THE PHILOSOPHY AND BYLAWS OF THE UTE CONFERENCE, INC. FOOTBALL PROGRAM
PHILOSOPHY AND PURPOSE STATEMENT
The purpose of the Ute Conference is to provide the opportunity for all players to enjoy and participate in the active competition of
the game of football. We further propose to acquaint players with the rules of the game of football and its sound fundamentals such as
passing, running, kicking, blocking, tackling, and helping the players maintain a sound physical, mental, and moral condition. The
Ute Conference and its officials, coaches, and officers are dedicated to inspire youth, regardless of race, color or creed, to practice
the ideals of sportsmanship, scholarship, fellowship, team cooperation, and athletic competition. The Conference is committed to
encourage adults to behave in an exemplary manner when supervising youth or as a spectator at all functions of the program, and to
keep the welfare of the youth foremost and free from any adult compulsion for power and glory.
UTE CONFERENCE, INC. FOOTBALL PROGRAM BY LAWS – 2018
Web page: http://www.uteconferencefootball.org
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE……………………………………………………………..
1.0 CONFERENCE NAME, ADDRESS, PURPOSE, AND DIFINITIONS……………
2.0 ORGANIZATION…………………………………………………………………..
3.0 FRANCHISE…………………………………………………………………………
4.0 BOARD OF DIRECTORS…………………………………………………………
5.0 RULES OF THE ORGANIZATION…………………………………………………
6.0 DUTIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS……………………………………….
7.0 DUTIES OF THE CONFERENCE OFFICERS……………………………………
8.0 FINANCE…………………………………………………………………………….
9.0 CONFERENCE DISCIPLINE……………………………………………………….
10.0 EQUIPMENT……………………………………………………………………….
11.0 COACHES, BUSINESS MANAGERS, AND GAME OFFICIALS…………………
12.0 TEAM AND DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION……………..
12.10 RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS…………………………………………………..
12.11 RECRUITING………………………………………………………………………
13.0 TEAM AGES, WEIGHTS AND DISIGNATIONS……………………………….
14.0 STANDARDS OF THE GAME……………………………………………………
15.0 GAME RULES………………………………………………………………………
16.0 SPECIFIC CONFERENCE RULES…………………………………………………
17.0 GAME AND PRACTICE SCHEDULES…………………………………………..
18.0 CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS………………………………………………………..
19.0 AWARDS…………………………………………………………………………..
20.0 SOCIAL FUNCTIONS……………………………………………………………..
BACK PAGE UTE CONFERENCE PRESIDENTS………………………………………
UTE CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE BOARD
Contact any board member at uteconferencefootball.org
COMMISSIONER: PETE DAY
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT: VICKIE BRACKEN
SECRETARY: AIMEE BIANCHI
VICE PRESIDENTS:
MIKE JOHNSON
BRENT MEIER
LINDA GEER
JOHN VANLEEUWAN
AMY NANCE
JENN BALLSTAEDT
DAVE BLONQUIST
RAVEN MONTOYA
AARON HARMSTON
REX FIVAS
SETH MEONO
ARBITER: CORY PLANT
ASST ARBITER: LAYNE PLATT
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0.0 Commissioners Policies, Procedures and Regulations
0.1 Chain Crews – The chain crew (commonly known as the “chain gang”) are assistants to the linesman who handle the first
down measuring chain and the down indicator box. The members of the chain crew who operate the measuring chain are called rod
men and the person who works the down indicator box is called the box man. Each person operating as a chain crew member must
wear a Ute Conference vest. This vest designates a member of chain crew may be inside the sideline ropes. Coaches who are
ineligible to coach, because they do not have a badge or have been ejected from a prior game, are not allowed to be part of the chain
crew. Chain crew members must be 18 years of age. (2017)
0.2 No dogs, pets or any animals are allowed on a Ute Conference practice or game field.
0.3 No ladders, scaffolding or elevated work platform (also known as a cherry picker, boom lift, man lift, basket crane or hydra
ladder) type of aerial work platform that consists of a platform or bucket at the end of a hydraulic lifting system are permitted on a
Ute Conference practice or game field.
0.4 End Zone Flag Designation for Fans – A flag will be placed in the middle (center point) of the Spectator Viewing Area.
Parents, Relatives and Spectators viewing will area begin 2 yards from the End Line of the End Zone. The Viewing area is defined as
2 yards to 7 yards beyond the End line of the End Zone and the width of the field from Sideline to Sideline. Parents, Relatives and
Spectators may watch the game on their team’s half of the designated Viewing area. Anyone violating the viewing area may be asked
to leave the premises. Violations could be but are not limited to: sitting closer than 2 yards from the End Line or sitting on the opposite
team’s half of the viewing area. All shade canopies and umbrellas must be at least 6 feet from the end line of end zone.
0.4.1 Team Flags Signs Lining End Zone – Team flags and signs must be 8 yards beyond the End Line of the End Zone. Flags
will not be permitted in front of the Spectators Viewing Area. All Flags or signs must be at least 8 yards from the End Line of the End
Zone. Flags or Signs will not be allowed if there is not space available beyond 7 yards. A district at its discretion may designate 1
End Zone for spectators and 1 End Zone for Flags or another area for team flags.
0.5 Noise Makers – Air Horns, Cowbells, Drums or any other artificial noise makers are not allowed on the Ute Conference
practice or game fields.
0.6 5 Rostered Coaches Permitted on Sideline During Games – Discipline action for violation because of a Parent
will be assessed to the Head Coach for not controlling their sideline. All other actions will be given to the offending coach.
0.6.1 Should an assistant coach be ejected, and this is his first ejection, he will be ineligible for at least the next three (3) games.
If he is ejected a second time during the season, he is ineligible to coach for the remainder of the season and shall be removed from the
roster. (2017)
0.6.2 When a Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Chain Crew Member or Spectator is ejected from a games, they must immediately leave
the premises for the rest of the day. They are also banned for at least the next three (3) scheduled games and cannot be on the
premises for any games those days. If a player is ejected, they may remain on the sidelines with their team but most remove their
shoulder pads and helmet. They may also be on the sidelines during the next scheduled game but must be in street clothes. (2017)
0.7 Team Sportsmanship – Ute Conference Sportsmanship (sportspersonship) is an aspiration that football as an activity will
be enjoyed for its own sake, with proper consideration for fairness, ethics, respect, and a sense of fellowship with one’s competitors.
No team (Pregame, Postgame, Win or Lose) will be allowed to form up and take part in the following but not limited to activities on
the field of play in front of the opposing team: Jumping Jacks, HAKA Dance, or any other activity that exhibits poor sportsmanship
or intimidating behavior.
0.8 Communication Between Coaches, Parents and Players During Games – Any type of device to include but not limited to:
Cell Phones, Head Sets, Helmets with Headsets, Walkie Talkies and any other device that
you can communicate via text, speech or video is strictly forbidden during games. Any communication between Coaches, Parents and
Players that gives 1 team a competitive advantage is not allowed. Violation will bring disciplinary action to the head coach of the
offending team.
0.9 Playoff Seeds, Tie Breaker Rules, and Tie Breaker Games for Playoff Elimination – Playoff Seeds, 4 teams will be sent to
playoffs out of each division within its own league. The #1 seed will play the #4 seed and the #2 seed will play the #3 seed. Winners
will move on to play in the Championship game.
0.9.1 The highest seed being the home team and will wear the dark jersey and control the chains.
0.9.1.1 Highest seed will belong to the team with the best total win loss record. (All Regular Season Games Count – Including
Crossovers)
0.9.2 Tie Breaker Rules – In successive Order
0.9.2.1 Head to Head
0.9.2.2 Cross Over Record
0.9.2.3 Tie Breaker Game – A Tie Breaker game for playoffs will only be played for elimination of 1 team or 2 teams from
playoffs that rules 1 and 2 do not set precedent for seeding. Tie Breaker games will only include 3 teams vying for the #3 or #4 playoff
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seed positions. Whenever tie breaker rules 1 and 2 place a team into the #3 seed the tie breaker game is no longer needed. The #4
Playoff seed will be given to the winner of the head to head league game.
0.9.3 Tie breaker games will not be played for seeding purposes. If ties cannot be broken by the stated Tie Breaker rules, the
commissioner will place the 3 teams in a hat and draw out the seeding positions. No Districts or team representatives will be present at
drawing.
0.9.4 2 teams will never participate in a tie breaker game. Winner of the head to head league game will be placed in the #4
playoff seed position.
0.10 Scheduling Home and Away Games – Whenever possible the districts will host 4 or 5 Saturdays throughout the season.
District Host dates will be done on a random basis.
0.11 Sweating down players to make weight. The Commissioner and/or Executive Board reserve the right to turn in any Parent,
Coach or Board Member to the State of Utah for investigation of abuse pertaining to player(s) losing weight.
0.12 Policies, Procedures and Regulations will be administered and enforced by the Commissioner and Executive Board of the
Ute Conference as authority given in these bylaws. Violations are Subject to disciplinary action.
0.13 The head coach must attend the pregame meeting/coin toss with his captains at midfield. He is the only coach allowed at
this meeting. In the absence of the head coach, the assistant coach who attends in his place will be considered the head coach for the
duration of the game.
0.14 Any player wanting to Y up or Z down must arrive at the official weigh ins wearing no more than a t-shirt, shorts, socks
and shoes. (2017)
0.15 Definitions (2017)
TARGETING: Target is an act by any player who takes aim and initiates contact against an opponent above the shoulders
with the helmet, forearm, hand, fist, elbow or shoulders. Targeting means that a player takes aim at an opponent for the
purpose of attacking with an apparent intent that goes beyond a legal tackle or a legal block or playing the ball. Some
indicators of targeting include but are not limited to:
-leading with the helmet, forearm, fist, hand or elbow to attach with contact at the head or neck area.
-lower the head before attacking by initiating contact with the crown of the helmet
-launch-a player leaving his feet to attack an opponent by an upward and forward thrust of the body to make contact in the
head or neck area
-A crouch followed by an upward and forward thrust to attack with contact at the head or neck area even though one or
both feet are still on the ground
HELMET TO HELMET: Illegal helmet contact is an act of initiating contact with the helmet against an opponent,
including:
–Butt blocking is an act by any player who initiates contact against an opponent who is not a runner with the front of his
helmet
-Face Tackling is an act by a defensive player who initiates contact agains6t a runner with the front of his helmet
-Spearing is an act by any player who initiates contact against an opponent at the shoulders and below with the crown (top
portion) of his helmet
DEFENSELESS PLAYER: a player who, because of his physical position and focus of concentration is especially
vulnerable to injury. Targeting may be considered a flagrant foul if it is against a defenseless player. Examples of
defenseless player:
-A quarterback moving on the line of scrimmage who has handed or pitched the ball to a teammate and then makes no
attempt to participate further in the play
-A kicker who is in the act of kicking the ball or has not had a reasonable amount of time to regain his balance after the
kick
-A passer who is in the act of throwing the ball or has not had a reasonable length of time to participate in the play again
after releasing the ball
-A pass receiver whose concentration is on the ball and the contact by the defender is unrelated to attempting to catch the
ball
-A pass receiver who has clearly relaxed when he has missed the pass or feels he can no longer catch the ball.
-A kick receiver whose attention is on the downward flight of the ball
-A kick receiver who has just touched the ball
-Any player who has relaxed once the ball has become dead
-Any player who is obviously out of the play. The game official must draw distinction between contact necessary to make
a legal block or tackle and that which targets a defenseless player
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UNSPORTSMANLIKE BEHAVIOR: No player or coach, substitution, athletic trainer, parents or other team attendant
including chain crew shall act in an unsportsmanlike manner one the game officials assume authority for the contest.
Unsportsmanlike conduct fouls that occur while the ball is live are treated as dead ball fouls. These include such
infractions as:
–Abusive or insulting language, profanity, taunting, inciting the spectator, player or coach
-Attempt to influence a decision by a game official
-Disrespectfully address a game official
-Using illegal communication equipment
-Using tobacco or any kind of electronic cigarettes or inhaling device
-Head coach failure to verify to officials that all players on the team are legally equipped
-Players using disconcerting acts or words prior to the snap in an attempt to interfere with offensive play signals or
movements
-Actions that generate ill will (Haka, jumping jacks facing the opposing team, etc.)
-Spiking the ball, throwing the ball high in the air from the field of play or end zone, or failure to return the ball
immediately to a nearby official.
-Kicking the ball other than on a legal kick
-Coaches or other sideline personnel entering the field without permission of an official
-Any delayed, excessive or prolonged act by which a player attempts to focus attention upon himself
-A plyer leaving the bench during a fight
0.16 Scout Division Objectives:
- Scout is an instructional/developmental division
- Fundamentals and a quality football experience are most important
- Protecting Centers who are in a defenseless position at this age with 2 hands on the ball.
Defense
- Scouts may only have 4 down defensive linemen at the line of scrimmage.
- No down lineman or linebacker may start or lineup in the A Gaps or Head Up on the center as a Nose Tackle.
- Linebackers (1 or 2) may line up at least 2 yards off the ball head up on the center or in the A gaps and stunt from a
position through the A gaps.
- A center may not be hit (protection like a punt) until he has sufficient time to regain balance and face the defenders.
- Alignment warning without penalty may be given to the defense by the officials.
- Any contact deemed defenseless by the official will carry the sportsman like conduct foul.
Offense
- Offense may run wedge plays or QB sneaks.
0.17 Draft Rules (2018) –
Applies to all districts having 2 or more B teams in a division or districts having 2 or more Junior teams.
Objective is to give all B teams a safer competitive experience. It will eliminate a B1 teams from playing a B4 teams or B teams
playing D level teams.
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After the “A” team selections, there will no longer be the following designations for teams. B1, B2, B3, B4 or Super B, C, D, E. All B
teams will be able to play any team from any district with the opportunity to compete. All junior teams will be drafted evenly to
ensure fair play throughout the season.
1.“A” team is selected – All teams must be within three players of other teams
2.The remaining players are evenly selected in a “snake style” draft as outlined.
Black Red White Silver
1 2 3 4
8 7 6 5
9 10 11 12
16 15 14 13
17 18 19 20
24 23 22 21
25 26 27 28
- A team roster may not have more than 50% of players from the prior year roster. Any roster with more than 50% of
players from a prior year roster must be declared to the Executive Board prior to the start of games. If a team has not
declared the roster prior to season start, that team will be ineligible for playoffs and post season play.
- Coaches cannot make gentlemen’s agreements between each other or be allowed to encourage
players to sit out during the tryout process.
- Abuse will cause the conference to put teams together for the districts.
- Coaches abusing or manipulating process will lose coaching privileges.
- Late signups will be automatically placed on the next team in draft order.
- All districts are required to abide by these rules
District Draft rules:
- Head Coaches are allowed up to (3) three freeze picks. The main objective is to secure assistance coaches. If the coach
has a son who is playing, he must be used as one of the freeze picks. If the coach has more than one son playing, he is
reserved and selected in the last round of the draft.
- Coaches sons must be frozen, they cannot be placed into the draft.
- X players (based on weight at tryouts) are drafted one by one in a “snake style” draft
- Skill players are drafted one by one in a “snake style draft”
- Brothers are required to be picked in consecutive rounds
- All teams must be within three players of other teams
1.0 CONFERENCE NAME, ADDRESS, PURPOSE, AND DEFINITIONS
The name of this organization is UTE CONFERENCE INCORPORATED (“Ute Conference”).
1.1 The address of the Ute Conference Incorporated is its legal address filed with the state of Utah and published on its web
site.
1.2 The purpose of this corporation shall be as set forth in the Articles of Incorporation of the Utah Conference Incorporated.
1.3 “Jurisdiction.” The Ute Conference Incorporated, claims jurisdiction and sole governing body over, but not limited to, the
game of amateur football in the State of Utah as played under these Bylaws. The Conference reserves the right to expand
beyond this jurisdictional area should the law and circumstances allow.
1.4 The term “Board” or “Board of Directors” as used in these Bylaws refers to the Board of Directors of the Ute Conference
Incorporated.
1.5 The term “Conference” as used in these Bylaws refers to the Ute Conference Incorporated.
2.0 ORGANIZATION
2.1 The Ute Conference Incorporated shall be composed of a group of districts, each representing the residents of a defined
geographical area. Each district’s boundaries shall coincide with the formal high school boundaries and will be referred to
as the (high school name) District of the Ute Conference. Each district shall have its own organization headed by a
chairperson who shall be known as “President.”
2.1.2 The Ute Conference Incorporated may also have Independent teams where the district may be unable to field teams in all 6
divisions (Scout, Gremlin, Peewee, Mity Mite, Gridiron, and Bantams), each Independent team representing the residents
of a defined geographical area. Each district’s boundaries shall coincide with the formal high school boundaries and will
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be referred to as the (high school name) within the Ute Conference. Independent will not have home games as they are not
associated with a district and will not have voting rights as a district. (2018)
2.1.3 Independent teams filling all five (5) divisions will then become a district, headed by a President and will be given voting
rights as a district. (2018)
2.2 Admission to the Conference. In order to become franchised by the Conference each proposed district shall:
2.2.1 Complete an application.
2.2.2 Submit an executed franchise agreement and a completed franchise information sheet.
2.2.3 Receive a positive recommendation from the Commissioner.
2.2.4 Comply with any other requirements specified by the Board of Directors and the Commissioner.
2.2.5 Submission for these items will be no later than the February meeting of each year.
2.3 DELETED (2014)
2.4 Any district fielding less than six (6) classifications will be moved to independent status as defined in 2.1.2. (2018)
2.5 All districts are required to furnish and have on file with the Conference a set of their respective District Bylaws. These
District Bylaws may be more restrictive than the Conference Bylaws, but in no way may they supersede them. Submission
date for this item will be no later than the April meeting of each year.
3.0 FRANCHISE
3.1 A franchise fee must be paid as prescribed by Section 8.1
3.2 All districts must be fully franchised and agree to be bound by the Ute Conference Incorporated Bylaws as mow
constituted or hereafter amended by the Board of Directors.
3.3 Districts desiring to affiliate with the Ute Conference Incorporated will be subject to Conference Bylaws and the
requirements of the Board of Directors as set forth from time to time, and must agree in writing to be bound thereby.
3.4 No district shall receive a franchise from the Conference until all Conference financial requirements are met.
3.5 Additional franchise requirements may be set forth by the Board.
4.0 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
4.1 The Conference shall be governed by a Board of Directors consisting of a Commissioner, Executive Vice President, four
(4) or more Conference Vice Presidents, Arbiter, Assistant Arbiter, Secretary, the Conference Executive Director, and
each district president (or a designated alternative).
4.2 An Executive Committee composed of the Commissioner, Executive Vice President, four (4) or more Conference Vice
Presidents, Arbiter, Assistant Arbiter, Secretary, and the Conference Executive Director (with the Commissioner acting as
chairperson of the Executive Committee) shall have the authority to:
4.2.1 administer, control, and operate the affairs of the Conference at times other than during meetings of the Board
of Directors;
4.2.2 make recommendations regarding substantive policy of the Conference, such recommendations to be brought
before the Board of Directors at regularly scheduled meetings;
4.2.3 implement the directives and polices of the Board of Directors;
4.2.4 initiate investigations, conduct negotiations on matters affecting the Conference, execute contracts for and in
behalf of the Conference as authorized by the Board of Directors, and to direct the Commissioner to undertake
the powers, duties, and responsibilities as designated by the Bylaws.
4.2.5 The Executive Committee may also be referred to as the Executive Board.
5.0 RULES OF THE ORGANIZATION
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5.1 Bylaws Distribution. All Conference officers, district officers, and coaches are to be issued annually a copy of the
Conference Rules, Regulations, and Bylaws. One copy of the National Federation of State High School Association Rule
Book will be provided to each district. All these publications are to be kept current at all times by posting any changes
immediately.
5.2 Elections. The Commissioner shall be elected for a term of two (2) years commencing in November but not to coincide
with the election of the Executive Vice President. Commissioner shall be elected by the present Board of Directors and the
Executive Committee on a 3/4 majority of the total eligible votes.
5.2.1 Each nominee for Commissioner, who is not the incumbent Commissioner, shall have served at least two (2)
years as President of a District, and at least three (3) years as a member of the Executive Committee. The
Executive Committee shall be appointed by the Commissioner and presented to the Board of Directors in
February for their approval.
5.2.2 If the incumbent Commissioner chooses not to seek reelection, and no other candidate is willing to stand for
election to the office of Commissioner, who meets the qualifications stated in the immediately preceding
sentence, the Executive Committee may specify lesser qualifications that will apply to that election.
5.3 The Executive Vice President shall be elected in March of every other year to serve a two-year term of office. This election
will be based on a 3/4 majority of the total eligible district votes. The Executive Vice President will serve as a full member
of the Executive Committee. See § 7.2
5.4 The officers of each district are to be elected by the parents and coaches in that district by December 31 of each year,
except those districts whose Bylaws provide for a two-year term. Results of each election are to be communicated to the
Ute Conference Secretary by December 31. It is strongly recommended (although not required) that district presidents
serve a minimum of two-year terms.
5.4.1 The officers of each district shall select and approve the coaches for that district but may mot select as a coach a
person who is under Ute Conference sanction. The selection of coaches by popular election is prohibited.
5.5 Meetings. The Board of Directors shall hold its regular meeting in at least seven (7) calendar months during any twelve
(12) calendar months without special notice and by virtue of these Bylaws, at such place, date, and time as shall be
designated by the Commissioner through notice given not less than five (5) days prior to the meeting date. The District
President or a representative must be present at all designated monthly meetings. Failure to do so twice will result in at
least a $200.00 fine and loss of voting rights for the remainder of the season. Additional regular, monthly meetings may be
held if deemed necessary by the Commissioner or Board of Directors.
5.5.1 Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by or at the request of the
Commissioner or any three (3) members of the Executive Committee. The person or persons authorized to call
special meetings of the Board may designate the place and time for holding any special meeting of the Board.
Any such special meeting must be held within Salt Lake, Tooele, or Davis Counties. Ten (10) days written
notice stating the time, date, and place must be given for special meetings.
5.5.2 Emergency Meetings. Under extraordinary circumstances an emergency meeting may be called by the
Commissioner. Under an emergency meeting, the Commissioner is required to give the best notice possible via
e-mail or telephonic.
5.5.3 Rules of Meeting Conduct. All meetings shall loosely be governed under the standard of “Robert’s Rules of
Order” unless temporarily suspended by a unanimous vote of those present.
5.5.4 Voting. Voting at any Board meeting is limited to representatives of fully franchised member districts and
Conference officers. Independent teams will not have voting rights.
5.5.5 Quorum. A majority of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transacting of business at any meeting of the
Board, other than business affecting a change to the Bylaws, which will require the presence of 2/3 of the
Board.
5.6 Appointments, Delegation, and Committees
5.6.1 All appointments, delegations of authority, and committees are solely reportable to the individual or group
creating them and in no way have any authority exceeding the individual or group creating them.
5.6.2 Vacancies. Any vacancy occurring in the Board of Directors or officers of the Conference shall be filled, for
the unexpired term, by the Board of Directors.
5.6.3 Resignation. Any member district may resign or withdraw by filing a written resignation or withdrawal with
the Secretary, but such resignation or withdrawal shall not relieve a member district of the obligation to pay any
dues, assessments, or other charges thereto accrued and unpaid.
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5.6.4 Reinstatement. Upon written request signed by a former member district and filed with the Secretary, the Board
of Directors, and by the affirmative vote of 3/4 of the members of the Board, may reinstate such former member
district to membership upon such terms as the Board of Directors may deem appropriate.
5.6.5 Removal of Board Members. A Board member may be removed for cause by a 2/3 vote of the Board of
Directors. Items for cause will include but are not limited to failure of a representative to attend two (2) Board
Meetings in a calendar year without a reasonable excuse.
5.7 Amendments in Bylaws. Amendments, deletions, additions or changes in the Bylaws of the Conference shall be
appropriately submitted by league presidents only during the months of February and March of each calendar year. The
Commissioner may submit amendments, deletions, additions, or proposed changes in the Bylaws of the Conference at any
regularly scheduled meeting, special meeting, or emergency meeting.
5.7.1 Each amendment of the Bylaws requires a vote of 2/3 of the Board of Directors in attendance.
5.7.2 Any abstention during a bylaw vote will be considered a non-voting member as if the member is not present.
6.0 DUTIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
6.1 The Boards duties include but are not limited to the following:
6.1.1 To establish, promulgate, adopt, and enforce the Articles, Bylaws, policies, written resolutions, and decisions of
the Conference.
6.1.2 To supervise the finances of the Conference.
6.1.3 To accept or reject any or all applications for membership in the Conference.
6.1.4 To sit in review as a Board of Appeals on determinations of the Commissioner regarding interpretation of
Bylaws, protests, and discipline. The decision of the Board is a final determination and not subject to further
review.
6.1.5 DELETED (1992).
6.1.6 To enact, amend, repeal, and adopt Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws as the Board from time to time deems
necessary and advisable.
6.1.7 To have jurisdiction over the actions of any individual participant in any activities of the Conference.
6.1.8 To determine the insurance coverage and amounts to be maintained by the Conference and so instruct the
Executive Director. See § 7.4.5.
6.1.9 To establish regulations not having the status of Bylaws for the conduct, operation, and direction of the
Conference; to direct the Commissioner, Executive Officers, and Executive Committee to undertake specific
action; and to approve and ratify recommendations, actions, and contractual commitments of the Executive
Committee and Conference officers.
6.1.10 Any other action necessary to meet the objectives in these bylaws.
7.0 DUTIES OF THE CONFERENCE OFFICERS
7.1 Commissioner
7.1.1 To preside and conduct the Board and Executive Committee Meetings.
7.1.2 To interpret and construe, with assistance of legal counsel, implement and enforce the Bylaws, polices, and
determinations made by the Conference.
7.1.3 The Commissioner shall have the responsibility of the interpretation and construction of these Bylaws. Any and
all decisions made by the Commissioner may be appealable to the Board of Directors for final determination;
however, the interpretation and construction of the Commissioner shall be overturned only if found by the
Board of Directors to be clearly erroneous, arbitrary, or capricious.
7.1.4 To arbitrate a timely filed protest by a district with regard to any alleged impropriety, other than game
officiating, which occurs in a game played by that district.
7.1.5 To initiate, conduct, and conclude investigations with respect to infractions and violations of the Bylaws,
policies, and regulations of the Conference; to order audits of financial records and books of a district; to
conduct hearings with respect to Bylaw infractions and violations, including the taking of testimony and
evidence; to make and enter findings and conclusions regarding infractions and violations; to establish, impose,
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and enforce fines and penalties, including probation and suspension of a district, subject to review of the Board
of Directors as set out herein.
7.1.6 To recommend policies and procedures for consideration by the Executive Committee and the Board of
Directors.
7.1.7 Disciplinary Powers of the Commissioner. The Commissioner shall have the following powers with respect to
Conference discipline:
7.1.7.1 The Commissioner may, at his option, appoint legal counsel or a committee made up of members of
the Board of Directors, for the purpose of making recommendations as to penalties imposed upon a
district for alleged Bylaw infractions;
7.1.7.2 To investigate or appoint legal counsel or others to investigate alleged violations and infractions of
the Articles, Bylaws, and policies of the Conference. Such investigations may be conducted by the
Commissioner on his own volition or upon request of a district president. The Commissioner shall
require a complaining district president to set forth specifically and in writing the complaint and the
alleged basis therefore.
7.1.7.3 To undertake an investigation with respect to infractions and violations, call for and conduct audits
of books and records of a district, examine district officers, coaches, players, parents, and other
voluntary witnesses.
7.1.7.4 To hold and conduct formal or informal hearings with respect to alleged violations and infractions.
Such hearings shall be conducted after notice has been given to the district under investigation and
such district shall be given an opportunity to be present at such hearing and to present its position
and evidence.
7.1.7.5 To analyze and evaluate the evidence, statements, and investigation materials, and to determine the
appropriateness of sanctions, probation or suspension.
7.1.7.6 Upon the conclusion and determination made by the Commissioner that a violation of the Articles,
Bylaws or policies of the Conference has occurred, the Commissioner shall notify the president of
the district involved. With the exception of a determination of suspension, the decision of the
commissioner as to “No Action,” sanction, or probation shall be final, unless the district involved
shall undertake an appeal to the Board of Directors.
7.1.7.7 Disciplinary action taken by the Commissioner, other than the suspension of a district may be
appealed to the Board of Directors as provided in § 9.2.
7.1.7.8 If the decision of the Commissioner recommends the suspension of a district, such recommendation
shall be forwarded to and reviewed by the Board of Directors at the earliest regular meeting. The
Board shall, in its consideration of the matter, review the Commissioner’s recommendation and any
further evidence and statements that may be presented in favor of or against suspension. The
recommendation of the Commissioner shall be given due weight, but shall not be deemed
presumptively correct. A district shall be suspended from the Conference upon the vote of 2/3 of all
the constituent districts. If the vote of the Board of Directors is not to suspend the district, the Board
shall thereupon refer the case back to the Commissioner for further review and decision in
accordance with these Bylaws.
7.1.7.9 In the event it is determined that any team within the Ute Conference has violated these Bylaws by
allowing an ineligible player to participate in any Conference game, the Commissioner shall have
the discretion to impose sanctions against the ineligible player, coach, or District president as he/she
deems appropriate, subject to review by the Board of Directors as provided herein. If it is
determined that the violation was intentional and committed with the knowledge of the district
president or any team coach, the team shall forfeit all games in which the ineligible player has
participated.
7.1.8 The basis and grounds for investigation by the Commissioner shall include one or more of the following
elements. An alleged violation of any provision of the Bylaws or parts thereof;
7.1.8.1 Competing under an assumed name;
7.1.8.2 Unsportsmanlike conduct or other actions on the field which are degrading to the Conference;
7.1.8.3 Striking any coach, assistant coach, manager, official, player, spectator, or any other person involved
with any Conference activity;
7.1.8.4 Using profane or obscene language, whether on the field of play or as a spectator; or
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7.1.8.5 Any unauthorized use of funds within any organization, district, or association of the Conference.
7.1.9 An outgoing Commissioner may serve on the Executive Committee (without a vote) for the period of one (1)
year after retirement as Commissioner in the capacity of Chairman of the Board.
7.2 Executive Vice President
7.2.1 To act as Commissioner with full power and authority at times of the Commissioner’s absence.
7.2.2 To fill in the unexpired term of the Commissioner should the Commissioner for any cause be unable to
complete the normal term of office.
7.3 Vice Presidents
7.3.1 To organize the schedule of games each year designating dates, times, sites, opponents, and home teams.
7.3.2 To compile, develop, and administer programs for all acceptable methods of raising funds.
7.3.3 To supervise all insurance needs of the Conference.
7.3.4 To take charge, control, and manage all equipment and property belonging to the Conference.
7.3.5 To supervise any Conference committees.
7.3.6 To chair any Conference committees.
7.3.7 To help supervise hosting or traveling.
7.3.8 To manage all advertising and promotion of the Conference.
7.3.9 To inform and promote all news media of the scores of the games and the activities of the Conference as a
whole, such as banquets, scholarships, elections, championships, intersectional games, etc.
7.4 Ute Conference Accounting Office
7.4.1 To control all fund matters of the Conference.
7.4.2 To receive and disburse monies as prescribed in the Bylaws.
7.4.3 To supervise and audit any district’s financial operations and submit a written report of the audited district’s
financial condition as recorded on the books of the Conference Treasurer and the district.
7.4.4 To report to the Board on the overall financial condition of the Conference.
7.4.5 To acquire such insurance policies as prescribed by the Board and administer them.
7.5 Duties of Arbiter
7.5.1 Ensure that all officials working in the Conference are registered with the Utah High School Activities
Association and have completed the Part One National Federation of State High School Associations Rule Test.
Officials shall wear the approved uniform prescribed by the Utah High School Activities Association.
7.5.2 Schedule three (3) qualified officials for each league game. No district is permitted to increase the fee structure
established by the Board of Directors for the purpose of soliciting officials to officiate the district’s games.
7.5.3 Provide appropriate Conference Bylaws to all participating officials.
7.5.4 To arbitrate all official related problems to final solution. Consultation with the Commissioner may be sought.
7.5.5 Provide rule interpretation training to any interested district.
7.5.6 Communicate appropriate concerns of the Board of Directors to game officials.
7.5.7 The assistant arbiter will function as arbiter in the absence of the arbiter.
7.6 Duties of Secretary
7.6.1 The Ute Conference Secretary handles communications, calls, and letters to all franchised member districts.
Responsibilities include recording the minutes of the Board meetings and emailing said minutes to all district
presidents and the Ute Conference Executive Board. Responsible for emailing notices to all franchised member
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districts for upcoming Board meetings. To keep all minutes of meetings for the Ute Conference recorded and
filed for future reference.
7.7 Duties of the District Officers
7.7.1 To create and maintain an operating organization sufficient to support the district’s share of the Ute Conference
Incorporated.
7.7.2 To appoint and supervise coaches of the teams within the district.
7.7.3 To have one team participating in as many classifications as possible as required by the Conference.
7.7.4 To raise such financing as may be necessary to meet the minimum standards set forth in these Bylaws.
7.7.5 To secure and maintain the home playing and practicing areas used by the district.
7.7.6 To acquire and maintain the proper equipment for the district teams as prescribed by the Conference.
7.7.7 To collect such fees as may be required by the Board.
7.7.8 To provide for the orderly conduct of the games and fans in attendance at the district home games.
7.7.9 To obtain a written agreement from the parents or guardian of each player that he/she may participate. A
Standard form used by the Conference must be used.
7.7.10 To submit to the Conference Accounting Office all money received by the district.
7.7.11 To follow Conference procedure in all purchases and expenditures by the district.
7.7.12 To appoint one or more persons in the district as reporter who shall be charged with the responsibility to report
game scores as soon as possible, after the games are completed, to the designated official scorekeeper. Scores
must be reported by 6:00 p.m. on the day of the game.
7.7.13 To provide all appropriate documentation for certification of respective districts as required by these Bylaws
and the policies and procedures of the Ute Conference.
8.0 FINANCE
8.1 Franchise fees and insurance costs will be assessed to each district by the Conference Accounting office based on the
number of participants on each district’s certified roster at the initial date of certification for the current season. The
franchise fee per participant will be set by the Board of Directors each year. The insurance costs will be set by the
approved vendor.
8.2 Franchise periods run from January 1 through December 31 each year. Fees will automatically be deducted from each
district’s financial statement upon submission of the certified rosters and an accurate count is made of each district’s
registered players. In the event a district has not deposited registration funds by September 1st, that district will
immediately be suspended, and a full investigation will be initiated.
8.3 Member districts shall forfeit the entire franchise fee to the Conference should said districts withdraw or resign after said
sum has been paid into the Conference treasury.
8.4 Each district will be assessed a proportionate share of any insurance premium, annually, as required by the Conference.
8.5 All bills for expenses incurred and all receipts of fees, income, or donations for member districts of the Conference will be
submitted to the Conference Accounting office for payment or custody.
8.6 The annual franchise fee paid by each district and any other funds arising from the activities of the Conference as a whole,
its Board, or Officers, but not from the districts individually will be controlled for the benefit of the Conference by the
Board.
8.7 All monies and assets, real and personal, obtained by a district whether through registration fees, gifts, fundraising projects,
or other sources, shall and are deemed to be the property of the Conference to be held, invested, and distributed subject to
the provisions of these Bylaws.
8.7.1 All monies from whatever source collected or received by a district shall be forwarded to and deposited with the
Conference not later than three (3) working days from the date of receipt thereof.
8.7.2 All monies deposited by a district with the Conference through the Conference Accounting office will be held
in trust by the Conference for the sole and exclusive use of the depositing district, and the funds, assets,
expenditures, and transactions of each district shall be maintained by the Conference as a separate ledger
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account. Access to and review of the records and accounts of a district with the Conference shall be made
available by the Commissioner and accounting office at any time during reasonable office hours upon request of
the district president.
8.7.3 All other property and assets secured or obtained by a district, real or personal, shall be held in the name and
title of Ute Conference Incorporated in trust for the sole and exclusive use of said district. Certificates, deeds,
and other documents of title evidencing such interest and assets shall be transmitted to the Commissioner by the
district president not later than thirty (30) days from receipt thereof by the district.
8.7.4 Monies and assets of the Conference shall be invested by the Conference as directed from time to time by the
Board of Directors so as to obtain the highest rate of return consistent with the objectives of the Conference.
8.8 Disbursements of Conference funds and district funds in Conference custody shall require two (2) signatures.
8.9 The extent of financial participation by the Conference for approved travel expenses for travel outside the Conference area,
when deemed necessary for a team to travel, will be determined at the appropriate time by the Board, based on the
condition of the Conference treasury.
8.10 Conference and district officers responsible for Conference funds shall be bonded by bond obtained by the Conference and
paid for out of Conference funds.
8.11 In the event of a default by a member district, the Board of Directors shall determine the financial condition by an audit of
the financial records of the district involved, which audit shall be made by the Conference accounting office or other
persons appointed by the Commissioner. In the event a financial deficit exists, a sale of the equipment and other assets
owned by the district shall be made at auction as outlined in these Bylaws. The proceeds of such auction shall be applied to
the district deficit, and any remaining deficit will be assessed to each district on a prorated basis according to the official
registrations of each district as of the September 15 last occurring.
8.12 In the event of a financial deficit by the Conference for any other reason, each district will be assessed a proportionate part
of the deficit according to the official registration of each district as of the September 15 last occurring.
8.13 The cash balance of each district will be determined at the end of each month.
8.13.1 If a positive cash balance exists for a district, the excess funds will be deposited in a common investment fund
as approved by the Board of Directors with a separate detail kept of each district’s share. Interest earned shall
be distributed to each district based on its pro rata share of the investment less a 10 percent (10%)
administrative fee.
8.13.2 If a deficit exists in a district, an assessment will be made against that district to be calculated at the current
interest being paid on the investment account plus 5 percent (5%).
8.14 The Conference accounting office will furnish reports at June 30 and for the months of August through December of the
financial position of the district to each respective district president, with a summary to the Conference Commissioner.
Such reports will be prepared on or before the third Monday of each month succeeding the closing of the previous month’s
activity. The Executive Director will submit a consolidated statement of cash receipts and disbursements to the Board of
Directors for the year ended June 30 and December 31.
8.15 Each district is required to meet with the Executive Director and submit a financial budget and district authority of officers
for the coming football season by the March meeting of each year. Included in the proposed budget shall be all anticipated
revenue and expenses, and the district will indicate the number of registrations anticipated, and will also indicate the
proposed registration fee as the basis for the total fees anticipated.
8.16 Each district is authorized to maintain a separate depository account (checking account) hereafter called the “Local
Account” to cover refunds, officials fees, concession expenses and other minor expenses incurred by the district. The
amount allotted to each district that may be kept in the depository account during the months of April through December
shall be set annually by the Conference accounting office and the Commissioner. The LOCAL ACCOUNT FUNDS may
be obtained upon request made to the Conference accounting office. The initial deposit for the Local Account may be with
a request for a check, not to exceed the above stated amounts.
8.16.1 A One-Time “Draw” may be requested without proving detailed expenses at the time of the “Draw.”
The advance is then deposited into the District Local Account. This advance account must be
accounted for by November 1st of each year. By “accounted for” means that you must send a
detailed report of how those funds were spent so that it can be properly debited against the various
expense codes. If the advance account is not drawn to zero (0) by reporting your expenses against
that account a fine may be assessed against your district, not to exceed $100.00
8.16.2 Upon depletion of the Local Account funds, a report of the expenses will be made to the Conference
accounting office along with receipts pertaining to the expenses, who will then reimburse the district
as needed. A district may not deposit any funds given to or collected by it to this Local Account. The
only authorized deposits are reimbursements from the Conference accounting office. The fund shall
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not be more than $150.00 between December 31st and April 30th. All Local Account bank
statements must be mailed to the Ute Conference accounting office each and every month. Your
bank must be notified as to the mailing address of the Conference accounting office and direct them
to mail said statements directly to the Conference accounting office. Within a three-day period the
statements will be mailed to the District Treasurers. This will eliminate one of the items that have to
be turned in at the end of January. The Conference accounting office will keep a copy of bank
statements on file at all times.
8.17 To insure proper balance of district purchases by district, the following procedure is to be followed: A credit line will be
established by the Conference Accounting office for each district according to the previous year’s registration income,
(NOT including any fund raisers included in the registration fee) less refunds and returned checks still on the Conference
books, plus cash on hand, less amounts owed.
8.18 The financial records of the Conference will be audited annually by a committee of three appointed by the Commissioner
or, in lieu of such committee, a certified audit shall be presented to the Board of Directors by the Commissioner.
8.19 Each district shall forward to the Conference Accounting office, by January 31st of each year, the financial records of the
district for the year ended December 31st. These shall include, but not be limited to, district registration receipt books and
Conference deposit books.
8.20 In the event the Conference Accounting office finds it necessary to schedule workshops to teach the financial procedures of
the Conference to the district treasurers and presidents, attendance at such workshops shall be mandatory and any district
not represented at such workshops shall be subject to sanction.
8.21 Those districts in debt on December 31 of any year will be placed on financial probation. The requirements of financial
probation are:
8.21.1 A meeting will be held between the district, Board of Directors, and the Ute Conference Finance Committee by
March 1. At this meeting the district will present to the Finance Committee their fundraising plan to eliminate
the debt by no later than December 31 of the same year.
8.21.2 If the existing debt, after reasonable efforts have been made, cannot be liquidated, the district may petition the
Ute Conference Board for relief by providing a plan of debt retirement that is acceptable to said Board of
Directors. If the district does not retire its debt in the time frame detailed in this section, suspension may be
initiated.
8.22 Immediately following the last scheduled game each year, the Conference Accounting office will evaluate the financial
position of each district to determine their possible debt. Debt evaluation will also include suppliers. Those districts that
are in debt at the time of evaluation may not be allowed to have any of their teams participate in any post-season play. The
Commissioner may grant a waiver if the district evidences that the debt incurred is a direct result of equipment costs to
register increased players (up to one half of said costs), and that said district provides a plan satisfactory to the
Commissioner for an orderly liquidation of said debt.
8.23 Insurance. Every district must promptly remit for the insurance premium for football accident insurance coverage as
provided through the Ute Conference Incorporated. A district may comply with requirements for this accident insurance
coverage prior to the start of the practice season so that all PLAYERS turning out for tryouts are covered. The basic
accident policy will cover injuries sustained by players, coaches, managers, etc. while participating in the play of football
during a game or practice, playoff, or championship game, while participating in a bowl or post season game, or while
traveling directly to or from a scheduled game, practice session or game.
8.24 Scholarships-Criteria of scholarships shall be determined by each individual district and incorporated into their bylaws.
Any district in dept or with insufficient funds at the beginning of a season must show in their budget where funds will
come from for scholarship players and get approval from Executive Board of directors prior to giving Scholarships. No
district may exceed 5% of their total registration per year without approval of the Commissioner.
9.0 CONFERENCE DISCIPLINE
9.1 For infraction or violation of the Conference Articles and/or Bylaws, or for other cause, the Conference may impose
sanctions, probation or suspension as hereinafter defined upon a district, district officer, coach, assistant coach, team or
player.
9.1.1 Sanctions are defined herein as a fine, forfeiture of games, ineligibility of a player, coach, assistant coach,
district officer, team or anyone else involved with any Conference or district activity to participate in one or
more games or other restriction and condition placed on full participation in the Conference short of probation
or suspension.
9.1.2 Players that are ejected from a game for any reason are immediately ineligible and cannot participate during the
remainder of the game. In addition, if this is the players first (1st) ejection of the season, he/she shall not be
eligible for the next scheduled game as well. If this is the players’ second (2nd) ejection of the season, he/she
shall not be eligible to participate for the remainder of the season, including Post-Season play.
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9.1.3 Coaches that are ejected from a game for any reason are immediately ineligible and cannot participate during
the remainder of the game. In addition, if this is the coaches first (1st) ejection of the season, he/she shall not be
eligible for the next three (3) scheduled games. If this is the coaches’ second (2nd) ejection of the season, he/she
shall not be eligible for the remainder of the season, including Post-Season play. NOTE: Illegal participation of
any ineligible player and/or coach will result in the forfeiture of any and all games the ineligible player and/or
coach participated.
9.1.4 Probation is defined herein as a conditional status for a serious violation of the rules and Bylaws of the
Conference. A district or team thereof, under probation, may not participate in Conference championship and it
may not engage in post-season games. A district under probation does retain voting rights in the Conference. A
coach, assistant coach, district officer or anyone else involved in any Conference or district activity, under
probation, may be precluded from participation in Conference and/or district activities as provided in the terms
of the probation.
9.1.5 Suspension, as defined herein, is for a severe breach of the rules or Bylaws, cumulative or individual. A district,
if suspended, forfeits forthwith its franchise, its voting rights, and membership in the Conference, and is not
eligible to participate in Conference activities as of the date suspension becomes effective. A district under
suspension will have its equipment sold to the other districts in the Ute Conference and the individuals
participating in the district will be reassigned to neighboring districts by the Board of Directors of the Ute
Conference. A coach, assistant coach, district officer or anyone else involved in any Conference or district
activity, if suspended, is not eligible to participate in either district or Conference activities as of the date the
suspension becomes effective. The suspension of any individual may be for either a definite or indefinite term.
NOTE: In the event of a forfeiture of any game for standing purposes, the rule shall be the same as used by the
Utah High School Activities Association. That is, presently, to award the win to the opposing team of a
forfeited game and a loss to the forfeiting team. Said awarded wins may substantially change the yearend
standings.
9.2 Disciplinary Appeal Procedure. All appeals of disciplinary action taken or not taken by the Commissioner must be
submitted in writing through the District president to the Commissioner within ten days after the written or verbal decision
of the Commissioner which is being appealed. The written appeal must set out specifically the basis for the appeal and the
reasons why the Commissioner’s decision is believed to be clearly erroneous arbitrary or capricious. Appeals will be
handled as follows:
The appeal will be heard by the Board of Directors at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board unless
the appeal is accompanied by the payment required below. In its review, the Board of Directors shall consider
the Commissioner’s decision to be presumptively correct, and the decision shall not be reversed or overturned
unless it is shown to be clearly erroneous, arbitrary, or capricious. If the decision of the Commissioner is
reversed or modified, the Board shall determine the sanction, probation or suspension, if any, to be imposed.
9.2.1 Until reversed or modified, the decision of the Commissioner shall remain in full force and effect.
9.2.2 Due to the number of members of the Board of Directors, it is difficult to schedule special meetings of the
Board and have a quorum in attendance. Consequently, before the Commissioner will schedule a special Board
meeting to consider an expedited appeal, a payment of $200.00, in cash or certified funds, must be received by
the Commissioner. If the Commissioner’s decision is upheld, that payment shall be forfeited to the Ute
Conference. If the Commissioner’s decision is reversed or substantially modified, however, the payment will be
refunded to the district president through whom the appeal was filed or anyone designated by the district
president.
9.2.3 No district or person shall be deemed to have exhausted available Administrative remedies until the district or
person has timely perfected an appeal through a district president and a decision on that appeal has been made
by the Board of Directors. To the extent allowed by law, no district or person shall have a right to appeal or
challenge disciplinary action in a court of law until that district or person has exhausted available administrative
remedies as provided in the immediately preceding sentence.
9.3 Application to Non-Disciplinary Appeals. The appeal procedures of Section 9.2 apply to non-disciplinary decisions of the
Commissioner with the following modifications: A special meeting of the Board of Directors will not be called to consider
a non-disciplinary appeal. All such appeals will be heard during regularly scheduled Board meetings. No non-disciplinary
appeal will be considered unless a payment of $200.00, in cash or certified funds, accompanies the written notice of appeal
delivered to the Commissioner. That payment will be forfeited to the Ute Conference if the Commissioner’s decision is
upheld but will be returned if the Commissioner’s decision is reversed or substantially modified by the Board.
9.4 District Administration and Discipline. Each district shall be responsible for its own internal regulations, operations,
conduct, and it may establish such provisions with respect thereto which are not otherwise inconsistent with these Bylaws.
Among other things, each district shall be responsible for and have the authority to appoint, discipline, and dismiss its own
officers, coaches, and assistant coaches.
9.5 The ranking member, home district officer present is responsible for the enforcement of the rules and regulations of the
Conference at any game played within his/her district. Violations observed by any Conference or district officer shall be
reported in writing to the Commissioner.
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9.6 The district president or other designated district officer shall notify the Conference Commissioner or secretary whenever a
district places one of its own officers, coaches, or assistant coaches on probation or suspension.
10.0 EQUIPMENT
10.1 All equipment purchased by member districts of the Conference shall become the property of the Ute Conference
Incorporated. Said equipment shall be reserved for the exclusive use of the district by which it was purchased as long as
such district is a franchised member of the Conference.
10.1.1 Each district may choose to sell their game jerseys to their players at the beginning or end of each season. The
district may include the cost of jerseys to the registration fee or sell the jerseys at the end of the season to the
players desiring to purchase their jerseys.
10.2 All district equipment will be stored within two (2) weeks after the final game of the season of each district. Each district
will be required to account for, assemble, and deliver its equipment to such place as shall be approved by the
Commissioner. Additionally, the “Equipment Location Letter” must be submitted to the Ute Conference according to the
policies and procedures of the Conference.
10.3 Each district has the responsibility for the maintenance, upkeep, and replacement of all equipment of that district.
10.4 Equipment Specifications – All teams must be fully equipped with a complete line of high quality, safety-first equipment
for every player taking part in any practice contact sessions, scrimmage, or game. The following equipment items are
mandatory in all divisions:
10.4.1 Helmet and Face Mask – (The helmet and face mask are the most important equipment a football player wears
because they are intended to protect the nerve center of the entire body.) The helmet and face mask must meet
the NOCSAE test standards and have a visible exterior warning label attached. They must further meet all the
current National Federation of High School Association standards.
10.4.2 Shoulder Pads – Shoulder pads should be of corrugated, molded fiber or plastic material and, for sanitary
reasons should be padded with a coated, washable finish. Adjustable elastic underarm straps should be of a
cantilever type. Shoulder pads must be fully covered by a jersey.
10.4.3 Hip Pads – Hip and tailbone pads should be of a molded, corrugated fiber or plastic material covered on the
outside with shock absorbing material.
10.4.4 Thigh Pads – Thigh pads should be of a molded, corrugated, or plastic material.
10.4.5 Knee Pads – Knee pads should be constructed of durable, shock absorbing material. Knee pads must be worn
over the knee and under the pants.
10.4.6 Jerseys – Game jerseys for all division ages will consist of rayon/cotton or cotton/rayon material. Double
shoulders and double elbows shall be optional and not required. It is recommended numbers be sewn on;
however, air-dried or processing stenciling can be used if desired. It is required that no smaller than six (6) inch
front numbers and no smaller than eight (8) inch back numbers be used. Any advertising placed on the player’s
uniform must be done on a team basis only with prior approval of the Ute Conference Board of Directors. Tearaway
jerseys or jerseys that have been taped, tied, or altered in any manner which produces a knot-like
protrusion are illegal.
10.4.7 Pants – Pants may be either a shell or one-piece construction, natural or colored. One-piece pants must have
removable pads. Knit material is recommended with either tunnel belt loops or attached web belt. Thigh-guard
pockets should be sanforized cotton drill cloth and for longer wear should be hanging from waistband. Kneepad
pockets should be sanforized drill cloth or self-material in envelope style. Football pants are sized according to
waist measurements; allowances are made for wearing of hip pads. Age and size should be indicated when
ordering.
10.4.8 Teeth Protector- It is required that each player should be fitted with a durable, well-made teeth and mouth
protector, and it is required to be worn in all games and contact drills.
10.4.9 Athletic Supporter-All boys must wear a good quality athletic supporter during all football practice sessions,
games, etc. All girls must wear the protectionary equivalent.
10.4.10 Shoes – Official footwear for all divisions will conform to National Federation of State High School Association
rules.
10.4.11 Optional Items – Optional equipment, such as stockings, parkas, jackets, etc., may be purchased at the discretion
of the district.
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10.4.12 Ball – The approved football shall be of good grade. The following specifications will apply to all
classifications: Division 1 Teams (Scouts & Gremlins) will use Under Armor Pee Wee as the game ball.
Division 2 (Pee Wee & Mity Mite) may use Under Armor Junior. Division 3(Midget, Bantam & Juniors) shall
use the Under Armor Youth football, specifications for all three balls are determined by the Commissioner and
shall have the Ute Conference logo on the football. All balls need to be inflated properly to the manufacturer’s
specifications.
11.0 COACHES, BUSINESS MANAGERS, AND GAME OFFICIALS
11.1 Coaches – Each district shall appoint one (1) head coach for each team and such managers and assistant coaches as
appropriate. These personnel should be of unquestionable character with a profound interest in and knowledge of football
and the players.
11.2 A football coach or assistant should at all times set a good example by his/her behavior for the players in his/her charge.
He/she should always remember to:
11.2.1 refrain from smoking in front of players during game time or practice time;
11.2.2 refrain from profane or abusive language in the presence of the players;
11.2.3 not criticize players in front of spectators, but reserve constructive criticism for private or in the presence of the
team so all might benefit;
11.2.4 accept decisions of officials on the field as being fair and called to the best ability of the officials;
11.2.5 not criticize the opposing team, its coaches, or fans by word of mouth or gesture;
11.2.6 not permit “sweating down” tactics so that a player will make the team weight. “Sweating down” is to include
steam rooms, steam cabinets, rubber sweat suits, or any method that is injurious to the health of the players;
11.2.7 not permit a player to reenter any game after being badly bruised or injured;
11.2.8 abide by the Certified Medical Trainers decision in all matters of players’ health, injures, and ability to play
during a game; players removed will be subject to Doctor approval prior to returning to participation;
11.2.9 refrain from excessive “sideline coaching” and leaving the bench area to shout instructions from the sidelines;
11.2.10 strive to make every football activity serve as a training ground for life;
11.2.11 be prepared to hold down the score of any game, once the outcome of that game is no longer in doubt.
11.3 It is “MANDATORY” that all coaches in the Ute Conference be certified. Certification will require any coach (head or
assistant) to attend a Ute Conference sanctioned clinic and pass a Ute Conference security screening. Any coach not
certified will not be allowed to coach in the conference. Each coach will receive a Photo ID. This I.D. must be visibly worn
around the neck or chest area. Only coaches who are on the roster of the participating team are allowed inside the ropes.
Any coach not wearing Conference I.D. will be asked to move outside the coaching area (behind the ropes). Failure to do
so, or returning to the coaching area without said I.D., arguing with a District President, District Officer, or Conference
board member, may result in suspension for the balance of the season.
11.4 No one that is not at least 18 years of age can assist on the field practicing, coaching, or participating in anyway with a
Ute Conference Team. All spectators at any practice must remain a safe distance from the practice for safety purposes and
all spectators at games must remain behind the ropes. All Ute Conference Districts will be responsible for assuring no one
under the age of 18 are participating in practices and games, and only certified rostered coaches can be inside the ropes
during games.
11.5 A coach who, during the same calendar year, has acted as a head coach, assistant coach, or team manager in another youth
football organization may not be a head coach, assistant coach, or team manager of a Ute Conference team in the same age
classification. Exclusions are High School Football, and non contact 7 on 7 or 5on 5 Flag football. No coaching any
player during the moratorium during the month of July each year.
11.6 The hosting district is responsible for payment of officials where it is not provided by the Conference.
11.7 Game officials may declare the game forfeited by any team not ready to play ten (10) minutes after the official scheduled
game starting time.
11.8 A game official may not officiate a game in which his/her son(s)/daughter(s) play. Any deviation from this policy must be
approved by the arbiter.
11.9 Timer. The official on the field keeps time.
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12.0 TEAM AND DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION
12.1 Registration cutoff occurs at the time of the team number submission deadline except where a team has less than twentyfive
(25) qualified registered players. A district may close registration with conference approval but it must be for all age
groups.
12.2 Each player will be designated to an age group at the time he/she registered; no player will be placed on a waiting list.
12.3 All players must be registered and listed on the certified roster that is authorized with the district’s Executive Board
liaison’s stamp, prior to participating in a league game.
12.4 Once a team roster reaches thirty-four (34) players, that team must be divided into two (2) teams. In order to split, there
must be a minimum of 28 players and 14 players per team (unless waived by district liaison). All teams in the same age
group may not have more than a 3 player difference on each team at the official weigh-in (unless waived by the
Commissioner). (2017)
12.5 Early communication may be made with potential players via mail or phone to facilitate registration for the purpose of
financial and organization planning.
12.6 Player Registration.
12.6.1 12.6.1 Regular player registration may begin after the district’s budget meeting is completed with the
accounting office.
12.6.2 Player registration will include (1) birth certification by state or federal papers, or church record; (2)
signed parental or guardian permission form; (3) any player registration fee required by team for ID
cards, weigh-in, equipment expense, paid officiating, etc.; and (4) at any time, in the opinion of the
district president, a prospective registrant may be required to furnish an examining physician’s
statement as to the ability of the registrant to participate in the program.
12.7 New players may not be added to a roster after the second weigh-in unless specific approval is obtained prior to registration
of said players by the district’s assigned Executive Committee liaison.
12.8 Parent or Guardian Consent. Parent or guardian consent must be on file, in writing, with the district before any player will
be permitted to participate in the Conference activities. Team rosters, verified by signature of the district official and
certified by an Executive Board liaison, consisting of those eligible players, must be on file with the Conference Executive
Board two (2) days before the game.
12.9 Scholastic Requirements. The Conference strongly encourages each registered player to maintain a sound scholastic
record. All members of the Conference, including, but not limited to, members of the Conference Executive Committee,
members of the Conference Board of Directors, district officers, and district coaches and assistant coaches, shall do their
utmost to assist any such player in maintaining a sound scholastic record when requested to do so by an appropriate party
or parties.
12.10 RESIDENCE REQUIREMENTS
12.10.1 A player is eligible to play in the district in which the player resides as of the date the player is weighed-in and
placed on an official roster. The district of residence of a player is the district in which the custodial parent or
legal guardian resides with the player or the district in which the player resides (a) while in the custody or under
the supervision of a Utah state agency, or (b) while under the supervision of a private or public agency which is
duly authorized by the state to provide child placement services. A player whose custodial parent or legal
guardian does not reside in Utah is considered to be a resident of the district in which the player lives if the
requirements of UTAH CODE ANN. § 53a2-202 have been satisfied and a copy of the designation of
guardianship issued by the school district is maintained with the player’s registration. For purposes of these
Bylaws residence requires two elements: (1) bodily presence at a domicile (2) with the intention of remaining in
that place more or less indefinitely. Moving into a district temporarily for the purpose of establishing residency
for a player to play football does not satisfy those elements. Subject to the foregoing, unless the contrary is
shown by competent evidence, the residence or domicile of a player will be determined in accordance with the
following standards: (a) the residence of a player is normally that of the player’s father, or if the father is dead,
that of the player’s mother; (b) if both parents are dead, then the player’s residence is that of the duly appointed
guardian; (c) if the parents are separated or divorced, except as provided herein, a player’s district of residence is
the district of residence of the parent to whom custody is awarded and with whom the player lives; (d) a player
whose parents or guardian move into a district to establish a permanent residence is eligible to register in that
district; (3) a player properly listed on an official roster will not become ineligible to play the remainder of the
current football season merely because the parents or guardian subsequently remove their legal residence from
the district unless the parents or guardian originally moved into the district as a pretext to gain residence for the
player to play football for the district; and (f) if the custody of a player has been granted to any person by court
order or by foster placement made by a licensed child placement agency with a resident family in a district, the
residency of the person to whom custody was awarded constitutes the residency of the player. Any dispute
regarding the residency of a player will be resolved by the Executive Committee.
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12.10.2 A player whose residence has changed from one district to another since an approved early registration shall be
permitted to withdraw such early registration. A player may complete the year in the district in which the player
was eligible to register as of the date the player is weighed-in and placed on an official roster in the event the
player’s residence changes to a different district during the season. As provided herein, Juan Diego, District 31,
encompasses all Catholic parishes within the State of Utah. All other district boundaries coincide with local
high school boundaries. Consequently, each player resides in three districts, namely the district that coincides
with the local high school boundaries and the Juan Diego District, and a new player may register in one of the
three districts. However, once a player has properly registered, the district of registration is that player’s district.
Unless the player subsequently moves in satisfaction of the requirements herein to a different local high school
district, the player will not be allowed to register and play in a different district, except that a Juan Diego player
may transfer to the district that coincides with the local high school boundaries where the player resides after
having “red shirted” one full football season by not playing Conference football. Similarly a player may transfer
from the district which is defined by the local high school boundaries where the player resides to the Juan Diego
District after “red shirting” and not playing Conference football for at least one full season. Any player, other
than a player properly registered in the Juan Diego District, who moves to a new residence which is not within
the same district as the district in which the player previously registered and played will, except as otherwise
provided in the second sentence of this subsection, be required thereafter to register in the new district of
residence. A player whose parents are divorced or legally separated at the time of registration, and whose
parents live in separate local high school districts, may play in either district, provided the parents furnish the
Conference with a copy of the legal document which establishes joint legal custody. Revised (2011)
12.10.3 District boundaries shall coincide with the formal high school boundaries as established by the various school
districts as of May 1st of each year. The only exceptions are as follows: District 31 shall include the area within
all Catholic Parishes within the State of Utah. Except as otherwise specified in these Bylaws, there shall be no
waivers of the district residency requirement. In the event of a change of high school boundaries from those
existing as of May 1 of each year, the Ute Conference district boundaries shall not be changed except by action
by the Board of Directors in accordance with these Bylaws, recognizing the newly established boundaries and
making provision for each player’s eligibility and redistricting as necessary. It shall be the responsibility of each
player and each Ute Conference district to ensure that players registered in a Ute Conference district actually
reside in that district and players and/or districts violating this Bylaw shall be subject to disciplinary action as
provided in these Bylaws. Revised (2011)
12.10.4 A coach may be recruited from anywhere, but his or her son(s)/daughter(s) must play for the district within
which the son(s)/daughter(s) resides.
12.10.5 In the event a district does not field a team in any classification as defined in herein, the player may, at his/her
option, (1) play in the next higher classification in his/her “home district”, or (2) compete for any adjacent
district of his/her choosing in his/her designated age-weight classification. The player must be registered with
his/her home district prior to any decision of the team not being fielded, and only those players who are
registered are permitted to move. All players must return to their district the following year. A player is also
eligible to “Z” down if the “Z” down criteria is met.
12.10.6 In the event a district is dissolved, a player may, at his/her option; play in any adjacent district of his/her
choosing in his/her designated age-weight classification. Once a player chooses a district, he/she may not
change districts unless he/she red-shirts (sits out) one complete football season or has physically moved from
that district. If the district boundaries are changed or that district is revived, he/she must abide by the boundary
change and return to that district.
12.10.7 Should a player inadvertently, but innocently register in a district other than the district of residence, that player
will be given the option of transferring to the district of residence and playing the remainder of the season on
either an “A” or “B” team as determined by the district of residence or of receiving a proportionate refund of the
paid registration fee determined by the district president and approved by the Ute Conference Commissioner. In
the event that a player knowingly registers in a district other than the player’s district of residency without
complying with the requirements provided herein, upon discovery, that player shall receive a proportionate
refund of the player’s registration fee (again determined by the district president and approved by the
Commissioner) and shall be banned from participating on any team in the Ute Conference for the remainder of
the season. If a player, regardless of whether the original registration in the wrong district was inadvertent or
intentional, attempts to cover up that player’s true residency by falsifying the player’s home address or by
providing other false or misleading information to either the Ute Conference or any district, in addition to being
ineligible to play for any Ute Conference team that year, the player shall also be banned from participation the
year following. For purposes of the penalty set forth in this subsection, the conduct of a player’s parents or legal
guardian shall be attributed and chargeable to the player. Any coach who knowingly recruits players who do not
satisfy the residency requirement for that coach’s team, or who knowingly allows a player who does not meet
the residency requirement to play or continue to play on the team will, upon detection, be ineligible to coach the
remainder of that season in any capacity, either as head coach or as an assistant. If the coach has attempted to
cover up the residency deception by providing false or misleading information to any district or Ute Conference
official, the ban from coaching shall be extended, at the Commissioner’s discretion, by at least one additional
year. In an extreme case, the ban maybe a “lifetime” ban from coaching. If district officials knowingly
participate in concealing a residency violation, the district may be subject to sanctions as determined by the
Executive Committee including, but not limited to suspension or probation and the ineligibility of some or all of
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the district’s teams from participating in post season tournament play, at the discretion of the Commissioner. In
addition, Ute Conference sanctions against any player who does not live in the district and has not satisfied the
requirements herein to play for the district may include forfeiture of any games in which such ineligible player
participated.
12.10.8 Any district(s) that submits a claim or allegation to the Ute Conference alleging that another district(s) is
violating a Ute Conference Bylaw will be required to submit the allegation in writing and/or email and must pay
a $250 submission fee to the Ute Conference. This amount will automatically be deducted from the balance
sheet of the district(s) who is submitting the claim. Proof of the accusation, along with any necessary
documentation supporting the accusation must be submitted to Ute Conference at the time of the complaint. The
district(s) who is being accused to violate the Ute Conference Bylaw will be required to respond to the
allegation of being either guilty or not-guilty of the accusation of violating the Ute Conference Bylaw. If the
accused district(s) pleads not guilty, the district(s) will have 72 hours to demonstrate to the Ute Conference Ex
Board of their innocence of the claim against them. Once all the evidence is presented, the Ute Conference Ex
Board will review the provided information from all district(s) involved in the accusation, and will have 72
hours from receiving all documentation to come to a resolution. If the defending district(s) is found guilty of the
claim, the defending district(s) will them be subject to the Ute Conference Bylaws and penalties. Along with the
Ute Conference penalties, the defending district(s) will be required to pay the $250 submission fee the Ute
Conference. This amount will be automatically deducted from the balance sheet of the defending district(s).
Also this amount will be automatically replaced to the balance sheet of the district(s) who originally submitted
the claim. If the defending district(s) is found not guilty of the claim, the $250 submission fee will be used by
the Ute Conference and placed in the general Scholarship fund. Reporting after the October 1st deadline will not
be reviewed until the January Ex Board meeting. (2011)
12.11 RECRUITING
12.11.1 Coaches and other district officials are encouraged to recruit boys and girls residing within their district
boundaries. However, a player who has participated in the Conference for the player’s district of residence
within the past 12 months and has not changed his or her residence to a new local high school district may not
be recruited by or on behalf of a district other than the district where the player most recently registered. All
such players are considered to be “returning players”. Attempting to recruit returning players “out of district” is
forbidden and may result in discipline for the recruiting coach or official, the improperly recruited returning
player and the district.
13.0 TEAM AGES, WEIGHTS AND DESIGNATIONS
Except as otherwise authorized by these bylaws for Z down and Y up players, all players must participate in their age
classification (See Bylaw 13.2.1 for age classificationsJuly 1) at the time of registration. To participate in a lower
classification as a Z down player, the player must be weighed in by a district officer at the time of registration or equipment
pick up and make weight as provided herein, and the player also must be less than 15 years old as of September 1. A
player who fails to make the Z down weight at registration or equipment pick up who nevertheless desires to be designated
as a Z player by the official weigh in must present to the district a release from their family physician stating that losing the
weight will do no harm to the player. In the meantime, however, the player will participate with a team in the player’s own
age group. A player may only Z down to the next lower classification (e.g., from the Pee Wee division to the Gremlin
division). There shall be no Z downs from the Gremlin to Scout division and a 15 year old player in the Junior division
may not Z down to the Bantam division.
13.1 At the player’s option, a player will also be allowed to Y up to the next higher division (e.g., from the Gremlin
to the Pee Wee division). A player must be X weight at their age group in order to be eligible to Y up. If the Y up players
is under the X weight for that next higher division at the official weigh in, then the Y up player shall be allowed to
participate in that higher division without being designated an X player. If they Y up player is not under the X weight of
the higher division at that official weigh-in then the player shall be designated an X and all corresponding X rules shall
apply. A seven year old Scout shall not be allowed to Y up to the Gremlin division. (2017)
The following chart establishes the age and weight classifications for all Ute Conference divisions (if a player is over the maximum
weight for the division, the player shall be considered an X player and all X rules shall apply):
13.1 Chart of Weights and Designations.
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The age of a player for the playing season shall be his/her attained age as of July1, of that year. 7 year old scouts playing age for the
season shall be his/her attained age as of September 1, of that year. A player turning 9 after July 1 and before September 1 of current
year will have the option to play in the Scout division. This will require parental consent of the player.
EXCEPTIONS – (2018) Players who played in an age group for 2017 season will be able to remain in that age group for the
remainder of their Ute Conference Eligibility.
Scout 7 – 8 X Weight
85 lbs
No Z Downs “Y”UP ONLY
(for 8-year-olds only)
Gremlin 9 X Weight
95 lbs
Z Weight
75 lbs
86-94 lbs to remove X
Pee Wee 10 X Weight
105 lbs
Z Weight
85 lbs
96-104 lbs to remove X
Mity Mite 11 X Weight
125 lbs
Z Weight
105 lbs
106-124 lbs to remove X
Gridiron 12 X Weight
135 lbs
Z Weight
115 lbs
125-134 lbs to remove X
Bantam 13, (14) must be in 8th grade or Z down rules
apply
X Weight
165 lbs
Z Weight
155 lbs
135-164 lbs to remove X
Junior 14 – 15 No X Weight –
Unlimited
No Y up
15-year olds cannot “Z” down
Any 14 year old eighth grader who desires to play in the Bantam division without complying with the “Z” down rules must provide
proof of grade at the official weigh-in and a copy of the documentation provided shall be retained by the district. A 14 year old ninth
grade also may play in the Bantam division if the player complies with the “Z” down rules established by these bylaws.
13.1.1 The “X” player must be an Interior lineman on offense, playing one of the four line positions, from Tackle to Tackle, the “X”
player must be set, but not necessarily down in a 3 or 4 point stance at the snap of the ball. On defense the “X” player must be an
interior lineman. They can line up anywhere along the line of scrimmage. However, they must be on the line of scrimmage at the
snap of the ball. The “X” player on defense must be down in a 3 or 4 point stance at the snap of the ball. (2017)
The age of a player for the playing season shall be his/her attained age as July, of that year. 7 year old scouts playing age for the
season shall be his/her attained age as of September 1, of that year. A player turning 9 after July 1 and before September 1 of current
year will have the option to play in the Scout division. This will require parental consent of the player.
EXCEPTIONS – (2018) Players who played in an age group for 2017 season will be able to remain in that age group for the
remainder of their Ute Conference Eligibility.
13.1 A player must not be participating in any other football program, or on any other football teams during the season, in order
to remain eligible for the Ute Conference Incorporated play.
13.2 After the official weigh-in, any player who exceeds the official weight limit for each team classification will be required to
play as described below for all “X”-Players, Offense, Defense and Special Teams “X” players.
13.2.1 A player may, at the player’s option, move down one (1) classification as long as the player’s weight is at least
fifteen (15) pounds below the designated “X” weight of the lower classification to which the player is moving,
with the exception of moving down from the Junior level. A 14 year old Junior may move down if their weight
is at least (10) pounds below the designated maximum “X” weight of the lower classification, and a 15 year old
Junior may not move down at all. This player will be designated on the official roster with the letter “Z”. This
move will be done on a year to-year basis and once a player fails to satisfy the weight qualification, the player
must return to the correct age classification. A “B” team player may move down in classification to another “B”
team, at the discretion of the Commissioner, based upon competent medical and other evidence demonstrating
that other players will not be placed at risk because of the move, the move is in the best medical or other interest
of the player being moved, and the player and the team to which the player is to be moved will not enjoy an
unfair competitive advantage as a consequence of the move.
13.2.2 All players must participate at their age/weight classification at the time of registration, to participate in a lower
classification as a “Z” player, the player must be weighed in by a District Officer at the time of registration or
equipment pick-up and make weight as provided herein, the player must be less than 15 years old . A player
who fails to make the “Z” down weight at registration or equipment pick-up who nevertheless wishes to make
weight to “Z” down by the official weigh-in, must present to the district a release from the family physician that
states that losing the weight will do no harm to the player. In the meantime, however, the player will participate
with a team in the player’s age group.
13.2.3 All “X”-players must comply with the following:
13.2.3.1 All “X” players will be designated with an “X” on the player roster.
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13.2.3.2 All “X”-players will be required at all times to wear a 4-inch black or white “X”, whichever is a
contrasting color to the helmet, on both front and back of his/her helmet. Skull bones, decorations,
colorings, numbers, names, writings, etc. are prohibited on the “X” and the “X” cannot be made of
Athletic tape, black electrical tape or anything other than the Conference-provided “X”.
13.2.3.3 NO more than five (5) offensive linemen and four (4) defensive linemen are allowed on the field at a
time per team.
13.2.4 On Offense, the “X”-player must comply with the following:
13.2.4.1 No more than five (5) offensive “X”-players are allowed on the field at a time. They must be on the
line of scrimmage. The line of scrimmage is defined as the vertical plane through the point of the
ball nearest the team’s goal line. An offensive lineman is on his line of scrimmage when he is facing
his goal line with his shoulders approximately parallel thereto and with his head or foot breaking the
imaginary plane drawn parallel to the line of scrimmage through the waist of the snapper when the
ball is snapped.
13.2.4.2 The “X”-player must be an Interior Lineman, playing one of the front five line positions, from
Tackle to Tackle; for example, Left Tackle – Left Guard – Center- Right Guard -Right Tackle, in a
“balanced” formation.
13.2.4.3 The “X”-player must be set, but not necessarily down in a 3-or 4-point stance at the snap of the ball.
13.2.4.4 The furthest outside “X” player must be “covered” by a Non-“X” player; in other words, if the
formation is such that the furthest outside Offensive linemen are “X”-players, then at least one Non-
“X”-player must line up on the Line of Scrimmage outside of each of the furthest “X”-player(s).
13.2.4.5 The Offense may line up in an “unbalanced formation”, such a “Double- or Triple-Tackle Stack” on
one side of the ball, as long as the furthest outside “X”-player is “covered” per this section.
13.2.4.6 No Offensive play can be designed for an “X”-player to carry the ball; i.e., “X”-players can not be
the targeted recipient of a pass or run from scrimmage, including “Tackle-eligible”, “Fake Fumble”,
“Statue of Liberty”, “Double Pass”, “Tipped Pass” or similar types of play.
13.2.4.7 Offensive “X”-players may recover and advance a “true” fumble or defensive tipped/batted pass.
13.2.5 On Defense, the “X”-player must comply with the following:
13.2.5.1 No more than four (4) “X”-players are allowed on the field at a time. A defensive player is on his
line of scrimmage when he is within 1 yard of his scrimmage line at the snap and facing his goal
line. They do not need to be covered.
13.2.5.2 Defensive “X” players do not have to cover, shade of line up outside the offensive X players
shoulder. They can line up anywhere along the line of scrimmage. However, they must be on the
line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball. (2017)
13.2.5.3 The “X”-player must be down in a 3- or 4-point stance anywhere on the line of scrimmage at the
snap of the ball.
13.2.5.4 The “X”-player must be on his/her line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball.
13.2.5.5 If the Offense lines up in an “unbalanced formation”, such a “Double- or Triple-Tackle Stack” on
one side of the ball, then the Defense doesn’t have to line up accordingly and can be anywhere along
the line of scrimmage.
13.2.5.6 Defensive “X”-player’s may recover and advance a fumble or interception.
13.2.6 On Special Teams, the “X”-player must comply with the following:
13.2.6.1 No more than five (5) “X”-players are allowed on the field at a time, per team.
13.2.6.2 A Scrimmage Kick (Punt) is governed by the Offensive & Defensive “X”-player rules (see 13.1.4.2
& 13.1.4.3). An “X”-player cannot be a Punter. (Note: Special rule application for Gremlin’s only.
13.2.6.3 On Free Kicks (Kick-off and Kick-off Return teams), “X”-players are restricted to the front lines
only, with the exception that an “X”-player may also be a Kicker.
13.2.6.4 An “X”-player may gain possession of and advance a Kick-off or Punt, but only if they do this
starting from the front line position.
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13.2.6.5 On all PAT attempts, the “X”-player is governed by the Offensive & Defensive “X”-player rules.
13.2.6.6 No Special Team play can be designed for an “X”-player to carry the ball; i.e., hand-offs, passes,
fake fumbles, etc.
13.2.7 The penalty for misuse of the “X” player shall be five (5) yards if the offense commits foul, and five (5) yards if
defense commits the foul. For purposes of penalty applications, “X” player violations can be both Dead-ball or
Live-ball fouls, depending on the violation.
13.3 There will be one (1) official weigh-in held just prior to the start of league play; this weigh-in will be conducted according
to procedures set up by the Executive Committee. Additionally, there may be (1) late weigh-in for players in both divisions
which registered late or missed the official weigh-in. This would be held during the week between the first and second
game. The purpose of this late weigh-in is to give those players who registered after the official weigh-in or missed the
official weigh-in the opportunity to be added to the certified roster, thus allowing them to play as an eligible player. There
would be no “X” removal, “Y” up or “Z” down player weigh –ins at this late weigh-in.
13.4 The Board empowers the Commissioner to make decisions on classifications of players in special hardship cases when
petitioned by the district president. Such petitions must be in writing, and the Commissioner must have his decision
reported to all district presidents in writing prior to the next scheduled Conference game.
13.5 The certified roster for each team must be submitted to the Executive Committee prior to the first league game, or on or
before a deadline date that shall be announced. Conference roster forms must be used.
13.6 A coach or district representative must have a certified roster at every league game to be available upon request by the
opposing coach or a district representative. If the requested team fails to furnish an official certified roster before the end of
the game, this game will be considered a forfeit. A certified roster must have a red stamp and must be signed by the
district’s assigned Executive Committee member or Executive Director. A photocopied roster is not an official certified
roster. (2018)
13.7 Scout and Gremlin teams may have one (1) coach on the playing field when on offense and one (1) coach on the playing
field when on defense. The coach may assist in positioning and instructing the ball players but cannot interfere with the
play. The offensive and defensive coaches must be positioned 10 yards behind the official at the snap of the ball and cannot
participate in the play, including calling audible and plays once the players are at the line of scrimmage. Violation of these
rules will result in the following: 1st warning counts as a sideline warning 2nd warning results in a 5 yard penalty 3rd
warning results in a 15 yard penalty and ejection of the offending coach. (2017)
13.8 Gremlin teams will have the option on 4th down, to declare to the officials that they “are punting”. The officials will then
notify the defensive team of this choice. If this declaration is made by the offensive team then the offensive team must line
up in a normal punting formation – with the furthest offensive player no wider than 15 yards from the ball -and will get a
‘free” snap to the punter. The “free” snap must be legal – going between the legs of the offensive center – and the ball must
take a direct course of flight toward the punter who is standing directly behind the center. The Punter must immediately
make an effort to gain possession of the ball, and once possession is obtained, he/she can take up to three (3) steps to punt
the ball. There can be no rushing by the defensive players and no down field advance by the offensive players. All players
are frozen until the ball is kicked. Then it becomes a “live ball” and full play is resumed. NOTE: The penalty for offensive
or defensive violation of the “Freeze Punt” rule shall be ten (10) yards. (2014)
13.9 Scout Division ONLY; All kick offs, scrimmage kicks and free kicks will be removed from the game. Scouts will
start possession of the ball at the 40-yard line. Each team is given four (4) downs to reach the line to gain or score. On all
4th down plays, the offense must attempt to go for line to gain. Teams achieving a line to gain will be granted new 1st down
and given another four (4) downs. If the team does not reach the line to gain, the ball will go over to the other team and
play will begin at the 40-yard line. (2017)
14.0 STANDARDS OF THE GAME
14.1 All teams will have their players in full uniform when on the field of play. No two jerseys having the same numeral from
the same team will be allowed to participate on the field at the same time. Should it become necessary for jerseys to be
changed during the game for any reason, the head official will have sole authority to approve or disapprove the changing of
the jerseys, and if approved, will notify the opposing manager or head coach of that change.
14.2 Playing Field. The setting up and condition of the playing field(s) will be the responsibility of the host district and will be
roped off from spectators at least ten (10) feet from the out-of-bounds lines from end zone to end zone. If this requirement
cannot be met, spectators are to be kept out of this area completely. An eighty (80) yard length by fifty-three (53) yard
width field will be used in all classifications, except the junior classification, which may have the options, by mutual
agreement of the two district presidents, to either use an eighty (80) or one hundred (100) yard field length, if available, as
well as the option to use goal posts on the one hundred (100) yard field length, for conversions of points. If a one-hundred
yard field is used, all National Federation of State High School Associations rules pertaining to penalties, ball placement,
team box, etc. will be observed. All fields will be properly marked as follows:
14.2.1 The out-of-bounds limits, end zones, and ten (10) yard distances will be plainly marked.
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14.2.2 Safety cones or other visible devices with six (6) inch or larger numbers will be placed at then (10) yard
intervals on both sides of the fields.
14.2.3 Goal lines and end zones will be plainly marked with pylons or flags.
14.2.4 To avoid injury to the players, all flag uprights will be of the types that freely bend from the vertical to the
horizontal.
14.2.5 If goal posts are used, they should be ten (10) yards behind each goal line, regulation 18 feet 6 inches wide, ten
(10) foot high crossbar.
14.3 Any host district not complying with the above playing field standards will be subject to a $50 per game day fine. Should a
situation exist in any district wherein field standards cannot absolutely be met, such district shall receive a written waiver
from the Commissioner prior to the beginning of league play so that said district(s) will not be imposed the above penalty.
14.4 Coaches and players are limited to the 20 yard lines, no other persons, with the exception of officials, game doctors and
law enforcement officers should be allowed inside the ropes near the playing field.
14.5 First Down, Ball Markers, and Yard Markers. The home team district is responsible for providing and operating the first
down chain and ball markers. Yard markers shall also be provided by the home team.
14.6 Each district shall be responsible for having a physician or other person trained in emergency first aid present at every
home game.
15.0 GAME RULES
15.1 All games are played under the rules and regulations of the National Federation of State High School Associations and all
of its affiliated state and scholastic organizations, in addition to all specific Conference rules.
16.0 SPECIFIC CONFERENCE RULES
16.1 Each player will participate in all league games. All players will participate in a minimum of ten (10) plays per game. If,
however, a coach prevents a player from playing for disciplinary or health reasons, any such reason must be presented to
the district president in writing prior to any league game where the player does not participate. NOTE: Enforcement will
be self regulated by each district and all parents will receive written notification of this bylaw. Violation of this bylaw will
not result in forfeiture of games. Disciplinary action by the Executive Board will be based on each individual violation if
the district fails to resolve the problem.
16.2 Ball Placement. On an eighty (80) yard playing field, kickoff shall be from the thirty (30) yard line of the kicking team.
16.2.1 On an eighty (80) yard playing field, after a safety or a touchback, the ball shall be placed on the twenty (20)
yard line in all divisions.
16.2.2 After all touchdowns the offensive team will be given the choice of a 1 point or a 2 point extra point conversion.
If the team selects a 2 point conversion the ball will be placed on the 5 yard line, and if they select a 1 point
conversion the ball will be placed on the 1 1/2 yard line. Once the selection has been made the team cannot
reverse its decision.
16.3 Length of Game. The game shall consist of four (4) 15-minute, running-clock quarters, for all divisions and age
classifications. The “Running-clock” format is defined as a continuously running field clock, which begins on the opening
kick-off, until the last two (2) minutes of the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) quarter, with the exception of team or official
time-outs, or the “Margin of Victory Rule.” In the final two (2) minutes of the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) quarters, the
official keeping time will announce a time warning to both teams, and all High School rules and regulations pertaining to
clock stoppage will apply. Halftime will be ten (10) minutes long. Eight (8) minutes after the start of halftime the captains
will meet with the Officials on the field.
16.4 Margin of Victory Rule. As soon as the margin of victory for all divisions of thirty (30) points ahead of their opponents,
the clock will automatically run in the 2nd half except during timeouts. The officials may stop the game with the consent of
the coach with the fewest points, during the fourth quarter, and declare the score as final. This shall have no affect on Post-
Season play since scores are not used as a tiebreaker. If the decision is to continue to play, the clock will continue to run
unless the opposing team comes within 15 points at which time it resorts back to regular clock rules. (2017)
16.5 Team Colors. Team colors are to be the colors of the high school of that district. Any changes in established colors must
be approved in advance by the Commissioner. The district playing away from home must provide jerseys of contrasting
color for their own use in any game on the road.
16.6 Any injured player for whom the clock is stopped, or for whom the ready-for-play signal is delayed, shall be replaced for at
least one (1) play. His team shall not be charged with a time out.
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16.7 Maximum Penalty. The maximum penalty for the teams of all classifications in the Conference which play on an (80) yard
field shall be ten (10) yards per infraction with the exception that a 15 yard penalty can now be accessed for fouls that are
deemed unnecessary or excessive. If a team, coach or non-player receives multiple dead ball penalties (e.g. Personal fouls)
they can be marked off as multiples of fifteen (15) yard infractions. (2017)
16.8 Protests. There shall be no protests made of games played under the Ute Conference. All decisions regarding rules and
situations shall be made by the referee at such games and shall be final.
17.0 GAME AND PRACTICE SCHEDULES
17.1 Practice. Practice may begin on, but not before, the last Saturday of July of each year, not to exceed 5 weeks of practice.
Revised (2011)
17.1.1 Pad or contact practice may begin on, but not before, the first Wednesday following the beginning of practice
each year.
17.1.2 Any district beginning practice before the above dates will be subject to discipline by the conference. Practice
shall be defined as any rostered coach gathering a group of players together for “conditioning”, “clinics”,
“drills”, “film sessions”, or any type of organized event meant to prepare players for game situations. Revised
(2011)
17.1.2. Each district is allowed to have camps or clinics provided that they are
open and advertised to all players in the Ute Conference. A camp or
clinic must be approved by the conference Commissioner.(2011)
17.1.3 Practice sessions for division one (1) are to be limited to not more than two (2) hours per session Monday thru
Friday and three (3) hours per session on Saturday and only one (1) session per day. Practice sessions for
division two (2) are to be limited to not more than three (3) hours per session and only one (1) session per day.
After the first Monday in September, practice sessions shall be limited to no more than 3-two (2) hour sessions
per week. At all contact practice sessions, all players must wear full safety first equipment as required by the
Bylaws.
17.1.4 Under no circumstances may a team play or scrimmage a team which is not in the same age and weight
classification, including teams in the same district.
17.2 All teams in each district will have a Minimum of 8 regular season games, there may be times when more than 8 games
will be played but the minimum required amount will be 8 regular season games per team per district.
17.2.1 All teams in each classification are permitted to play one (1) preseason exhibition game and one (1) exhibition
game during the season. In addition, all teams may have one (1) controlled scrimmage per week with another
district’s team of the same classification during the regular season in lieu of, not in addition to, regular practice
time.
17.2.2 All teams in each classification may request approval to participate in post season games as may be arranged
from time to time. Such approval is at the discretion of the Conference Board and the local district.
17.2.3 To set up scheduling for the season the following formula shall be used: total enrollment of each district
enrollment in each classification determined on a yearly basis as of team count date, ordered from largest to
smallest and placed into leagues/ or regions. The Jr. League schedules will be based upon the total number of
Junior aged players in each district determined on a yearly basis as of the team count date of the current season,
regardless of the league configurations. The continental league schedules will be based upon district enrollment
in each classification determined on a yearly basis as of team count date. In order to facilitate scheduling an
exception to league and or region format may be made for districts not fielding a team or teams within all age
classifications. The executive board will decide the placement of these districts, in league and /or region
format, on a yearly basis.
17.2.4 The Continental league shall be referred to in all scheduling and other references as the Continental League.
17.3 Unscheduled Games. All games to be played out of the state by a district’s team(s) or by all teams collectively before or
after the season, or any games other than regularly scheduled Conference games (excluding practice games played within
the state), must have the sanction of the Commissioner. Application for such sanctions must be presented by the district
president in writing three (3) weeks prior to the game starting date, location, and opponent.
17.3.1 Post season play within Ute Conference districts may be approved if a worthwhile need is established and
request is made to the Conference Commissioner three (3) weeks prior to the proposed scheduled game(s). First
place teams from different leagues in any classification shall not be scheduled to play each other, unless
scheduled three (3) weeks prior to the last regular season game.
17.4 No Travel When in Debt. No district may apply to host out-of-state or in-state post season play, nor may any district
engage in hosted out-of-state or in-state post season play while the district has any outstanding debt or is on sanctions.
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Each district must deal with the Conference Accounting office prior to the travel deadline to be sure this requirement has
been met.
17.5 In addition to the above, all districts traveling or hosting, prior to receiving approval from the Conference to do so, will
provide evidence of the following by October 1st of each playing season:
17.5.1 A copy of the disclosure letter that was provided to all parents of those participating (both Ute Conference and
opponents) stating that the Ute Conference, Inc. is not responsible for any liability developing from the
proposed traveling or hosting activities. The district shall present a signed statement along with the copy of the
disclosure letter certifying that the letter has been properly distributed.
17.5.2 The hosting or traveling Ute Conference District shall, at the same time, present to the Ute Conference Board of
Directors evidence of a paid up bond or liability insurance policy to cover the activity in an amount previously
indicated as satisfactory by the Commissioner or the Ute Conference legal counsel.
17.5.3 A copy of Bylaws or team criteria, utilized by hosting tournament, to establish team pairings.
18.0 CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS
18.1 Teams compiling the best win/loss percentage record for each league within the league within the Ute Conference shall be
able to advance to the play-offs for the league. The specific number of teams will be determined annually.
18.2 The League championship in each classification will be determined through a series of play-offs set up by the Board of
Directors prior to the beginning of each football season.
18.3 Conference playoffs and Championships shall be hosted at separate district locations if a sufficient number of eligible
districts apply to host.
19.0 AWARDS
19.1 The following listed trophies and certificates will be awarded by the Conference:
19.1.1 Individual trophies will be presented to each member of Ute Conference championship teams.
19.1.2 A League Champion Certificate will be presented to all members of league championship teams.
19.2 Other awards may be selected and made at the discretion of each individual district.
20.0 SOCIAL FUNCTIONS
20.1 The Conference approves district sponsorship of award banquets, parent participation, game concessions, or other activities
which build and aid the Conference, teams, or districts in a constructive way.
20.2 At the close of the season all teams, either individually or in conjunction with other teams of a district, are encouraged to
have a suitable awards program. This program is for many players, the climax of the season.
20.3 In January of each year, the Ute Conference may host an annual dinner. This dinner will be to honor the outgoing
presidents of any district, and to welcome the new president of any district. The Conference will absorb the cost of eight
(8) members from any one district. The district presidents will have the option to invite their board members with the
understanding that their respective districts will be charged the cost of the extra dinners exceeding eight (8). This amount
will automatically be deducted from the districts’ balance sheet. Those districts that make reservations and do not appear
at the dinner will be charged.