheet of paper you can pass out to all parents.

4. Be consistent. Try not to change your rules or your coaching philosophy during the season. If, for some reason, you must do
so, make sure every player and every parent is informed immediately.

5. Handle any confrontation one-on-one, not in a crowd situation. Dont be defensive. Dont argue with the parent. Listen to
their viewpoint and thank them for it. If necessary, contact the HYF Coaching Committee and schedule a meeting to iron out
any differences.

6. NEVER discuss individual players with other parents. It is unfair to the player. Remember, the grapevine will hang you every
time. Make sure your assistant coaches also adhere to this rule.

7. Ask parents not to criticize their children during a practice or game. Dont let your players be humiliated, even by their own
parents. Explain that you must be under complete control of your team when they are on your turf.

8. Ask your players parents to remember that Game Officials are human and may make a mistake. In fact, they may make
several mistakes. Officials should not be subject to criticism during ball games -- not by coaches, not by players and not by
parents or other spectators. Explain that the rules we play by are not the same as the rules they see at the pro, college and
even high school level. Most of the abusive fan criticism and behavior is simply a result of their lack of knowledge of our
playing rules.

9. Ask your parents to get involved. There are many activities in which they can be of great help and benefit to the team
and to the league, such as: car pooling, set up and take down of the game fields, scoreboard operating, fund raising, team
events, etc.

10. Remember that assistant coaches must be approved in advance. If a parent decides he/she wants to help you coach; he/she
must meet league criteria and qualifications.

11. Always remember that you will be dealing with all types of children and with parents of differing backgrounds and ideals.
One of your main challenges as a coach is to deal with these differences in a positive manner that will lead to cooperation,
enthusiasm and enjoyment for all.
GUIDELINES FOR THE REQUIRED PRE-SEASON PARENT MEETING

1. Every HYF Head Coach is required to conduct a pre-season parent meeting. The main purpose of the meeting is to open
lines of communication between the coaches and the parents and allow you to explain your coaching philosophy, rules
and regulations.

2. Arrange to have your meeting prior to the first practice to insure you that your parents are well aware of the teams rules,
regulations and expectations. It is recommended that both parents attend to insure that there is nothing lost in translation.

3. Topics you must cover in your coach-parent meeting:


Introduce yourself and your assistant(s). You should give a little background information on yourself and each assistant
(experience, certifications etc.).


Pick a team parent who will serve as your Team Parent.


Pass out a schedule that lists location of practices, dates of practices, start and finish times of practice, dates and
location of games, etc.


Tell the parents what should be done prior to checking equipment in cleaning helmet, washing pants, etc.


Talk about providing water during practice sessions and half time drinks and snacks for game day. Ask for parent help
in providing both.


Go over all of your rules, regulations, policies, and coaching philosophies.


Explain the league rule concerning game playing time. Explain the rules we play under -- make a copy and hand out
if you prefer.


Talk about car-pooling for practices and for games.


It is recommended that each head coach have a parent handout that outlines all team rules, regulations and
expectations for the season.


Thank the parents for their support.

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HYF wants to thank you for your continued support towards helping us build a program for our children that teaches them life lessons
that can only be learned through team sports. With your help HYF continues to be a leader in turning our young athletes of today into
tomorrows leaders!

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