Pop Warner Age Based Rules:
Pop Warner football divisions are primarily age-based, with age determined as of July 31st (moving to July 15th for the 2026 season). Divisions range from Flag (5-7) to 8U, 9U, 10U, 11U, 12U, 13U, and 14U. These divisions are designed for safety, with age-based eligibility determining placement for most competitive teams, including Division I and II
Key 2026–2027 Age-Based Structure (Age as of July 15):
- Flag: Ages 5–7 (no weight limit).
- 8U: Ages 7–8 (no weight limit).
- 9U: Ages 7–9 (no weight limit).
- 10U/Junior Pee Wee: Ages 8–10
- 11U/Pee Wee: Ages 9–11
- 12U/Junior Varsity: Ages 10–12
- 13U/Varsity: Ages 11-13
The Flag, Tiny Mite, and Mitey Mite levels are non-competitive. However, these teams will conclude their season with "Bowl" games against other North Jersey Pop Warner (NJPW) associations.
Key Rules & Notes
- Age Determination: A player’s age is determined by their age on July 31st of the current year. Note: For the 2026 season, this cutoff shifts to July 15th.
- Weight Limits: While many divisions are strictly age-based, "lighter" divisions (e.g., Mitey-Mite, Pee Wee) still have maximum certification weights to ensure safety.
- Older/Lighter Rule: Previously, older but lighter players could play down, but this practice has been phased out or restricted in many regions in favor of pure age-based divisions.
- Player Safety: Younger divisions (9U and under) may have modified rules, such as adjusted kickoffs, to minimize risks.
- Scholastic Requirement: Participants must maintain a 70% or 2.0 GPA to participate.
Practices
The first day of practice will be July 15, 2026. During the months of July and August, teams will practice Monday-Friday from 6:00pm-8:00pm. After Labor Day, practices will go down to 2 hours per day & 3 days a week.
What to Wear
Tackle football participants should wear shorts, t-shirts, helmets and cleats. Do not wear football equipment until told to by your coach. After completing 20 hours of conditioning, players will begin wearing practice uniforms and full pads.
Every participant should bring a water bottle to every practice.
Games
Regular-season games are generally scheduled to be played on Sundays, with Flag games being played Saturdays. The regular season generally runs through October, with league playoffs, regionals, and nationals continuing into December.
Coaching Opportunities:
We are always looking for qualified coaches. If you have knowledge in coaching the fundamentals and principles of football and are interested in volunteering, please send your resume with youth experience and what level you desire to coach along with a letter of what you feel to be your strengths to [email protected]. Please note that it is mandated that we do a full background check. You must also attend Pop Warner and USA football coach's school along with one other coaching clinic of your choosing. Please submit letters ASAP.