Zero Tolerance Policy

• While individuals have the freedom to choose their behavior, they are not exempt from the consequences of their choices.

• TYFA enforces a zero-tolerance policy for adults who fail to recognize that this is a youth sports league. TYFA events are not platforms for violence, profanity, racism, bigotry, or any form of hostility.

• Furthermore, TYFA events should not be used for religious or political discussions. Violations of this policy will result in Level IV disciplinary actions.

Social Media Conduct for Volunteers

• TYFA holds its volunteers to the highest standards, both on the field and in their personal online presence.

• While volunteers are free to post on their personal social media, they are not exempt from consequences. Any certified volunteer who posts statements involving violence, hatred, or vulgarity may be subject to Level IV disciplinary actions, just as if those actions had occurred at a TYFA event.

Respect for TYFA Staff and Officials

• All TYFA staff members—regardless of gender or race—must be treated with respect.

  • TYFA staff do not have the authority to stop a game or intervene in officiating unless requested by the referees.

  • TYFA staff cannot alter the outcome of a play or instruct referees on specific calls.

Avoiding Suspensions for Behavior

• Before acting impulsively, THINK:

  • Is arguing with a referee over a missed call worth a penalty, ejection, suspension, or fine?

  • Verbal altercations should never escalate into physical confrontations. Leading by example is essential—words are not fists.

• The Head Coach and potentially the entire organization will be charged with a Level IV violation if illegal or ineligible participants are found on their team.

• Illegal Participants Include:

  • Athletes exceeding the age limit for their division.

  • Athletes participating without certification.

  • Athletes violating the 60-mile residency rule.

  • Volunteers participating without certification.

• Illegal athletes will be removed from TYFA for the season. Most illegal volunteers will face the same consequence, while others may be charged with a Level IV violation.

• Ineligible Participants Include:

  • Certified athletes and volunteers under suspension.

  • Athletes too young for their division.

  • Volunteers under 14 years old for football and 15 years old for cheer.

• Violations involving ineligible participants will result in a Level II disciplinary action.

• An Eligibility Challenge is a formal, written request questioning the eligibility of an athlete or volunteer.

• Organizations suspecting a TYFA participant of being ineligible or illegal have the right—and responsibility—to submit a challenge by emailing HelpDesk@tyfa.com. Only formal requests will be reviewed.

• Organizations may even challenge their own participants, especially in cases where unofficial accusations arise on social media. This process helps ensure fairness and transparency.

• TYFA Compliance will conduct a thorough and timely investigation, engaging only with the organization representatives directly involved. A participant’s eligibility may only be challenged once per season, unless new, undeniable evidence is presented that necessitates a review of the initial ruling.

• Organizations that withhold eligibility concerns for personal advantage—such as allowing an ineligible player to compete and only reporting them after a loss—will also face disciplinary action.