The SAM Youth Football League provides an opportunity for young players in Central and Northern Michigan to play organized football. The SAM League was named after Stanley Anthony Machulis, who was the father of the league's founder, Mark Machulis. The SAM League uses the same rules outlined by the Michigan High School Athletic Association, but there are specific additional rules that are used to accommodate young players.
Game Time
Each SAM League youth football game shall consist of four 10-minute quarters. There will be a 15-minute halftime break between the second and third quarters. The clock shall stop after any incomplete pass, a change of possession, a scoring play or when the ball goes out of bounds. If either team gets ahead by 35 points or more, the clock will run without stoppage through the end of the game.
No Ties
If the game is tied at the end of four quarters, the two teams will play overtime. The overtime session will give each team a possession at the opponent's 20-yard line. It will get a series of downs to score a touchdown or a field goal. If the team scores a touchdown, it will be allowed to try for an extra point. If the first team scores a touchdown and fails on the extra point, the second team will win the game if it scores a touchdown and converts the extra point. If the score remains tied after the first possession, each team will get a possession at midfield and have four plays. The team that gains the most yards will then win the game.
Player Participation
All players who participate in practice during the week and dress for the game must participate in every game. Each player must play a minimum of one play, however the SAM League emphasizes that all players should get the opportunity to play at least one quarter if there have been no disciplinary issues during the week.
Coaching Influence
In the SAM Youth Football League, coaches are allowed on the field with the players. They may be in the huddle and call the plays. However, once the huddle breaks, the coaches must retreat 15 yards from the line of scrimmage and may not touch any youngster involved in the play.
Member Comments