EXPECTATIONS & PLAYING TIME
The Junior Huskies Football Progam is not a recreational team. It is a club team.
Our goal is to train our players to perform at a highly competitive level.
PEE WEE LEVEL (4th, 5th, & 6th graders): This level is the starting point for learning tackle football. Here, players are taught the basics and safety fundamentals. Every player will have an equal amount of playing time during practices. To ensure equal playing time during games, players must meet practice requirements. The coach will base line-ups and positions on overall performance, knowledge, work ethic, attention, self-discipline, sportsmanship, and attitude during practices and games. The coaches will also determine a player’s playing time based on safety concerns.
MINORS LEVEL (7th graders): At the intermediate level, every player will have an equal amount of playing time during practices. As long as a player meets the practice requirements, they will also have playing time during games. The coaches will do their best to give each player an equal amount of game time based on their performance during practices and games. However, it is important to note that this does not imply a guarantee of equal playing time. The coach will consider a player's overall performance, knowledge, work ethic, attention, self-discipline, sportsmanship, and attitude during practices and games when deciding about playing time. A coach's strategy is subject to change depending on game situations.
MAJORS & 14U LEVEL (8th graders): During this advanced level of football training, players will have ample opportunities to exhibit their skillset and knowledge during practices. The coaches will evaluate their overall performance, knowledge, work ethic, attention, self-discipline, sportsmanship, and attitude during practices and games. At this level, equal playing time will NOT be guaranteed during games. Starting line-ups may vary based on a player's performance during games and practices. To secure their position and playing time, players must constantly strive to improve and outperform their teammates. This level of training is specifically designed to prepare players for their Freshman year as football players.
It is advised that parents refrain from approaching coaches to discuss playing time before, during, or after practices or games. Never confront the coach in an emotional state. For Pee Wee Level concerns or comments, parents/guardians may send a private email to James Tomas, who will respond within 24 hours. However, for Minors, Majors & 14u Levels, players should take responsibility and approach the coach if they have any questions or concerns about their performance or playing time. It is important for them to learn to advocate for themselves. Only if the player has already spoken up and questions or concerns still persist, should the parent/guardian send a private email to Coach Tomas, who will then respond within 24 hours.
COACHES: It is the coaches' responsibility to make decisions about playing time. They will assess each player's strengths and weaknesses and decide how much they should play. All players, including the coaches' children, are competing for playing time. If a coach's child is on the team, the other coaches will determine their playing time and position. When a player ends up in the starting line-up, players must continue to compete with their teammates for playing time and a chance at a starting position. Starting line-ups are subject to change at any time. The coaches will base their decisions on a player's overall performance, work ethic, attention, self-discipline, sportsmanship, and attitude during practices and games.
PLAYERS: In order to earn playing time, a player must demonstrate their commitment by practicing intensely every day and showing their coaches that they understand both offensive and defensive strategies. It's also important to learn as many positions as possible and be mentally prepared to play at any moment. Whether you're a starter or a non-starter, it's crucial to cheer for your teammates genuinely and respect their role in practices and in games. When sitting on the sidelines, it's vital to be aware of what's happening on the field, pay attention to the plays that are being executed, and understand how the opposing players are playing. Coaches are always on the lookout for players who are eager to get into a game and those who are distracted and wasting time on the sidelines. Remember, coaches notice players who are focused, aware of the game situation, and encourage their teammates. Be a true team player and strive to improve your game every day! When you are at practices or games, it's essential to ensure that every second of your time is being used wisely. Playing time is EARNED not given.
PARENTS’ RESPONSIBILITY: It's important to remember the bigger picture before being critical of the coaches’ decisions. Remember that game-day choices are often based on daily practice evaluations. Allow the coaches time to assess their players and determine who can get the job done. Keep in mind that even the best players can have an off night, while a less talented player may have a great game and deserve more playing time. Avoid spreading negativity and gossiping with other parents or fans about your dissatisfaction. It is NEVER OK to scream your dissatisfaction from the stands….that is only embarrassing yourself and your player. Instead, encourage your child to speak directly to the coaches about any concerns about playing time and help them prepare for these conversations. It's important to support the coaches' decisions, even if you don't agree with them, as it will make the overall experience more positive for your child. Players who invest a lot of time and effort in practicing are strongly committed to the outcome of their games, regardless of whether their parents acknowledge the importance of each game. No player wants to be a part of or play for a losing team.
The Junior Huskies Football program thanks you for your patience and support as we strive to provide an inspirational & motivational environment where preparation, practice & hard work generate legitimate opportunities for success.