Frequently Asked Questions

Is RHAM Youth Football and Cheer part of RHAM High School or RHAM Middle School?

No. RHAM Youth Football and Cheer (RYFC) is an independent, volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is not affiliated with RHAM High School, RHAM Middle School, or the RHAM School District.

Is RYFC part of a league?

Yes. RYFC is a member of the Southern New England Youth Football Conference (SNEYFC) and competes against other member towns in the conference.

Where must I live to participate?

RYFC primarily serves athletes from Hebron, Andover, Marlborough, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Amston, and Lebanon. Players from other towns may be eligible depending on SNEYFC rules.

Does the organization have rules families must follow?

Yes. All families must follow SNEYFC bylaws, RYFC bylaws, and the Code of Conduct to ensure a safe and positive experience for all participants.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. A limited amount of financial aid is available each season and is approved by the Board of Directors based on need and available funds. Families must be in good standing to qualify.

Can I pay a fee instead of volunteering?

No. RYFC is a volunteer-run organization and relies on family participation. If scheduling is difficult, we will work with families to find alternative volunteer roles.

How should I communicate with my athlete’s coach?

The primary communication platform is Crossbar. Families should install the Crossbar app to receive team updates and messages from coaches.

Do athletes need to try out?

No. There are no tryouts for football or cheerleading.

How are teams determined?

Teams are assigned based on age or grade requirements set by SNEYFC during registration.

Can my child play on a different team than their age group?

Cheerleading:

Cheer squads are assigned by grade level and cannot be changed under SNEYFC rules.

Football:

Teams are assigned based on age as of June 1.

• Playing down is not allowed.
• Playing up may be allowed in rare cases with approval from parents, the head coach, and the Director of Football Operations.

Can I request a specific coach?

No. Coaches are appointed by the RYFC Board of Directors.

How are coaches selected?

Coaches are selected according to the RYFC bylaws. Football coaches complete USA Football Heads Up certification and all coaches undergo background checks.

How are positions determined?

Positions are assigned by the coaching staff based on what is best for the athlete and the team. Factors may include skill level, experience, effort in practice, and team needs.

Players typically remain at the same position, during the league year, once assignments are established so they can properly learn their responsibilities.

Is there a weight limit for play football?

No. There is no maximum weight limit to participate in football.

However, under SNEYFC conference rules, players above certain weights must play on the offensive or defensive line for safety and competitive balance. Players in this category may not carry the football and must wear a jersey number 50–79.

These requirements are established by the SNEYFC bylaws,not by RHAM Youth Football and Cheer, and no exceptions are permitted.

How is playing time determined?

Pee Wee and Micro Football:

These divisions follow a minimum play structure during regular season games.

Junior and Senior Football:

There are no minimum play requirements due to increased game speed and safety considerations.

Playing time may be affected by:

- Practice attendance

- Effort and attitude

- Understanding of assignments, and player readiness and safety.

Minimum play requirements do not apply during postseason games.