Ankeny Tackle Football
Philosophy Statement
The purpose of tackle football is to provide athletes with an opportunity to further develop their understanding of the game and enhance their football skills in a supportive environment. The focus is on ensuring athletes enjoy the experience, play with effort, and leave each game feeling they made meaningful contributions. Prioritizing inclusivity and active participation will require intentional effort and should take precedence over a win-at-all-costs mindset.
Age Groups
The teams and age groups will fall under the categories below:
- 5th Grade
- 6th Grade
- 7th Grade
Team
Teams will consist of 15–20 athletes, with final numbers determined by enrollment. 7th grade teams will participate in 11-player football, while 5th and 6th grade teams may play 8 or 9-player football, depending on enrollment numbers.
Tackle Football Ball Carrier Restrictions
- 5th Grade - To carry the football, the weight limit is 125 lbs.
- 6th Grade - To carry the football, the weight limit is 135 lbs.
- 7th Grade - There is no weight restriction.
Tackle Rules
7th Grade
- 7th grade will play 11 player football.
- There are no offensive or defensive scheme restrictions.
- There is no weight restriction to carry the ball.
- Game length - 15 minute running clock. The last 2 minutes of each half will be regulation clock operation.
Special Teams
• Punt – No rush and no return; do have the option for auto punt (35 yards), but if inside the 50, an auto punt is half the distance to the goal-line
• Punt – Ball will be dead on a punt where it is caught, stops rolling or goes out of bounds.
• Kickoff – no kicking, offensive team simply starts at the 35 yard line
• PAT – No rush on kick attempt; can go for 2 point conversation as well (run or pass).
5th and 6th Grade
- The goal will be to play 11 player football.
- Numbers will drive how many athletes will be on the field, scheme restrictions, and certain special team situations.
- Game length - 15 minute running clock. The last 2 minutes of each half will be regulation clock operation.
- Two coaches can be on the field.
- There will be no blitzing on defense.
- There will be no empty backfields on offense.
- Turnovers are live.
Special Teams
• Punt – No rush and no return; do have the option for auto punt (35 yards), but if inside the 50, an auto punt is half the distance to the goal-line
• Punt – Ball will be dead on a punt where it is caught, stops rolling or goes out of bounds.
• Kickoff – no kicking, offensive team simply starts at the 35 yard line
• PAT – No rush on kick attempt; can go for 2 point conversation as well (run or pass).