Tackle Football

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Preparing the Future

Crusader Youth Tackle Football is for grade school age boys that attend a Catholic school or a Catholic parish in Lancaster County. Players will learn the basic skills of football and compete in the Red Rose Midget Football League.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When does the fall tackle football season start?

The 2024 fall tackle practice season starts Tuesday, August 6th. Games will start Labor Day weekend.

How long does the fall tackle season run?

2024 Practices for the fall football season start Tuesday, August 6th. The regular season games run through the end of October. 

What are the age groups for tackle football?

The Crusader Youth Football program is a member of the Red Rose Football League, who sets the ages and other parameters of the league, such as weight limits.

For the 2024 season, all players must be between the ages of 7 and 12 as of June 1st 2024. Players can join the 8u (D-Team) if they are younger than 7 so long as they turn 7 before September 1st, 2024

Is there a weight limit for the different levels?

There is not a weight limit for each level, however, the league has what is known as the "striper" rule.  This means that players over a certain weight limit, which is set for each level, must wear a clearly visible stripe on their helmet. These players are usually referred to as "stripers." These players must play an interior lineman position on both offense and defense in a three-point stance.  "Stripers" on defense cannot line up outside the offensive tackles.  "Stripers" also cannot be on kick-off nor kick-return teams. Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter to stay up to date on the latest updates to weight limits.

2023 weight limits for each level, regardless of age, are:

Where are practices held?

The teams practice at the Lancaster Catholic Stadium complex, 655 Stadium Road, Lancaster, PA 17601

When are practices?

Practices for the 2024 season will start Tuesday, August 6th from 6-8pm. The first week, the teams will practice Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6-8pm. Then the teams will practice Monday through Friday for the 2nd week, Monday through Thursday for the 3rd and 4th weeks, and Tuesday through Thursday for the rest of the season. As the season progresses, and it gets darker earlier, practices will end earlier.

Where are home games played?

Home games are held a Lancaster Catholic Stadium located at 655 Stadium Road, Lancaster, PA 17601.

When are games played?

Home games are played on Sundays starting at 1pm with the 12u (B) team, followed by the 10u (C) and 8u (D) teams.

Away games are can be played on Saturdays or Sundays. Saturday afternoon games usually start around 3pm. Sunday afternoons start about 12:30. The 8u (D) team usually plays first, followed by the 10u (C), and 12u (B) teams.

What qualifications do the coaches need?

All head coaches are selected based on their prior coaching experience, as well as playing experience.  We also encourage assistant coaches to join and learn how to effectively coach the Crusader system.  All coaches must complete a background check or receive their Youth Protection Clearances from the Diocese of Harrisburgh Youth Protection Services Program as well as complete safety training. Coaches must also provide a letter from their pastor or faith minister stating that they are in good standing in their church. Coaches must also complete concussion and cardiac arrest training.

If you are interested in helping coach for the Crusader Youth Football Program, please contact the director for more information.

Do I need to provide any football equipment?

You will need to purchase a mouth guard, socks and cleats for you player, as well as a 5 pad "girdle" with a tailbone pad, two hip pads and two thigh pads.  Crusader Youth Football will provide a fitted helmet, helmet stickers, shoulder pads, practice jersey, practice pants, game jersey, game pants, and knee pads.

How much does this cost?

The 2023 fee is $140.

What information do I need to provide in order to register my player?

All players will need to have a birth certificate, player contract, parent consent form, and proof of physical examination by a doctor. All of these documents will be provided to you at sign up, and can be collected at that time as well. Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter in order to stay informed on the latest news and updates.

How reliable is the equipment?

Every year, the equipment used is sent back to the manufacturer in order to be reconditioned and cleaned. It is then certified by the manufacturer for use the next season. Some new equipment is purchased each year to ensure we have advanced equipment.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Email the Youth Football Director at jmpmanley@gmail.com with any further questions.