Baltimore Sports & Social Club, Inc.

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BSSC FOOTBALL GAME RULES

BSSC FOOTBALL PENALTIES

2013 FALL FOOTBALLTEAM RULES

SPORTSMANSHIP

BSSC is an organization that encourages members not to take winning or losing too seriously, and stresses that the social aspects of the league are really more important than a win or a loss. We expect all participants to behave in a sportsmanlike manner, on and off of the field. We strive to ensure that each member "shows that he or she has qualities of fairness, courtesy, and grace in winning and in losing."

BSSC staff has the right to have any player(s) sit-out for a series if necessary for a "cooling-off period." However, if the player's actions are considered unsportsmanlike; they will be removed from the game. The decision on whether to have a player sit-out or be ejected/suspended is dependent upon the severity of the infraction

Cooling Off Period:

Teams may replace the player on the field during a "cooling-off" period.

Ejected Player(s):

Teams will lose a position on the field for any player who has been ejected for the duration of the game. If the removal of a player results in the team not having enough players, the game will be forfeited (no fine will be assessed).

Suspended Player(s):

Teams will lose a position on the field for any player who has been suspended for the duration of the game. If the removal of a player results in the team not having enough players, the game will be forfeited (no fine will be assessed). is scheduled to play.
A suspended player may NOT resume team play in the next regular season game that their team
A PHOTO will be taken of the suspended player for reference. If a suspended player is found playing in the next scheduled game, the team will forfeit all regular season games and a forfeit fine will be assessed.
Suspended player(s) MUST leave the venue within five minutes from being suspended from the game. If this is not accomplished, the suspended player's team will forfeit its game.

Postseason Suspensions:

There are no ejections in the postseason, only suspensions. Any player suspended in the postseason will NOT be eligible to participate in any remaining postseason game(s).
Suspended player(s) MUST leave the venue within five minutes from being suspended from the game. If this is not accomplished, the suspended player's team will forfeit their game.
If a player that has been suspended is caught playing in a postseason game, the team will forfeit the remainder of their postseason.

Removal from the League:

Any player who has been ejected or suspended (or a combination of the two) two times during the season will be removed from the league. If that player is caught playing after being removed from the league, the team will not be allowed to play their remaining games for that season.
Any player(s) who is involved in any physical confrontation during any BSSC activity will be banned for LIFE. If this confrontation occurs during a game, all players will be removed from the field and the game will end. If it can be determined who started the confrontation, that player's team will have a loss recorded for the game.

PLAYER RESTRICTIONS- Teams will forfeit all games if any of the rules below are broken:

All BSSC participants must be at least 22 years old before the season starts.
Players who have participated in NCAA Division I sports must be five years removed from Division I participation to play in a similar BSSC sport (e.g., if a player played D I football in college you must wait five years to play BSSC football). This restriction does not apply to a sport in which you did not participate in D I (e.g., if you played Division I volleyball, you are more than welcome to play softball, football, etc., just not volleyball.)
Players who have participated in professional sports are not allowed in the BSSC at anytime. This includes leagues that use "Professional" in their name. Ex. Professional Women's Tackle Football League.
Any player whose athletic ability exceeds league definitions may be removed from the league (e.g., a player with Social league ability playing in Extreme).
If the BSSC determines that more than one player on a team should be in a higher league, the BSSC has the option to forfeit all future games for that team. (No refund)

ILLEGAL PLAYER - The BSSC considers using an illegal player to be unsportsmanlike conduct.

Illegal Players are defined as:

A player(s) who is on the roster for one BSSC team, but plays in a game for another team in the regular or postseason.
A player(s) who is on the roster for two BSSC teams at the same time for the current season.
(e.g., Player(s) may not play on Social Team A and Less Filling Team B at the same time.
A player who is not a member of any current BSSC team, but plays in a regular or postseason game. (e.g., Using a "fill-in" person to avoid forfeiting a regular or postseason game).
A player who has broken the age or division one (D1) requirements and has played in a regular or postseason game.
A player who has been removed from a roster (Using Drop/Add procedure) and is found playing in a regular/postseason game.

Illegal Player Penalties:

After the discovery of an illegal player, all wins will be removed from each team's standings and opponents' record will be reversed to reflect a win. Penalized teams may participate in their remaining regular season games though wins will not be recorded.
The coach(s) & illegal player(s) of each team will be suspended for the remainder of the season.
If an illegal player is used in a postseason game, that team will lose the game, and will be suspended for one year.

PLAYER ID CHECK

All players must show a valid photo ID to BSSC staff upon request. Player(s) who refuse or are not in possession of their valid photo ID are prohibited from participating. BSSC staff will require a roster check form to be filled out and players photo taken.
An ID check will occur BEFORE the start of all postseason games.

PLAYER PARTICIPATION

Each BSSC player must sign their team waiver/roster before participating in their first game.
If a team uses drop/add before the 4th week of the season, the new player must sign the waiver/roster before participating in the first game.

NUMBER OF PLAYERS ON THE FIELD

See sport specific GAME RULES for information about the specific numbers of players needed for a particular sport including the male to female ratio.

ROSTER LIMIT

There is no maximum number of players allowed on your roster for any BSSC sport.

FIELD/GAME EQUIPMENT

BSSC will provide all necessary equipment for each court, field or diamond (cones, bases, nets, etc.). Baltimore City Recs and Parks is responsible for lining all fields based on rental agreement signed by the BSSC. Players must provide all their own equipment to play the game (gloves, bats, broomball pads, footballs, etc.) unless otherwise noted in the BSSC GAME RULES.

LIGHTNING DURING GAMES

The National Athletic Trainers' Association recommends a proactive approach to lightning safety. Further components of this policy are monitoring local weather forecasts, designating a weather watcher, and establishing a chain of command. Additionally, a flash-to-bang count of 30 seconds or less should be used as a minimal determinant of when to suspend activities. Waiting 30 minutes or longer after the last flash of lightning or sound of thunder is recommended before athletic or recreational activities are resumed. Lightning safety strategies include avoiding shelter under trees, avoiding open fields and spaces, and suspending the use of land-line telephones during thunderstorms.

GAME FOOTWEAR

In order to participate in the BSSC, members must wear appropriate athletic footwear while playing in their game. Dress shoes, sandals, flip flops, bare feet, socks, etc., are not considered appropriate footwear.
Metal spikes of any kind are not allowed in the BSSC leagues.
Wearing other types of footwear will be at discretion of the BSSC staff. (See sport specific GAME RULES)

GAME UNIFORMS

BSSC provides current season T-shirts for each member in the league. These T-shirts are your team's uniforms and must be worn to participate in a game.
Player(s) without a current season T-shirt:
- Player(s) will be sidelined for the game.
Player(s) without current season team T-shirt that will cause team to forfeit:
- Must show proper ID to prove they are on the roster.
- All team members must sign BSSC roster check form.
Players who swap shirts
- Both players:
  - Will be sidelined for the game.
  - Show proper ID to prove they are on the roster.
  - Sign BSSC roster check form.
POST SEASON:
- All players must wear their current season T-shirt to participate, even though it may cause the team to forfeit the game. NO EXCEPTIONS.

UNIFORM ALTERATIONS

BSSC T-shirts must remain in the original color ordered.
Alterations that are allowed:
- Name of the player/team may be on the placed on the upper back of the shirt along the shoulders ONLY.
- American flag, team name patch, or player's number may be placed on the SLEEVE ONLY.
- Any addition must be minimal in size, not offensive in nature, or cover the BSSC or sponsors logo
Alterations that are NOT allowed:
- Altering a shirt's general color through dyeing or bleaching, cutting of the shirt to make it unrecognizable, adding a company name/logo/patch, website address, phone number, etc.

NOTE: Teams that break any of these rules must purchase new BSSC shirts @ $15 per shirt. Teams will forfeit all games until the balance is paid on the purchase of new shirts.

TEAM REFEREEING DUTIES

Certain sports are officiated by BSSC staff and/or outside organizations. Other sports will be refereed by BSSC teams participating in the sport. Reference the GAME RULES pages for clarification.
If a forfeit for your game has been called, either at the field or in to the BSSC office, you are still responsible for any team refereeing duties. (See Specific GAME RULES page)

FORFEITS

GAME TIME IS FORFEIT TIME. Teams must have the minimum number of players present at game time. (See specific GAME RULES page for minimum requirements).
If a forfeit has been called at game time by the BSSC official, a forfeit fine will be assessed.

CALLED IN FORFEIT TO AVOID FINE:

Teams can avoid a forfeit fine by e-mailing the BSSC prior to their regular or post season game (See GAME RULES for specific time frame).
NOTE: The opposing team will not receive a forfeit voucher if the above criteria was followed.
If a called in forfeit game is rained out, the game WILL BE made up at a later date. This DOES NOT include games that a forfeit was called at game time.

FORFEIT FINE

A $50 forfeit fine will be assessed if a team does not meet the criteria when calling in a forfeit (See Specific Game Rules).
A $50 forfeit fine will be assessed if a team does not have the minimum number of players present at game time. The $50 fine will be given to the opposing team in voucher form at the end of the season to be used at one of the official bar sponsor(s).

PAYING FORFEIT FINES

All fines must be paid before your next scheduled game by either cash or check. End of Season Voucher may NOT be used as payment.
The BSSC will email the entire team to remind them about a fine owed from the previous week.
Teams will not be allowed to participate in the next scheduled game until the fine(s) are paid.
Teams that have any outstanding forfeit fines from the last regular season game will not be allowed back into the BSSC for any sport until these fines are paid in full.

PLAYING A FORFEITED GAME

If the BSSC official declares a forfeit at game time, teams will have the option to play an officiated "fun game." Regardless of outcome of the "fun game," the forfeiting team will have a loss recorded and a forfeit fine assessed.

$50 REFUNDABLE FORFEIT FINE CREDIT

The $50 forfeit fine credit will cover outstanding fines that occur on the last regular season game ONLY. It cannot be used to pay for fines that occur during weeks 1-7 (Based on an 8 week season).
At each team's last regular season game; a "forfeit fine credit" voucher will be handed out if all fines are up to date.
Once the bar vouchers have been issued, they are valid on the day issued, and on any subsequent day that the sport is being played including postseason (even if your team did not make it into the postseason)
Vouchers are on a "use or lose" basis, can only be used on the day this sport is being played, and cannot be redeemed for cash. Vouchers are for DINE IN ONLY.
The bar vouchers will be divided between the bar sponsors based on the total number of teams in the league. Vouchers can only be redeemed at the sponsor bar logo listed on your team vouchers. This will ensure equal patronage between all the official BSSC bar sponsors (e.g., 99 teams, 3 bar sponsors, 33 teams will go to each of the three sponsor bars).

$50 FORFEIT FINE VOUCHERS

At the final regular season game, ALL forfeit fine vouchers will be distributed to teams who were forfeited against during the regular season. Forfeit fine vouchers will be given in combination with team's "End of season forfeit fine credit" if all fines are up to date. BSSC will duplicate BSSC sponsor bars for both forfeit and end of season vouchers.
If a team is forfeited against in the postseason, no vouchers will be given.
If your team is owed a forfeit fine from the last week of the regular season, they will be available for pick-up during post season play. BSSC staff will e-mail time/location for voucher pick up.

REGULAR SEASON POINTS AWARDED

Win - 2 points, Tie - 1 point, Loss - 0 points

LEAGUE ADVANCEMENT POLICY (Based on the prior year's post/regular season results)

The number of teams that will advance to the next higher league will be based on regular season/postseason results from the previous year. This format helps balance out the caliber of teams in all BSSC sports leagues.

All teams who make the postseason must move up to the next higher league the following season.
If the number of postseason teams were reduced, teams with 12 regular season points or more (teams/standings) must move up to the next higher league the following season.
The BSSC will integrate advancing teams into the higher league by having them play against other advancing teams early in the season. This will help new teams acclimate into the higher league play format.
Super X teams that have 14 points or more (Team/Standings) must move up to Less Filling.
Teams with a regular season point total of 4 points or less, may choose to move down to the next lower league.
Any BSSC team may choose to move up to a higher league at any time.

REGULAR/POSTSEASON SCHEDULE DEVIATIONS/RAIN OUT POLICY

The first priority of the BSSC is to ensure that each team in all sports completes their full regular season schedule. While every effort will be made to follow the posted tentative BSSC postseason schedule, that schedule may be adversely affected by weather during the regular season or other unforeseen circumstances (e.g., the City taking over some fields for a festival). It should be noted that the number of teams eligible for postseason play is not guaranteed in any sport. Therefore, the postseason schedule and the amount of teams involved may have to be reduced or eliminated based on the number of weeks the regular season had to be extended. Below are the deviations from the normal postseason schedules if inclement weather or other circumstances dictate such action:

If there is one rainout or less, the entire posted postseason schedule will be played.
If there are two rainouts, the number of teams involved in postseason play will be reduced to 50% of the tentative schedule (e.g., if the preseason tentative schedule provided for 32 teams playing in the postseason, this would be reduced to 16 teams).
If there are three rainouts, the number of teams involved in postseason play will be reduced to 25% of the tentative schedule (e.g., if the preseason tentative schedule provided for 32 teams playing in the postseason, this would be reduced to 8 teams).
If there are four or more rainouts, a decision will be made whether to play an abbreviated postseason schedule or eliminate all postseason play.
Make-up/postseason games might not be scheduled on the same days as teams play in the regular season. (e.g., Softball plays Monday thru Thursday, make up/postseason games may be played on a weekend or another day. The make-up date(s) will be provided before the start of the season to allow players to make adjustments to their schedules.
Neither refunds nor pro-rated refunds will be given if the season is shortened due to inclement weather or by actions taken by the Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks.

POSTSEASON GAMES SEEDING

The postseason will start immediately following the completion of the regular season including any rescheduled make up games. Postseason games will be scheduled on the next available date/time/field locations. Ex. Softball regular season make ups ends on Monday, the postseason schedule begins on the following day (Tuesday). The BSSC will send updated e-mails prior to the end of the season, explaining in detail the process.
In the spirit of the BSSC, random seeding by our software eliminates the issue of teams needing to focus on beating another team by a certain amount of runs or points, strength of schedule, head to head competition, etc. The seeding schedule will be found on the postseason link; however, team number will not be filled in until after the last regular season games are completed.
Because the postseason is based on seeding, the schedule cannot be altered for team requests.
Postseason participants will loosely be determined by a team's total points found under "teams and standings" on the BSSC website.
The BSSC will strive to have the same percentage of postseason teams in each league.
Team seeding will be set by the BSSC software program, which randomly chooses teams loosely based on regular season point totals.
Example: 5 teams are 8-0; the software will randomly seed each one of those teams 1 through 5. Alternatively, if there are 32 teams in the postseason and 10 teams have the same record for the 32nd seed, the software will randomly select one of these teams for the 32nd seed.
The BSSC will NOT reseed the postseason schedule after each round. The lower seed will assume the higher seeds postseason schedule. (Ex., Seed #32 upsets seed #1 in the first round. Seed #32 becomes the #1 seed and will follow the #1 seed's postseason schedule.)
Postseason games will not end in a tie. (See postseason tie breaker GAME RULES).
If a team gives prior forfeit notice for the first round, the BSSC will do it's best to replace that team with a team that did not make the postseason. Ex. 8 teams were 5-3 and only 7 seeding spots are available. A 5-3 team forfeits, they will be replaced with the 5-3 team that did not make the postseason.

BEVERAGES

The City of Baltimore prohibits both possession and/or consumption of any alcoholic beverage on city property. Players will be responsible for any citations given by the Baltimore City Police Department.
NO alcoholic beverages are allowed in any of the Baltimore City Recs/Park indoor or outdoor venues.
If, at their own risk, BSSC members/fans transport beverages to the outdoor venues, they must abide by the following:
- BSSC Members found with opened or unopened packaging that is not in a cooler or opaque container will cause their entire team to lose their drinking privileges for the day. All beverages must be removed from the venue before the team may participate in the game.
- BSSC Members found with glass containers will cause their team to lose their drinking privileges for the day.
- Beverages must stay in a cooler until ready to be consumed and need to be in opaque cups or koozies only.
Teams found with beverages in the parking lot or indoor venues will forfeit their current game.
BEVERAGES AT UTZ FIELD IN PATTERSON PARK - NO BEVERAGES are allowed in or on UTZ field in Patterson Park. Only water is permitted in this venue.
If any of the above are not adhered to in a timely manner, the team will forfeit their game on that day.

RESTRICTED ITEMS FROM BSSC VENUES

BSSC reserves the right to forfeit games if any of the below criteria are not met

The following are restricted from BSSC venues (inside or outside), including any field/court at any time during the day while BSSC activities are taking place:

* Tents * Tables * Grills * Picnic Items * Loud Music * Amplified Speakers *Live Music * Generators *Blenders *Lawn Games *

My item is not on the list, how can I find out if it's restricted ? Contact the BSSC (mikec@baltssc.com) for consideration 48 hours before game time *

AFTER GAME TIME LIMITS

OUTDOOR VENUE: After teams complete their games, they may stay in the park for 30 minutes after their game has been completed. This will help limit the amount of community complaints filed to the BSSC/Police about players loitering in the parks. Teams will receive one warning from staff, and will receive a loss for current and proceeding week if time limit warnings are ignored. This includes teams attempting to circumvent this rule by leaving their field and moving to another area of the park.
INDOOR VENUE: Teams must leave indoor venue in a timely manner following the completion of their game.

DOGS AT THE GAMES

BSSC promotes a "family friendly environment" which includes bringing your pets to the game. However, if you choose to bring your pet/dog to the field they must be:
- Leashed at all times. This includes before/after the game and as you walk to your field from the street/parking lot. (Prevents interference for games in progress.)
- When the pet owner is participating in a BSSC game, the leashed pet/dog must be held and attended to by an adult (over the age of 18). It is not sufficient to tie the leash to a fence and leave the animal while you play your game. For the safety of all BSSC members/staff/guests, pets must be supervised and controlled by an adult at all times.

Dogs/pets and owners who can abide by the above guidelines are welcome at BSSC outdoor games. Dogs/pets that cannot be controlled by owner/adult or show aggression toward other animals or players must be removed from the field by their owners. Members who do not comply with this request may cause their team to forfeit.

NOTE: Dogs are not permitted inside UTZ field at Patterson Park or at any of the indoor venues.

INJURY

In the event of a game related OR pre-existing injury, the player will be removed from the activity and his/her condition assessed by either a BSSC staff member or MedStar certified athletic trainer before resuming participation. If the injury or condition is determined to be of significant seriousness making their return to the game/activity unsafe for themselves and/or others, then he/she shall be withheld from further participation pending greater medical intervention.

NOTE: Any player with a pre-existing injury (i.e. fracture/broken bone, torn muscle/tendon) requiring a cast, brace or other protective splint device will be ineligible to participate until cleared in writing by a physician. Furthermore, if cleared to resume play with a cast, brace or splint device, then such device must be sufficiently padded as to protect others for harm/injury. Finally, if witnessed or determined that the device is being used intentionally as a weapon to cause harm to others, then the player will be removed immediately from the game/event until it is determined he/she can safely return to play.

GAME CLOCK FOR INJURIES

In the spirit of the BSSC the number one priority is the care of an injured BSSC player. A player, who is injured during a game, will be removed from the field/court once they are stable enough to do so. Time that was used to adequately take care of the injury will not be added to compensate for the loss of game time.
Example: Games are scheduled to play on the hour. The current game is tied when an injury occurs at 11:45 am and 15 minutes are needed to care for the injury. The 11am game will not be prolonged by the 15 minutes it took to take care of the injury. The score of the game will be recorded as what it was at the time of the injury.

PREGNANCY RULE

For the safety of both mother and baby, pregnant women are not permitted to play in any BSSC sport. Even though the BSSC is a non contact league, accidents do occur. This does not prohibit a pregnant woman from managing a team. If this rule is ignored and a pregnant player is caught playing, that player will be suspended from play for the season and no refunds will be given.

BLOOD RULE

If an injury results in a bleeding/non-bleeding open wound, the player must immediately be removed from the playing area to receive medical attention. They may re-enter the game ONLY after the wound is bandaged and bleeding has stopped.

KEEPING OUR PARKS "GREEN" (Outdoor Sporting Events)

Teams are responsible for removal of trash before leaving the fields. BSSC and its members have the responsibility to leave all Recs and Parks venues in clean, trash-free condition. A local homeless shelter, BEANS & BREAD, recycles aluminum cans from our fields to exchange for food for their facility. Please use the recycling frame with the BLUE top for cans (to recycle) and the frame that is topless will be used for general trash to discard.

FOOTBALL GAME RULES

SEC. 1 - EACH TEAM MUST PROVIDE A LINE JUDGE

A. All teams participating in football must provide a line judge to assist the BSSC staff member on your field for either the game before or after the game throughout the season. The HOME team is the determining factor on whether your team provides a line judge before or after the game.
B. If you are the HOME team, you must provide a line judge that week. Exception: The 3pm VISITING team line judges the 4pm games. The 4pm teams will NOT have to line judge.
C. The team listed FIRST on the schedule is considered the HOME team Ex. 25 vs 49... 25 is the HOME team
D. If you are the HOME team, please use the chart below to determine the time of your line judge responsibility. If you would like help, please COPY your regular season schedule (include coach, team # and league) and send to mikec@baltssc.com. We will highlight the weeks you are to provide a line judge.

SEC. 2 - LINE JUDGE DUTIES

A. Following the schedule above, the line judge should introduce themselves to the BSSC staff on the field on which they play.
B. The BSSC staff will provide the line judge with all materials needed.
1. Please bring the coaches whistle provided by the BSSC in your tee shirt bag.
C. A line judge's responsibilities include the following:
1. The line judge will orally count off the five second rush in this manner, "ONE-THOUSAND-ONE," "ONE-THOUSAND-TWO," etc., to "ONE-THOUSAND-FIVE." The count must be loud enough for all players on the field to hear.
2. The line judge MUST blow his/her whistle after every play. If a whistle is forgotten, BSSC staff will provide one.
3. The line judge is also responsible for calling any penalties he/she may see during the game.
NOTE: Line judges that are deemed to be intoxicated or conduct themselves in an unsportsmanlike manner will be removed from that game and will sit out their team's next scheduled game. Line judge duty is to be taken seriously. Please ensure that the line judge from your team has a basic knowledge of BSSC and regular football rules. The line judge is not to carry on casual conversations with players of either team, or players of their own team while they are performing this duty. In addition, cell phones, Blackberries or other electronic devices are not to be used during the game by any line judge.

If your game begins at:

You must provide a line judge at:

10 AM

11 AM

11 AM

10 AM

12 Noon

1 PM

1 PM

12 Noon

2 PM

3 PM

3 PM

2 PM

3 PM (VISITORS)

4 PM

4 PM

BYE

SEC. 3 - PENALITY FOR FAILING TO PROVIDE A LINE JUDGE

A. If a team is scheduled to provide a line judge for the game after their game and fails to do so and won their game, the team will have a loss recorded for their game that day.
B. If a team is scheduled to provide a line judge for the game after their game, fails to do so, and has lost their game; the team will have a loss recorded for their next scheduled game. Teams may play a "fun game" that day, but a loss will be recorded in their standings no matter the outcome.
C. If a team was scheduled to provide a line judge for the game previous to the one they are about to play and failed to do so, a loss will be recorded for that game. Teams may play a "fun game" that day, but a loss will be recorded in their standings no matter the outcome.
D. If your game has been canceled because of a "called-in" forfeit, your team MUST still provide a line-judge (if applicable) or a loss will be recorded for the next regular season game. Teams may play a "fun game" that day, but a loss will be recorded in their standings no matter the outcome.E. Teams will lose their end of year voucher and have a loss recorded if a line judge is not provided at the last regular season game.

SEC. 4 - FINES WHEN A TEAM FAILS TO PROVIDE A LINE JUDGE

A. Teams will be fined $75 for not providing a line judge as scheduled.
B. Teams will have a loss recorded for the game played on the day they failed to provide a line judge.
NOTE: All $75 fines will be donated by the BSSC to Walter Reed Hospital. BSSC will purchase & deliver the following items for injured soldiers at Walter Reed Hospital. (Examples- Small 1st aid kits, small sewing kits, personal hygiene items for men / women, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo, trial/travel size laundry detergent, bathroom cleaning supplies).

SEC. 5 - POST SEASON LINE JUDGE DUTIES

A. Teams will follow the above format for providing a line judge in the postseason unless otherwise informed by the BSSC (see SEC. 3).
B. Teams that DO NOT provide a line judge when required will forfeit their postseason game and will not advance to the next round. If a team loses and does not provide a line judge, their team will be suspended for a season.
C. If a team's coach has a question about their responsibility to provide a line judge, please contact the BSSC during the week.

SEC. 6 - NETURAL ZONE FOR PLAYERS

A. A chalked dashed line will create a "neutral zone" border that runs 10 yards from the sideline between each two point conversion line. ONLY the current team players and line judge are permitted within this "neutral" zone border. Players may NOT cross into the non-neutral zone that is located near the goal line or end zone.
1. For reasons involving safety of participating players whose actions may carry them out of bounds, the border rule must be observed by all players.
2. ALL equipment, coolers, strollers, equipment bags, spectators, etc., MUST stay behind the dashed line at all times.
3. If players are outside of the Neutral Zone, a penalty will be assessed (See Penalties).

SEC. 7 - FIELDING A TEAM

A. There is a maximum of 8 players allowed on the field at one time (standard - 5 men and 3 women).
1. There is no limit to the number of women allowed on the field at one time (8 women - 0 men).
2. No more than 5 men players are allowed on the field under any circumstances.
B. To start a game, a team must have a minimum of 6 players, 2 of whom must be women.
C. When starting a game with 2 women, a team is still allowed to have 5 men on the field.
D. If a team is playing either a man or woman short, any players arriving late may enter the game at any time.
E. If less than the minimum players are present at game time (See SEC. 9), a forfeit fine will be assessed. F. If one team has only 6 or 7 players; the opposing team may chose to play 6 on 6 (or 7 on 7) or may play with a full team of 8 against 6 or 7.

SEC. 8 - START OF GAME

A. BSSC officials will bring the line judge and the home and visiting coaches together for the "Coin Toss." The BSSC official will place a hand behind his/her back and the home team coach will choose an odd or even number. If he/she chooses incorrectly, the visiting team will win the "coin toss."
B. The winning coach of the "coin toss" will have one of THREE choices (you may NOT defer to the second half):
1. Start the game on Offense.
2. Start the game on Defense.
3. Choose the direction your team would like to go in the first half. If direction is selected, then the opposing coach will have the choice to start the game on offense or defense.
C. The first offensive possession will start on the 2-point conversion line of the chosen end zone.
NOTE: Teams will reverse direction and possession to start the second half of the game.

SEC. 9 - FORFEIT MINIMUM

A. The minimum number of players to start the game is 6 (2 of the players MUST be women).
B. If this minimum has not been met by the official game time, a forfeit will be called and a $50 fine assessed.

SEC. 10 - FORFEIT NOTICE

A. In order to avoid a forfeit fine, the coach/representative must contact the BSSC by NOON on the Friday prior to your game. This deadline will allow the BSSC to contact the opposing coach and players.
B. Once a forfeit has been called into the BSSC office, the opposing team is notified and the game results are recorded. If a called in forfeit game is rained out, the game WILL BE made up at a later date. This DOES NOT include games that a forfeit was called at game time.

SEC. 11 - GAME CLOCK

Play will be divided into 20-minute halves. BSSC staff will provide remaining time updates of 15-10-5-2 minutes throughout both halves. There will be a 5 minute half-time.
A. FIRST HALF: The first 19 minutes of the first half of the game will be a "running-clock".
An official time out will be called for the 2-minute warning. The BSSC official will communicate the current score and remaining time outs for each team. The official shall sound his whistle for play to start immediately, after the information has relayed to both teams.
1. LAST 1 MINUTE OF PLAY (FIRST HALF):
a. With one minute or less remaining in the 1st half, the game clock will ONLY stop after an extra point conversion attempt, time out, penalty (see Sec. C) or a change of possession.
b. The official will allow 1 minute after an attempted conversion/change of possession for teams to substitute players in the last minute of the first half.
c. The clock will begin and the offense may snap the ball only after the official has given the ready for play signal.
d. If a foul by the defense has occurred and time has run out, the offensive team may choose to extend the period by one down (enforcement as usual).
e. If time expires at the end of either half and the ball is in play, then time will not be called until the completion of the play.
f. If a touchdown occurs during a play in which the time expires, the touchdown will count and an untimed extra point conversion will be allowed.
B. SECOND HALF: In the second half of the game, the clock will be a "running-clock" for the first 18 minutes.
1. LAST 2 MINUTES OF PLAY (SECOND HALF):
a. A 30 second official time out will be called for the 2-minute warning, after the completion of the previous play from scrimmage (Ex. Play starts with 2:10 on the clock and continues until 1:52 is left on the clock. The 2-minute warning will be given with 1:52 remaining on the clock). The official will communicate the current score and remaining time outs for each team. The game clock will start on the next snap by the offensive team.
b. The game clock is stopped for 2-minute warning, touchdowns, dead balls, out of bounds, incomplete passes, change of possession, penalties (See Sec. C), injuries, and time outs. The game clock will start on the next snap by the offensive team.
c. After a touchdown, the extra point attempt will be untimed. The clock will begin on the next offensive snap, after the change of possession and the official has given the ready for play signal.
d. The official will allow 1 minute after the change of possession for teams to substitute players.
NOTE: If a team is ahead by 18 points or more, the clock will continue to run. If the team that is behind, scores after the 2-minute warning to go down less than 18 points, the clock will still continue to run. No time-outs can be called during the above "running clock" situation.
C. LAST 1 MINUTE - 1st HALF/LAST 2 MINUTES - 2nd HALF (CLOCK ENFORCEMENT)
1. If a penalty is committed by the OFFENSE during the last minute of the 1st half OR the last 2 minutes of the 2nd half, 15 seconds will be removed from the clock. The offensive team may NOT call a time out to avoid the 15 second run off. The game clock can expire during the run off.
NOTE: The defense has the option to decline the 15-second penalty.
a. The BSSC official will stop the clock, mark off the penalty and get into ready for play position, while removing 15 seconds from the clock (See NOTE). Within that time frame, the offensive team must be on the line of scrimmage and snap the ball on the officials ready for play whistle (No huddle allowed).
2. Any penalty committed by the DEFENSE in the last minute of the 1st half/last 2 minutes of the 2nd half, the game clock will stop for the penalty mark off. The game clock will begin on the next snap of the ball. 3. If the defensive team commits a foul when it has no time outs left in the final 30 seconds of the 1st or 2nd half, the offensive team can decline the penalty and have the game clock expire.
3. If a foul by the defense has occurred and time has run out, the offensive team may choose to extend the period by one down (enforcement as usual) OR decline the penalty.
4. In the final minute of the 1st half, or last 2 minutes of the second half, should the official decide that a player has intentionally committed a penalty, the player will automatically be ejected and an additional 15 yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty will be assessed. The opposing team will also have the option to elect to enforce a 30 second run-off on the clock (in addition to the 15 second run off for the penalty if the foul was on the offense).

SEC. 12 - OFFENSIVE "READY FOR PLAY"

A. After the immediate completion of a play, the back/line judge will place the ball marker on the current scrimmage line. In order to expedite this process, the quarterbacks are asked to retrieve the ball marker to be placed on the new line of scrimmage.
B. At the beginning of a new possession, once the ball has been signaled "ready for play" by the official, the offensive team has 20 seconds to snap the ball. The ball cannot be snapped by the offensive team until declared "ready-for-play” by the official.
C. After the play, once the ball marker has been placed on the new line of scrimmage, the 20 second play clock will begin and the offense may snap the ball.

SEC. 13 - TIMEOUTS

A. Each team is allowed 2 one-minute timeouts per game.
B. Time outs cannot be called by either team with 2 minutes left in the game if a team is ahead by 18 points or more entering the 2-minute period.
C. The team that calls a timeout has the option of denoting the timeout as a "clock stoppage only" timeout and play will continue immediately without a one minute pause. The clock will stop at the time the timeout is called, and start again on the subsequent snap of the ball.
D. The 20-second play clock will start when the ball is made "ready for play" by the official.
E. The team calling the timeout will be charged with one of their two timeouts.
NOTE: Both teams will be allowed to make any necessary substitutions before the ball is snapped.

SEC. 14 - SCRIMMAGE LINE

A. Centers may adjust the ball, including picking it up to reposition before each play as long as he/she does not move the ball in a manner to intentionally draw the defensive players off sides.
B. The offensive formation must include 5 players on the line of scrimmage.
C. All offensive players must be inside the designated hash marks before the ball is snapped.
D. All offensive players (except a motion player) must be set (remain motionless) for one full second before ball is snapped.
E. The player in motion may initially move towards the line of scrimmage, but must be in a parallel or backward motion to the line of scrimmage at the time the ball is snapped.
F. There is no blocking at the line of scrimmage (see SEC. 18, "BLOCKING").

SEC. 15 - DEFENSIVE RUSH COUNT

A. Defensive players may rush at the end of the five-second count by the line judge. ONE THOUSAND ONE, ONE THOUSAND TWO etc.
B. If the defense crosses the line before the end of the five-second count, offside’s will be called AFTER the played has been completed.

SEC. 16 - PLAY LIMITS/FIRST DOWN

A. Extreme & Super-X Leagues

1. The field will be divided into halves by cones at mid-field.
2. The offensive team has a limit of one first down and four additional plays to cross midfield.
3. An automatic first down is awarded once the ball crosses mid-field.
4. The offense then has a limit of one first down and four additional plays to score a touchdown.
5. A first down is earned by completing two passes beyond the line of scrimmage or crossing midfield.
6. If a team fails to earn a first down by completing two passes or crossing mid-field, or if a team fails to score within the downs allotted, the other team will assume possession of the ball.
7. The offensive team may elect to punt on fourth down.
8. A first down cannot be carried over from one half to the other.
9. BSSC staff will announce the down situation on the field.
10. If the defense commits a penalty which carries with it an automatic first down and the offense has not gotten a first down by completions on that half of the field, then the offense will still have the opportunity to gain a first down by completions on that half of the field. See examples below:

·        On 3^rd and 2, the defense commits pass interference. The down/distance resets to 1^st and 2
·        4^th and 1, Resets to 1^stand 2
·        3^rd and Mid, Resets to 1^st and Mid
·        4^th and Goal, Resets to 1^st and Goal

B. Social League

1. The field will be divided into halves by cones at mid-field.
2. The offensive team has a limit of six plays with one first down to cross mid-field.
3. An automatic first down is awarded once the ball crosses mid-field.
4. The offense then has a limit of six plays with one first down to score a touchdown.
5. A first down is earned by completing two passes beyond the line of scrimmage or crossing midfield.
6. If a team fails to earn a first down by completing two passes or crossing mid-field, or if a team fails to score within the downs allotted, the other team will assume possession of the ball.
7. The offensive team may elect to punt on fourth down (see "PUNTS" below).
8. A first down cannot be carried over from one half to the other.
9. Any penalty enforcement that results in an automatic first down, will reset the six play count.
Example: Used 4 plays to get 2 completions. On 3^rd down and goal, pass interference is committed by the defense. The next down/distance is 1^st and goal as the six play count is automatically reset.

SEC. 17 - PUNTS

A. If the offensive team decides to punt, they must inform the opposing team and the BSSC staff.
B. No fake punts are allowed.
C. All punts must be kicked and the receiving team may not attempt to block the punt in any way
D. The punting team must stay on the line of scrimmage until the ball is punted.
E. Five players from the receiving team must be on the line of scrimmage.
F. The receiving team may call for a fair catch or catch and advance the ball.
G. If the ball hits the ground it becomes a dead ball.
H. The ball will be spotted at the exit point of where it traveled out of bounds.
I. The ball will be placed on the 2-point conversion line, if it travels outside / downed in the end zone.
J. No blocking is allowed (see SEC. 18 "BLOCKING").
K. Game clock will start when the ball is kicked.

SEC. 18 - BLOCKING

A. No blocking or contact of any kind is allowed in BSSC touch football.
1. This includes:
a. Downfield "blocking" of any kind including "picks."
b. Blocking during punts or interceptions.
c. At the line of scrimmage.
d. While guarding a receiver.
NOTE: All players MUST AVOID CONTACT with the opposing team at all times during the game.

SEC. 19 - OPEN PLAY

A. The official will announce an "OPEN PLAY" and the ball may be thrown to EITHER a male or female receiver on the next play from scrimmage.
1.  OFFICIAL'S ANNOUNCEMENT - EXAMPLE: "1st down and 2, open" (1st down, 2 completions needed to get a first down and any gender may catch the ball). Alternatively, "3rd down and mid, open" (3rd down, ball must cross mid-field to get a first and any gender may catch the ball).

SEC. 20 - GENDER PLAY

A. The official will announce a "GENDER PLAY" and a female player must be an operative player on the next play from scrimmage.
1. OFFICIAL'S ANNOUNCMENT EXAMPLE: "2nd down and goal, GENDER PLAY" (2nd down, team must score and a female must be involved in the play. Alternatively, "3rd down and mid, GENDER PLAY" (3rd down, ball must cross mid-field to get a first and a female must be involved in the play).
1. Gender Play
a. Teams must use a female as an operative player within 3 consecutive downs. A female may be used at anytime during the offensive possession.
b. Once a female has been used as an operative player (judged to be the intended receiver, primary runner for positive yards or throws the ball as a quarterback for positive yards), then the gender count is reset by the official. The official will announce "GENDER IS GOOD" and the next play is an "OPEN PLAY" (see below).
c. The gender count will extend from the previous series to include extra point conversions.
2. Forced Gender Play
a. A forced gender play will result when the offense has not used a female within the last 2 plays (judged to be the intended receiver, primary runner for positive yards or attempts to throw the ball as a quarterback for positive yards). The official will announce "GENDER PLAY" and a female player must be involved in the next play from scrimmage.
b. If a female is in the backfield/slot position, she MUST receive the snap from center as the quarterback. The ball cannot be snapped past the slot position on a forced gender play.
c. If a female has been declared the quarterback, the official will announce "OPEN PLAY." The offensive team MUST allow the defensive team time to adjust out of their "forced gender" formation.
d. If the quarterback (male or female) is sacked/fumbles the snap from center, the next play MUST also be gender.
3. Legal Gender Play Examples
a. In the judgment of the official, a forward pass is thrown by a male quarterback intended for a female receiver. The pass must result in an attempt for positive yards, but does not have to be caught by the female receiver.
b. A female runner who receives a hand-off/pitch must gain positive yards.
c. A female quarterback who attempts a forward pass (in the judgment of the official) for positive yards. The forward pass may be thrown to a male or female receiver.
d. A female runner receives hand-off/pitch from a male quarterback, and then throws it to a female offensive player in an attempt to gain positive yards (does not have to be caught by the female receiver).
e. A female runner receives hand-off/pitch from a male quarterback, who in turn hand-off/pitch to a female offensive player must gain positive yards.
4. Illegal Gender Play Examples
a. In the judgment of the official, a forward pass thrown by a male quarterback intended for a female receiver that does NOT (or would not have) result in positive yards.
b. In the judgment of the official, a forward pass thrown by a male quarterback that is NOT intended for a female receiver.
c. A female who runs with the ball (receives hand-off/pitch) in which the play does NOT result in positive yards.
d. A female receiver who transfers the ball to a male runner during a gender play (hook & ladder). Play will be called dead by the official.
e. A female runner who receives hand-off/pitch from a male quarterback, who in turn throws/hands-offs to a male offensive player.
f. A female snaps (or hikes) the ball.
g. A pass that is deflected by a male and caught by a female.
h. A male/female quarterback who deliberately throws the ball into the ground, to stop the clock or has no intentions for a play to result in positive yards.
i. A male QB is sacked on a forced gender play.
5. MALE COVERAGE for a Forced Gender Play
a. Male defensive players must set up in "man-to-man" coverage before the ball is snapped, with only ONE defender guarding the quarterback. Males may never cover a female on a "forced gender play" (see EXCEPTION # 6 "MALE COVERAGE When the Defense is Short Females" below).
b. Male defensive players are NOT obligated to cover their opposing male receivers if they run a pattern on forced gender.
c. ONLY after the ball is caught by a female receiver, may the male defensive players leave their man-to-man assignments to tag her down. If the play results in a hand-off/pitch, the male defensive players must wait until the female has gained positive yards to tag her down.
d. A male defender may NOT knock down/intercept a ball that is thrown/deflected on a hand-off/pitch.
e. If the offensive formation includes MORE than 3 women, the offense must designate which 3 females will have gender play protection. The remaining female(s) in the formation will not have gender protection and can be covered by a male using "man-to-man" coverage. These male defenders may knock the ball down, but cannot intercept the ball.
6. MALE COVERAGE When the Defense is Short Females
a. If the defense team is down a female player (5 men - 2 women on the field), a male may cover the opposing team's female receiver on a forced gender play.
b. The offense will designate which female is to be covered by the male defender before the snap of the ball. The defensive team must rotate their male players every gender play to cover the offense's extra female. Once the rotation is complete, then the male that began the rotation may cover her again.
c. The male may guard the female, but may not contact the ball (knock down or intercept) or otherwise interfere with the female player until the ball is caught. EXCEPTION: If the offensive line of scrimmage is at the 2 point conversion line or less. A thrown ball into the END ZONE, may be knocked down, but may NOT be intercepted.
7. FEMALE COVERAGE
a. Female defenders have the following options; woman to woman coverage, zone coverage or the use of a free safety anywhere/anytime on the field. There is no pre snap restriction as to where the female defenders can be aligned.
b. If the offensive team only has 2 females on the field, the 3rd female can be used to play zone or set up as a safety. Double-team coverage may NOT be used in the scenario.
c. A defensive woman MAY intercept or knock down a ball on forced gender.
8. Penalty Assessment on Gender Play
a. If the foul is on the defensive team, the offense will have one of two options:
(1) Accept the penalty and repeat the gender play.
(2) Decline the penalty and take the result of the play. (Example: The offense completes a pass on a gender play, where the defense committed a penalty).
b. If the foul is on the offensive player, the penalty will be assessed and the next play will be gender.

SEC. 21 - PASSING

A. Complete/Incomplete Pass
1. A forward pass is completed when caught by any player of the offensive team who has at least one foot in-bounds and is past the line of scrimmage.
2. If an offensive and defensive player catches the ball simultaneously, the ball becomes dead and belongs to the passing team at the spot of the catch.
3. If a player goes out-of-bounds and comes back in-bounds to catch the ball, it is an incomplete pass (penalty assessed).
B. Reception in the End Zone
1. A touchdown will be signaled by the official when BOTH the football and player's entire body has broken the plane of the opponent's goal line.
EXAMPLE: If a player extends the ball with their arm into the end zone, but their body is tagged on the 1 yard line, the ball will be placed on the 1 yard line.
C. Reception at Mid-Field
1. A first down will be signaled by the official, when the football has broken the plane of the mid-field line at the completion of a play.
(Example: On 3^rd and Mid, the ball carrier crosses midfield with the ball, then returns behind the midfield line and is tagged. The next down will be 4^th and Mid).
D. Turnovers
1. A change of possession can only occur due to downs or an interception of a pass.
a. A catch of an opponent's pass or fumble before it hits the ground is an interception.
2. A fumble is not a turnover (the ball is dead at the spot of the fumble).
3. A lateral is not a forward pass and cannot be advanced if intercepted (the ball is dead at the spot of occurrence and possession awarded to the intercepting team).
4. A player must be in bounds and have control of the ball before an interception is called
E. Hook & Ladder Play
1. FORCED GENDER with Male Involved
       a. The ball is dead at the point of release by the female (the hook) to the male (ladder). The official will call "GENDER IS GOOD" for the completed pass to a female and no penalty will be assessed. On a forced gender play, a male cannot be the "hook."
2. OPEN PLAY
       a. If you execute the hook and ladder (female is either one) on an "open play", the play is legal, however, it does not satisfy the gender requirement.
3. ANY PLAY
a. If you execute this play with females being BOTH the hook and the ladder the play will be allowed to continue w/o interruption. It will be a completed pass, the ball will NOT be called dead at the spot of the lateral and it will count as a gender play. If a TD is scored as a result of this play, then 8 points will be awarded.

SEC. 22 - RUNNING THE BALL

A. Quarterback (QB) limitations
1. If the offensive line of scrimmage is BEFORE mid field, the QB may run at any time.
2. If the offensive line of scrimmage is in the opposing teams' half of the field, then the QB CANNOT run for positive yards unless a defensive player crosses the line of (This includes extra point attempt plays).
B. A team may at any time execute a running play from scrimmage with the following guidelines:
1. The QB rule above applies until the ball is transferred to another player.
2. At the time the QB transfers the possession of the ball to another player, the 5 second rush protection is lost. Transfer of possession is executed by:
a. Hand-off
b. Pitch/Lateral
c. Forward pass caught behind the line of scrimmage.
3. A ball that is transferred from the QB to another player behind the line of scrimmage may be advanced across the line of scrimmage regardless of where the line of scrimmage originates.
4. If the ball is transferred to another player and then back to the QB, the 5 second rush protection is NOT regained.
5. A ball that has been transferred may still be thrown down field unless:
a. The ball has traveled past the line of scrimmage.
b. A forward pass of any kind has been thrown.
6. Forward hand-offs or passes that occur beyond the line of scrimmage are illegal. The play will be blown dead and the ball placed where it was initially handed-off or passed from.

SEC. 23 - STOPPAGE OF PLAY

A. When an opponent touches the ball carrier with two hands.
1. This does not have to occur simultaneously if the offensive player has not taken more than 2 steps.
2. Once the ball has contacted carrier, they are eligible for downed contact.
3. The football is considered part of the body if the ball is touched in a tag situation.
B. Ball carrier leaves the field of play or scores.
C. Receiver catches the ball in the end zone to score a touchdown or extra point.
1. A player that has ball control and is pushed out of the end zone or sideline before his/her feet touch the ground will be considered in bounds.
D. An eligible receiver becomes ineligible if he/she goes out of bounds (prior to or during a pass) and remains ineligible for the remainder of the play.
1. A penalty will be assessed if the ineligible receiver catches the ball. EXCEPTION: If the eligible receiver is forced out of bounds, he will become eligible to legally catch a pass as soon as he/she returns in bounds.
E. Ball touches the ground because of a fumble, punt or incomplete pass.
F. Ball carrier slips or falls and any part of this body (except feet or hands) are touching the ground.
G. Timeout is called.
H. If an inadvertent whistle is blown the ball becomes dead immediately.
1. If this happens during a running play or after a player has caught the ball, the offensive team has the following 2 options:
a. Ball will be placed at the spot of the runner/receiver at the time of the whistle.
b. Replay the down.
2. If a forward pass is in flight, or during a punting or hiking situation, the down will be replayed.
I. A QB is permitted to stop the game clock legally to save time, if immediately upon receiving the snap, throw the ball directly into the ground.
NOTE: Spiking the ball to stop the clock is legal on an OPEN play only (See Penalties if this occurs on a gender play).

SEC. 24 - SCORING

A. Six points are awarded for a touchdown (see "C. Gender Exceptions" below).
B. After a touchdown, the offensive team will attempt an extra point conversion.
1. The gender count will extend from the previous series to include extra point conversions.
2. Teams receive 2 points for a 10-yard conversion (2-point conversion line) and 1 point for a 5-yard conversion (1-point conversion line) (see "C. Gender Exceptions" below).
3. An intercepted extra point conversion attempt cannot be run back.
C. Gender Exceptions:
1. On an OPEN PLAY, if a woman-to-woman pass results in a touchdown, that team will receive 8 points (instead of 6). On a FORCED GENDER play, the touchdown will result in 6 points.
a. Teams will still then have the option for a one or two point conversion.
2. ON EITHER AN OPEN OR FORCED GENDER PLAY- If you execute the hook and ladder play with females being BOTH the hook and the ladder that results in a touchdown, then 8 points will be awarded.
a. Teams will still then have the option for a one or two point conversion.
3. On an OPEN play, a woman-to-woman pass from the 2 point conversion line will result in 3 points being awarded. On a FORCED GENDER play the conversion will result in 2 points.
4. On an OPEN play, a woman-to-woman pass from the 1 point conversion line will result in 2 points being awarded. On a FORCED GENDER play, the conversion will result in 1 point.
D. Two points are awarded for a safety when one of the following occurs in the end zone:
1. Any offensive penalty occurring in the end zone.
2. The ball carrier or QB is tagged in the end zone (not on a punt or intercepted pass).
3. The ball carrier or QB runs out of bounds in their own end zone.
4. The center snaps the ball out of the end zone.
5. A player fumbles in their own end zone.
NOTE: After a safety, the offensive team will punt a free kick from the 2 point conversion line.

SEC. 25 - UNABATED RUNNER

A. Once a player running unabated has crossed the opposing team's 2 point conversion line they have 5 seconds to perform one of the following 2 options:
1. Score a TD.
2. Take a knee/run out of bounds.
B. If the runner has not scored a TD, taken a knee or gone out of bounds within the 5 second limit or stops before the 2 point conversion line, the official will blow the play dead and the clock will stop.
1. The runner may be ejected from the game and a 15 yard dead ball unsportsmanlike penalty will be called. Penalty will be enforced from the spot that the player stopped running.

SEC. 26 - BALL PLACEMENT FOR PENALTIES

A. Dead-Ball Foul
1. Succeeding Spot - The spot where the ball next would be put in play if no distance penalty were to be enforced. EXAMPLE: Receiver catches the ball and runs out of bounds. While out of bounds, the defender pushes the receiver. The ball will be spotted where the receiver went out of bounds, and a 15 yard unsportsmanlike dead ball penalty will be added to the play because of the penalty.
B. Live-Ball Foul
1. Previous Spot - The spot where the ball was put into play.
EXAMPLE: Receiver catches a long pass and is touched at the 5 yard line. However, on the play, one of the offensive players holds a defensive player. This is a 'live ball' foul for holding and 10 yards is assessed from the original line of scrimmage, NOT at the 5 yard line where the receiver was downed.
C. Double Foul
1. If there is a double foul during a down in which there is a change of possession, the team last gaining possession may keep the ball unless the foul was committed prior to the change ofpossession.
2. If double foul occurs after change of possession, the defensive team retains the ball at the spot of its foul or dead ball spot.
3. If one of the fouls of a double foul involves disqualification (ejections/suspensions) player(s) must be removed, but no penalty yardage is to be assessed.
D. Loss of Down
1. After a loss of down penalty (prior to fourth down) the number of the ensuing down is one greater than that of the previous down. If it occurs on fourth down, it is a loss of the ball to the defensive team unless it is a combinations penalty, in which case the distance penalty is enforced in addition to the loss of the ball.

SEC. 27 - DECEITFUL PLAY

A. Any deceitful play to circumvent/undermine the rules or the spirit of the BSSC will be called dead immediately. The player(s) involved will be ejected by BSSC staff and could be subject to suspension depending on the severity of the infraction.

SEC. 28 - OVERTIME (POST SEASON ONLY)

A. BSSC officials will bring the line judge, home and visiting coaches together for the "Coin Toss". The BSSC official will place a hand behind their back and the home team coach will choose an odd or even number. If they choose incorrectly, the visiting team will win the "coin toss". The winning coach of the "coin toss" will have one of TWO choices:
1. Start the OT on Offense.
2. Start the OT on Defense.
3. If a team starts on offense then they will start on defense if a round 2 is needed.
B. ROUND 1:
1. Each team will have FOUR downs to score from 2-point conversion line using the same end zone.
2. If a team scores, they will have the opportunity to go for one or two on the PAT. The female to female PAT rule will still be in effect.
3. Teams must use a female as an operative player within 3 consecutive downs. A female may be used at anytime during the offensive possession.
4. Interceptions will result in a turnover and may not be returned for any points.
C. ROUND 2: If a tie occurs after the first round, then teams will begin round 2.
1. Each team will have THREE downs to score from 2-point conversion line using the same end zone.
2. If a team scores, they MUST go for two on the PAT. The female to female PAT rule will still be in effect.
3. Teams must use a female as an operative player within 3 consecutive downs. A female may be used at anytime during the offensive possession.
4. Interceptions will result in a turnover and may not be returned for any points.
D. ROUND 3: If a tie occurs after the second round, then teams will begin round 3.
1. Each team will have TWO downs to score from 2-point conversion line using the same end zone.
2. If a team scores, they MUST go for two on the PAT. The female to female PAT rule will still be in effect.
3. Teams must use a female as an operative player within 2 consecutive downs. A female may be used at anytime during the offensive possession.
4. Interceptions will result in a turnover and may not be returned for any points.
E. ROUND 4: (and all subsequent rounds) If a tie occurs after the third round, then teams will begin round 4
1. Each team will have ONE down to score from 2-point conversion line using the same end zone.
2. If a team scores, they MUST go for two on the PAT. The female to female PAT rule will still be in effect.
3. Teams must use a female as an operative player within 2 consecutive downs. A female may be used at anytime during the offensive possession.
4. Interceptions will result in a turnover and may not be returned for any points.

SPORTSMANSHIP

SEC. 29- UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT - COOLING OFF PERIOD/EJECTIONS/SUSPENSIONS

A. Cooling Off Period
1. Player(s) will be removed from the current game for a full series to "cool-off."
a. Teams MAY make a substitution for the player's(s) position on the field during a cooling-off period.
B. Ejection
1. Player(s) will be removed from the current game and MAY NOT re-enter the game.
2. Teams MAY NOT make a substitution for the ejected player(s) position on the field.
3. Player(s) will be eligible to play in the next scheduled game.
C. Suspension
1. Player(s) shall be removed from the current game and MAY NOT re-enter the game.
2. Teams MAY NOT make a substitution for the suspended player's(s) position on the field
3. The suspended player(s) will NOT be eligible to play in the next scheduled game. If the next scheduled game is a forfeit/rain out, then the suspension will extend to the following weeks game.
4. Player(s) must leave the field or the game will be called and a forfeit noted for the team for whom the player is a member.
5. If that player is caught playing the next scheduled game, the team will have a forfeit recorded and a forfeit fine assessed. In addition, the coach of the team will sit out the next scheduled game.
D. Post Season Suspension
1. There will not be ejections in the post season, only suspensions. Any player suspended in the post season will NOT be eligible to participate in future post season game(s) that his/her team may play.
NOTE: If the removal of an unsportsmanlike player results in the team not having enough players, the game will be forfeited (no fine will be assessed.)

SEC. 30 - REMOVAL FROM THE LEAGUE

A. Any player(s) who has been ejected or suspended two times during the season will be removed from the league.
1. If that player is caught playing, their team will forfeit all games for the rest of the season.
B. Any player(s) who engages in a fight (on or off the field/bar sponsors) will be banned from the BSSC for LIFE.
1. If a fight occurs during a game, all players will be removed from the field and the game will be called. The team whose player(s) initiated the contact will receive a loss for that game.

BSSC FOOTBALL PENALTIES
The BSSC is a 100 % NON-contact co-ed football league and strives to limit all incidental contact.

SEC. 1 - DEFENSE : LOSS OF FIVE YARDS/SPOT FOUL PENALTIES/LOSS OF DOWN:

A. Defensive Offsides: A player is offsides when any part of his/her body is beyond the line of scrimmage before the five-second count is over. The play will continue without stoppage of play.
1. The offensive team has one of the following two options:
a. Accept the penalty and repeat the down. Penalty assessed from the current line of scrimmage.
b. Decline the penalty and take the result of the play.
B. Defensive Encroachment: When any part of a player's body is in the neutral zone and contacts opposing player before the snap.
1. Whistle will be blown immediately to stop play which results in a dead ball.
a. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage.
C. Double-Teaming a Female on a Forced Gender Play: Female receivers may not be defended by two players on a forced gender play.
1. The offense will have the following options:
a. Accept the penalty and repeat the gender play. Penalty assessed from the current line of scrimmage.
b. Decline the penalty, and take the result of the play.
EXCEPTION: When a woman is QB, the defense may double team the female receiver with either gender.
D. Deflecting a Thrown Ball on a Forced Gender Play: Male defenders may not deflect a thrown ball during a forced gender play. This includes the defensive player guarding the quarterback.
1. The offensive team has one of the following two options:
a. Accept the penalty and repeat the down. Penalty assessed from the current line of scrimmage.
b. Decline the penalty and take the result of the play.
E. Male Intercepting a Thrown Ball on Gender Play:
1. The offense will regain possession where the interception occurred, an automatic first down is awarded and the next down will be gender.
a. Penalty will be assessed from the spot of the interception.
2. If the male defender intercepts the ball in the end zone the offense will regain possession and gender play will be considered "good." The ball will be placed at the 1 yard line, the play will be open and an automatic first down is awarded.
F. Not Rotating a Defensive Male Player on a Forced Gender Play: When the defense is short a female player; a male player may cover a female receiver. The defensive team must rotate each of their defensive male players to cover the extra female. Once the rotation is complete, then the male that began the rotation may cover the female receiver again.
1. If the male player is not rotated, the offense will have the following options:|
a. Accept the penalty and repeat the gender play. Penalty assessed from the current line of scrimmage.
b. Decline the penalty and take the result of the play.

SEC. 2 - OFFENSE : LOSS OF FIVE YARDS/SPOT FOUL PENALTIES/LOSS OF DOWN:

A. Delay of Game: The offensive team must put the ball into play 20 seconds after official has signaled "ready for play".
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage.
B. Illegal Participation: Each team may not have more than 8 players on the field at one time or more than 5 men on the field.
1. Penalty will be assessed after play has been completed.
2. The defense will have the option to accept or decline the penalty.
C. Illegal QB Cadence: If the player calling the cadence does not receive the snap.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
D. Offensive Offsides: When any part of the offensive player's body is beyond the scrimmage line before the ball is snapped.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
E. Offense Not Stationary for One Full Second: All offensive players (except a motion player) must be set (remain motionless) for one full second before ball is snapped. The player in motion may initially move towards the line of scrimmage, but must be in a parallel or in backward motion to the line of scrimmage at the time the ball is snapped.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
F. Not Using a Female as an Operative Player in a Forced Gender Situation: A team may not run three consecutive plays without a female as an operative player.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage, loss of down will be incurred and repeat gender play.
2. If the penalty occurs on fourth down, the ball will be turned over to the opposing team.
G. Not Declaring QB in a Forced Gender Situation: If a female is in the backfield or slot position on a forced gender play, the female MUST receive the snap from center.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage, the down will be repeated and the next play must be a gender play.
H. Illegal Forward Pass/Lateral: The offensive team may make one forward pass from behind the line during each play from scrimmage. At no time may the ball cross the line and then return behind line and then thrown past the line of scrimmage.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the spot of the forward pass and loss of down will be incurred.
I. Illegal Lateral Pass: A Lateral pass must be parallel to an offensive player or pitched backwards.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the spot of the forward lateral and loss of down will be incurred.
J. Ineligible Receiver Reception: An eligible receiver becomes ineligible if he/she goes out of bounds (prior to or during a pass) and remains ineligible for the remainder of the play.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and loss of down will be incurred.
K. QB Illegal Forward Pass: The penalty for a forward pass beyond the line will be enforced from where the ball was released when the passers entire body and ball are beyond the line of scrimmage.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the ball was released and loss of down will be incurred.
L. Intentionally Grounding the Ball: Grounding will be called when a passer, facing an imminent loss of yardage because of pressure from the defense, throws a forward pass without a realistic chance of it being completed.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the spot of the forward lateral and loss of down will be incurred.
EXCEPTION: A passer is permitted to stop the game clock legally to save time, if immediately upon receiving the snap, he/she throws the ball directly into the ground. Spiking the ball to stop the clock is legal on an OPEN play only. If this occurs during a gender play, 5 yard penalty and loss of down will be assessed and the gender rule will remain in affect for the next play(See Section 11 as a run off on the game clock may also apply).
M. Throwing Ball at Defender during a Forced Gender Play - The passer may not intentionally throw the ball at a defender in an attempt to draw a defensive penalty.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and loss of down will be incurred and repeat gender play.
N. Illegal Diving: Offensive players may NOT leave their feet in order to gain positive yards. This does NOT include diving to catch a thrown ball.
1. If foul is committed in the open field, the penalty will be assessed from the spot and loss of down will be incurred.
2. If the dive is an attempt to obtain a first down at mid-field, score a touchdown or extra point conversion, the penalty will be assessed from the original line of scrimmage and a loss of down will be incurred.
O. Illegal Pre-Snap Formation Lines: Before the ball is snapped, all players must line up inside of the marked lines that are found at mid-field/goal lines and continues unmarked the length of the field. This is to avoid the use of an illegal "sleeper sideline" play.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.

SEC. 3 - ALL PLAYERS: LOSS OF TEN YARDS/SPOT FOUL PENALTIES/LOSS OF DOWN:

A. Stiff-Arm: A player with the ball may not use a "stiff-arm" (extended arm) to ward off any opponent attempting to touch him/her.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
B. Blocking: No player may use his hands or any part of their body to block an opponent. Players may not run down field with the intention of becoming a "blocker."
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and a loss of down will be incurred.
C. Players Outside of Neutral Zone: Any player outside of the neutral zone while the game is being played will be flagged and the penalty yardage will be accessed.

SEC. 4 - DEFENSE: LOSS OF TEN YARDS/SPOT FOUL PENALTIES/LOSS OF DOWN

A. Illegal Contact/Holding: A defensive player may not use their hands/body to contact, hang-on, hook, chuck, impede or restrict a receiver as the play develops.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and a first down awarded.
B. Defensive Face Guarding: When a forward pass is in the air, the defender may not use their hands or arms to screen the offensive player from catching the ball while the defensive player's back is towards the ball in flight. If the defender turns around to look for the ball, it may be deflected.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
C. Defensive Pass Interference: It is defensive pass interference when a defensive player takes ANY ACTION that results in contact with the intended receiver before the ball arrives. This includes any action made while “playing the ball” that initiates contact with the intended receiver. Whether the pass was catchable or not will have no bearing on a defensive pass interference call.
1. A 1st down will be awarded at the spot of the foul and the gender count from the previous play will be replayed. (Social League Exception: Pass Interference will also reset the 6 play count)
D. Illegal Defensive Coverage on a Forced Gender Play (Zone Defense/Not Playing Man-to-Man, etc.)
1. The offense will have the following options:
a. Accept the penalty (penalty is assessed from the line of scrimmage), repeat the gender play.
b. Decline the penalty and take the result of the play.

SEC. 5 - OFFENSE : LOSS OF TEN YARDS/SPOT FOUL PENALTIES/LOSS OF DOWN

A. Illegal Contact/Holding: A offensive player may not use their hands/body to contact, hang on, hook, chuck, impede or restrict a defensive player as the play develops.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
2. If the penalty was assessed on a gender play, the gender down will be repeated.
B. Offensive Picking: Action by an offensive player who with or without contact delays or prevents an opponent from reaching a desired position will be considered to have committed an illegal pick.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
2. If this occurs during forced gender situation, the gender down will be repeated after the penalty is assessed.
C. Offensive Pass Interference: It is offensive pass interference when an offensive player significantly hinders the progress of a defensive player or that player's opportunity to catch the ball during a forward pass. Prohibited contact is defined as a player physically restricting or impeding the opponent in a manner that is visually evident and affects the defensive player's opportunity to gain position or retain his position to catch the ball.
1. If the defensive player catches the ball after being interfered with, they will have the option of taking the penalty or declining the penalty and a change of possession will occur at the completion of the play.
2. If the defensive player does not catch the ball after being interfered with, penalty will be assessed from the line of scrimmage and the offensive team will maintain control of the ball.
3. If the penalty was assessed on a gender play, the gender down will be repeated.
4. If the penalty was on an extra point, the conversion will be declared "no good" and the down will not be repeated.
D. Penalty After An Interception:
1. After the interception, if there is a penalty called on the intercepting team, the enforcement is from the spot of the foul.

SEC. 6 - ALL PLAYERS : LOSS OF FIFTEEN YARDS PENALTIES:

A. Reckless Play: No player may recklessly charge/run/dive/jump through a player(s) to make a tag, catch, intercept or deflect a thrown ball.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
2. The penalized player MUST sit out one offensive/defensive series. If the official determines the act was unsportsmanlike; the player will be ejected from the game. (Examples include but are not limited to: Receiver who leaves his feet to grab a ball and collides with a defensive player, A receiver who jumps over the back of a player to grab the ball, A defensive/offensive player who is running out of control, Excessively hard tags, etc……)
B. Intentional Foul/Penalty: No player may intentionally commit a penalty or foul of any kind in order to gain an advantage for his/her team.
1. Defense: Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
2. Offense: Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and loss of down will be incurred
NOTE: The penalized player will be ejected from the game.
C. Deceitful Play: Any deceitful play to circumvent/undermine the rules or the spirit of the BSSC will be called dead immediately. The player(s) involved will be ejected by BSSC staff and could be subject to suspension depending on the severity of the infraction.
1. Penalty will be assessed from the current line of scrimmage and the down will be repeated.
D. Unsportsmanlike Conduct: There will be no unsportsmanlike conduct tolerated in the BSSC. This applies to any act which is contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship. Such acts specifically include, but are not limited to:
1. Unnecessary physical contact of ANY kind such as: excessive contact at anytime, grabbing T-shirt/body, excessive rough touch, tripping, tackling, pushing, diving into player after tag or purposely touching in inappropriate places.
2. Abusive and/or insulting language or gestures towards a player, official, line judge or fan on or off of the field.
3. Spiking the ball at anytime during the game.
4. Taunting opponents or similar theatrics before/after the touchdown.
5. Not scoring a TD or taking a knee within the 2 point conversion line (see SEC. 24, FOOTBALL GAME RULES, UNABATED RUNNER)
6. Wearing metal spikes.
7. Using the F-word towards opponents, fans, line judges or BSSC staff (immediate suspension).
8. A defender whistles, yells, screams, or otherwise causes a distraction in an attempt to make the receiver drop the ball.
9. Any other violations that may be deemed unsportsmanlike by the officials.

Copyright 2013 BSSC, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed for the use outside of the BSSC without the written consent of Mike Cray, owner of the BSSC.

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