SUFFOLK COUNTY P.A.L.
LACROSSE LEAGUE
2014 BOYS OPERATION RULES
MANUAL
WEB SITE: SCPALLAX.COM
SUFFOLK COUNTY P.A.L. LACROSSE LEAGUE
P.A.L. BOARD OF DIRECTORS
COORDINATOR P.A.L.
P.O. MICHAEL HARVEY
CHAIRMAN / P.A.L.
MICHAEL GONGAS
COMMISSIONER SOUTH / P.A.L.
RONALD CHAMBERLAIN
COMMISSIONER NORTH / P.A.L.
BILL MARTOCCI
DIRECTOR OF SCHEDULING / P.A.L.
RICK SURIS
DIRECTOR OF OFFICIALS / P.A.L.
JAMES OLIVERI
DIRECTOR OF REPRESENTATIVES NORTH / P.A.L.
LYNN SCHNELLENBACH
DIRECTOR OF REPRESENTATIVES SOUTH / P.A.L.
TONY PAGNOTTA
DIRECTOR OF REGISTRATION / P.A.L.
RICH YANNUCCI
TOURNAMENT / CAMP DIRECTOR / P.A.L.
TOM ZUMMO
TRUSTEE – WEB DIRECTOR / P.A.L.
SEAN BERAN
TRUSTEE – SAFETY COMMITTEE / P.A.L.
WAYNE OETTINGER
TRUSTEE – BONDS & COMPLEX DIRECTOR / P.A.L.
JOHN LANG
TRUSTEE – COUNCIL & RULES COMMITTEE
EVERETT DEWITT
TRUSTEE / SECRETARY
RAY CARERE
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INDEX
PAGE 2 – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PAGE 3 - INDEX
PAGE 4 – OBJECTIVE AND COMMUNITY PHILOSOPHY
PAGE 5 – ARTICLE I / REGISTRATION
PAGES 6 & 7 - ARTICLE II / THE GAME / FIELD / TIME / EQUIPMENT
PAGES 8 & 9 – ARTICLE III / CODE OF CONDUCT / COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
RULES VIOLATIONS / TOURNAMENT PLAY & NON-SANCTIONED GAMES
PAGES 10 & 11 – ARTICLE IV / DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF COACHES AND
GAME OFFICIAL FEES
PAGES 12 & 13 – ARTICLE V / NEW YORK STATE MODIFIED RULES & BOYS PLAYING
RULES
PAGES 14, 15, 16,17 & 18 - ARTICLE VI / DIRECTORS–COMMUNITIES / LEAGUE
BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES / INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURE / POSTPONED
GAMES & THE LEAGUE’S INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
PAGES 19 – ARTICLE VII / COMMUNITY REGISTRATION FEES & OFFICIALS FEES
PAGES 20, 21 & 22 – ARTICLE VIII / SPORTSMANSHIP PHYLOSOPHY / SPECTATOR
CODES / STUDENT ATHLETE CODES & COACHING STAFF
PAGES 23 & 24 – P.A.L. MISSION STATEMENT
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SUFFOLK COUNTY P.A.L.
LACROSSE LEAGUE
LEAGUE RULES AND REGULATIONS
OBJECTIVE:
It is the objective of the Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse League to provide an
opportunity for youngsters of approximately equal age and ability to compete in Lacrosse,
under adult supervision, with equipment and optimum conditions of health and safety. The high
standards of sportsmanship and fair play shall be the first requisite of League competition. To
this end the following rules and regulations are set down for communities participating in the
League.
COMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY:
Each community participating in The League shall be responsible for the conduct of its
players, directors, coaches, spectators and others for the preservation of order in the stands
and on the field during any League activity. Each community shall appoint a director, and an
alternate, to oversee their program, one of which who will attend all League meetings and
make the community aware of all League rules and regulations, subject to the approval by the
P.A.L. Executive Board. Any and all league rule changes would require a majority vote of the
individual program directors or their designated alternate. In all League matters determined by
a membership ballot, each community is entitled to one vote to be cast by the director or
alternate of each community. There will be no proxy votes. A community must be present at
a League meeting in order to cast a ballot.
Each community will be required to post and maintain a penalty bond of $300.00. The League
Board will review all breaches of rules, conduct and sportsmanship and appropriate action will
be taken including monetary fines. Ignorance of the rules is not an acceptable excuse! If
at any time a community wishes to withdraw from The League, the bond or any balance due
will be refunded. The bond may also be used to satisfy any outstanding fees owed by any
community at the close of the season. A community must satisfy all outstanding fees it owes to
the League at or before Registration to participate in the up coming season.
The League, it’s Directors, its Governing Committees, and the Executive Board reserve
the right to determine and resolve all disputes as pertains to that scope of jurisdiction
considered being the Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse League. All final actions are within the
absolute discretion of the Police Coordinator. The League has the right to step in and designate
an individual to take control of any program that, in the determination of the Board of Directors,
could affect the continuity of the League’s mission, either in whole or any part.
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ARTICLE I
REGISTRATION:
To be properly registered, a community must present the following information to P.A.L.
on the date set by The Board. Any community not properly registered cannot play.
1. A roster for each team with 2 (two) copies on the day of registration.
(Copy 1- For P.A.L Coordinator)
(Copy 2- For Insurance Company)
All rosters submitted for approval must be typed in alphabetical order with all
information required by P.A.L. Each community is responsible for the validity of the roster they
submit.
All 3rd Grade Teams and above must have a minimum of 15 (fifteen) players on their
roster to be accepted.
No player can participate in a scheduled league game unless he/she is on that team’s
official roster. A player may appear only on one (1) roster and registered in only one (1)
community. All league teams must produce their official roster if requested by an opposing
coach or league official.
2.
Fees: All teams registered from a community will be $250.00 which includes insurance.
If the community is providing outside insurance coverage the fee will be $50.00 per team.
3.
Special Requests – Special Requests and conflicts must be made by the individual
Community Directors and must be requested using the Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse
League -Team Registration & Special Request Form. The Special Requests and Conflicts
Form must be turned in on or before Roster Night. Field availability and special play days
(dates) must be filled in on the form supplied. Any granted Special Requests may lead to a loss
of home games.
4.
Directions for your field(s) must be on the website
5.
All players, coaches and directors must fill out a P.A.L. registration form.
6.
All coaches and directors involved with P.A.L. boys and girl’s youth activities must go
through a background check by the Suffolk County Police Department.
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ARTICLE II
1.
each.
THE GAME
Youth Lacrosse is played by two teams consisting of between eight and/or ten players
Division: Attack – Midfield - Defense - Goalie
K-1st Grade (All Divisions) 8 v 8 (2-3-2-1)*
2nd Grade (All Divisions) 8 v 8 (2-3-2-1) *
3rd Grade (All Divisions) 3A & 3B+ 10 v 10 - 3B/C 8 v 8 (2-3-2-1)*
4th Grade (All Divisions) 10 v 10. (3-3-3-1)
5th Grade (All Divisions) 10 v 10. (3-3-3-1)
6th Grade (All Divisions) 10 v 10. (3-3-3-1)
7th & 8th Grade (All Divisions) 10 v 10. (3-3-3-1)
The K-1st and 2nd Grade Coaches, upon mutual agreement and if there are insufficient
players, can decrease to seven players (subtracting one midfielder). Also, if by mutual
agreement, the 3rd graders can play 10 v 10 (All 3rd grade “A and B+ Games” are 10 v 10). One
of the coaches from each team of the teams on the K1 - 2nd grade level may be on the field
during play, as long as they are supportive of all players from both teams, and realize that their
role is one of instruction and encouragement. All other coaches are to remain at the team’s
bench area and supervise the rest of the team. If there is only one coach, his main interest
should be the team near the bench area.
2.
THE FIELD
Every site should consist of two equipped ** fields, each with accurate lines and
markings, consistent with an official lacrosse field; one field size 90x45 yards for the K1 - 2nd
grade teams, and one field size 110x60 yards for the 3rd grade teams and above. If it is
feasible, and additional fields are available, the league will consider their use. Upon prior league
approval, certain exceptions can be made. The intent is to play a game at a scheduled site, if
there are discrepancies to the legal interpretation of “ the field “ as described in the rules, those
problems are to be noted and submitted to the league for future consideration. Unless it is a
safely issue, the game should be played.
All players and certified coaches shall be located on the same side of the field, and are
confined to, and governed by the bench area markings and regulations. A maximum of four (4)
coaches are allowed to be with the team. If a parent is timing the game and/or penalties, they
cannot coach. A Director is the only other person who is allowed on the player’s sideline. Every
effort should be made to have all spectators on the opposite side of the field (not on the end
lines), unless an exception has prior league approval.
Spectators are restricted from the bench area and from standing on the end lines.
** It is up to the home field (not home team) to supply clocks, horns, penalty clocks, goals,
defibrillator, and certified person in its use, rule book, first aid kit, ice packs, etc.
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3.
TIME FACTORS
The length of the game shall consist of four quarters of 12 minutes running time, with
the last two minutes of the game (only) stopped as in regulation. The half time is five minutes.
The clock is stopped on all time-outs, which are one minute in duration. The official game clock
and the penalty clock are to be kept on the sideline (not on the field by anyone, including an
official).
Penalty time is to start and stop as in regulation play. Penalty time is not running time.
Each team is entitled to one time-out per quarter. A time out can be taken on any deadball situation (including situations when the ball travels over the end line), and during play, only
by the team in possession of the ball. A time-out can be requested by anyone associated with
the team.
If at the end of regulation play the score is tied, the game will end in a tie – there is no
overtime.
4.
EQUIPMENT
Players must wear helmets, gloves, shoulder pads, arm guards or pads, athletic
supporter/cup, and a mouthpiece. The lack of a mouthpiece in a player’s mouth is not a
personal foul and is only to be considered a technical foul if there is a loose ball situation (no
time served)
The goalie must wear, in addition to that equipment previously mentioned, a chest
protector and a throat guard. It is permissible for a goalie to wear shin guards, and as provided
under Section 1-24c, he may wear football pants, with or without pads.
It is the responsibility of each town’s program to assure that their team’s equipment
meets legal specification, and that their children have been instructed in its proper use and
safety.
Crosse dimensions shall be as follows (except Goalie’s crosse):
K-1st 33” - 42”
Grade Stick Length
2nd 33’’ – 42’’
3rd 35’’ – 42’’
4th 35’’ – 42’’
5th 40’’ – 60’’
6th 40’’ – 60’’
7th & 8th 40’’ - 72’’
The 5th 6th 7th and 8th grade can add a 4th pole in all divisions. The rule of thumb on long
sticks is the stick should be no longer than the child can handle. It is recommended that the
stick length be no taller than the child with his helmet, however the rule sets a maximum of 60
inches. No other alteration is permitted to the stick’s original manufacturer’s condition.
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ARTICLE III
CODE OF CONDUCT:
Coaches will control their behavior before, during and after a game, scrimmage or any
other P.A.L League event. Cursing, verbal or physical abuse will not be permitted to be used by
any member of the coaching staff, player or parent. No verbal or physical abuse of a referee,
game official or visiting coach will be tolerated. Coaches are responsible for the behavior of
their team’s parents and spectators at all times. Cursing, verbal and/or physical abuse of any
player, coach or referee will not be tolerated. Penalties can be assessed against a team for the
unsportsmanlike conduct of a parent or spectator and may also jeopardize continued play of the
game. All suspensions and disciplinary actions are within the absolute discretion of the police
coordinator.
COMPLAINT PROCEDURE:
Any complaints concerning P.A.L. League rules, regulations or code of conduct by
anyone participating in or attending any P.A.L League event should be reported on a Suffolk
County P.A.L. Incident Form and faxed to the P.A.L. Officer/Coordinator at 631-852-6112 and
then given to your Community Director. This must be done within 24 hours of the
Incident. The Community Director will then notify the League Board as to the nature of the
complaint. All complaints will be reviewed and investigated by the P.A.L Board Ethics Committee
and a determination will be made about the complaint that may include fines and/or
suspension. All suspensions and disciplinary actions are within the absolute discretion of the
police coordinator. It is required of all directors and coaches to comply with the committee’s
requests in its investigation.
RULES VIOLATION:
Any coach or director, who knowingly allows a player to participate in a scheduled P.A.L.
League game in violation of P.A.L. League rules and regulations, will be automatically
suspended. The P.A.L. League Board Ethics Committee will determine the length of the
suspension and the amount of any fines assessed. All suspensions and disciplinary actions are
within the absolute discretion of the police coordinator. The League Board will review any
situations or unusual circumstances not covered by the code of conduct and the Board will have
the authority to take any action it deems appropriate. Any Director or coach in The League,
who becomes aware of any violations of League rules by any other member of The League,
is honor bound to report it to The League Board. Any coach who becomes aware of an ineligible
player on his or her team must report it to their director immediately before the play of the next
scheduled game.
TOURNAMENT PLAY:
The official schedule for league games will be set by the P.A.L. League board and issued
before the start of the season. Any coach or director who bypasses a scheduled league game in
order to participate in a non P.A.L. game will be automatically suspended and the league board
will meet to determine his or her future status with the league. It has been the practice of the
P.A.L. Lacrosse League not to schedule games on Easter or the Memorial Day weekend.
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NON-SANCTIONED GAMES:
The official schedule for the Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse League will be set by the
Executive Board and issued before the start of the season
Any coach or director who bypasses a scheduled Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse League
game in order to participate in a non sanctioned game or tournament will automatically be
suspended and the league board will meet to determine his, her and the community’s future
with the Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse League. In Addition, The team and the community
playing a non-sanctioned game will assume all responsibility and liability for its players,
coaches, spectators and officials. Any game that has to be re-scheduled for an official reason
must be done so with the approval of the S.C.P.A.L. Lacrosse League Board of Directors.
Each team (and its head coach) is responsible for the conduct of their team personnel
and attendants. Coaches should work with the officials to promote good sportsmanship during
the game. Ethical breaches should be reported immediately to the league office. The home
team administration is ultimately responsible for the conduct of spectators and others attending
the game. Coaches should cooperate with the officials in controlling any undesired conduct by
spectators.
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ARTICLE IV
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF COACHES AND HOME MANAGEMENT
1.
A maximum of four (4) coaches with sideline badges (complete with a name identifying
that coach) from any one team are permitted on a team’s sidelines and bench area. Designated
Program Directors are permitted to assist and be on the team’s side of the field. If the Director
stops performing the director’s responsibilities and acts as a coach, there can only be (3) more
coaches on the sideline. All coaches are required to assist in this compliance of this rule. There
is one situation where a person, or persons, without a badge may be on the team’s bench area:
if a player is ejected from the previous contest for violation of league rules, he may stay on the
team’s side as he serves the suspension conditions of his penalty.
2.
Coaches are NOT allowed on the field, and must coach from their normal designated
area. One coach from K-1st & 2nd grade teams will be permitted on the field during play, but all
other coaches must stay on the sideline with the rest of the team.
3.
All Coaches should note that they are “coaching players, NOT OFFICIALS. “ Penalties
called, and/or not called, are not for the coach’s interpretation or approval. Coaches cannot
question a call. If there is a problem in a game, fill out the complaint/incident form and follow
the Complaint Procedure. Coaches should instruct the players as to their individual skill level,
teamwork and game strategies. Every coach is required to assist an official in the control of the
game and assist in controlling a proper sportsmanship by the spectators.
4.
All personnel associated with this league are governed and sanctioned under the
Coaches Code of Ethics (page 21 in this booklet) of the Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse League.
A copy of which is available on the league’s website or upon request. It is every coach’s
responsibility to follow the code of ethics and, your willingness to accept the role of coach in
this league constitutes your acceptance to comply with its directives.
5.
Personal expulsion fouls/fighting – the offending player, or players, are ejected from
that contest and are suspended from the next scheduled game they attend. The player(s) must
attend a contest from which they were suspended, and stand on the sidelines, in order to be
eligible to play in any further games.
6.
If a parent/spectator enters onto the playing field, or in any way interferes with the
play of the game, the player’s, or anyone affiliated with the league including the officials, that
individual and their related player will be asked to leave the playing location. This is not to
include an injury situation unless an abusive or unsportsmanlike behavior is involved.
7.
The official shall stop play and issue team warnings to both teams at the first instance of
“taunting “. The coaches will respectively advise their own teams on sportsmanship. A personal
foul is to be imposed, at the discretion of the referee.
8.
Any excessive display or celebration, including any insightful gestures towards the
sidelines, is by rule, a personal foul.
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9.
Sideline management: each team (home and away) will provide a sideline manager
whose duty shall be to control the actions of spectators not in conformity with the standards of
proper conduct. Coaches will insure all parents are given a copy of the Sideline Manager’s Job
Description and will ensure that a parent/spectator from his or her team is assigned as their
team’s Sideline Manager for every game.
10.
No coach or director shall be on the sidelines of a regular scheduled P.A.L.
game without displaying his/her P.A.L. photo identification.
GAME OFFICIAL FEES:
Each team is responsible for paying the Officials their designated contribution before
each game. K-3rd Grade Jr. Officials is a contribution of $ 35 Per Team or $ 30 Per Team for a
Single Official. 4th-8th Grade Officials is a contribution of $ 60 Per Team or $40 Per Team for a
Single Official.
Section XI Officials will always be paid at the higher rate regardless of what grade teams
they officiate for.
1.
2
One Game – Two Certified Officials:
One Game – One Official:
$60.00 per each official
$80.00
3.
If an official has to wait between games because the middle game has been cancelled or
changed, there will be a charge for waiting. The community which caused the change or
cancellation must pay a fee of $100.00 to Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse before their next
game.
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ARTICLE V
N.Y.S. MODIFIED RULES SUFFOLK COUNTY P.A.L. LACROSSE LEAGUE GENERAL
RULE
Unless otherwise noted here, the Boys Lacrosse Rules of the National Federation of
State High School Associations, the Youth Rules of US Lacrosse and the Modified Rules of NY
State Junior High School Lacrosse will govern all contest levels
BOYS PLAYING RULES:
1.
There is a four-goal rule. When one team establishes a four-goal lead, the other
team shall be given possession of the ball at the midfield without a face-off; this
includes after goals, start of a quarter, or a penalty situation. If a man-down situation
exists and there is possession at the end of the quarter, that team will retain possession
at that relative point on the field at the start of the next quarter, unless there is a fourgoal lead; here the “ four goal rule “ will apply.
2.
With a four-goal advantage, the leading team must make two completed passes in their
offensive box before a shot on goal can be taken; if the ball touches the ground, repeat the
requirement. The pass must initiate in the offensive box and be completed in the box.
3.
Each player is limited to a maximum of four goals in a game. It is the responsibility of
the coaches to keep track of who scores and how many a player has attained. If there is a
discrepancy, every effort should be make to settle in a sportsmanlike manner; if it cannot and
the referee can’t settle it, the opposing team’s statistics will be used for that player’s goal count.
4.
A loose ball in the crease, for which one or more players and the goalie are trying to
gain possession, shall be awarded to the goalie behind the goal.
5.
At the start of play, no player may take a position closer than 10 yards to the player in
possession of the ball.
6.
The In-Home player shall serve any penalty committed by the Goalkeeper, except
unsportsmanlike conduct. Two unsportsmanlike fouls in the same game will result in an
expulsion from the contest and the ejection procedure will become effective.
7.
Repeated and continuous checking of the person, limb or glove, even though it is in
contact with the stick, is considered a personal foul (slashing)
8.
There is “Limited” body checking. All level players may employ an equal pressure
concept. Body checking is allowed on the 5th, 6th, 7/8th grade levels; the “one step rule’’ will
apply. (Also applies to 4th grade A level). The one step rule does not allow for that defender to
lower their head and hit with their shoulder. It is applicable only as a defensive method
employed by a (one) defender against a charging offensive player in possession of the ball.
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9.
A “ buddy pass “ or “running start “ contact aimed at injuring another player is to be
considered illegal and is not to be condoned.
10.
“Man/Ball” plays are illegal, and under New York State Rules, they are not permitted
until a player makes it to the Junior Varsity and Varsity levels.
11.
One-handed stick checks are NOT permitted on any level and are considered slashing
(again, until a player reaches the Junior Varsity level and above).
12.
There is no man down situation on the K–1st, 2nd and 3rd grade levels (Except 3A &
3B+). Any player committing a penalty must serve his own penalty time; however, his team will
replace him with another player and will not play man down. The offended player, unless they
are defense players or goalies, will be given a Fast Break opportunity, where as, the ball
handler will stand 10 yards offensive to the midfield line and all other midfielders will stand
behind the midfield line. At the sound of the whistle, all players on the field are released on a
fast break.
13.
There is no stalling permitted on the K-1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th grade levels. The ball
possession will be turned over as with any technical foul in the judgment of the official. The
official should remind the offending team that their play may be deemed in violation, and give
that coach the opportunity to encourage his team to play.
14.
There is no 10 second “failure to advance the ball “rule on any level.
15.
Any player that is in either 7th or 8th Grade, that has passed the qualification test to play
Varsity level Lacrosse, and has played, or practiced for a Varsity Team as of March of the
current year is not permitted to play for a 7th/8th Grade Team in the Suffolk County P.A.L.
Lacrosse League. This is also the rule for the Section XI inter-scholastic games.
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ARTICLE VI
DIRECTORS / COMMUNITIES RESPONSIBILITY
1.
Since P.A.L. Lacrosse is basically set up as a learning experience, it has always been the
position of the League Board that each player should meaningfully participate in the game. It is
the Director’s responsibility to insure that their coaches adhere to same.
2.
Any community that misses two scheduled meetings in a row will lose their right to vote
on league matters until reinstated by the league board. If reinstated, the director can be placed
on probation. There will be a fine of $50.00 for each missed meeting
3.
one.
A quorum of any meeting of the Directors shall consist of not less than Majority plus
4.
Only the Director, or the alternate acting in his place, may make a motion on the floor.
Any motion to change any existing rule and/or regulation must be submitted to the league
board in writing, appear in the minutes of the meeting and placed on the agenda of the next
scheduled meeting to be voted on by the membership.
5.
The official schedule for league games will be set by the league board and issued before
the start of the season. Any coach or Director who bypasses a scheduled PAL League game in
order to participate in a non-PAL game will be automatically suspended and the League Board
will determine his or her future status with the League.
6.
All rules, regulations and important dates are set down by the league Executive Board.
The league Executive Board will review any rule or regulation that may conflict with the
structure of the boys division. The board will take any action it deems appropriate.
7.
A player must play for the program in the public school district where the player lives,
unless there is prior written approval by both involved directors. If the involved directors do not
agree on a player playing outside his school district, the player must play for the program in his
school district. If the involved directors agree that a player can play outside his school district,
they must jointly notify PAL of their agreement by email.
8.
The League suggests that for the safety of those concerned, each program site have an
AED available and/or retain the services of an ambulance/medical staff.
9.
Directions for your field(s) must be on the website.
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League Board Responsibilities/Duties
The Suffolk County Lacrosse League Board of Directors shall consist of 15 individuals
who are nominated and elected to their positions. These Positions set policy and oversee the
League throughout the year. The Suffolk County P.A.L. itself shall provide the
Officer/Coordinator who shall oversee all operations of the League and who will appoint an
Individual to sit on the Board as Liaison to the Lacrosse League and other P.A.L. Boards and
programs.
The Board will consist of three (3) Executive Positions:
Chairman
Commissioner South
Commissioner North
Six (6) Director Positions:
Director of Scheduling
Director of Officials
Director of Representatives North
Director of Representatives South
Director of Registration
Tournament Director and
Six (6) Trustee Positions to oversee the following tasks
Trustee – Web site Director
Trustee – Safety Committee
Trustee – Co-Safety Committee
Trustee – Ethics Committee
Trustee – Bonds and Complex Director
Trustee – Rules Committee
Trustee - Secretary
Board positions will be held for a term of 3 years and will be open for nominations at the
May Meeting of that positions 3rd year. There will be a 3 year turn around for the entire board,
(meaning) one third 1/3 of the board can come up for nominations each year. These positions
will be broken down so as to ensure the continued experienced management of the Board and
the League. Positions on the board will be open to other board members and community
directors with at least 1 year in the league as a director. The position of Chairman is a board
position and when vacant or vacated will be filled by another sitting board member.
Board Positions that become vacant due to an election or the leaving of that individual
will be filled by an appointment of the Police Coordinator.
Positions on the board will always look to be filled with individuals that have the time to
commit to the league. These positions are voluntary and important to the overall well being of
the league and its youth, coaches, parents and spectators and are not to be taken lightly. It is a
responsibility that comes with work.
Board Members that miss two consecutive Board Meetings are put on suspension and
missing a third meeting removes them from the Board.
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Secretary:
The secretary shall keep and maintain a history of the minutes of membership
meetings. He/She shall attend to the giving and serving of all notices as designated by the
Board, and shall have charge of such books and papers as the Board may direct. He/She shall
attend to such correspondence as may be assigned to him/her, and perform all the duties
incidental to the office. He/She shall keep a membership roll containing all pertinent information
and identification.
Operating Committees:
Committees shall be adopted by the Chairman and/or either
Commissioner, as required for the needs of the league. They may serve a general or a specific
purpose, but they are to report directly to the Commissioner and then to the Chairman. The
Chairman or Commissioner shall not directly serve as a member of any general committee.
The committee members and committee chairperson may be selected through voluntary
commitment or appointed by the Chairman or Commissioner. At the discretion of the Chairman
or Commissioner, any committee member and/or chairperson may be removed with or without
cause.
Election and Terms of Board Members:
At each May general meeting of the Community
Directors, the membership shall nominate or reaffirm board members whose term is expiring to
hold office. Each board member shall hold office until the expiration of the term for which he
was appointed or until his potential resignation has been accepted. Each board member shall be
at least nineteen years of age.
Increase or Decrease in the number of Board members: The number of board members may
be increased or decreased by vote of the sitting board members. No decrease in the number of
board directors shall shorten the term of any incumbent director
Newly created Board Seats and Vacancies: Newly created board seats resulting from an
increase in the number of Board members and vacancies occurring in the board for any reason
except removal of directors without cause may be filled by a vote of a majority of the directors
then in office or by the Police Coordinator.
Officers, Appointments, Elections and terms:
The Executive Board and/or Police
Coordinator may cause to elect, or appoint a Chairman, one or more Commissioners, a
secretary and such other officers, or trustees, as it may determine, who shall have such duties,
powers and/or functions as may hereafter, need to be provided,. Each Board member shall hold
office for the term for which he is elected or appointed and until his successor has been elected,
appointed and qualified.
Resignations: A board member may resign at any time by giving written notice to the board or
the Police Coordinator. Unless otherwise specified in notice, the resignation shall take effect
upon the receipt thereof by the board or such officer, and the acceptance of the resignation
shall not be necessary to make it effective.
Removal of Any Board Member:
Any Board member, elected or appointed, may be
removed with or without cause by a majority vote of the Board or Police Coordinator. In the
event of Death, or removal of a league officer the Board or Police Coordinator may elect or
appoint a successor to fill the unexpired term. Any two (2) or more offices may be held by the
same person.
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League Executive Board
Chairman:
The Chairman shall be the chief executive officer of the league board. He shall
preside at all meetings of the membership and of the board. He shall have the general
management of the affairs of the league and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the
board are carried into effect. He shall facilitate the policies and procedures established by P.A.L.
and the Board.
Commissioner(s):
During the absence or disability of the chairman, the commissioner(s), or
if there are multiple, shall have all the powers and functions of the Chairman. The
Commissioner has jurisdictional responsibility over all committees and their function. Each
Commissioner shall perform such other duties as the board shall prescribe.
INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Up to two hours before game time, the home site director will call the P.A.L.
Command Post (631-905-1356) located at the P.A.L. Complex informing the official
on duty of any and all cancellations for that day.
The home site director will then immediately call the opposing team’s director or in
the case of a neutral site game, both directors informing them of the cancellation.
If there is no notification two hours prior to game time all teams shall proceed to the
game site where the decision will be put in the hands of the officials for their
determination. The official may cancel the game up to one hour prior to game time.
Cancellations should be done on a game by game basis. Just because one game is
canceled does not mean that all of the others games scheduled for that day are
cancelled.
Once referees appear on site they will be paid for that game.
RESCHEDULING OF GAMES
Only directors can reschedule a game. The procedures for rescheduling are as follows:
1.
Chain of command for rescheduling of games
a.) All games must be rescheduled a minimum of 48 hours prior to game
time.
b.) A telephone call should be made director to director to agree on
rescheduling.
c.) After a rescheduled date is determine, both town’s directors must contact
assigned to cancel referees for originally scheduled game and secure
officials for the rescheduled game.
d.) Remember, if a game is changed at a site the home team director must
adjust other games so there is no gap between games. If a gap occurs
both referees will be paid by the home team.
e.) After all of the above steps have been completed the scheduling director
is to be informed by the home team director so that the change can be
reflected on the master schedule.
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LEAGUE REQUIREMENTS OF INSURANCE OF PARTICIPATING PROGRAMS
It is each program’s responsibility to carry insurance. It must be either through the
Suffolk County P.A.L. or through their own insurance carrier. If insurance is through an outside
insurance carrier, Suffolk County P.A.L. (as well as whatever named facility, school district, town
fields) must be listed as additionally insured and Suffolk County P.A.L. must be supplied with an
insurance certificate stating same.
If insurance is carried by an outside carrier, Policy must start on February 1st in the year
of the new season and run for a full year. (Example – For Spring Season 2011, your insurance
certificate must run from Feb. 1, 2011 thru Feb. 2, 2012)
COVERAGE MUST BE IN THE FOLLOWING LIMITS
One million dollars in general liability
One million dollars medical per injury
Two million dollars total aggregate
Policy must also include “molestation” coverage
Boys - Rookie Officials School
1. To officiate in the P.A.L. as a rookie official you must be:
a.
A high school senior, college student or above. Juniors will be accepted on the approval
of his community director and/ or the P.A.L. executive board.
b.
Boys Rookie officials must return to school each year to officiate.
c.
An official must attend required classes to be eligible to officiate during the P.A.L.
season.
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ARTICLE VII
OFFENSES AND FINES
Missed Meeting:
1st missed meeting
$50.00
nd
2 missed meeting
$100.00
3rd missed meeting
Loss of home game one week
Missed Deadline:
$50.00
Unauthorized website photograph or information
$25.00
Failure to produce an official roster at a game.
$25.00
Game Expulsion: Coach or Director
suspended one game
Suspension or Probation of a Coach, Director or Community
$100 - $200
A registered team that withdraws before the end of the season:
$200.00
Failure to display ID Card
1st offense
suspension of that game
2nd offense
suspension of that game and the next game
*****ALL SUSPENSIONS ARE SUBJECT TO SUSPENSION FINES ALSO***
1.
All game changes must be approved by the P.A.L. Lacrosse Board of Directors.
2.
No P.A.L. Community will be permitted to assign their own officials. If an exigent
circumstance arises causing the change or cancellation of a game, the possible rescheduling of
the game must be brought to the attention of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors
will determine any penalties and/or necessary payment to the officials.
3.
If an official has to wait between games because the middle game has been cancelled or
changed, there will be a charge for waiting. The community which caused the change or
cancellation must pay a fee of $100.00 to Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse before their next
game.
4.
If a team does not show up for the game, the game will be considered a forfeit. The
community that caused the forfeit must pay a forfeit fee of $100.00 to Suffolk County P.A.L.
Lacrosse before their next game.
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All game changes must be approved by the P.A.L. Lacrosse Board of Directors.
6.
No P.A.L. Community will be permitted to assign their own officials. If an exigent
circumstance arises causing the change or cancellation of a game, the possible rescheduling of
the game must be brought to the attention of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors
will determine any penalties and/or necessary payment to the officials
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ARTICLE VIII
SUFFOLK COUNTY P.A.L. LACROSSE SPORTSMANSHIP PHILOSOPHY
Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse is committed to promoting the ideals of sportsmanship.
These include the concepts of ethical conduct and fair play by all who participate in, officiate, or
attend our events and activities. We stand in opposition to all instances and activities which do
not support the high standards of athletic competition and do not insure the well being of our
participants. We expect that a high standard of citizenship and respect for others will be evident
at all interscholastic events.
We are also committed to the belief that all organizations participating in P.A.L. lacrosse
activities will be held responsible for the conduct of their players, coaches, directors and
spectators. Conduct deemed detrimental to the values supported herein may be deemed just
cause for reprimand, probation, suspension from the Suffolk County P.A.L. Lacrosse League.
P.A.L. wishes to advance the game of lacrosse to the youth of Suffolk County, to
encourage individual skill mastery and teamwork, and to foster character development and
sportsmanship. We support a child’s right to challenge them to try to achieve, but discourage
unnecessary physical contact, and/or the importance of individual and team records. It is our
hope that everyone involved would consider this as one program. The players from all of the
teams are “our kids”, no matter which uniform they wear. We expect that everyone will
encourage and support all the players, for their skill, effort, and participation and not for a
team, a town or a game’s outcome. Please treat every child as you would you own, as we all
share the same enthusiasm – the game of lacrosse.
SUFFOLK COUNTY LACROSSE SPORTSMANSHIP CODES FOR SPECTATORS
It is the responsibility of the spectator to:
1) Cheer positively. Profanity and/or degrading language/gestures are prohibited.
2) Avoid actions which offend visiting teams, individual players, and/or officials.
3) Show appreciation of good play by both teams.
4) Treat all visiting teams and officials in a respectful, professional and appropriate manner.
5) Abide by all rules and regulations of the game.
6) Accept victory and defeat with grace and dignity.
7) Drinking Alcoholic Beverages, Smoking are prohibited within the confines of the Fields and
Facilities (Fields, Sidelines, Benches, and Parking Lots)
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STUDENT ATHLETES:
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE ATHLETES TO:
1) Demonstrate self-control and respect for other athletes, officials, coaches and spectators at
all times.
2) Remember that participation in interscholastic athletics is a privilege that is not to be abused
by unsportsmanlike conduct.
3) Treat all opponents with respect. Shake hands after the event and congratulate them on
their performance.
4) Respect the integrity and judgment of the officials.
5) Remember that you are a representative of your school. Improper behavior reflects
negatively on you and your school, your family and your community.
6) Understand and abide by all rules and regulations of the game.
7) Accept victory and defeat with grace and dignity.
COACHING STAFF / CODE OF ETHICS
The Coaching Staff shall be aware that he or she has a tremendous influence, for good
or ill, on the education of the student-athlete, and thus shall never place the value of winning
above the value of instilling the highest ideals of character.
The Coaching Staff shall uphold the honor and dignity of the profession. In all contact
with student-athletes, officials, athletic directors, school administrators, school associations,
community groups, the media, the public, the Suffolk County Police Department and the Suffolk
County P.A.L., the coaching staff shall strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral
conduct.
The Coaching Staff shall exert his or her influence to enhance sportsmanship by
spectators, both directly, and by working closely with sponsors, pep groups, and booster clubs.
The Coaching Staff shall master the contest rules and shall teach them to his or her
team members. The coach shall not seek an advantage by circumvention of the spirit of letter
of the rules.
The Coaching Staff shall respect and support contest Officials. The Coaching Staff shall
not indulge in conduct, which would incite players or spectators against the Officials, or anyone
connected with the contest. Public criticism of Officials or players is unethical.
Before and after contest, the coaches for the competing teams should meet and
exchange cordial greetings to set the correct tone for the event.
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The Coaching Staff should be aware of the following rules: personal expulsion and
fighting fouls – the player(s) are ejected from that contest, and are suspended from the next
scheduled contest they attend. The player must attend and sit out of the next game in order to
be eligible to play in future games. And – if any parent/spectator enters onto the playing field,
or in any way interferes with the play of the game, the players, or anyone affiliated with the
league, including the Officials, that individual, and their related player, will be asked to leave
the grounds and the field area. This is not to include an injury situation, unless an abusive or
unsportsmanlike behavior initiates or is involved. The Coaches will support and assist in the
enforcement of this rule.
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Suffolk County Police Athletic League
Mission Statement
The Suffolk County Police Athletic League was incorporated on October 19, 1973.
Through the dedication and hard work of our children, their parents, our outstanding volunteer
base of over 2500, board of directors, and staff, Suffolk County PAL is into its 37th year as one
of the largest and most successful juvenile crime prevention and recreational programs in the
country.
Although all children are eligible to join PAL programs, the immediate aim is to reach
low income areas that are without recreational affiliations for any number of reasons: schools
on austerity, limited resources, hopelessness and even apathy. We live on an island yet some
PAL kids had never been on the water until they went on a PAL fishing trip. In 2007 Suffolk
County PAL touched the lives of over 26,000 boys and girls, many who would have no sports in
their lives without PAL.
PAL programs run year round. We do not compete with local little leagues or school
sports. PAL programs are geared towards keeping children occupied when they have down
time. There are programs in every community according to what that community needs. Some
programs are run on Town fields while others utilize School fields and gymnasiums. There are
after school and evenings programs and during the day when school is not in session.
PAL realizes that every child is unique in ability and interests so we have tried to cover
as many bases as possible. Programs include arts/crafts, baseball, basketball, bowling, boxing,
cheerleading, fishing, golf, football, ice hockey, karate/Tae Kwan Do, lacrosse, roller hockey,
self-defense/self-esteem, soccer, softball, summer camps, track and field, and local and State
tournaments.
We have established a “Mentoring Program” which includes adult and peer mentoring.
We have also initiated a number of innovative programs to address gang involvement and selfesteem. PAL’s “Be A PAL” program addresses the issues of bullying and hazing. Our “REACHOUT” Program is in place in 13 middle and high schools. There is a waiting list for many other
schools that would like the “REACH-OUT” Program.
We have an innovative Anti-Gang Seminar that is given to large groups of teens at their
school’s auditoriums. We have instituted a free Ident-A-Kid packet for parents to keep
important records of their children. We also have a swim for survival program and a kid fit
program for younger children and PAL has also recently taken charge of the Police Explorers.
PAL provides low-cost insurance to outside organizations and secures gyms and permits
for them. PAL also provides transportation to many youth programs and supports Girl and Boy
Scouts, Police Explorers, with funding and transportation.
PAL has developed a 36-acre Sport Complex, which is centrally located in Holtsville, New York.
It has three lighted Lacrosse/Football fields, four Baseball/Softball fields and a major league
quality 1200 seat baseball stadium with a brand new concession area. This facility services
thousands of boys and girls annually.
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In 2006 we installed a State of the Art turf field for football and lacrosse. We believe
that our Sport Complex is one of the finest built with grants and more importantly the
generosity of residents and businesses on Long Island.
Suffolk’s ongoing battle against juvenile crime reminds us daily that the answer is to get
the kids off the streets before the streets get them. Unfortunately many children and adults do
not see the police officer as a friend. Often first encounters are of an adversarial nature such as
arrests, kids or family members in trouble, families in distress.
We are working to change that perception: “Cops and kids together in a non-combative
setting”. Respect for each other and the law is the basis of PAL. PAL is not designed to be a
baby-sitter but by developing a bond between police officers, parents, community volunteers,
and the kids; PAL programs empower people to make a real difference in their neighborhood
and in the positive shaping of their children’s lives.
Sports help to bring out the best in a kid. They learn how to be part of a team, to fit in
while developing their own individual skills with a team goal in mind. Sportsmanship, fair play
and the ability to get along with others are very important social skills. In 2008, P.A.L. will kick
off our “Special P.A.L.” a program designed for children with special needs.
Through the years PAL has been the springboard for many athletes and celebrities and
we are proud of the many accomplishments of these professionals. However, we are most
proud of the thousands of kids who have come through the PAL programs to achieve success as
being parents and involved citizens in their communities.
OUR CHILDREN ARE:
25% OF OUR POPULATION AND 100% OF OUR FUTURE.
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