ESMS FLAG FOOTBALL RULES
The object of the game is to score as many touchdowns as possible. There are several ways to score a touchdown. You can run the ball over the goal line or pass to a team mate, who will carry the ball over. Start the game with a kickoff which is taken ten yards from your end zone. When the receiving team’s flag is pulled the ball is placed at the exact spot but in the middle of the field.
The offensive team now has four downs to score a touchdown or the opposing team will receive possession of the football. However, the ball may be punted on fourth down. (There are no ten yards or two pass completions for a first down.) The line of scrimmage where the ball is hiked should be thought of as a wall (red flags on one side – yellow on the other side. If you are in an offside position talking to an opponent both of the players may lose their participation points.
GIRLS ARE THE QUARTERBACK ON 1ST AND 3RD DOWNS AND BOYS ON 2ND AND 4TH DOWNS.
All players on the offensive team must run a play and the defending team must play man to man defense. Each defensive player must pick an opponent to defend. Violation of these rules will result in a loss of participation points and you may be sent to the dugout. If you are standing next to someone on your own team during a play then we know that you are NOT participating and this will result in a loss of participation points’
The play starts when the center hikes the ball to the quarterback. The quarterback may not run across the line of scrimmage. He or she may hand the ball to another player who is allowed to run across the line. The quarterback may throw the ball to any teammate but only ONE forward pass is allowed during each play.
The defense must count seven alligators before rushing the quarterback. No blitzing. If the ball is handed off the defense may now cross the line of scrimmage.
No fumbles. The football is dead when it hits the ground and the play is over.
There will be ABSOLUTELY NO TACKLING.
No flag guarding.
Do not tie the belt; it must be put on using the clips.
No inappropriate language.
Everyone MUST be Kind, Polite, and Respectful at all times.