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HEGEWISCH BULLDOGS2014PARENT/CHILDINFORMATION HANDBOOKVISIT US AT OUR WEBSITE – OR “FRIEND” US ON FACEBOOKBULLDOGS FOOTBALL AND CHEERLEADING PROGRAMThe Hegewisch Bulldogs Organization is a non-profit organization formed to provide area youth with the opportunity to participate in football and cheerleading. Our goals are to promote and instill self-confidence, good sportsmanship, camaraderie and physical and mental development while learning the techniques of football and cheerleading. Mandatory Family/Volunteer ParticipationIn order to accomplish our goals, we rely on the assistance of parent volunteers. Therefore, we have a mandatory family/volunteer participation system. There is a deposit in the amount of $75.00, refundable at the end of the season if you have completed the mandatory requirements.In order to receive your deposit back, each family is required to perform at least four (4) volunteer assignments during the season. There are no “half” refunds. Listed are some of the family/volunteer options we are considering for this season. Please keep in mind, they are subject to change:Attend a meeting (1 mandatory)Field set upConcession standField take down/clean upTag Day (mandatory)Split-the-potScoreboard operatorBake sale tableSpirit wear TableChain gangAll parents and fans are asked to help keep our field clean before, during and after all practices and games. Please do your part and dispose of all trash properly.Your child’s sense of achievement will be heightened if he/she has your support. We encourage you to come to practices, as well as the games, to see your child’s progress.Team ParentsTeam parents are an important part of our coaching support staff. Two team parents are needed for each team/squad. At least one team parent must be present at each practice and game. These parents are responsible for taking attendance, handing out notes, collecting paperwork, and making necessary phone calls. Team parents will work closely with the Executive Board and coaches to keep the line of communication flowing.Fees/RegistrationFootball:$150.00 (includes jersey & sponsor t-shirt)Cheerleading:$125.00 (includes sponsor t-shirt and some competitions)*each football player is to pay a refundable equipment fee in the amount of $25.00.**each cheerleader is to pay a refundable uniform fee in the amount of $25.00.***each family is to pay a refundable participation fee in the amount of $75.00.Homecoming RaffleAs a way to help keep registration costs down, we require each football player and cheerleader to sell 100 raffle tickets for $1.00 each (total tickets are reduced with multiple children).This is our only mandatory fundraiser. We may do other fundraisers, but this is the only one that is mandatory for each family.All raffle ticket money is due on or before our first game of the season. If not turned in, your child may not play until ticket money is received.Tag DayTag day is a mandatory event needed to receive your family participation fee back. It is usually held on Friday and Saturday, and only minimal service is required (date TBA). All children must be accompanied by an adult.HomecomingHomecoming will be scheduled after we receive the game schedule from the Metro Youth Football League. We try to plan events to make this a special weekend for the kids. Events may include a pep rally, bonfire, party, crowning of a king and queen for each level, parade, and special performances by cheerleaders. This is usually a weekend-long event, so please be prepared!!Awards BanquetAfter all the games are played and the season is just a memory, we have our year-end banquet to recognize the achievements of all the football and cheerleading participants. Reservations are required for this banquet. We will send home reservation request forms along with associated cost information later in the season. Banquet seating is determined on a first come, first served basis.Hegewisch Bulldogs Spirit WearWe offer a special collection of Bulldogs logo items at all home games and also during most practices. Some items may require pre-orders (jackets, jerseys, etc.).Website/NotesThe Hegewisch Bulldogs website will be updated throughout the year with important information, games, schedules, maps, etc. The URL is . Notes will also be sent home on a regular basis by each team. All information regarding activities, games, schedules, weigh-ins, etc. will be handed out after practice by the team parent. Please double check with your child if he/she has any notes. If your child misses a practice, please ask the team parent if they missed any information. We also have a Facebook page that is updated regularly and gives you an opportunity to post your own pictures, voice your opinion (please be respectful), cheer on your team, etc. Please friend us on the Hegewisch Bulldogs Facebook page.Injuries1.Any child sustaining injuries that require medical attention must have a signed doctor’s release to participate in practices or games for the current season. This release must be turned in to the Player Agent.2.Any child who contracts an infectious disease (other than a cold or the flu) during a football season must have a signed doctor’s release to participate in practices and games. This release must be turned in to the Player Agent.3.It is the responsibility of the parents to contact the Player Agent to obtain league medical forms in the event that there’s an injury during a Hegewisch Bulldogs game, practice or event. This should be done immediately following the injury and before the end of the season.4.The Hegewisch Bulldogs medical insurance is a secondary insurance. Our medical insurance only pays part of your “out of pocket” cost.*Due to safety concerns, league regulations and insurance requirements, no one except the players, coaches, board members and board authorized personnel will be allowed on the field at Hegewisch Bulldogs games. Parents are not allowed in the roped off area with players and coaches at ANY time during a game. FOOTBALL PLAYER, CHEERLEADER, PARENT/FAN AND COACHES CODE OF CONDUCTTHE FOLLOWING IS A STATEMENT OF ZERO TOLERANCE AND VIOLATION IMPLICATIONS:Football Player Code of ConductAny violations will be dealt with on a case to case basis. Written notice on first violation will be enforced. Depending on the violation, the second infraction may result in a season or lifetime ejection from the organization. However, ejection on the first violation may also occur. No refunds will be issued by the organization if ejection occurs. Other ramifications may include game(s) suspension and/or physical exercise.*All violation procedures will be overseen by the Executive Board.1.No arguing/disrespecting the coaching staff at any time.2.No arguing/disrespecting teammates or opposing players.3.All football players shall demonstrate good sportsmanship at all practices, games and Hegewish Bulldogs events.4.No gang signs, conduct or apparel of any kind allowed near practice, games and Hegewisch Bulldogs events,5.No foul language during practice, games or Hegewisch Bulldogs events.6.No fighting or undesired physical contact of any kind. This includes horseplay, spitting and any other solicited or unsolicited acts of violence.7.During the football season, you are a Hegewisch Bulldog on and off the field. Any violation at any time will reflect on our organization. Please follow all rules on and off the field. You can be reprimanded by the Hegewisch Bulldogs for acts outside of practice, games and events.8.Smoking, alcohol and tobacco is prohibited. Coaches and team parents will not be allowed to smoke/drink around the players. Players caught smoking/drinking will be dismissed from the Hegewisch Bulldogs.Cheerleader Code of ConductMisconduct as listed below will lead to a parent conference. In the event the problem persists, the cheerleader may be dismissed from the organization with Executive Board approval.1.Cheerleaders are first and foremost Hegewisch Bulldogs Cheerleaders.2. Respect the sport of cheerleading, your coaches, yourself and your teammates.3.All cheerleaders shall demonstrate ladylike behavior and good sportsmanship at all practices, games and Hegewisch Bulldogs events.4.Disputes between girls, coaches, team parents or parents are not to interfere with practices/games. All problems will be handled by the coach away from the other cheerleaders.5.Any cheerleader creating problems, disrupting a squad, exhibiting a poor attitude, not giving her all and/or fostering a poor attitude in others will be dealt with immediately.6.Be polite and attentive when watching routines of opposing teams at the field and at competitions.7.Cheerleaders not willing to participate in practice will wait out the remainder of the practice. Continued unwillingness to participate will result in a suspension from the upcoming game. The cheerleader will be required to attend the game in full uniform and sit with their team parent or coaches.8.Foul language or gestures will not be tolerated. No hitting or pushing will be tolerated. These types of behavior will result in immediate suspension for the next game and possibly from the organization.9.Smoking, alcohol and tobacco are prohibited. Coaches and team parents will not be allowed to smoke/drink around cheerleaders.10.Stunting is allowed during scheduled practices and games in indicated areas as specified by coaches ONLY.Parents and cheerleaders, if at any time you feel you have a problem or feel you are being treated unfairly; the following steps need to be taken1.Notify team parent/coach. If matter remains unsolved, then2.Notify the Cheerleading Moderator. If still unresolved, then3.Contact the Hegewisch Bulldogs Executive Board.Parent/Fan Code of ConductThe Hegewisch Bulldogs Organization has a zero tolerance approach to parental and adult inappropriate behavior at any Bulldogs practice, game or event. Verbal or physical violence will simply not be tolerated. The Hegewisch Bulldogs reserve every right to impose a seasonal or lifetime ban on any parent/adult who cannot adhere to sociable and positive behavior. Again, no refunds will be issued in these cases.1.Absolutely no negative verbal exchanges with players (even your own child), coaches, referees or any other league/team officials.2.Fighting, physical violence or verbal threats/comments will not be tolerated.Disciplinary actions for violations are as follows:1.First violation: Parent/fan ejected from the premises.2.Second violation: Parent/fan ejection for the remainder of the football season.3.Third violation: Ejection of the parent/fan AND related children from the team and league for the remainder of the football season.Coaches Code of Conduct1.To teach and instruct players/cheerleaders in strict adherence of objectives to promote and instill self-confidence, good sportsmanship, camaraderie and physical and mental development while learning the techniques of football and cheerleading.2.To attend practices and games on time or make provisions to have suitable replacement personnel attending in your place.3.To always remember that you are instructing young athletes and your instruction must be geared to youth in regards to language and physical instruction.4.To teach the game of football in a tough manner without instructing purposeful injuring plays or “loop holing” rules of play.5.To adhere to the by-laws of the Hegewisch Bulldogs Organization and Chicago Park District usage rules in regards to traffic, field usage and alcohol/tobacco usage. This also applies to other parks and facilities that we may visit while on the road.6.To always try to be a positive influence on those we instruct and make their time in our program a fun and enjoyable experience.7.To always give each child a fair shot at each position on the team or squad. Just because your son/daughter is on the team or squad, they may not deserve the best positions or the most playing time.8.To be knowledgeable of the current playbook that this organization operates under and teach these plays to the participants.REMEMBER – RESPECT YOURSELF, YOUR TEAMMATES, YOUR COACHES, YOUR CHILDREN AND YOUR COMMUNITY IN A POSITIVE MANNER AT ALL TIMES. ALWAYS DEMONSTRATE AND MAINTAIN GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP!! BULLDOGS FOOTBALL POLICIESMission StatementThe mission of the Hegewisch Bulldogs Organization is to teach children ages 7-14 the basics and fundamentals of football while promoting self-confidence, good sportsmanship, camaraderie and physical and mental development. Pee-wee through Junior Varsity play in a competitive environment, while the Super Pee-wee level focuses on development. Eligibility1.All boys must be 7 years old by November 15th of the current year. Players cannot have reached their 15th birthday before November 15th or be in the 9th grade.2.Registration is on a first come, first served basis, with alumni receiving priority, so that as many children as possible can participate. A waiting list will be established after maximum registration is reached at each level. The maximum shall be determined by the Executive Board each year.3.Players must show proof of age by submitting an original birth certificate. (If prior year player, we should have a copy.) A copy of the birth certificate will be kept on file with the Player Agent, and will bear the Metro League seal. This is a league requirement. If we do not have your birth certificate, the player will not be able to weigh-in, therefore, they will not be able to play.Team PlacementThe Metro Youth League regulates the teams. Age and weight classifications are strictly enforced as follows:Super Pee-wee – 7 and 8 year olds up to 85 lbsPee-wee – 9 and 10 year oldsup to 100 lbsWidget – 11 and 12 years oldsup to 125 lbsJunior Varsity – 13 and 14 year oldsup to 155 lbs*Note: age is determined by the child’s age as of November 15th of the current year.Official Weigh-InThere will be three (3) official league weigh-ins that the football players may be required to attend. The first weigh-in will be before the first regular season game and is mandatory. If a child does not make weight for his level, there will be a second weigh-in before the second game of the season. The third weigh-in is for the players who were within five (5) pounds of the level limit. This weigh-in is usually held around the sixth or seventh game of the season, before playoffs.1.Each player must wear his current year game jersey to the weigh-in, shorts and gym shoes. We will be fined if this is not followed.2.It is the parent’s responsibility to make sure that the child attends the official weigh-in on time. Failure to attend the weigh-in may result in game suspensions or being dropped completely from the roster. This is a league rule. No refunds will be issued. The team parent or coach will let you know dates and times.3.No child can be moved to a team that exceeds his age or weight classification, unless he has permission from his parent and the Executive Board. A mutual decision as to what is best for the player will discussed. Sometimes players are needed to play up. They may do so with parent’s permission only.4.The Hegewisch Bulldogs Organization does not condone any severe weight loss methods.5.Players not making weight (being over the maximum for the team they are rostered on) at the first or second weigh-in will have the opportunity to play on the next level up with parent’s permission and Executive Board approval.6.Any Junior Varsity player not making weight (155 lbs) by the second weigh-in will be removed from the roster and required to turn in his equipment.Participation1.A player cannot be dropped from a team for any reason unless there is Executive Board approval.2.Attendance at practices is considered mandatory. If your child cannot make practice, make sure the team parent or coach is contacted at least 1 hour before practice begins.3.All participants are required to attend Friday practices (or the last practice before a game). Unexcused absences will be addressed in the following method:Football players cannot participate in the opening series of the game. For offensive players this would mean the first offensive series. For defensive players this would mean the first defensive series. For players playing both ways this would mean no participation in both the first offensive and defensive series.4.Attendance will be taken at all practices and games.5.Habitual tardiness will also be tracked and will count as an unexcused absence.6.Each parent must sign a Bulldogs parent/player code of participation form stating that they have read and agreed to this code of participation. The Pee-wee through Junior Varsity levels are competitive and playing time is earned (2 play series minimum). The Super Pee-wee level will emphasize development of skill and strive to have a consistent rotation of players during the games.GamesGame schedules will be handed out as soon as the Metro Youth Football League establishes them. You can expect eight (8) regular season games and possible playoff and championship games. Depending on the team, your game times may vary. Most games are played on Sunday; however, Saturday games are possible. Players and parents need to be flexible as changes to the schedule may occur.Football Practice InformationIF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS FOR YOUR COACH, PLEASE WAIT UNTIL AFTER PRACTICE TO ASK – PRACTICE TIME IS FOR THE PLAYERS. THANK YOU.All practices will be held at Mann Park.Practices begin August 1, 2013 (coaches or team parents will contact you with times)Practice times vary from team to team.Practices can be held five (5) days a week. Sometimes a Saturday practice may be requested.Appropriate practice attire is required. Sweatpants or loose fitting clothes, no jeans or shorts (unless coach allows), t-shirt, gym shoes or football spikes (no metal spikes).No jewelry or earrings of any kind.EquipmentIn order to receive your equipment, all fees must be paid in full. Each football player will be issued equipment, including helmet (does not include chin strap), mouth piece, all required pads, pants, red socks and jersey. The jersey and socks are yours to keep at the end of the season. Equipment hand-out will be announced by the Equipment Manager and your team parent or coach will advise you of date, time and location. Your child will be fitted for the proper size. Helmet, pads and pants will be used for games and practices. In addition to the equipment we provide, your football player will need:Good fitting spikes (no metal or screw-in types).Cup with football shorts that hold cup (bike short type).T-shirt or jersey to wear over shoulder pads during practice.T-shirt or sweatshirt to be worn under pads when the weather turns cold.Chin strap for helmet (sizes/styles vary).Uniforms must be clean and look presentable in order to participate in activities on game day. Players must wear red over-the-calf socks for games. A pair will be issued to each player at equipment hand-out. Parents/players may not alter or personalize any Bulldogs issued equipment or uniform. The Equipment Manager will distribute jerseys during practice prior to the first weigh-in. All equipment must be kept in good condition. Any problems should be reported to the Equipment Manager immediately.Equipment Turn-InEquipment turn-in will be after the season ends. If our last game is at home, we will have players turn in helmets and shoulder pads after their game. All equipment is the exclusive property of the Hegewisch Bulldogs Organization and must be returned on or before the scheduled turn-in date. Pants must be cleaned before they are turned in. Any lost, damaged or non-returned equipment will be billed at the current replacement cost. If equipment is not returned, the family is ineligible to sign up for the following season until restitution is made. No awards or trophies will be awarded if equipment is not turned in by the due date. Anyone unable to turn equipment in by the due date must make arrangements with the Equipment Manager at least three (3) days before the banquet. Anyone who returns their equipment after the banquet will forfeit their equipment fee.BULLDOGS CHEERLEADING POLICIESMission StatementThe Hegewisch Bulldogs Cheerleaders are committed to promoting spirit and enthusiasm in a positive way to reflect upon the Bulldogs Football Organization, and to promoting healthy group interaction among its members. Our purpose is to acquaint young girls with the basic fundamentals of cheerleading and to encourage them to stay in shape physically and mentally. We hope to encourage sportsmanship, fair play and cooperation through practice, performance at all home and away games and by participating in competitions. We hope to offer them the skills necessary to be competitive at the high school level if they so desire.Cheerleading Squad PlacementHegewisch Bulldogs cheerleading consists of four (4) squads. The squads are divided by grade level. Grade level is determined by what grade they are in on September 1 of the current year. The squads are as follows:Super Pee-wee1st and 2nd gradePee-wee3rd and 4th gradeWidget5th and 6th gradeJunior Varsity7th and 8th gradePractice Dates and TimesPractice will begin the first week of August. You will be contacted with exact times and dates. Practices will be held at Mann Park, outside on the east side of the park. Practice can be held five (5) days a week. Saturday practice may be requested. Practices are held outdoors; please be sure your child is prepared for the changes in the temperature. In the event of bad weather, the Cheerleading Moderator will make a decision 30 minutes before practice starts whether or not to hold practice. Sometimes during bad weather we are allowed to use the gym. Do not assume practice is canceled. You will be contacted by the Cheerleading Moderator, a team parent or a coach if practice is canceled. Basic rule of thumb: If the football players are practicing or playing, the cheerleaders are cheering.Practice GuidelinesParents are encouraged to watch the girls practice, off to the side. Parents are not to interfere with the coaches and/or team parents. Anyone disrupting practice may be asked to leave. Friends and siblings are not allowed at practice unless accompanied by cheerleader’s parent. They are expected to be respectful and not disruptive during practice times. Hair must be securely tied back. Short hair needs to be pulled back away from the face. No metal or clips are allowed in the hair for safety reasons.DRESS FOR PRACTICE. Stretch type shorts or sweats are appropriate for practice. Girls cannot practice in jeans or tight clothing. No excessively oversized clothing is allowed, as correct body position cannot be determined. No knotted shirts or half shirts will be allowed at practice. No rolled down shorts or pants. Proper undergarments are to be worn at all times. Only low soled gym shoes are allowed, no high or thick soles. No sandals or sling backed gym shoes are allowed. No jewelry of any kind, including body piercings. Religious medals and medic alerts are allowed and should be taped down inside the shirt. Excessively long, real or artificial, fingernails are not allowed. No zippers on any article of clothing are allowed. If dressed inappropriately, girls will not be allowed to practice, but will sit with the team parent. These girls will be responsible for learning what is taught at practice. Food is not allowed during practice, half time or games. Please eat prior to coming to the park. If eating at the park, please do so before or after practice/games. (Food will be allowed if a medical reason exists.)Water bottles should be brought to all practices/games. Please label all water bottles and remember to take them home or throw them away.*At the Cheerleading Moderator’s discretion, judgment calls will be made about these rules with Executive Board involvement.Dropping Off and Picking UpFor outdoor practices, the girls practice outside on the east side of Mann Park. Girls are not allowed to wander off from their squads – they will be dismissed as a group. Younger cheerleader’s parents are encouraged to stay for practice. Due to their age, more attention may be required. The Hegewisch Bulldogs Organization is not responsible for girls left after practice. We do ask coaches/team parents to wait with the girls until they are all picked up; however, some nights we do have other commitments. Chronic lateness in dropping off or picking up will not be tolerated. Please come to your child’s squad to pick up your child. For their safety, we would like to make sure they are picked up by an appropriate adult.UniformsAll cheerleaders will be issued uniforms, which will be provided by the Hegewisch Bulldogs. The uniform is to be returned clean and in the same condition in which it was loaned to you. There will be a designated uniform turn-in date at the end of the season. In addition to the uniform provided, cheerleaders may need to purchase the following items to complete the uniform requirements.Plain white gym shoes.Cold weather gearAll uniforms are to be kept in good condition. NO alterations can be made to the uniform. Any problems should be reported to the Cheerleading Moderator immediately. Do not dry clean or put any uniforms in the dryer – hang dry. You will forfeit your uniform deposit ($25.00) and be charged replacement costs if the uniform is not returned by the turn-in date and/or not in acceptable condition.GamesCheerleaders will cheer every weekend from September to the middle of November at both home and away games. Games are usually on Sunday, but there may be a Saturday game. Playoffs could extend the season to the end of November. They will cheer regardless of weather. Always come prepared to cheer no matter what. Each cheerleader will wear the exact same combination of apparel as directed by her coach. A cheerleader who is not properly dressed as directed may be asked to sit out the game.Game Appearance and ExpectationsCheerleaders are to arrive one hour prior to their scheduled game time in full uniform unless otherwise directed by their coach. Girls are to prepare a “cheer bag” which will include each piece of their uniform and will be brought to each game. Please allow for driving time, traffic and parking problems. If you know in advance you will be late, please call your coach ahead of time. Girls arriving late or missing practice prior to a game will sit out the halftime performance for that day’s game. No one will be allowed to participate in a uniform that is dirty or incomplete.Girls are to remain with their squad from the time they arrive at the field until their game is over, they shake hands with the opposing team and cheer the next Hegewisch Bulldogs football team through the goal posts. Injured girls must dress for games in full uniform and sit with the team parent. Girls not in appropriate uniform will be prohibited from cheering that game. All girls must be dressed alike while cheering on the sidelines and during their halftime performance. Red, white or black hats, scarves or gloves can be worn in cold weather. We encourage parents to attend all games or make arrangements for their daughter to be picked up promptly. The Hegewisch Bulldogs are not responsible for girls left at the field after a game. All cheerleaders should have all pieces of their uniform before the first game. Cheerleaders not in compliance with the uniform requirements will not be allowed to cheer until they are in compliance.AttendanceAttendance will be taken at all practices and games. Each cheerleader should arrive on time and be willing to give 100%. Practice and games are crucial to cheerleaders. Girls are required to attend all practices and games.1.Absences will not be tolerated.2.All cheerleaders are to check in with their team parent and be checked for appropriate attire.3.All absences must be reported to the coach prior to a game or practice. Messages left on voice mail do not qualify as a contact. Communication is crucial.4.Cheerleaders must attend the last week day practice before a game in order to participate in the halftime performance.5.Any cheerleader with three or more absences per season can be dismissed from their squad unless she is injured or has a valid doctor’s excuse for not participating. Any cheerleader released from the Hegewisch Bulldogs due to attendance will not receive any petitionThe Bulldogs Cheerleaders may compete in competitions each season. Participation is voluntary but strongly encouraged. Competition is open to all cheerleaders on a squad willing to commit themselves to their coach, their teammates and desiring to perform to the best of their ability. A final decision to commit to the competition squad will be required no later than September 1st.EXECUTIVE BOARD AND MEETINGSShould you have any questions or concerns, the Executive Board members are here to assist you. Members of the Executive Board are at all practices and games. Please feel free to approach them at the field. Should a situation arise and you need to speak to someone immediately, their names are listed below. Please contact a board member via email or Facebook message.Position HeldNameEmailPresidentRoger Ramosrwramos33@Vice PresidentOlivia Gonzalezoliviagonzalez360@DORSecretarySue McNamarajimshue2004@TreasurerJudy Elizaldeelizalde28@Player AgentNancy Motanmota@Cheerleading ModeratorKelly Amezcuakelly_amezcua815@PublicityKristie Leuzzikristieleuzzi@ConcessionsErika Rubalcabalovemom1963@Field DirectorJohn Maalijjmaali@Equipment ManagerTim Gottardotimothy.gottardoTSM@Ways and MeansJenn Maalijjmaali@Volunteer CoordinatorMonteza Guterrezmontez21@Coaching CoordinatorJosue Hernandezhernandez.josue12@Monthly MeetingsUnless otherwise posted, open board meetings will be held as follows:January thru November, the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at Club 81 Too (13157 Avenue M)August, September and October meetings will be held at 7:30 p.m.All board meetings are open to the public. Anyone wishing to be scheduled to speak or make a general presentation to the board may submit their request through any board member to be forwarded to the Secretary. Requests will be scheduled/confirmed by the Secretary, President or Vice President. Don’t forget that attendance at one of these meetings is mandatory in order to receive your family participation fee refund. ................
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