Frequently Asked Questions
Q- What are the differences between the PAC-10 and BIG-10 Players?
A- The PAC-10 league is a developmental league, whereas the BIG-10 league is a more competitive league. PAC-10 players are not "cut" from the BIG-10 teams, but placed on a PAC-10 team to further develop their skills for the BIG-10 teams and/or high school.
Q- What is the significance of the white stripes on the football helmets?
A- Stripes designate what positions players are eligible to play based upon weight. Striped players are limited to offensive and defensive line play. The striping system was implemented as a safety factor to prevent injuries due to size differences among players. This rule is designed and enforced by the TCYFL
Q- How are players placed on teams?
A- Players are evaluated in different categories (such as running speed, blocking ability, passing ability and catching ability) for the first several weeks of practice. The coaching staffs at each level will practice together for a few weeks and then they will make the decision as to the whether a participant will play in the BIG-10 League or get assigned to a PAC-10 team, based upon their evaluations. After teams have been split, players practice with their own teams.
Q- What if we are on vacation when training camp begins, regular team practices, or when equipment pick-up days are held?
A- We are aware that summer is vacation time for many families. You should contact the league via email at tneargarder@comcast.net to let us know when you are going to miss any length of time. If a player does not show up for BIG-10 League tryouts that are mandatory, a special evaluation will have to be scheduled to determine the proper place for the athlete.
Q- What if my child has health problems or allergies?
A- If your child has any health concerns such as asthma or allergies, parents should ensure that the player has their medication available to them during practices and games and it is clearly marked with their name. Parents also need to ensure that the coach is aware of the player's health concerns at the beginning of the season, especially exercise induced asthma and its warning signs.
Q- When will my child be able to practice with their equipment?
A- Each player must have 10 hours of conditioning practice before they will be allowed to practice in pads. This is for the player's safety and it is governed by the TCYFL. Each coach will keep track of conditioning practices attended to ensure each player meets this requirement.
Q- How often are practices held?
A- This question depends on the team your athlete is participating with. All cheerleaders practice 3 days per week. Football players practice 5 days a week until the week after the first game. Then ALL teams practice 3 days a week. The actual days of the week practices are, depend on the coach. This information will be supplied the first week of evaluations. Practices are not allowed to be any longer than 2 hours. Some lower level teams may only practice 90 minutes.
Q- What happens in case of inclement weather?
A- In the case of thunder/lightening all practices will be immediately cancelled. It is imperative that you pick up your child immediately as there is not enough shelter for 250 kids, coaches and staff at our Jr. Zee Bees Field. Always keep contact with your respective coach or check our website at www.jrzeebees.com for updates.
Q- Do the coaches receive training?
A- All Jr. Zee Bees Head Coaches are certified through ASEP (American Sports Education Program) or through NYSCA (National Youth Sports Coaches Association). All coaches within our program are required to attend an approved Coaches Clinic and are encouraged to become certified every year.
Q- How do I contact my player's coach with questions?
A- Coaches will tell the team and parents how they wish to be contacted. It could include home phone, work phone, cell phone, e-mail and/or text messaging. E-mail and text messaging is becoming a preferred method of communication. It provides the coach with the opportunity to respond when he can concentrate on your question. Please be sensitive as to the topics you choose to discuss with the coach on the practice field when other players/parents are present. Concerns and questions need to wait until practice is over and the coach can give you his undivided attention.
Q- What equipment is provided?
Shoulder pads, helmet, all pants pads, practice and game pants, belt, game jersey, and chin strap are league provided. No player is allowed to where their own equipment, with the exception of Rib pads, arm pads and gloves which must be approved by the league.
Q- What are team parents?
A- A team parent assists the coaching staff with off-the-field administrative duties throughout the season. They sometimes field questions from the parents of players on the team. They also pass out hand-outs, collect forms, plan festivities and decorations. Some teams have these Team Parents and some do not.
Q- Can my child pick the position he/she wants to play?
A- Players wishes and talents will be taken into consideration when coaches choose their positions but it is ultimately the coach’s decision who will play each position. Football is a team sport and a coach has to consider all of his player's talents and team's needs when assigning positions.
