1)  TRUE or FALSE?  Team A snaps the ball with 2:04 left in the half. With 1:56 remaining on the clock, quarterback A1 throws an illegal forward pass that falls incomplete. There is 1:54 showing on the clock after the down.  The foul for the illegal forward pass includes a 10-second subtraction from the game clock.

FALSE.  An incomplete illegal forward pass does require a ten second subtraction from the game clock if the foul happened during a down that started after the two-minute warning has occurred.  Since this down started with 2:04 remaining on the clock, there is no 10-second runoff.

2)  TRUE or FALSE?  B3, defending against a legal forward pass beyond the neutral zone, has their back to the ball and is waving their arms in the face of A8, but does not make contact.  This is a foul for defensive pass interference.

FALSE.  There is no foul for defensive pass interference if there is no contact.

3)  TRUE or FALSE?  3rd down & 5. Team A’s run is used/closed. Quarterback A5 throws a legal forward pass that is intercepted by B1. After the interception and during the return, B1 throws a backwards pass to B2.  The backwards pass is intercepted in the air by A8.  A8 is deflagged by B9.  It is now 1st & 10 for team A at the spot of B9's deflagging, and the run is now unused/open.

TRUE.  Because there has been a change of possession during the down, team A will now begin a new possession with the ball 1st & 10, and the scrimmage running play is available to them for use during the next possession.

4)  TRUE or FALSE?  At the time the ball is made ready for play receivers A3 and A4 are moving. A3 then comes to a stop and A4 continues in motion as the ball is snapped.  This is a dead ball foul and a false start.

TRUE.  This is a new editorial rule change for us this year.  Dead ball. False start. Team A players were not all stopped for a full second before the snap at any time after the ball was made ready for play. Officials should stop the action, and Team A is penalized five yards for a dead-ball foul. This is an illegal shift that converts to a false start and is eligible for a 10-second subtraction from the game clock if this foul occurs while the clock is running and after the two-minute warning has occurred.

5)  TRUE or FALSE?  After the ball is made ready for play, all seven Team A players come to a complete stop for a full second. Then receiver A5 goes laterally in motion.  While A5 is in motion, receiver A2 takes two steps backwards and resets.  A5 is still moving when the ball is snapped.  This is a dead ball foul and a false start.

FALSE.  This is a live ball foul for an illegal shift. The play should continue. When the ball is dead, the officials stop the clock to administer the penalty. This is an illegal shift that DOES NOT convert to a false start and is NOT eligible for a 10-second subtraction from the game clock in any scenario because all 7 A players were set for at least one second prior to the snap.

 

1)  TRUE or FALSE?  1st & 10 for A from the 40.  All 7 A players line up in a formation and back A5 goes in motion laterally.  While A5 is in motion, quarterback A1 takes two steps backward, sets, and receives the snap.  A5 remains in motion at the snap then turns downfield after the ball is snapped.  This is a penalty for an illegal shift.

TRUE.  According to rule 7.2.4., "after a huddle or shift, all Team A players shall come to an absolute stop and remain stationary, simultaneously, without pronounced movement of hands, feet, head or body for at least one second before the snap."  After that one second, only one player can be in motion, as long as that motion is not towards the line of scrimmage.  If player A5 had reset for one second after the QB A1 took their two steps backward, A5 could then go into motion again, and there would not be a foul for an illegal shift.

2)  TRUE or FALSE?  If a loose ball touches a game official who is straddling the sideline, the ball is not out of bounds.

FALSE.  According to rule 2.7.3., "a loose ball is out-of-bounds when it touches anything, including a player or game official, which is out of bounds."

3)  TRUE or FALSE?  Inside the last two minutes of either half, if a muffed snap touches the ground prior to the QB gaining possession, the clock should be stopped, the ball goes back to the previous spot, and the down counts.

FALSE.  Rule 3.1.3 says "an errant snap that touches the ground during the last two minutes of each half does not cause the clock to stop."  This is because an errant snap is treated like a fumble would be in tackle football, not an incomplete pass.  Team A should not be given the advantage of stopping the clock in the last two minutes of each half due to a muffed snap.

4)  TRUE or FALSE?  During overtime, if the defensive team gains possession of a live ball, the ball becomes dead immediately and the down and series has ended for the offensive team.

TRUE.  Rule 8.6.1.d

5)  TRUE or FALSE?  Once the snapper places both hands on the ball, they may not be removed until a legal snap occurs.

FALSE.  7.1.6. NOTE says, "The snapper may take their hand(s) off the ball, but only if this does not simulate the start of a play."

 

1)  In a Women's+ division game, a junior-sized football must be used.

FALSE.  A junior-sized football may be used, but it not required in the Women's+ division.  Also, youth-sized footballs are allowed in the Womens'+ division.

2)  During overtime, if the defense intercepts the ball and returns it for a touchdown, the game is over.

FALSE.  In overtime, if the defensive team gains possession of a live ball, the ball becomes dead immediately and the down and series has ended for the offensive team.  This rule mirrors high school football rules and is designed to give both teams' offenses and defenses a chance to compete in overtime.

3)  If a loss of down penalty by A on 4th down is accepted and after enforcement, the ball is short of the line-to-gain, it will be B’s ball with 1st down & 10.

TRUE.  All live ball fouls are enforced before checking/measuring for a first down for team A.  If after all live ball penalties are enforced after a foul is accepted that includes loss of down, then the ball belongs to the defense, 1st & 10

4)  A runner is moving downfield when they slip and begin to fall. In order to maintain balance, they place the ball on the ground to stabilize while maintaining possession. Ruling: Dead ball.

FALSE.  Rule 4.2.1.b says, "The ball becomes dead and the down is ended when the runner goes out-of-bounds or allows any part of their body except hand or foot to touch the ground (note: the down does not end if a ball touches the ground while still in control of a player)."  The ball is considered an extension of the hand.  This rule is the same across all levels of football.

5)  Inbounds runner bumps into a game official who has one foot on the sideline. Runner is out-of-bounds and the ball becomes dead.

FALSE.  Rule 2.7.2 says that "a ball in player possession is out-of-bounds when the runner or the ball touches anything, other than another player or game official, which is on or outside the sidelines or end line."  A player with possession of the ball simply touching an official who is standing out of bounds does not cause the player to be out of bounds, and therefore the ball remains live.  BONUS POINTS:  If a loose ball touches an official who is standing out of bounds, that does make the ball out of bounds.

6)  If A is guilty of offensive pass interference on 4th down and that penalty is accepted, it will be B’s ball with 1st down and 10.

FALSE.  Offensive pass interference is not a foul that carries a loss of down penalty, therefore the down would be replayed after enforcement of the 10-yard penalty from the previous spot.

 

Below find the correct responses to the Ref Quiz for Sept 2023

1)  TRUE or FALSE?  A passer who is deflagged when their arm is moving forward in an attempt to throw the ball is not considered down.

FALSE.  If the ball is still in the passer's hand when the flag is pulled, then the passer is considered down.  In the case of a tie -- the passer is deflagged at the same time as the ball is leaving their hand -- the passer is not considered down and play should continue.

2)  TRUE or FALSE?  A1 and B1 both secure the pass in the air at the same time. When they return to the ground, A1 is in bounds and B1 is out of bounds. Ruling: Completed simultaneous catch.

FALSE.  Rule 7.5.d says that an incomplete forward pass is a "pass which touches the ground; pass which goes out of bounds; pass possessed by a player who is in the air but first touches the ground out-of-bounds".  Since B1 is possessing the ball and first touches out of bounds when they come to the ground, that makes the ball out of bounds and results in an incomplete pass.

3)  TRUE or FALSE?  A punt is muffed at the R-2 yard line and lands out-of-bounds behind R’s goal line. Result: Safety.

FALSE.  Rule 8.4.1 says that a muff is not considered a new force.  Rule 8.4.3 says that "it is a touchback when any kick in flight is muffed and next touches the ground behind R’s goal line."

4)  TRUE or FALSE?  A touchdown is scored when a runner reaches the ball across the opponent's goal line even if no part of the runner’s body crossed the goal line prior to the deflag.

TRUE.  Rule 8.2.1.a says that "it is a touchdown when the runner advances from the field of play so that the ball penetrates the vertical plane of the opponent’s goal line."

5)  TRUE or FALSE?  It is third down and 5 on the A 30 yard-line.  A1 gains 11 yards, then throws an illegal forward pass.  Ruling: Penalize A 5 yards from the spot of the illegal forward pass. Since the yardage mark-off leaves the ball beyond the line-to-gain beanbag marker, it is 1st down.

TRUE.  An illegal forward pass foul is a "loss of down foul", but that just means that the fouling team loses the right to replay the down.  Rule 5.1.2.a says that after "a scrimmage down ends and after considering any live ball fouls, except unsportsmanlike fouls, with the ball in the field of play or out-of-bounds between the goal lines, a new series is to be awarded to Team A if the ball belongs to A on or beyond the line-to-gain."  This results in a 1st down for A.  No series can ever begin on a down other than first.

YBTR August 2023

 

1)  TRUE or FALSE?  Running into the kicker and roughing the kicker both carry 10-yard penalties and automatic first down.

TRUE.  With an increase in the number of unannounced "quick kicks" in the league over the last few years, a review of the rulebook revealed that we actually didn't have a penalty for running into or roughing the kicker in the rulebook!  This added last year as an editorial change, and since flag football is a limited contact sport, both penalties carry a 10-yard penalty and an automatic first down.  The difference in the two is that roughing the kicker also carries a penalty for possible
ejection for 4 or 8 scrimmage plays, and possible disqualification.

 

2)  TRUE or FALSE?  Players can not wear custom-made flags, even if the belt includes three flags that are the same size and dimensions as the Triple Threat brand flags & contrast with the player's shorts or pants.

FALSE.  The rule was codified this year to clearly allow custom-designed flags to be worn by teams, as long as the flags are the same size and dimensions as the Triple Threat brand flags (Flag size: 2 1/4"W x 14 1/2"L), hang at the player’s sides & posterior, and are permanently attached and secured to the flag belt. The flags also must contrast with the player’s pants. 

3)  TRUE or FALSE?  Junior- and youth-sized footballs are allowed in Womens+ division play.

TRUE.  Prior to the 2022-2023 rulebook, this was an exception to the rulebook for the Womens+ division, and not actually included in the rulebook.  Now, we have complete ball size specifications for both sizes of the football (junior & youth) listed in the official rules.

4)  TRUE or FALSE?  The length of each half is 25 minutes.

TRUE.  The city leaders voted to reduce the length of the halves from 30 minutes to 25 minutes in 2022.

5)  TRUE or FALSE?  Players may wear any type of face mask for health reasons.

FALSE.  Players may wear a face mask for health reasons, but those masks shall not include graphics, logos, or insignia that engenders ill will or taunts an opponent.

6)  TRUE or FALSE?  A pass is considered to be a forward pass if it is thrown with its initial direction toward the opponent’s end line.

FALSE.  This is the old definition of a forward pass.  The new, updated definition matches the NCAA rule that says "A pass is forward if the ball first strikes the ground, a player, an official or anything else anything nearer the opponent’s goal line than the point at which the ball leaves the passer’s hand(s). All other passes are backward passes. When in question a pass thrown in or behind the neutral zone is forward rather than a backward pass" and that "if a Team B player contacts the passer or ball after forward movement begins and the ball leaves the passer’s hand, a forward pass is ruled regardless of where the ball strikes the ground or a player."

7)  TRUE or FALSE?  Once the snapper places both hands on the ball, they may not be removed until a legal snap occurs.

FALSE.  The snapper may remove their hand(s) from the ball after gripping the ball and making their preliminary adjustments, as long as the movement is not considered "abrupt" and does not simulate the snap or start of the play.

8)  TRUE or FALSE?  Team B's initial rusher's entire body must be outside the expanded neutral zone.

TRUE.  Rule 2.3.7 requires the rusher's "entire body" to be "outside the expanded neutral zone" in order to be eligible to be the first B player to cross the line of scrimmage after the snap. 

9)  TRUE or FALSE?  The game clock shall stop when a first down is declared with two minutes or less remaining in either half.

TRUE.  This has always been a rule in our league, however prior to the 2022-2023 rulebook, the wording in rule 3.3.8 was vague as to stopping the clock after a first down was declared.

 

1.  R1 catches the opening at their own 7-yard line and makes a spectacular run. As they near the goalline, R1 turns and taunts the nearest pursuer. R1 scores, but before they cross the goalline, they are flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct.
a)  If the penalty is accepted, the touchdown is canceled. The penalty is enforced from the spot of the foul and team R begins a new series after enforcement.
b)  If the penalty is accepted, it may be enforced on the try or on the start of K's next possession from the 15-yard line.
c)  If the penalty is accepted, it must be enforced on the try.
d)  If the penalty is accepted, it must be enforced on the free kick after the try.

b)  Rule 10.4.1 states that the penalty for any live-ball unsportsmanlike conduct foul is administered from the succeeding spot, and rule 8.2.2.b gives the opponent of the fouling team the choice of enforcing the penalty on the try or on the subsequent possession following the try.

 

2.  3rd & 1 for team A at B's 8-yard line.  The pylon is properly placed.  A4's fumble in flight from the 5-yard line bounces off the pylon and lands in the field of play at B's 2-yard line.
a)  The ball remains live.
b)  The ball is dead; it will be first and 10 for team B from its 2-yard line.
c)  The ball is dead; it will be first and 10 for team A from its 5-yard line.
d)  The ball is dead; it will be first and 10 for team A from its 2-yard line.
e)  The ball is dead; it will be first and 10 for team B from its 15-yard line.

c)  The ball touching a properly placed pylon causes the ball to the out of bounds behind the goal line.  Rule 4.2.1.f.ii states that if "the ball is fumbled forward...it is spotted where the runner loses possession, including forward fumbles that touch the ground in the end zone or out of bounds behind the goal line."

3.  Second and 30 from team A's 30-yard line. A1's forward pass is grabbed near the sideline at team A's 40-yard line by airborne eligible A2, who jumps straight into the air. B3 then shoves A2 so they land out of bounds beyond team A's 42 yard-line.
a)  Its no catch.
b)  Its a catch if the covering official believes A2 would have landed inbounds without the contact.
c)  None of the options is correct.

b)  Rule 2.2.4 states that "if a player catches a pass and is pushed out-of-bounds, the pass is considered complete if an official judges that the player would have caught the ball in-bounds except for the pushing."

4.  The snap ends when:
a)  The ball touches the ground or is possessed by any player.
b)  The ball leaves the snapper's hand(s).
c)  The ball is moved from its place on the ground.
d)  None of the options is correct.

a)  Rule 2.11.2 defines that "the snap begins when the snapper first moves the ball legally other than an adjustment", and the "snap ends when the ball touches the ground or is possessed by any player."

5.  K1's kickoff hits the ground at team R's 25 yardline. R1 goes to one knee to field the ball.
a)  R1 may advance when they recover the ball, even though their knee is touching the ground when they gains possession.
b)  Even if R1 rises so their knee is off the ground when they gain possession, they may not advance because their knee was at one time on the ground.
c)  If the ball contacts R1, with their knee on the ground, the ball is dead the second it touches them.
d)  None of these statements is true.

d)  If the player possesses the ball with their knee on the ground, the ball becomes dead.  It does not become dead immediately if it merely touches a player whose knee is on the ground, but would become dead if it touches the ground after touching that player.  As long as the player's knee is not on the ground at the time they gain possession of the ball, they may advance.

May 2023 YBTR

 

1. Rusher B2 deflags quarterback A1 at the exact same time as a legal forward pass is released from A1’s hand.  The pass is completed for a 5-yard gain to A2.

a)  Play results in a sack.

b)  Play results in a completed pass, gain of 5-yards.

b)  Play results in a completed pass, gain of 5-yards.  Similar to a simultaneous catch of a legal forward pass, a tie goes to the offense on an exactly timed deflagging and release of the ball from the QB's hand.

 

2. A1, running for an apparent touchdown, fumbles the ball on B’s 3-yard line. The ball lands in B’s end zone.

a)  Touchback.

b)  Safety.

c)  The ball is dead where A1 lost possession at B's 3-yard line.

c)  The ball is dead where A1 lost possession at B's 3-yard line.  Rule 4.2.1.f.ii says, "The ball becomes dead and the down is ended when a fumbled ball touches the ground, it is spotted where the ball touches the ground, unless the ball is fumbled forward, and then it is spotted where the runner loses possession, including forward fumbles that touch the ground in the end zone or out of bounds behind the goal line."

 

3. TRUE or FALSE?  QB A1 rolls out and slips, but regains their balance as the ball in their hand touches the ground. Play should continue because a ball in possession is considered part of the player's hand.

TRUE.  Rule 4.2.1.b says, "The ball becomes dead and the down is ended when the runner goes out-of-bounds or allows any part of their body except hand or foot to touch the ground (note: the down does not end if a ball touches the ground while still in control of a player)."  The ball is basically an extension of the runner's hand. 

YBTR September 2022

 

Here are a few bonus questions for this month’s YBTR, taken directly from the 2022 NGFFL Rules & Mechanics Test! Because, YES, ALL of your NGFFL officials take a 100-question test before each Gay Bowl!! And are required to have a passing score!

If you are interested in taking the full test "for fun," email Director of Officials, Lance Burage, at officials@ngffl.org for the link! Good luck!

 

1)  TRUE or FALSE?  Junior- and youth-sized footballs are allowed in Womens+ division play. 

TRUE.  Both of these sized footballs are acceptable for play in the Womens+ division.  They may not be used in Open division play.

 

2)  TRUE or FALSE?  A down that includes a declared punt does not have to begin with a legal snap.

FALSE.  All downs (plays) must begin with a legal snap ("handing or passing the ball backward from its position on the ground").  In the case of a declared punt, if the kicker drops the snap, it is legal to just pick up the ball and still kick it, and the kicking team is still offered the protection provided with a declared punt.

 

3)  TRUE or FALSE?  An errant snap that touches the ground during the last two minutes of each half causes the clock to stop until the field markers can be reset.

FALSE.  This is just like a fumble in tackle football, therefore the clock continues to run.

  

4)  TRUE or FALSE?  It is pass interference if a player on Team A or Team B plays through the back of an opponent in an attempt to make a play on the ball.

 TRUE.  These are the six things that constitute pass interference -- playing through the back of an opponent, cutting off the receiver's route, hooking and turning an opponent, arm-barring an opponent, not playing the ball with contact to an opponent, and grabbing and restricting an opponent.

 

5)  TRUE or FALSE?  Team A may change their decision to attempt a 1- or 2-point play after any team timeout is used.

TRUE.  Doesn't have to be their own timeout, ANY team timeout allows the offensive team to change their choice on the try-for-point.

 

6)  CHOOSE THE RESULT.  A forward pass strikes an official standing inbounds, after which it rebounds into the air and is caught by a defensive player.

a)  Incomplete pass.

b)  Interception.

c)  Same as an inadvertent whistle, the down is replayed.

B.  An official is a part of the field, therefore the ball remains live.  If the ball had struck an official that was standing with one or both feet out of bounds, then that places the ball out of bounds and it becomes dead.

 

7)  TRUE or FALSE?  The length of each half is 25 minutes.

TRUE.  New rule change this year!  Each half is now 25-minutes long.  Halftime remains 10 minutes in length, but can be shortened by mutual agreement of both captains.

 

 8)  CHOOSE THE RESULT.  The defensive rusher deflags the quarterback at the exact same time as a legal forward pass is released from the quarterback's hand.  The pass is completed for a 5-yard gain to an offensive receiver.

a)  Play results in a sack.

b)  Play results in a completed pass, gain of 5-yards.

B.  Think of this like the baseball rule -- a tie goes to the offense.

 

9)  CHOOSE THE RESULT.  During the second half and between downs, an offensive player runs onto the field and gets into position wearing a hard-billed cap with the bill facing forward.  The back judge notices with 7 seconds left on the play clock, all players are set, and the snap is imminent.

a)  Penalty for delay of game, 5-yard dead ball foul.

b)  Penalty for illegal equipment, 5-yard live ball foul.

c)  The play should be shut down before the snap.  The player has to leave the game for at least one down and is not allowed to return to the game until the hat is turned backwards.

d)  It is too late to stop the play with the snap imminent.  The player should be warned after the play is completed.

C.  In 2019, a rule change passed changing our rule to match the NCAA rule.  We no longer have a penalty for illegal equipment, but an official can not allow a down to begin when a player is wearing illegal equipment.  That player must sit out one down, and can't return until the equipment is made legal.  The player may be allowed to return without missing a down if the team takes a charged time out.

 

10)  TRUE or FALSE?  During overtime, if the defensive team gains possession of a live ball, the ball becomes dead immediately and the down and series has ended for the offensive team.

TRUE.  Here we have the same rule as high school football, which guarantees that both teams get at least one series on offense, and the game can't be won on a "Pick-6".

 

YBTR May 2022

1.  An official signals the game clock to stop when they see A1 limping from a twisted ankle.  Within 20 seconds, A1 says they feel fine and want to remain in the game.  Team A is then granted a charged team timeout.

a)  A1 must leave the game for at least one down
b)  Because team A was granted a timeout, A1 may remain in the game
c)  Since A1 was ready to play before the timeout request was granted, they my remain in the game

a)  A1 must leave the game for at least one down.  Rule 9.6.3.b states that it is an illegal participation for an injured player to not be replaced for at least one down, unless a halftime occurs.  There is no provision in the NGFFL rules for a player to "buy themselves back into the game" by using a timeout.

 

2.  Team A has 7 players in the huddle.  Just as the huddle is breaking, A8 enters the game.

a)  No problem as long as a different team A players leaves the field within three seconds
b)  Dead-ball foul for illegal substitution
c)  Live-ball foul for illegal substitution
d)  Dead-ball foul for illegal participation
e)  Live-ball foul for illegal participation

a)  No problem as long as a different team A players leaves the field within three seconds.  Rule 9.5.1.c states that "a replaced player must begin to leave the field within three seconds of being replaced by a substitute."

 

3.  What's the ruling?  Rusher B2 deflags quarterback A1 at the exact same time as a legal forward pass is released from A1’s hand. The pass is completed for a 5-yard gain to A2.

Completed pass.  There is no sack.  A tie on the flag pull/ball release goes to the offense.

YBTR 04-20-2022

 

1)  TRUE or FALSE?  Team B can commit pass interference during an illegal forward pass.

FALSE.  Rule 7.5.7 says that no player of A or B shall interfere with an opponent beyond the line of scrimmage during a LEGAL forward pass play. If the covering official judges the contact to be excessive, a live ball foul for unnecessary roughness may still be enforced.



2)  What's the ruling?  4th & 15.  K announces a protected punt.  The clock is running with 1:10 left in the 1st half when the ball is snapped.  K2 snaps the ball to K3, who holds the ball for 6 or 7 seconds, then punts it out of bounds.

The referee will enforce a penalty for delay of game.  Rule 6.1.6 says that an attempt to punt must occur immediately after the punter receives the snapped ball.  If accepted, a 5-yard penalty is enforced from the previous spot and the referee should reset the game clock to 1:10 and start the clock on the kick.  If team A had wanted to run time off of the clock, they should have delayed the snap until just 1 or 2 seconds were remaining on the play clock.



3)  What's the ruling?  K1's untouched punt is rolling, then comes to a stop.  K5 places a hand on it, but does not gain possession.  R4 then grabs the ball and races for a touchdown.

The ball is dead when K5 touches it.  Rule 4.2.1.h says that the ball becomes dead and the down is ended when any member of the kicking team catches or possesses a kicked ball or touches a grounded, kicked ball.  Ball is dead and belongs to team R at the spot of K5's touching.

YBTR 2/24/2022

 

1.  TRUE or FALSE?  A1 runs the ball across the A scrimmage line, reverses their direction back behind the A scrimmage line, and throws a forward pass.  Ruling: Illegal forward pass. A1 is penalized 5 yards from the spot of the foul and loss of down.

TRUE.  Rule 7.5.2.b says that it is an illegal forward pass if any forward pass is thrown after a scrimmage running play has been established.  The scrimmage running play is established as runner A1 advanced the ball across the line of scrimmage.  The foul is 5-yards from the spot of the illegal forward pass, per the all-but-one principle.

2.  TRUE or FALSE?  An errant snap that touches the ground during the last two minutes of each half does not cause the clock to stop.

TRUE.  Even though an errant snap that touches the ground is treated similar to an incomplete pass -- in that the ball returns to the previous spot and the down counts, it is treated like a fumble, and rule 3.1.3 clarifies that the clock continues to run inside the last two minutes of each half.

3.  SCENARIO:  2nd and 8 from team A's own 20 yard line.  There is a deep pass thrown to A6, with defensive pass interference called on B3 while the ball was in the air.  The pass falls Incomplete.  A6 jumps up and screams, "Where's the f***ing flag?!", directed at the back judge.   Unsportsmanlike conduct was called on A6.  What's the next down & distance, and where will the ball next be put in play?

The next down and distance is 1st & 10 for team A.  The ball is next put into play at team A's own 20-yard line.  The pass interference is enforced first because it is a live ball foul.  That moves the ball +10 yards from the previous spot to A's 30-yard line, with an automatic first down awarded to team A.  Then, the unsportsmanlike conduct foul is enforced as a dead-ball foul, moving the ball -10 yards to A's 20-yard line.  It is not 1st down & 20 yards to go, because the a new series always starts on 1st & 10, unless a foul occurs after the ready for play has been blown.

Jeremiah Phipps, NGFFL 2020 Hall of Fame

What does being a Hall of Famer mean to you?

To be honest the Hall of Fame is just the icing on the cake from having played with such great teammates. It is nice to be inducted to the Hall of Fame, but that would have never been possible without the great coaches and teammates who scarified and did all the little things right so I could perform. To me it will always be a recognition of all the of unsung warriors I battled with year end and year out. My Hall of Fame nod is for all the teammates that I played with that will never get their just due and this means the world to me because it allows me to have a bigger platform to continue to praise and thank them for all the things that did to make me a better player.  

 

What made you decide to “come out and play” in the NGFFL?

I honestly just wanted to show the world that gay men and women could be terrific athletes and teammates in group sports who also could performed at the highest levels. It was about not only breaking the mold, but shattering stereotypes that hounded gay athletes. 

 

What do you want your NGFFL legacy to include?

Put simply that I was the first to open the door to high end high skilled athletes to come out and play this game in the open while celebrating being gay at the same time. To further that point this also created a dialogue with amazing straight athletes to push the boundaries of this league even further. There is a saying GAME RESPECTS GAME and that is what I always wanted this league to be as something to be respected on and off the field of play. 

Paul Sokolson, NGFFL 2020 Hall of Fame

What does being a Hall of Famer mean to you?  

Being a Hall of Famer means that I have the honor of having been selected by a group of some of the finest people, who have excelled in this great sport, but more importantly, have contributed countless thankless hours and exhausting energy toward making this organization what it is, in furtherance of its admirable goals. It means I have been recognized by my peers for my own hard work and achievements. But in a sense, I find it kind of silly to be rewarded for doing something I love, that is so much fun, around people I love for so much more than football. Regardless, I am truly honored.

 

What made you decide to “come out and play” in the NGFFL? 

In my teenage years, playing sports and being gay were incongruent and that suppressed my true self. In my early twenties, I was able to come out, in large part, due to my involvement in both the NY Gay Flag Football League's inaugural season and the NGFFL Gay Bowl. Through my involvement in the league, I saw that you could both be gay and be a "jock". I finally felt like I was a part of a greater community, which in turn helped me feel comfortable in my own skin.

What is your memorable Gay Bowl moment so far?

I've been a part of some great teams and have had some individual success. What I found is that all of that is fleeting. My greatest memories involve the amazing friends I've met through this league who will be friends long after we're able to lace up our cleats on the field. If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that what really matters is not the accolades you receive, but rather, the relationships you've made.

 

What advice or wisdom would you share with new players? 

My advice would be to always love yourself, and to cherish the relationships you'll make. You have one life to live, so don't waste time and energy thinking you are not good enough, or not worthy of finding happiness.  Despite the constant barrage of negative news, there are good people out there. Don't be afraid to do the work and dig a little deeper to find that good in people. It will be well worth your time. 

Michael Annichiarico, NGFFL 2020 Hall of Fame

What does being a Hall of Famer mean to you?

It’s truly an honor & a privilege to be part of such an elite group of players & truly means the world to me...so thank you very much!

What made you decide to “come out and play” in the NGFFL?

I was introduced to the Los Angeles Gay Flag Football League just a “few short years ago” back in 2003  by Mr. Alvin Ty Law after a shift we worked together @Fiesta Cantina in Weho & I was hooked!!!

 

What do you want your NGFFL legacy to include?

To be a motivated & positive role model for all players. To let players know that no matter where life takes you, you will always have a football family on & off the field. 

Love the idea of little brother/big brother...little sister/big sister...for veteran & new players to connect with the league. We incorporated that idea in South Florida...my little brother lives on Pheonix & I live in LA & he is still my Lil Bro!!!

 

Given the mission of the NGFFL: “...promotes the positive athletic and social benefits of flag football competition…foster and cultivate the self-respect of all LGBTQ+ individuals and promote respect and understanding from the larger community” – how do you plan to use your new status as Hall of Famer to fulfill these ideals?

To represent the NGFFL, LAFF & SFFL in a positive manner with no judgement, have fun on & off the field. Include the league in our community with more outreach programs & information about the league who we are, what we stand for & what we represent. 

What are your suggestions to the NGFFL leadership to assist in continuing to advance the organization’s reach, mission, and vision?  

I believe knowledge is key. Getting the word out to as much GLBTQUIA individuals as possible. Contacting local high schools, colleges, restaurants, bars & community centers to get the word out to ALL individuals gay/straight/bi & everyone in between.

 

What is your memorable Gay Bowl moment so far?

It’s hard to narrow it down to just one over the years... there have been so many...but my top 2 most memorable Gay Bowl moments so far would be...

Coaching the LA team & winning the C Division in Gay Bowl XVII in Boston in 2017...the players putting me on their shoulders after the Championship Game & accomplishing what we came out to do collectively as a team & also bringing that winning trophy home cross country back to LA...that trophy got her own window seat & I wrapped that seat belt around her for the whole fight! 

Also when Cat 5 from South Florida went to its first Gay Bowl...Gay Bowl 7 in NYC in 2007...we were the “new fun team”...we came home with a trophy...Spirt Award...so that meant a lot to me & all of us. Just knowing the players had such an amazing experience. We went back home full of energy, motivated, ready to practice & get better on the field...plus still do the MOST off the field. (Shot Shot Shot Shot Shot....)

 

What advice or wisdom would you share with new players? 

That there is a position on this team & in this league for EVERYONE. Regardless of your talent & knowledge of the game.  Not everyone can be a QB or a wide receiver. We are ONE team & ONE unit. Can’t do this alone. We need ALL the moving parts to be successful.  My biggest thing to the players is we are ALL ONE FAMILY!!! 

ON & OFF the field!!!

What is your go to artist or song to get you in game mode and why?

Ciara LEVEL UP!!!

She’s hot...

Songs hot...

Upbeat...

You need to LEVEL UP & come correct before you take the field!!!

Gets me going EV! ERY! TIME!

Plus her husband Russell Wilson is fine AF & the QB for the Seattle Seahawks!!!

It’s a WIN WIN

BLOOP!!!

 

Jeremy Stetslicki, NGFFL 2020 Hall of Fame

What does being a Hall of Famer mean to you?

Given the quality of the NGFFL, DCGFFL and the National Hall, I believe this honor is a recognition of my consistent and competitive level of play and overall contributions to the game. Being in the HoF is more importantly a similar recognition of all my current and former Washington Generals teammates and the culture we created together over the years.

 

What made you decide to “come out and play” in the NGFFL?

I was recently out and new to DC. Joining the local league was a way for me to integrate into a vibrant, supportive, fun community while getting to play competitive team sports as an adult. Being a part of G5 has been one of the most positive and important experiences and identities of my life. I quickly realized I couldn't replicate the extreme feelings of brotherhood and family any other way. I was hooked! Playing in the NGFFL as a member of the Washington Generals isn't a thing that I do. It's not an activity. It's a key part of who I am.

 

What do you want your NGFFL legacy to include?

That I also competed fiercely and fearlessly. That I was a leader who mentored players and set the tone for a winning and fun culture. Between the lines, underestimate my old, slow ass at your peril! 

 

What are your suggestions to the NGFFL leadership to assist in continuing to advance the organization’s reach, mission, and vision? 

Do what it takes to maintain, and in some cases grow, the quality of the competition. Sustaining the A bracket, ensuring quality of refereeing will help keep the competition high. For many of our gay athletes, we are there for the football.

 

What is your memorable Gay Bowl moment so far?

The Generals came very close over the years to winning GB. Just couldn't get over the hump for a number of reasons. Winning our first GB in 2018 was a joyous, but also cathartic, experience. So many battles, including going back to the team's founding with me as captain, all built into that team and that championship. I think I was the only original team member to be on that 2018 roster. It's been a long journey and I will always remember my tumult of emotions when the final whistle blew. Elation, relief, disbelief, surreality, pride; all those disparate emotions mixed up and manifested in screams, hugs, and sobs. Shit I got chills writing this!

 

How did the NGFFL give you a sense of belonging and affirm your LGBTQ+ athlete identity?

It's been an honor to share the field with so many talented and competitive LGBTQ+ athletes. We dispel the stereotypes so many straights, including well-intentioned allies, have about gay men particularly. Over the last decade, I've seen so many straight guys astounded by how talented gay players are. Our imperfect and halting progress toward equality comes in steps and via individuals; we dispel notions and remove barriers of otherness through sports. It's powerful. 

 

What is your go to artist or song to get you in game mode and why?

My teammates know my choices are odd ones: Motown and quiet storm. Pre-game listens include singing along to Anita Baker to get hyped. I'm strange.

O.T. Porter-Fisher, NGFFL 2020 Hall of Fame

What does being a Hall of Famer mean to you?

Every. Single. Thing! Being a Hall of Famer means I achieved one of my aspirations and I have much more work to do. There was a time when I believed being inducted into the Hall of Fame was an accomplishment bestowed upon people at the end of their career. What I have learned is having this honor bestowed upon me means my responsibility to the NGFFL community actually increased. As a Hall of Famer, I must represent the pillars, motto, mission, and vision of the NGFFL in every aspect of my daily life. It is my duty to be the physical representation and embodiment of what the NGFFL sets out to represent. I must continue to serve and be the example. Being a Hall of Famer is everything I worked for since my first time on the field with the Houston Hurricanes in 2010. I attended the very first Hall of Fame induction in Phoenix. I knew then I wanted to be part of that conversation, held in the same esteem as that elite group of people. Completing this mission means I must now set new NGFFL objectives and work toward achieving them with the same ferocity as I did in attaining this one. I am not by any means done.

 

What made you decide to “come out and play” in the NGFFL?

I saw a documentary called “The Butch Factor” on television and it highlighted my now good friend Jason Hefley. I knew immediately that I wanted to join the NGFFL ranks. I could see myself in Jason (I realize how that reads and I am not changing the words – you are the problem, not me). I felt represented when I saw him on the field, working his job, and just living his daily life. I immediately sought out the local team, the Houston Hurricanes, and sent them an email detailing why I was worthy of joining the ranks. It was the best, most affirming decision I ever made. That moment, that program, Jason’s presence, the NGFFL changed the course of my entire life in ways I had only dreamed possible.

 

What do you want your NGFFL legacy to include?

I would hope my legacy already includes being known (and possibly feared) as a fierce competitor on the field. I would also hope my legacy is one of love and friendship off the field. I did win the first and only “Best Sportsmanship” Award in Phoenix in 2010. Ha! I love Jared Garduno! What I joined the NGFFL to do was to create a space for myself in the world of LGBTQ+ athletics. I played sports in high-school and in college, but I never felt like I belonged. I could never figure out how to carve out a space for myself. When I joined the NGFFL, I found a manner to bring forth all the best parts of myself and put them on display, athletically and personally. By bringing all my best qualities to the forefront, I created a safe space for people to gravitate towards knowing they could be their authentic selves in my presence without judgment. I want my legacy to include the community, sportspersonship, philanthropy, love, honesty, and authenticity I strive to display regularly. I came to the NGFFL desperately searching for those elements, so it is my responsibility to provide them to others. I hope I have done so thus far.

 

Given the mission of the NGFFL: “...promotes the positive athletic and social benefits of flag football competition…foster and cultivate the self-respect of all LGBTQ+ individuals and promote respect and understanding from the larger community” – how do you plan to use your new status as Hall of Famer to fulfill these ideals?

By being available. Visibility matters. I proudly wear my NGFFL memorabilia any and everywhere. I share the plethora of stories I know about how the NGFFL has changed so many lives. I promote league initiatives and tirelessly work toward making the NGFFL the premiere LGBTQ+ sports organization in the universe. I will continue to find manners to improve my impact on the mission and vision of the NGFFL. I will continue to fortify what the NGFFL does for its family members and greater society. Ultimately, I will continue to donate my time and my talents to elevating this league to greater heights in every possible manner. I do not know the specifics of what the work entails, but I do know whatever it is, I will be prepared to contribute.

 

What are your suggestions to the NGFFL leadership to assist in continuing to advance the organization’s reach, mission, and vision?

As a sitting member of the NGFFL leadership structure excuse my bias in stating I believe we are doing a legendary job at this already, overall. However, I would like the NGFFL to continue to expand its inclusion and equity efforts until equity and inclusion become obsolete. I would like the NGFFL to be so intentionally inclusive, so purposefully equitable to all members, that we no longer require discussions or initiatives surrounding the topics of racial, women, Trans, or other types of equity and inclusion. It is my goal to continue pushing forward conversations, creating initiatives, and taking action to ensure all who come to the NGFFL feel like he, she, or they belong.

 

What is your memorable Gay Bowl moment so far?

I believe the story of my dual proposal to my now husband, Chad, is the stuff of legend thanks to the NFL Films segment, so I will choose another moment. It was after Thurman Williams was originally elected the commissioner of the NGFFL in 2016 at the D.C. Gay Bowl closing ceremony. I remember being very excited for him, because over the prior year we became increasingly friendlier with each other. However, to my great surprise, as soon as he finished his acceptance speech, he walked off the stage, got a few hugs, and made his way over to me. When he got to me, he gave me what I now know as his signature Thurman, "I'm about to tell you what to do and you will comply" stare and said, “I am going to need you on my Board.” I was gobsmacked. I had no idea I was on anyone’s radar to do anything more than be a body on the field, especially someone at his level of NGFFL celebrity. I felt seen. I felt important. I felt a sense of validation that my efforts and my presence were not going unnoticed. I also immediately felt a sense of responsibility to give more of myself to this league that had given me everything I always wanted. I knew then I needed to change the manner in which I was contributing to the NGFFL. I was simply terrified as to what that meant and how I would accomplish anything at all. Luckily, with some strong assists from Thurman, Shigeo Iwayima, Sam Leman, Lance Burage, Ryan Peel, and JJ Woods, I quickly began to carve out a path that led me to his honor. 

 

How did the NGFFL give you a sense of belonging and affirm your LGBTQ+ athlete identity?

I feel like I answered this through my previous responses, but I will be more intentional here. I knew I had same sex attraction since I was 5-years young. My first kiss was a guy. I had a gay uncle growing up and my mother is a nurse that (unfortunately still) enjoys discussing sex and sexuality. I also grew up in a household with athletes all around me: my grandmother, my mother, my not-gay uncles, and my older brother all played sports. What I never saw was any intersectionality of sports and sexuality, unless it was heteronormative, misogynistic, and anti-feminine. It was not until I began to play in the NGFFL did I find a place where my sexuality mattered LESS than my on the field ability, where my sexuality was not truly a topic. I was never the most masculine guy. People constantly questioned my sexual orientation. Those questions seemed to also, somehow, diminish my manhood, my masculinity, and my male identity. I never truly understood why that was status-quo, this idea that being gay is somehow equivalent to being less than a man, less than male even. The NGFFL changed that standard. It allowed me to play a sport without inhibition for the first time in my entire life, without fear, without censoring myself. I could, for the first time, focus only on being an excellent player, teammate, and person. I knew the first moment I stepped onto the field in my Houston Hurricanes jersey I was exactly where I belonged.

 

What has been the most encouraging NGFFL advancement since you came out to play? 

Easy, the NFL Films segment and the partnership with the NFL. To have the greatest football league in the world validate the NGFFL speaks volumes about what we are doing as an organization and as a community of LGBTQ+ athletes. Being able to partner with the NFL and NFL Films has been a dream come true. When I joined this league, I was recently out of the closet and still learning to navigate the LGBTQ+ community. I did not see where there could ever be an junction between the hypermasculinity of the NFL and the National GAY Flag Football League. Yet, here we are… partners. Because of the efforts and visibility of every member of the NGFFL, past and present, a decade from now it will no longer be “odd” or “strange” to witness these two organizations working in concert with each other. That is the greatest feeling in the world. To know I not only was able to witness this, but I was also directly involved in securing such a collaboration is truly humbling. I helped to create something bigger than me that will outlive me and help thousands, maybe millions, of people over the lifetime of the partnership. That is what this is all about for me, giving back more than I take from this wonderful league that has given me so much. 

 

What advice or wisdom would you share with new players? 

Most importantly, do more than play the sport. Join your local Board. Join the national Board. Get involved in your community. Volunteer. Get your league name out there to broader society. Your visibility is what forces advancements in social movements that create equity, diversity, and inclusion. Whatever is in your power to accomplish, apply yourself to that and help as many people as you can along the way. Do not be afraid to fail. Failure is not the opposite of success, it is part of it. Be vigilant in giving back to the sport, to the organization, far more than you take away from it. Be as active in the advancement of the NGFFL as you are in playing the sport. 

Of equal importance, do your part in ensuring the LGBTQ+ community is an actual community. Love and support each other without conditions. The NGFFL created this space in sports because we were literally not-included in other arenas. Our mission states, "We foster and cultivate the self-respect of all LGBTQ+..."  We are here to build each other up, as we are, without expectations of conformity. We are not attempting to “normalize” our behaviors or existence. Love and embrace all the people you meet here in the NGFFL no matter how different and then spread that love into the rest of the world. We all came here searching for a sense of family, community, and belonging. Be part of creating and maintaining that atmosphere.

 

What was your go to artist or song to get you in game mode and why?

Maaaaaan, listen. I have a bevy of songs and artists that get me my version of excited. If I had to pick a single artist, it’s Mary J. Blige. The emotion with which she sings stirs my emotions and gets me prepared to do what needs to be done on that field. Her voice can change my mood however I need it to be changed in an instant. If there is one song, D.J. Khaled featuring pretty much everybody, “All I Do Is Win” – the original or the remix (fine...that is two songs). That beat goes SO HARD! And the rap verses…are you kidding me? I do not care where I am or what I am doing, when that song comes on I go from 0 to 3000 easy. Now I want to hear that song. Both versions.