JUNIOR BANTAM DIVISION (Ages 13-14)

• 12 vs. 12 (or 9 vs. 9) full-field Canadian football • Standard youth game rules with expanded competitive structure • Four 15-minute quarters • Full offensive and defensive playbooks • Teams run structured formations, alignments, and special teams • Increased speed and physicality compared to Peewee Junior Bantam is the bridge between youth football and the intensity of Bantam/high school.

Skill development becomes more specialized and advanced. Athletes focus on: • Technical tackling and safe blocking at higher speed • Advanced footwork, alignment, and assignment execution • Reading offensive and defensive schemes • Position-specific mastery (QB, WR, RB, LB, DB, OL, DL) • Route-running, coverage responsibilities, and run fits • Mental preparation, communication, and leadership • Improved conditioning, strength, and agility Development becomes more demanding as athletes prepare for higher competition.

As gameplay intensifies, safety remains the top priority. We adhere to Football Canada Safe Contact standards, including: • Controlled, supervised contact drills • Strict teaching of safe tackling and blocking • No reckless collisions or unsafe technique • Mandatory certified and properly fitted equipment • Coaches trained in Safe Contact and youth development • Immediate removal from play for any suspected injury or concussion Player readiness and safe execution guide all contact decisions.

Coaching at this level resembles structured high-school football. • Coaches are allowed on the field for the first 3 games • Coaches stay off the field during gameplay for all remaining games of the season • Players are expected to line up, communicate, and execute independently • Playbooks expand significantly; increased formations, plays, and situational calls • Practice structure includes position groups, film study (where applicable), and advanced drills • Coaches focus on discipline, consistency, and accountability • Athletes expected to take more ownership of preparation and learning This prepares players for the expectations of Bantam and high school programs.

Competition increases but development and fairness still matter. • 10-play rule in place. • All players receive fair opportunities for playing time • Playtime is earned through effort, readiness, and attitude • Coaches ensure opportunities for development across the roster • Athletes often settle into more defined positions • Sportsmanship and respect are mandatory • Team-first mindset emphasized daily • Players are expected to represent the Spartans with character on and off the field The culture at this level is built on WORK, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY.

Junior Bantam players are expected to behave like prepared athletes. • Arrive 60 minutes early for warm-up, taping, and equipment checks • Bring all required equipment and be game-ready • Know weekly assignments, roles, and special teams responsibilities • Maintain focus and discipline throughout the full game • Respect officials and coaches at all times • Parent sideline behavior must align with Spartans values; encouragement only • Athletes take responsibility for hydration, readiness, and mindset Game day preparation becomes part of their athlete identity.

All Junior Bantam players must have: • CSA-approved helmet • Youth or intermediate-sized shoulder pads • Mouthguard (mandatory, no exceptions) • Cleats (no metal allowed) • Proper football pants with pads • Team jersey • Optional: gloves, compression wear, performance gear Coaches and staff perform equipment checks at the start of the season and as needed. Spartans provide the following to every player at the beginning of each season: • CSA-approved helmet • Youth-sized shoulder pads • Basic Mouthguard • Proper football pants with pads • Team jersey Players are required to provide their own: • Cleats (no metal allowed) • Full padded football pants • Spartans game jersey (provided) • Optional: gloves, compression wear, performance gear Players are not allowed to play if they do not have their full required equipment, whether that be during a practice or a game. Please arrive 10-15 minutes earlier than the scheduled start time to give yourself enough time to put your gear on.

Junior Bantam is where athletes start becoming complete football players — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Our mission is to help athletes: • Master advanced skills safely • Build strong positional identity and leadership • Increase resilience, responsibility, and competitiveness • Understand team structure and football strategy • Develop confidence through performance and discipline • Prepare successfully for Bantam and high-school football This is competitive football, but still rooted in growth, learning, and long-term athlete development.