League Rules Configuration

Points awarded for a touchdown

Points for a 1-point PAT attempt

Points for a 2-point PAT attempt

Points awarded for a safety

An interception during live play is worth 2 points. No interception points are awarded on PAT attempts.

No interception points are awarded on PAT (point after touchdown) attempts.

1-point PAT attempt is taken from the 5-yard line. Offense chooses which hash.

2-point PAT attempt is taken from the 10-yard line. Offense chooses which hash.

An interception during live play is worth 3 points.

Interceptions on PAT attempts do not score points.

A touchdown is worth 6 points.

1-point PAT = 1 point (from the 5-yard line).

2-point PAT = 2 points (from the 10-yard line).

A safety is worth 2 points.

A touchdown is worth 6 points.

1-point PAT = 1 point, attempted from the 5-yard line.

2-point PAT = 2 points, attempted from the 10-yard line.

1-point PAT attempt is taken from the 5-yard line.

2-point PAT attempt is taken from the 10-yard line.

An interception is worth 2 points.

Interceptions are NOT returnable in Girls Flag. The interception is a dead ball worth 2 points.

An interception on a PAT/conversion attempt cannot be returned for additional points.

A touchdown is worth 6 points.

A safety is worth 2 points.

A field goal is worth 3 points.

General PAT structure: a kick PAT is worth 2 points and a run/pass PAT is worth 1 point.

For 14U, a kick PAT is worth 1 point and a run/pass PAT is worth 2 points.

For 8U, a pass PAT is worth 2 points and a run PAT is worth 1 point.

NNSFL 2027 Boys 7v7 interception = 2 points. The old/source 3-point interception value is NOT NNSFL's 2027 value.

A Boys 7v7 interception awards 2 points; the play immediately becomes dead; the interception cannot be returned; possession changes; no interception return yardage is recorded. A PAT interception awards no points.

Every completed legal rep produces one team point — win the rep, win the point.

There are no automatic bonus team points for pancakes, quick defensive wins, or other dominant plays; those performances may be tracked separately as individual statistics.

Individual offensive lineman statistics may include reps, wins, losses, win percentage, and pancakes.

Individual defensive lineman statistics may include reps, wins, losses, win percentage, and quick wins/sacks.

Individual statistics may be used for tournament recognition, player development, evaluation, and awards.

Individual statistics do not replace the official team score.

The offense chooses the hash mark for its PAT attempt.

A legal dominant block or pancake may be recorded as an individual offensive statistic, but a pancake remains worth 1 team point.

A legal quick defensive win may be recorded as an individual defensive statistic, but a quick defensive win remains worth 1 team point.

NNSFL Season 2027 decision (2026-10-18): Team Manager minimum age 18. Server-enforced at staff registration.

NNSFL Season 2027 decision (2026-10-18): Equipment Manager minimum age 18. Server-enforced at staff registration.

Girls Flag high school division allows players up to 18 years old. Senior high school students ARE eligible to participate.

High School seniors ARE permitted to play in Girls Flag. A player in their senior year of high school is eligible regardless of age (up to 18U cutoff).

Boys high school division allows players up to 17 years old. High school seniors are NOT eligible to participate in boys formats.

High School seniors are NOT permitted to play in Boys HS division. Players must be 17 or under and not in their senior year.

How player ages are evaluated for division eligibility

Players must be certified before participating

Maximum number of divisions a player can compete in per event

All players must meet NNSFL Season 3 eligibility and certification requirements.

Official NNSFL Spring Tackle divisions are 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U; there is no High School Spring Tackle division.

A player may play up only with guardian approval and receiving Head Coach approval; both approvals must be documented before participation. Playing up does not change the player's official age and does not permit double rostering (see roster.bigman_no_double_rostering). Playing down is not permitted except where allowed under the official NNSFL age-cutoff leeway policy.

Spring Tackle is unlimited weight with no X-Man restrictions.

High School Boys/Open 5V5 does not permit seniors.

The official Season 3 age cutoff is July 1, 2026; league-age calculations, play-up rules, age-cutoff leeway rules, the certification guardrail and native-division calculation remain governed by the existing NNSFL eligibility engine.

Players may play up according to existing NNSFL policy and may not play down except where already permitted by the canonical NNSFL age-cutoff leeway policy.

Only properly NNSFL-certified players may participate.

Only certified players, cheerleaders, and properly authorized/badged personnel may occupy the field or team sideline during competition.

There is NO Mandatory Play Rule in Spring Tackle. Value true = no MPR is in effect.

There is no maximum roster size.

A player must participate in at least 1 regular-season game to be eligible for postseason competition. The injury exception is retained for a rostered injured player who was properly present/accounted for during required check-ins. A player moved under the approved folded-team exception must participate in at least 1 regular-season game with the new team to become postseason eligible.

A player who was unable to participate because of injury may remain postseason eligible when the player was still properly present and accounted for during the required game-day check-in; NNSFL administration performs postseason roster and certification review and does not automatically approve an exception without administrative review.

Required: proof of age, Release of Liability, Medical Consent, current Physical, and required identification documentation — submitted through the NNSFL-approved registration/certification system.

Birth certificate or passport may be used as proof of age.

Girls Flag does NOT require a state ID when acceptable proof of age is otherwise provided.

LeagueOS must NOT display a player as CERTIFIED until all required certification requirements have been approved.

Only certified players may participate.

Team rosters must be league/conference certified.

Only authorized/certified personnel may be on the field or sideline during competition.

There is no maximum roster size.

A player must participate in at least one regular-season game to be postseason eligible.

Exception: an injured player who was present for official game check-in may remain postseason eligible.

A younger player may play up into an older division. Playing up does not change the player's official age.

Playing up requires parent/legal guardian approval.

Playing up requires the receiving team's head coach approval.

Both approvals (guardian + receiving head coach) must be documented in LeagueOS before participation.

Playing up does not change the player's official age for eligibility purposes.

There is no High School tackle division. Spring Tackle divisions are 8U, 10U, 12U, and 14U only.

The Season 2027 age cutoff date for 5V5 Big Man is July 1, 2026.

Valid 5V5 Big Man divisions are 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, and HS. All five divisions remain active; the HS division remains active with senior eligibility prohibited (eligibility.bigman_hs_seniors_not_permitted).

20-minute running clock. Once the clock starts it does not stop.

Team performance and individual performance are rewarded separately: every rep contributes to the team competition while individual results are tracked to recognize top-performing offensive and defensive linemen.

Length of halftime break

Number of players allowed on the field per team

QB has 4.0 seconds to throw after receiving the snap. Violation = loss of down, treated as a sack.

Players on field for 5v5 format

If QB does not release the ball within 4.0 seconds: loss of down, treated as a sack.

14U and 12U divisions have 25 seconds to snap the ball.

8U and 10U divisions have 30 seconds to snap the ball.

Each possession begins at the 40-yard line going in toward the end zone.

First down is earned by crossing the 20-yard line. 4 downs to get there.

Offense has 4 downs to cross the 20-yard line for a first down.

After earning a first down at the 20, offense has 4 downs to score.

1 coach is allowed on the field during offensive possessions.

All offensive formations must be legal sets prior to the snap.

Running plays are not permitted in 7v7 tournament format.

Double passes (two forward passes on the same play) are not permitted.

Shuffle passes (lateral-style forward passes) are not permitted.

One-hand touch anywhere on the body downs the ball carrier.

Automatic first down and 5 yards from original line of scrimmage.

Previous spot and loss of down.

Automatic first down and 5 yards from original line of scrimmage.

Loss of down.

5-yard penalty.

Loss of down. In the final 1:00, clock also stops on delay of game.

Loss of down and 10 yards from original line of scrimmage.

Automatic first down and 10 yards from original line of scrimmage.

1st offense: ejection from the game.

2nd offense: ejection from the league.

If any player leaves the sideline to participate in a fight, the ENTIRE team is ejected from the tournament.

Standard game duration: two 20-minute halves, running clock. Administrators may shorten to one 20-minute game ONLY via an EventRuleOverride (event-specific; never modifies this standard rule).

Standard game format: 2 halves.

Running clock. Clock stops during the final 1:00 as required by the applicable clock rules, except when the mercy condition applies (clock continues running).

Each matchup consists of 3 rounds.

During each round, each team receives 10 offensive reps.

During each round, each team receives 10 defensive reps.

Each team competes with five offensive linemen and five defensive linemen in the rotation.

Only one offensive lineman and one defensive lineman compete during an individual rep.

Each lineman should receive 2 reps per round on the applicable side of the ball.

Over three complete rounds, each team receives 30 offensive reps and 30 defensive reps.

The competition is designed to prevent a team from relying exclusively on one athlete and to provide meaningful evaluation opportunities across the line.

Standard game duration: two 20-minute halves, running clock. Administrators may shorten to one 20-minute game ONLY via an EventRuleOverride (event-specific; never modifies this standard rule).

Standard game format: 2 halves.

Running clock. Clock stops during the final 1:00 as required by the applicable clock rules, except when the mercy condition applies (clock continues running).

30-second play clock.

Each team receives one 60-second timeout per game.

Each timeout is 60 seconds.

The clock stops after each score and restarts on the next snap.

Officials may stop the clock at their discretion.

For an injury: stop the clock while the injured player is attended to and safely removed; restart the clock afterward.

Starting possession: the offense begins on the opponent's 40-yard line.

Captains meet at midfield; the visiting team calls the toss.

The toss winner chooses offense or defense; the loser chooses the direction to defend.

There is no option to defer to the second half.

The QB has 5 seconds to throw. The count begins at the snap and is counted verbally by the referee.

If the pass is not released within 5 seconds: play is dead, loss of down, treated as an incomplete pass.

If the QB's flag is pulled before the ball leaves her hand: play is dead; the ball is spotted where the QB's feet are.

Once the ball is handed off, the 5-second passing restriction no longer applies.

If a pass is tipped or blocked by a defender and the QB catches the ball: play is dead; the result is an incomplete pass.

The QB may throw the ball to avoid a sack, but the pass must go beyond the line of scrimmage.

A legal rusher may affect the play before the 5-second count expires. The 5-second count does not provide the quarterback immunity from a legal rush.

14U Girls Flag plays 7v7 — seven players on the field.

8U Girls Flag plays 5v5 — five players on the field.

12U Girls Flag plays 5v5 — five players on the field.

10U Girls Flag plays 5v5 — five players on the field.

High School Girls Flag plays 7v7 — seven players on the field.

All eligible players may receive a pass, including the QB after a legal handoff behind the LOS.

One foot in bounds is required for a legal reception.

Once the ball has advanced beyond the LOS, the current ball carrier is the only player permitted to possess the ball until the play ends.

Offensive players may not screen, block, run alongside, or otherwise impede defenders attempting to pull the ball carrier's flag.

Only ONE offensive player may be in motion at a time.

UNRESOLVED — REQUIRES NNSFL ADMIN DECISION. BASFL source: only ONE player may be in motion at a time. An earlier NNSFL review approved language allowing MULTIPLE players in motion where otherwise permitted. No motion rule applies for Girls Flag until NNSFL decides. This record intentionally stays INACTIVE.

The QB may run once every first down.

The QB may run at any time.

The QB may run once every first down.

The QB may run at any time.

The QB may run once every first down.

Handoffs are permitted.

Handoffs are permitted.

Only direct handoffs behind the LOS are permitted. Multiple handoffs may occur as long as they remain behind the LOS.

Only direct handoffs behind the LOS are permitted. Multiple handoffs may occur as long as they remain behind the LOS.

Only direct handoffs behind the LOS are permitted. Multiple handoffs may occur as long as they remain behind the LOS.

A player receiving a handoff may throw the ball if she remains behind the LOS.

A player receiving a handoff may throw the ball if she remains behind the LOS.

A player receiving a handoff may throw the ball if she remains behind the LOS.

Center sneak is prohibited. The QB may not hand the ball to the center on the first handoff of the play.

Center sneak is prohibited. The QB may not hand the ball to the center on the first handoff of the play.

Center sneak is prohibited. The QB may not hand the ball to the center on the first handoff of the play.

There are NO no-run zones for 14U or High School 7v7 Girls Flag. The 7-yard 5v5 rush rule does NOT apply to this division.

No-run zones apply. If the ball is spotted on or inside a no-run zone, the offense must use a pass to advance the ball or score.

No-run zones apply. If the ball is spotted on or inside a no-run zone, the offense must use a pass to advance the ball or score.

No-run zones apply. If the ball is spotted on or inside a no-run zone, the offense must use a pass to advance the ball or score.

There are NO no-run zones for 14U or High School 7v7 Girls Flag. The 7-yard 5v5 rush rule does NOT apply to this division.

No-run zones are located 5 yards before (1) the goal line and (2) the first-down line in each offensive direction.

No-run zones are located 5 yards before (1) the goal line and (2) the first-down line in each offensive direction.

No-run zones are located 5 yards before (1) the goal line and (2) the first-down line in each offensive direction.

The rusher must begin at least 1 yard from the LOS.

The defensive rusher must begin at least 7 yards from the LOS. Officials identify/mark the 7-yard rush line.

The defensive rusher must begin at least 7 yards from the LOS. Officials identify/mark the 7-yard rush line.

The rusher must begin at least 1 yard from the LOS.

The defensive rusher must begin at least 7 yards from the LOS. Officials identify/mark the 7-yard rush line.

Once a legal handoff occurs, defenders may cross the LOS without waiting for the normal rush restriction.

Once a legal handoff occurs, defenders may cross the LOS without waiting for the normal rush restriction.

Once a legal handoff occurs, defenders may cross the LOS without waiting for the normal rush restriction.

A legal flag pull occurs only when the ball carrier has full possession.

A defender may not intentionally pull the flag of a player who does not possess the football.

Defenders may dive to pull a flag.

Defenders may NOT: hold the runner, tackle the runner, run through the runner while attempting to pull the flag, or strip/attempt to pull the football from the ball carrier.

Flag guarding includes intentionally obstructing access to the flags using: hand, arm, shoulder, elbow, ball, stiff arm, or jersey/clothing.

The ball is spotted where the BALL is located when the flag is pulled.

A standard rotation progresses LT → LG → C → RG → RT and then reverses RT → RG → C → LG → LT, providing two reps for each position during the round.

Spot foul + automatic first down.

+5 yards + automatic first down.

Teams may substitute eligible rostered players between reps, but substitutions may not be used to manipulate the required competition rotation or repeatedly feature one athlete at the expense of the team rotation.

+5 yards + first down.

+10 yards + first down.

+5 yards from LOS + replay down.

+5 yards from LOS + automatic first down.

+5 yards from LOS + automatic first down.

+5 yards from LOS + automatic first down.

+5 yards from LOS + automatic first down.

+10 yards from LOS + automatic first down.

-5 yards + loss of down.

-5 yards + loss of down.

-10 yards + loss of down.

-5 yards from LOS + loss of down.

-5 yards from LOS + loss of down.

-5 yards from LOS + loss of down.

-5 yards from LOS + replay down. (The number of players permitted in motion is a separate UNRESOLVED rule — see migration report.)

-5 yards from LOS + automatic loss of down.

-5 yards from LOS + loss of down.

-5 yards from LOS + automatic loss of down.

-10 yards from LOS + loss of down.

The referee calls all penalties and determines incidental contact resulting from normal play (a judgment call). Players may not question judgment calls; only the team captain or head coach may ask the referee questions regarding rule clarification or interpretation.

Penalties are enforced from the LOS except designated spot fouls.

If the distance to the goal is shorter than the applicable penalty yardage, enforce half the distance to the goal.

A game cannot end on a defensive penalty unless the offense declines the penalty.

Loss of down means the down is consumed.

The ball must be snapped to start play.

Play becomes dead when: the ball carrier's flag is pulled; the ball carrier steps out of bounds; a forward pass is incomplete; the ball hits the ground; a touchdown, PAT/conversion, or safety occurs; the ball carrier's knee/body touches the ground; or the ball carrier's flag falls off during play.

If the ball carrier's flag falls off, the ball is spotted where the flag came off.

If a receiver catches the football while having only one flag or no flags, the play is immediately dead at the catch spot.

If a player begins a play without a flag and later takes possession, the player is down at the spot where possession is obtained.

There are NO live fumble recoveries. On a fumble the play is dead.

On a fumble, the ball is spotted where the BALL was when possession was lost.

The offense cannot gain additional yardage from a forward fumble.

Substitutions are permitted on a dead ball / end of play.

Players must substitute from the same side of the field.

The offense chooses: (1) take the ball at the location of the inadvertent whistle (down is consumed), or (2) replay the down from the original LOS.

Before each rep, offensive linemen must maintain approximately 2-foot splits.

The competing offensive lineman may use a 2-point or 3-point stance.

The defensive lineman may use a legal stance appropriate for the competition.

Non-participating offensive linemen must remain stationary.

Non-participating players may not chip, block, screen, or otherwise interfere with the active matchup.

Officials may reset the alignment before beginning a rep.

A designated QB bag or league-approved target will be positioned approximately 6 yards behind the center position.

The defensive lineman's objective is to legally defeat the offensive lineman and clearly contact the QB target before the rep expires.

The offensive lineman's objective is to protect the QB target for the entire live period.

Each rep lasts 3 seconds.

Possession changes after: the PAT attempt; a failure to make the first down; or a turnover.

The rep begins on the offensive lineman's first legal movement, and the official starts the three-second count/timer at that moment.

Defense wins the rep when the defensive lineman legally defeats the blocker and clearly contacts the QB target before time expires.

Offense wins the rep when the offensive lineman prevents the defender from legally reaching the QB target for the full three seconds.

During the final 1:00 a sack stops the clock — EXCEPT when the 21+ mercy rule is active at the 1:00 mark, in which case the clock remains running. The mercy rule takes precedence over the normal final-minute sack clock stop.

The official's whistle ends the rep.

Contact with the QB target after the rep has expired does not count.

Each team receives 1 timeout per standard game.

The 14U division uses a 25-second play clock.

The 8U division uses a 30-second play clock.

The 10U division uses a 30-second play clock.

The 12U division uses a 25-second play clock.

The High School division uses a 25-second play clock. NNSFL-approved value.

Teams do not switch ends at halftime. Each game remains on its assigned half of the football field and both offenses attack the same end zone for the entire game.

In a two-half game, the team that did not receive the opening possession receives the first possession of the second half. This rule does not apply to single-period games or Rapid Fire.

Standard Boys 7v7 opening possession is decided by team captains playing rock-paper-scissors — no coin toss is used. The winner chooses offense or defense and the other team receives the remaining choice. The opening offensive possession begins at the 40-yard line.

Unlimited substitutions are permitted during dead-ball situations. Incoming players must already be checked in, certified, eligible, and on the team's event roster.

Substitutions may not be used to delay the game beyond the applicable play clock.

Bull rushing is prohibited; defensive linemen are expected to demonstrate legal pass-rush technique rather than simply overpowering an opponent directly through excessive force.

Maximum games a team can play in a single tournament day

Top 4 teams advance to Division 1 (D-1) playoffs; the next 4 best records advance to Division 2 (D-2).

Standings tiebreakers in order: 1. Conference record. 2. Head-to-head. 3. Points against.

Lower seed plays higher seed.

Rosters and certification must be rechecked before playoffs; the league issues/establishes the playoff roster after certification review. Postseason player eligibility remains subject to the one-regular-season-game rule.

The Spring Tackle regular season consists of four weeks.

Week 1: April 3, 2027 — Reno.

Week 2: April 10, 2027 — Reno hosts Bay Area.

Week 3: April 17, 2027 — Bay Area.

Week 4: April 24, 2027 — Reno.

Opponents are not generated until actual teams are registered and approved, and NNSFL remains the operator of NNSFL-hosted competition.

Spring Tackle Playoffs: May 1, 2027 — Bay Area.

Division 1 consists of the top four teams when participation supports it.

Division 2 consists of the next four qualifying teams when participation supports it; if there are not enough teams to support both D1 and D2, NNSFL administration may establish an appropriate playoff bracket based on actual participation.

Teams are never fabricated to fill playoff brackets.

Lower-seeded qualifying teams play higher-seeded teams according to the official bracket.

Season 3 Spring Tackle Championship: May 8, 2027 — Bay Area.

Championship games use the same governing Spring Tackle playing rules unless an officially approved championship-specific modification is published before competition.

Spring Tackle is the only NNSFL program using league standings, scores, opponents and playoff standings; 7V7, 5V5 Lineman and Girls Flag remain tournament/event-based programs.

Spring Tackle seeding hierarchy: 1. Conference/League record. 2. Head-to-head. 3. Points against.

How overtime is resolved

Maximum overtime rounds before tie stands

Each overtime possession starts from the 10-yard line.

Each team gets 3 plays from the 10-yard line per overtime period.

Overtime periods are NOT timed. Clock does not run during OT.

Starting with the 3rd overtime period, all PAT attempts must be 2-point attempts from the 10-yard line.

Each team receives 3 plays to score in the initial overtime. Both teams must receive the opportunity.

If one team scores and the other does not, the scoring team wins. If both teams score OR neither scores, proceed to the sudden-death yardage procedure.

Ball starts at the 20-yard line.

Each team receives ONE play from the 20-yard line.

Compare yards gained: the team gaining the most yards wins. Example: Team A gains 14, Team B gains 9 — Team A wins.

If both teams gain the same yardage, repeat the round. Both teams receive another one-play opportunity from the 20. Continue until one team gains more yards than the other.

There is NO maximum number of sudden-death rounds.

Each team receives 3 plays to score in the initial overtime. Both teams must receive the opportunity.

If one team scores and the other does not, the scoring team wins. If both teams score OR neither scores, proceed to the sudden-death yardage procedure.

Ball starts at the 20-yard line.

Each team receives ONE play from the 20-yard line.

Compare yards gained: the team gaining the most yards wins. Example: Team A gains 14, Team B gains 9 — Team A wins.

If both teams gain the same yardage, repeat the round. Both teams receive another one-play opportunity from the 20. Continue until one team gains more yards than the other.

There is NO maximum number of sudden-death rounds.

Overtime is UNTIED/UNTIMED — no game clock. The normal 30-second play clock remains active.

The normal 30-second play clock remains active during overtime.

Each team receives 1 additional timeout per overtime period.

College-style overtime begins at the 10-yard line.

Official tackle games should not end in a tie when competition time and conditions allow overtime to be completed.

If the margin is 21 points or greater at the 1-minute mark, the clock will not stop.

Mercy rule activates at the 1-minute mark. If margin is 21+, clock will not stop.

Mercy rule can only trigger in this half or later

At 1:00 remaining, if the scoring differential is 21 points or greater the clock continues running; normal final-minute clock stopping rules no longer apply.

When the mercy condition applies (differential of 21+ points at 1:00 remaining), the clock continues running. This is NOT a second-half activation rule.

At 1:00 remaining, if the scoring differential is 21 points or greater the clock continues running; normal final-minute clock stopping rules no longer apply.

When the mercy condition applies (differential of 21+ points at 1:00 remaining), the clock continues running. This is NOT a second-half activation rule.

The mercy condition is evaluated at the 1:00 remaining mark: with a 21-point or greater differential, the clock continues running and normal final-minute clock-stop procedures no longer apply.

When a team leads by 30 points or more, the game moves to a running clock.

NNSFL has not established mercy rules for 5v5 Linemen. No mercy rule applies for this format until NNSFL decides. This record intentionally stays INACTIVE.

NNSFL has not established mercy rules for 5v5 Linemen. No mercy rule applies for this format until NNSFL decides. This record intentionally stays INACTIVE.

Once the running clock has started, it does not return to normal timing, even if the score later comes back within 30 points; scoring may continue.

NNSFL has not established mercy rules for Tackle. No mercy rule applies for this format until NNSFL decides. This record intentionally stays INACTIVE.

NNSFL has not established mercy rules for Tackle. No mercy rule applies for this format until NNSFL decides. This record intentionally stays INACTIVE.

The mercy condition is evaluated at the 1:00 remaining mark: with a 21-point or greater differential, the clock continues running and normal final-minute stop-clock rules (including the sack clock stop) cease.

When the 30-point running clock is active, scoring may continue and no play-selection restriction is imposed solely because the mercy rule is active. Once the running clock begins, it does not revert to normal timing even if the differential falls below 30.

If the outcome becomes mathematically impossible to change with ONE FULL ROUND REMAINING, the competition ends. Teams are not required to complete meaningless remaining reps/rounds after the result is mathematically secured under this rule. The existing 5V5 scoring/round structure is preserved; no point differential is introduced.

Minutes past scheduled start before forfeit is declared

Minimum eligible players required to avoid forfeit

Minimum players required to play = 7. Applies to all Boys 7v7 divisions.

A tackle team must have a minimum of 15 players to certify.

A minimum of 13 certified and checked-in players is required to play; a team with fewer than 13 eligible checked-in players cannot begin an official league game and is subject to forfeit.

A team may forfeit because it does not have the required 13 eligible/certified players available at official check-in.

NNSFL-controlled operational failures are never charged as team forfeits (official scheduling, field preparation, league-provided medical coverage, AED/event logistics, other league-operated game logistics). This does NOT eliminate team-caused forfeits: fewer than 13 certified/eligible/checked-in players, team no-show, refusal to play, applicable double-roster violation, bench-clearing violation, or applicable cancellation/rescheduling violation.

Minimum players required to play = 5.

Minimum players required to play = 5.

Minimum players required to play = 5.

Minimum players required to play = 7.

Minimum players required to play = 7.

The team must complete game-day check-in and have the required minimum number of certified players by scheduled game time; failure is subject to forfeit. The legacy universal 13-player requirement does NOT apply — minimums are division-specific (8U/10U/12U = 5; 14U/HS = 7).

Team-caused forfeits may result from: fewer than 13 certified/eligible/checked-in players, team no-show, refusal to play, applicable double-roster violation, bench-clearing violation, or applicable cancellation/rescheduling violation.

Fixed BASFL-derived provision, retained as approved: if the visiting team fails to appear, a $200 referee cost applies per affected level. This is a FIXED provision — it is not replaced by an actual-referee-cost rule.

If a visiting travel organization commits to scheduled competition and fails to appear, NNSFL may assess up to $1,000 per affected scheduled level. The applicable fixed $200 referee-cost provision may also apply. NNSFL may exercise discretion for documented emergency, severe weather, road closure, unsafe travel, or comparable verified circumstances.

NNSFL may exercise discretion for documented emergencies, severe weather, road closures, unsafe travel conditions, and comparable verified circumstances.

If a traveling organization arrives but the opposing organization cannot field the required 13 certified/eligible/checked-in players at an affected level, the team unable to field 13 forfeits, and NNSFL may assess up to $1,000 per affected level under the applicable travel/no-show policy. The same principle applies when the traveling organization fails to appear or cannot field 13.

If an organization voluntarily withdraws a tackle team after the season has begun, NNSFL may assess up to $1,000 per affected level. This is a distinct enforcement provision, separate from individual game cancellation/no-show enforcement.

Teams must provide at least 24 hours advance notice of a cancellation. Providing 24 or more hours notice does not automatically eliminate potential financial consequences; NNSFL may review committed travel, official expenses, facility expenses, and other committed event costs.

Less than 24 hours advance notice may trigger cancellation/no-show enforcement, including up to $1,000 per affected level. NNSFL may consider committed travel, official expenses, facility expenses, and other committed event costs.

NNSFL may waive cancellation/no-show penalties for verified circumstances including severe weather, unsafe travel, facility closure, and other documented emergency. NNSFL determines whether the exception applies. When feasible, NNSFL may reschedule the affected game.

Affected organizations should first attempt to agree on a replacement date and location. The replacement becomes official only after NNSFL approval. If the organizations cannot agree, NNSFL has final authority to establish the replacement date and location.

If an organization refuses or fails to appear for an NNSFL-established rescheduled game, a forfeit may apply, up to $1,000 per affected level may apply, and the applicable fixed $200 referee-cost provision may also apply where appropriate. Verified emergencies remain subject to NNSFL review.

HS/CIF/NFHS rules serve as the default playing rules for NNSFL Spring Tackle. Approved NNSFL tackle rules and division-specific modifications supersede the default rules wherever a conflict exists.

HS/CIF/NFHS rules serve as the default playing rules for NNSFL Spring Tackle. Approved NNSFL tackle rules and division-specific modifications supersede the default rules wherever a conflict exists.

NNSFL administrative policies govern NNSFL registration, certification, eligibility, rosters, league operations, scheduling, standings and game administration.

No NFL, NCAA, AYF or other independent playing-rule modifications are used.

NNSFL hosts and operates all Spring Tackle league games; individual teams and associations are not responsible for hosting games.

The schedule may designate a team as HOME or AWAY for competitive and game-administration purposes, but HOME does not mean the team is responsible for operating the venue.

NNSFL/event operations are responsible for field preparation, field safety inspection, scheduling officials, and required medical/event safety operations (including AED accessibility). Participating teams do not assume general hosting responsibilities merely because they are designated home or away.

Home or visiting teams are not responsible for providing the field, referees, EMT/first-responder coverage, referee payments, or chain crew; those responsibilities belong to NNSFL under the league-hosted model.

Whether rushing/running plays are allowed in 7v7

Whether defenders may rush the QB in 8U division

8U uses no kickoffs. The ball is placed at the 30-yard line at the beginning of each half and after each score.

For 8U, the ball begins at the 30-yard line at the beginning of each half.

For 8U, following a score, possession begins at the 30-yard line.

For 8U, punts are 35 yards.

For 8U, blitzing is allowed.

For 8U, there are no defensive alignment restrictions.

For 8U, all fumbles are live.

One coach may be on the field during the first 2 games. After the first 2 games, no coach may be on the field. No on-field coach during playoffs.

Rapid Fire belongs to BOYS 7V7. It is NOT a standard Girls Flag rule. Rapid Fire is a Boys 7v7 competition period with its own possession flow.

Standard Rapid Fire period is 20 minutes. A 15-minute variant is an EVENT-SPECIFIC scheduling override (via EventRuleOverride) when team count or event scheduling requires it — never the global standard.

Rapid Fire possession starts at the 20-yard line.

The offense receives 3 plays to score in each Rapid Fire possession.

If the offense scores, that team remains on offense. If the defense stops the offense, the defensive team takes over on offense. The process continues until the Rapid Fire period expires.

A minimum of 2 officials is required for every 8U Boys 7v7 game.

League playing rules are reviewed before each season. Once the season begins, approved playing rules remain in effect.

A minimum of 2 officials is required for every 10U Boys 7v7 game.

A current-season playing rule may not be changed midseason unless formally approved by the NNSFL Board.

A minimum of 2 officials is required for every 12U Boys 7v7 game.

A minimum of 2 officials is required for every 14U Boys 7v7 game.

A minimum of 2 officials is required for every High School Boys 7v7 game.

NNSFL may assign additional officials for tournament or championship games or when operationally necessary.

The 8U Boys 7v7 division uses the Pee Wee / K2 (Size 6) football.

The 10U Boys 7v7 division uses the Junior / TDJ (Size 7) football.

The 12U Boys 7v7 division uses the Youth / TDY (Size 8) football.

The 14U Boys 7v7 division uses the Official (Size 9) football.

The High School Boys 7v7 division uses the Official (Size 9) football.

The 8U Girls Flag division uses the Pee Wee / K2 football.

The 10U Girls Flag division uses the Junior / TDJ football.

The 12U Girls Flag division uses the Youth / TDY football.

The 14U Girls Flag division uses the Women's Official football.

The High School Girls Flag division uses the Women's Official football.

The 8U Spring Tackle division uses the Pee Wee / K2 (Size 6) football.

The 10U Spring Tackle division uses the Junior / TDJ (Size 7) football.

The 12U Spring Tackle division uses the Youth / TDY (Size 8) football.

The 14U Spring Tackle division uses the Official (Size 9) football.

Teams are seeded for tournament play by drawing numbers.

Draw-number seeding applies to applicable TOURNAMENT competition only. League regular-season standings and playoff seeding are INDEPENDENT of tournament draw seeding.

A mouthguard must be in use at all times while the player is on the field.

The jersey must remain tucked in.

The jersey must display a player number.

Players must remove jewelry deemed hazardous by officials.

Head coach minimum age = 21.

Assistant coach minimum age = 18.

Coach trainee minimum age = 16. Trainees may only assist head coaches and assistant coaches.

Organizations must conduct background checks on coaches and volunteers with repeated player contact.

Head coaches must maintain current CPR/First Aid certification.

All coaches must follow the Coaches Code of Conduct.

Maximum certified sideline staffing: 1 Head Coach, 6 Assistant Coaches, 1 Equipment Manager, 1 Team Manager. All sideline personnel must appear on the certified roster.

The home team must provide a currently carded first responder or EMT for each game, stationed at the field.

NNSFL coordinates event medical/first-response coverage for official Girls Flag competition. Participating teams are not required to provide a carded EMT or first responder due to home-team designation. NNSFL may expressly authorize an organization to assist with medical coverage for a specific event in writing.

There must be quick access to an AED/defibrillator, and game personnel must know the AED location before the game begins.

Official Girls Flag competition is League-hosted and League-administered. NNSFL coordinates official game/event facilities, field readiness, officials, event medical/first-response coverage, check-in and event administration, and event safety operations. Home/Away designation is used for competition purposes only (schedule designation, scoreboard, uniform/color, possession or sideline procedures where established, bracket presentation, and records).

Participating teams are NOT responsible for supplying official League fields, field preparation, officials, EMT/first-response personnel, or other League game infrastructure merely because they are designated the home team. Teams remain responsible for their own athletes, approved coaches/staff, team equipment, uniforms, sideline conduct, required documentation, arrival/check-in compliance, and compliance with applicable League rules. NNSFL may expressly authorize an organization or team to assist with event operations for a specific event — such assistance must be explicitly assigned or authorized by NNSFL in writing and never arises automatically from home-team designation.

Fields must be regulation.

The home team is responsible for field preparation.

NNSFL coordinates field readiness and official field preparation for Girls Flag competition. Official field preparation is not automatically the responsibility of the designated home team.

Fields must be inspected for safety before use.

Individual fighting/unsportsmanlike conduct, 1st offense: ejection from the game.

Individual fighting/unsportsmanlike conduct, 2nd offense: ejection from the league.

A player leaving the sideline to participate in an on-field fight triggers the applicable bench-clearing/team disciplinary rule. Bench-clearing incidents are subject to team forfeit/ejection from competition. Not expanded beyond approved NNSFL language without administrator approval.

Minimum 2 officials per Girls Flag game; NNSFL may assign additional officials when necessary, including playoffs and championships. Officials are responsible for rule enforcement, clock discretion, QB pass-count administration, and determining hazardous jewelry.

14U uses an official-size football.

12U uses a youth/junior-size football.

10U uses a peewee-size football.

8U uses an age-appropriate youth football size approved by NNSFL.