1. Wilson Leather footballs are the only authorized footballs for official TYFA games.

2. The K2 is the only authorized size for Tykes 7u and Rookies 9u football. 

3. The TDJ is the only authorized size for Juniors 11u football.

4. The TDY is the only authorized size for Seniors 13u football.

5. The TYFA logo is required to be on the football if it is to be used in official TYFA games in the Fall. It is not required in the Spring.

6. Organization Boards can order these through TYFA twice a year (March and June).

1. Helmet Compatibility and Appearance

• Guardian Caps must be worn over helmets that meet all critical specifications outlined below.

• All Guardian Caps MUST match the primary shell color of the helmet worn by the team to ensure uniformity in appearance.

• For example, if a team’s helmets are primarily red, the Guardian Caps worn must also be red.

• If Guardian Cap does not match the primary color worn by the team, it cannot be worn

2. Compliance with NCAA Rule 1-4-4-a

• All helmets (with or without Guardian Caps) must comply with the following NCAA equipment standards:

• Helmet Specifications:

  • Must include a facemask and a secured four- or six-point chin strap. All straps must be fastened while the ball is in play.

  • All team helmets must be of the same color and design.

  • Helmets must include a warning label regarding injury risk and display certification from the manufacturer or reconditioner confirming compliance with NOCSAE safety standards.

3. Manufacturer Responsibility

• Organizations are strongly encouraged to consult with their helmet manufacturer to understand any implications regarding warranty and liability when using Guardian Caps or similar aftermarket products.

TYFA’s decision to adopt this policy is in alignment with UIL and NCAA guidelines and reflects our continued efforts to support innovation in player safety while preserving competitive integrity.

1. Mouth Pieces are required while the play is going and could cost you timeouts or penalty yards if the players do not have them in their mouths.

   • Double Mouth Pieces are prohibited.

2. Towels can be no larger than 6 ½” and must be a neutral color (blacks, browns, white or grays) or team colors. 

3. Jewelry – Chains and necklaces around a player’s neck or attached by piercing is prohibited. Earrings are fine because players wear helmets.

4. Handwarmers must be a neutral color (black, browns, white or grays) or team colors. 

5. Gloves: An approved glove is a fitted covering for a hand having separate sections for each finger and thumb, without any additional material that connects any of the fingers and/or thumb, and that completely covers each finger and thumb. A player will not be allowed to play with unauthorized gloves. There are no restrictions on color or brand.

6. Cleats: An approved cleat is a rubber-soled cleat or replaceable (detachable) cleat with hard plastic soles - the replaceable cleat stud being no longer than 1/2" and may not be metal tipped. There are no restrictions on color or brand. If the cleats are spiked, the head coach will be penalized with an Unsportsmanlike Conduct.

7. Helmet stickers are allowed as long as they are youth appropriate.

8. Casts are allowed as long as they are covered with foam and wrapped. If a player uses their cast as a weapon, they will be ejected.

9. Proper Tackle Equipment (Helmet, Shoulder Pads, and 7-Piece Pads)

10. Eyewear: VISORS MUST BE CLEAR. CLEAR MEANS CLEAR. There are no exceptions for Doctor’s excuses. Sports Goggles and Glasses may be dark as they can be removed without moving a player’s head during an injury.

11. Overbuilt Facemasks are prohibited.