316-Sports Crusaders Football Season Information (Parent Guide 9U)
Welcome
Welcome to 316-Sports Crusaders Football! We are excited to kick off our first season as an official Pop Warner program and can’t wait to have your family be a part of it.
If this is your first time participating in Pop Warner, you’re in the right place. This guide is designed to walk you through what to expect throughout the season—from equipment pickup and practices to important rules and timelines. Our goal is to create a fun, safe, and structured environment where athletes can grow in both skill and character.
Pop Warner is a nationally recognized youth football organization that emphasizes player safety, proper development, and a positive team experience. Throughout the season, you can expect clear communication from our staff, organized practices, and a strong focus on fundamentals.
We’re here to support you every step of the way and are excited for a great season!
Equipment Pickup & Jersey Sizing
July 11 · 9:00 AM
3512 Faith Church Road
316-Sports Crusaders will provide each player with a helmet, shoulder pads, practice jersey, and practice football pants. Any player choosing to use their own equipment must sign a waiver accepting full responsibility for the safety and condition of that equipment.
All equipment provided is certified and meets safety standards.
Coaches may not require any additional or specialized equipment purchases for individual teams or players.
During this time, we will also take measurements for official game jerseys and pants.
Please Note:
- All registration, paperwork, and payments must be completed prior to receiving equipment
- If you are unable to attend, please contact us to arrange an alternate time
- Players must have equipment before the first practice
Limited Crusaders gear (SWAG) may be available.
Opening Day · First Practice
July 15, 2026
Matthews Sportsplex – Area B, Field 5
Our first official practice marks the start of the season. This day is focused on helping players get comfortable, meet their coaches, and begin the conditioning process.
Pop Warner requires the first 10 hours of practice to be conditioning only, meaning no contact drills during this phase. Helmets may be introduced, but full pads will come later.
Important Reminders:
- All registration, paperwork, and payments must be completed before participation
- Practice schedules will be communicated by your coach
- Staff will be available on the first day to assist with questions
What to Bring:
- Water or sports drink
- Mouth guard
- Cleats
- Practice jersey
- Athletic shorts
Practice Location & Schedule
All practices will be held at:
Matthews Sportsplex (Area B – Field 5)
Practice schedules will be communicated by coaches. Early season practices may occur multiple days per week due to conditioning requirements.
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Age Divisions & Eligibility
Pop Warner divisions are based on your athlete’s age as of July 14, 2026.
- Age on July 14 determines division for the season
- Players who turn a new age after July 14 remain in their current division
- Players who turn a new age on or before July 14 move up
- NOTE: FOR 9U CRUSADERS PLAYER MUST NOT TURN 10 TILL AFTER JULY 14th
What to Expect at Practices
Early Season (First 10 Hours – Conditioning):
- No contact drills
- Focus on fundamentals and movement
- Helmets may be introduced
After Conditioning:
- Full equipment is used
- Gradual introduction of contact
- Continued skill development
Typical Practice Structure:
- Warm-ups
- Skill stations
- Team instruction
- Water breaks
- Cool down
Game Days (What to Expect on Saturdays)
- Games are typically on Saturdays
- Kickoff times vary weekly
- Arrival is 60 minutes before kickoff
Players should bring:
- Game uniform
- Mouth guard
- Cleats
- Water
Parents can expect:
- Organized sidelines
- Safe, structured games
- Focus on development and sportsmanship
Communication (How Parents Stay Updated)
Communication will be through:
- Band App (team updates once teams are formed)
- SportsConnect Email (official league communication)
Coaches will use Band for daily updates and reminders. SportsConnect will be used for official announcements.
Closing
Thank you for joining us for our inaugural season with 316-Sports Crusaders Pop Warner Football. We are excited to build something special together and look forward to providing a positive, structured, and memorable experience for every athlete and family.
We appreciate your trust in us and can’t wait to get started. It’s going to be a great season!