VOLUSIA COUNTY

I.      PRIORITY OF RULES

These United States Firefighter Games Rules shall supersede all other rules.  If any conflict of rules occur, including conflict with other governing bodies, the USFFG rules shall be used.

II.      INABILITY TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS

Where USFFG rules and requirements cannot be met, the host state or the organization hosting the event shall contact the USFFG National Headquarters for resolution of the deficiency.  The USFFG will make every attempt to keep the rules consistent between the different states to make all games, regardless of location (region or state), as equal as possible.

III.      USFFG APPROVED SPORTS

To organize and conduct a sport, it will include the following:  USFFG Rules, providing facilities, officials, personnel, equipment, medical support, security, organizational support, supervision, and any other logistics necessary to conduct the sport to the high standard of the USFFG.

5k                                                                    Hockey - Ice or Roller

Archery                                                            Horseshoes

Arm Wrestling                                                  Pistol

Basketball 3v3                                                  Poker

Basketball 5v5                                                  Push / Pull

Billiards - 8 & 9 Ball                                         Pull Ups

Bowling                                                            Rifle

Darts                                                                Soccer

Fishing - Bass                                                  Softball

Flag Football 7v7                                             Swim Meet

Flag Football 4v4                                             Tennis

Golf - Scratch, Scramble                                  Track Meet

These events may have been hosted in the past and the rules are outlined in the "Rules of Sport".  These rules that have been approved by the USFFG must be adhered to unless changes are made to them prior to the start of registration.   In the event that a new event is introduced, rules for that introductory event must be submitted, approved and published prior to the start of registration.

IV.      ENTRY / EVENT FEES

The Entry Fee and Event Fees will be established by the USFFG with input from the host.

The Entry Fee is a fee charged for every event into the USFFG.  The Event Fee is a separate fee charged for each event entered in addition to the Basic Entry Fee.

The Event Fee may be charged to the competitor to offset expenses, which exceed normal costs.  These types of expenses may include required USFFG Officials, extraordinary venue charges or costs paid by the Host for a round of play for each competitor.  Examples of sports typically having these expenses are: Golf,  Trap, Skeet, and Sporting Clays.  These event fees should be outlined prior to registration, and be included at the time registration is completed by the participants.

V.      USE OF COMPETITOR INFORMATION & MAILING LISTS:

All competitors' and potential competitors' names, addresses and personal information obtained by registering for a USFFG event, are confidential and the exclusive property of the USFFG. All lists developed by the USFFG, hosting agency or designee (example: mailing service, registration company, travel agency) in order to mail, confirm, or clarify any portion of the participants involvement with the Firefighter Games also becomes the exclusive property of the USFFG.  This information, in any form  (originals, corrected copies, photocopies, on computers, or on computer storage media), shall be turned over to the USFFG at the end of the scheduled event.

Any mailing lists, computer files or computer software (original or enhanced forms) given to the host or his designee by the USFFG, or created from these sources, is the exclusive property of the USFFG and shall not be sold, given away or otherwise disseminated without the express written permission of the USFFG.

VI.      ENTRY PROCESSING and GUIDELINES

A. Entry Forms:  Every competitor in the USFFG must qualify for entry under these rules and must submit a completed Sports Entry Form with appropriate Entry Fees, by the Entry Deadline.  A waiver of liability must be completed by every participant prior to the event, which can be accomplished at registration/check-in.

B. Return of Entry Forms:  All completed Sports Entry Forms, Entry Fees, and any substantiating data as required, shall be completed and processed on-line or mailed to the USFFG office prior to the Entry Deadline.

The address for USFFG entries is:

United States Firefighter Games

P.O. Box 608792

Orlando, Florida 32860

The USFFG Web Site for On-Line entries is:

http://www.usffg.com/

C. ENTRY DEADLINE:  The Entry Deadline will be determined by the host and posted on the website.  The deadline will be approximately 30 days prior to the first full day of competition.   Entries accepted after the Deadline date shall be specifically approved on an individual basis by the USFFG, and a 25% late fee (based on entry fee only) will be assessed.  Failure to meet the deadline by use of non-electronic means (i.e."usps mail") shall be the sole responsibility of the sender.  The preferred method of entry is electronic and completed on-line.  Look to the website for exact date of entry deadline.

** Exceptions to the entry deadline rule include the events of Pull-Ups, and Arm Wrestling.  These events can be entered the day of competition, without penalty.  All Forms, Fees and liabilities will be completed on site for these events.

D. ENTRY PROCESSING: The USFFG office screens all Entry Forms for completeness, accuracy and eligibility including:

1.  Entrants must represent eligible agencies

2.  Entrant must have been a Firefighter 30 days prior to the first day of the USFFG.

Academy Time:  If an agency hires a Firefighter, but requires successful completion of an academy curriculum prior to swearing in, the competitor may use the first day of the academy for the sworn in date.

3.  Entrant must be at least 18 years of age as of the first day of the USFFG.

4.  All required fees have been paid.

If all requirements have not been met, the USFFG will attempt to gain compliance from the entrants from the information provided.   If the entrant cannot be contacted from the information provided, the registration will not be processed.

E. ENTRY INFORMATION: Once the entry forms are screened, the USFFG enters (or transfers) the data into their automated systems, which will allow for the individual sport coordinators to contact individual participants as needed.

F. BRACKETING:  Some events need to be bracketed prior to the start of the Games.  This may be necessary because of the number of entries, facility limitations, official scheduling, or other necessities for  running a smooth event   If pre-event bracketing is necessary, the USFFG will distribute or publish the brackets 28 days before the first day of the USFFG.  All Bracketing will use approved USFFG Bracketing Forms. Seeding is mandatory for the top four (4) finishers from the previous year.  First and fourth place finishers should be seeded in one half of the bracket with second and third place finishers seeded in the other half of the bracket. If a seed does not enter, or has changed age groups or categories, the lower seeded teams move up in seed.  If a department has two  (2) or more entries entered in one sport, they are to be separated when the brackets are drawn.

G.    SCHEDULING:  Some scheduling will be accomplished while the brackets are completed.  Schedules especially start times, for all sports, must be finalized 3 weeks prior to the first day of the USFFG.

H. CONFIRMATION NOTIFICATIONS:  The USFFG shall mail or email each registrant two (2) different mailings.

The first will be an entry notification letter.  This entry notification will be sent acknowledging receipt of the entries that the registrant submitted.  This will occur within 48 hours of submission to the USFFG.

The second notification will be a follow-up letter.  It will  include: the location of the rules of sport, special equipment or clothing, schedule of a required captain or participant meeting, and a reminder of the registration procedure. This letter will also information where his/her first competition is scheduled.  For events with more than 3 team members, the team captain should check the website at least 14 days prior to the start of the games.

Start times, for all sports must be be posted on the website 14 days prior to the first day of the USFFG.   Every attempt will be made to email the start information to singles and doubles participants, as well as team captains as soon as it is posted.

I.  LATE ENTRIES, CHANGES AND ADDITIONS / SUBSTITUTIONS:

A.  LATE ENTRIES: The Entry Deadline is the 6 weeks prior to the first day of competition.   Entries received later than the Entry Deadline, will not be accepted unless an exemption is made by the USFFG. Entries accepted after the Deadline date shall be specifically approved on an individual basis by the USFFG.  Failure to meet the deadline by use of non-electronic means (i.e."U.S.P.S.") shall be the sole responsibility of the sender.  The preferred method of entry is electronic and to be completed on-line. Look to the website for exact date of entry deadline.

Procedures for making changes to entries, accepting late entries, or making additions must be submitted to the USFFG for entry into the database.  The USFFG understands that changes are inevitable and in some cases required. When establishing these policies and procedures, the USFFG will consider benefits from additional entries, scheduling and venue restrictions and political and monetary implications.

Late Fees: Any late entries, including all sport and event additions, accepted by the USFFG after the registration deadline will be assessed a late charge.  Late entries shall be assessed a 25% late fee based on entry fee alone. Changes to entries that had registered prior to the deadline are exempt from this fee.

B.  CHANGES / SUBSTITUTIONS:

Changes to Entries:  Event changes cannot be made at the sport venue or registration. All changes to entries must be completed 4 weeks prior to the start of the games. (i.e. change in age group).  Please check your entries to be sure you have signed up for the correct event.

Changes to Rosters:  No changes can be made to the roster after the event has started.  Changes made to the roster after registration, but before the event starts, must be presented to the Sport Coordinator by the captain.  This change must meet all of the requirements to participate, including the registration process and meet the original requirements for participation.  The changes to the roster cannot affect the age grouping

Substitutions:   Substitutions must be processed through the USFFG.  All substitutions must be completed prior to the first competition of the team or individual event. The substitute must be processed through registration at the host headquarters prior to participation

The Team Captain, either in person or in writing, must make substitutions for Team sports/events.  The captain must submit a completed Sports Entry Form and a signed Waiver of Liability for the substitute.

The original entrant, either in person or in writing, must make substitutions for Individual sports/events.

All substitutes must meet the same requirements as the original entries.  No entry fees or late charges apply for substitutions.

It is the responsibility of the original entrant, substitute, and/or Team Captain to request the substitution far enough ahead of the actual competition to allow the USFFG time to meet its responsibilities.

C.  ADDITIONS: The USFFG, at their discretion, may allow additions to certain events up until the day the event starts. Any additions made to certain events will take into consideration the benefits from any additional entries, scheduling, venue restrictions, political and monetary implications.   The events that will accept late additions or "day of" registration will be maintained on the web and at registration for all participants to see.   Any registrations added will need to be accomplished prior to arrival or at the time of registration.  This will be accomplished on a first come, first serve basis.  These additions will be subject to the late entry fee.  If an event has been bracketed and distributed, no additional participants will be added.  No additions can be accomplished at the venue sight.

VII.     ENTRANT ELIGIBILITY

A. Eligible Entries:     The USFFG has the ultimate responsibility for assuring that all entrants in the USFFG meet these eligibility requirements.  The USFFG shall strictly adhere to the eligibility rules, accepting those applicants that meet all the following criteria and rejecting all others. The USFFG National Headquarters must specifically approve any exceptions.

In order to be eligible to compete in the USFFG, applicants:

1.        Must be a fulltime Firefighter that is publicly or privately paid.

2.         Must have formal Firefighter training;

3.         May be a retired Firefighter from an eligible agency. Any person receiving a certified pension and approved by the USFFG is eligible to participate in the games.  Any person that enters the USFFG as a retired firefighter shall provide, when he/she registers identification in the form of:

a.  An identification card or letter of identification from the agency involved.

b.  An approved pension statement with corresponding identification  ( i.e. drivers license)

Retired personnel may compete in only one state game and one national game per year - regardless of residency or previous employment location.  (i.e. An Alabama retiree can compete in the South Carolina State Games where he/she presently lives or the Alabama State games where he/she previously worked, but not both - He/ She may also compete in the National games regardless of location if they meet qualifications)

4.  Must be in good standing with the USFFG (not subject to current suspension or permanent disqualification).

B.  Ineligible Entry or Participation:

Unqualified Persons:   If a person attempts to enter or enters the USFFG when he/she does not qualify for entry, that person is immediately disqualified from competition and shall be permanently disqualified from future USFFG events.

If it is discovered that a team member or competitor has entered and does not qualify for entry into the USFFG (i.e. non Firefighter), that entry be it singles, doubles or team, and all of its members are immediately disqualified from all competition in the current USFFG and shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

Qualified Persons that are Ineligible:  If a person, otherwise qualified to enter the USFFG, enters a sport or event, which he/she is ineligible (i.e. wrong age group), that person is immediately disqualified from all competition in the current USFFG and shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

If another competitor, Team Captain or Coach allows a person to join the team, who is otherwise qualified to enter the USFFG, but who is ineligible for that team (i.e. age or department requirements), that entry be it singles, doubles or team, and all of its members are immediately disqualified from all competition in the current USFFG and shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

C.  AGENCY ELIGIBILITY

All eligible agencies must be specifically approved by the USFFG (see listing).  The USFFG may approve additional agencies, job descriptions and individuals after examination, if they qualify under the USFFG eligibility rules.

1. Approved Agencies:

If an otherwise qualified Firefighter is employed by one of the following agencies or their equivalent, he/she is eligible to compete in the USFFG.   "Equivalent" means:  any duly organized governmental sub-division such as municipal, provincial/state, national, etc.

Municipal, County, State and National Fire Departments/Services

Airport and Harbor/Port Fire Departments

Any agency or representative from an agency not mentioned above, meeting the requirements of a Public Safety or Fire Agency as defined, may petition the USFFG for inclusion in the USFFG.

2. Agencies and Classifications Specifically Excluded:

Military Fire Departments (non-civilian)

Volunteer Fire Departments

Private Business Fire Departments

Private Paramedic Services

Paramedics (without Firefighter status)

Seasonal Firefighters or Smokejumpers

VIII.  COACHES AND CAPTAINS

A.  TEAM COACHES

The USFFG recognizes two categories of Coaches, 1) Eligible-EnteredNon-Eligible Coach. A Non-Eligible Coach may be either gender regardless of the makeup of the team. Both categories of Coaches must be documented on a Sports Entry Form and a Waiver of Liability must be signed prior to the Coaches Meeting and cannot be changed or altered after the roster is submitted. and 2)

Non-Eligible-Coach: This category of Coach need not meet entry eligibility requirements or pay entry fees and are eligible to receive USFFG medals.  In the sports/events listed below, one Non- Eligible, Non-Playing Coach may be officially linked with their team.

Eligible/Entered:  In the following sports/events, teams may enter one Eligible/Entered Coach who is eligible to receive a medal provided he/she meets the same requirements as all other entrants, submits a Sports Entry Form, pay Entry Feesand participates as a coach/and or participant.

Events authorized to have coaches:

Basketball (5 on 5)                 12 players / 1  Coach

Basketball (3 on 3)                   6 players / 1 Coach

Flag Football                            15 players / 1 Coach

Ice Hockey                              20 players / 2 goalkeepers/1  Coach

LaCrosse                                  20 players / 1 coach

Roller Hockey                          12 players / 2 goalkeepers/1 Coach

Soccer                                     15 players / 1  Coach

Softball                                     15 players / 1  Coach

Volleyball (6-Person)                12 players / 1  Coach

Actions Binding:  All Coach's (Non-Eligible or Eligible/Entered) actions on behalf of a competitor or team will have a binding effect on that competitor or team and will affect that competitor or team's play, status, and/ or eligibility in the USFFG.

B.  TEAM CAPTAINS:

Each team of three or more competitors will designate a person to represent the team as Captain.  The Captain must be one of the team members. The Captain will be listed on the appropriate space on the Sports Entry Form and on the Roster submitted.

If there is a change in a Team Captain after the roster is submitted, the USFFG through the Sport Coordinator must be notified of that change. If the designated Captain does not attend a game involving his/her team, an Interim Captain must be selected by the team to assume the Captain's function for that game.  The Sport Coordinator shall be notified of this by the Interim Captain.

Captain Duties:

- Submit and play a legal team.

- Provide a complete Roster of team members with his/her entry before the registration/check in.  (It is very helpful for the Captain to submit the entire team roster at time of registration, but the USFFG understands that rosters may not be completed until days prior to the event.)  If a roster is not submitted at registration, the captain must complete a roster, before any members of the team may check in at registration.

- Receive and disseminate entry information from the Host/USFFG.  If there is missing information, a cancellation, or changes in conditions, brackets or venues, the Captain will be the only contact for the Team.

- Attend Captains meeting and disseminate pertinent information to the team (see Captains Meeting - Pg 15).

- Be responsible for making team substitutions.

- Assume responsibility for determining the team's schedule and for the team's punctual attendance at designated times and venues.

- Ensure that all team members follow correct check-in procedures at the sport venue (see Sport Venue Check-in, Pg. 14)

- Collect and present to the Sport Coordinator or his designee: all properly credentialed Participant ID's before each game, and retrieve at the end of each game.

- Ensure that all team members are properly attired while at sport venues and other official functions

- Be available to the Sport Coordinator and Officials before, during, and after play to make decisions and receive information about Official's rulings that affect a team's progress throughout the tournament.

- Assure that team members do not participate in unsportsmanlike and unruly behavior at USFFG venues (see Unsportsmanlike Conduct, Pg. 16).

- Be responsible for recording and filing protests in a timely manner (see Protest, Pg. 19).

- Be available to represent the team in case of appeals, protests or other

- Inquiries by the Host or USFFG (see Appeal and Protests, Pg. 18 & 19).

IX.  EVENT PARTICIPATION

A.     AGE RULES and RESTRICTIONS

Several different age groups come into play in the United States Firefighter Games.    An attempt to incorporate as many different age groups to promote participation shall be offered for all USFFG games.  Based on registration, age groups may be grouped together and the participants will be notified, if this situation occurs.   See each individual event for age groups.

B.  RESTRICTIONS FOR EVENT PARTICIPATION:

1.      Age is determined by the competitors age on the final day of the events.  The first day of the USFFG is defined as the beginning date of competition that the USFFG publishes on the web site.

2.       A competitor may enter only one age division in an event.

3.      A participant may drop to a lower age group if desired, however he must declare his chosen age group upon initial entry and not enter more than one age group in the same event.

4.      A Team (including Doubles) must compete in an age division eligible to its youngest member.

5.      There is no minimum number of entries required for weight divisions or age divisions. If there is only one (1) participant in an event, the participant may choose one of the following:

-  Move up in weight division

-  Move down in age division

-  Or accept a gold medal upon completion of the event

6.      Late entries, changes or additions in any sport or event may only enter into sports/events in their actual age, skill, or weight category

7.      A competitor may enter only one Doubles event with only one partner in any sport.

EXCEPTION: In most sports, Doubles and Mixed Doubles may be entered

(See rules of sports for specifics). EXAMPLE:  If Todd enters Bowling - Doubles Open with Mike, he may also enter Bowing - Mixed Doubles with Karen, but he may not enter Bowling - Doubles 30+ with Andrew.

8. A competitor may be on only one team in any event.

EXCEPTION:  In basketball, softball, swimming relays, and track relays as long as the teams are in different age groups.   No changes to schedules will be made to accommodate these entries.

EXAMPLE:  If Todd rosters on an Open softball team, he may also roster on the 40+ softball team if he meets the age requirements.

9.      A competitor may enter only one weight division in any one event.

10.  A competitor may enter only one age classification within a weight division.

C.  COMBINING TO FORM A TEAM

Forming a Doubles Team:  Any two individuals from any two departments may combine to form a doubles team.

Forming a team with an eligible roster of 5 or less: Any two departments may combine to field a team with an eligible roster of 5 or less. The USFFG must be notified at time of entry that departments are combining. As many departments that are needed may combine to create an all women's team (5 or less players).

Forming a team with an eligible roster of 6 or more:

The following rules apply:

1) An unlimited number of departments can combine to form a team as long as the total manpower of combining all of the departments does not exceed 750 personnel.

2) A Department of 750 or more may not combine with any other departments.   Departments of 750 and more are considered Division I departments.

All departments will be considered to be Division I, unless proven otherwise by a certified roster signed by the Fire Chief or his designee,.  These certified rosters need to be presented at the captains briefing prior to the event starting.  the team captain / coach must make the event coordinator aware that this is a combined team.  Failure to disclose may result in disqualification.

If departments combine, only 2 teams from those departments may enter the same event. Departments that combine may form only two teams.  As many departments that are needed may combine to create an all women's team (5 or more players).

X.        CANCELLATION and REFUNDS OF A SPORT

A.   CANCELLATION OF A SPORT:  Any sport or event may be canceled at the discretion of the USFFG. The USFFG shall be responsible for notifying all entrants and returning appropriate fees.   Cancellations of any sport/event must be accomplished 21 days prior to the start of the games.

B.        REFUNDING AN ENTRY:  Refunds will be remitted in full for the following:

1)      If a request is received 30 days prior to the start of the first day of the games.

2)      If the event is cancelled

3)      If a single entry for an event, he/she may elect a refund

XI.  HOST HEADQUARTERS REGISTRATION:

Each competitor and Non-Eligible Coaches/Captains must register at the USFFG Headquarters before the beginning of his or her competition.  Competitors and Non-Eligible Coaches/Captains will be required to show current agency identification cards for verification of eligibility.  The Host will check to see if all fees are paid and a Waiver of Liability has been signed and on file.   There may be additional information or verification needed (i.e., date of birth).  The Entry Information on the website and the Notification Letter both shall specify documents required for registration, if different from above.  Combined teams will have their rosters checked at this point.   The team captain must complete the team roster before any participant ID's will be issued.

The USFFG will issue the competitor and Non-Eligible Coaches/Captains a Participant ID that lists all the events he/she has entered and a photograph of the participant. Competitors and Non-Eligible Coaches/Captains must get their Participant ID between the time they successfully register and the time of their first competition.   The Host will ask each competitor and Non-Eligible Coaches/Captains to verify that the events listed on the Participant ID are correct.  The Host will then inform the competitor to present the Participant ID at all sport venues before every competition, and at all activities where special admission to a USFFG event or activity may be needed.  (i.e. Hospitality, social events)

XII.  SPORT VENUE CHECK-IN:

Each competitor must check-in at each sport venue before competing.  This will be repeated each day of competition or each time the competitor returns to the facility for a new competition. In some sports/events, check-in may be required before each competition (particularly sports/events requiring a Credentials Official).  During check-in, each competitor will show the USFFG issued Participant ID.  Failure to do so will prohibit participation until this requirement is satisfied.  Competition will not be rescheduled or delayed if the competitor does not have the Participant ID.

XIII.  ON-SITE REGISTRATION AND CHECK IN (AT SPORT VENUES):

In situations where the physical location of the sport venue is so far removed from the Host Headquarters as to cause unnecessary inconvenience to competitors, the USFFG may have On-Site Registration. Information regarding On-Site Registration will be provided to competitors in the Entry Book and Confirmation Letter.  This is currently specific to Fishing Events only.

In sports with On-Site Registration, the Sport Coordinator will be responsible for ensuring that competitors are duly registered in that sport's event(s) and that all phases of the registration process have been completed (i.e., paying outstanding fees, signing a Waiver, etc).

Any entrant, whose first sport has On-Site Registration and is also participating in another sport without On-Site Registration, must also register at the Host Headquarters' Registration to receive their Participant ID to compete in the other sport(s).

XIV.  OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

A.  Captains/Coaches Meetings:      The Sport Coordinator, Assistant Sport Coordinator, and Head Official or representative should be present.   Each team in the competition will have their Captain/Coach or authorized representative in attendance to be eligible to compete (see "Missing a Mandatory Meeting", XIV - C ).

Rules, procedures, responsibilities, conduct, penalties and etiquette will be discussed.  Any changes in schedules, bracketing or venues will be announced and shall not be changed thereafter without the agreement of the Sport Coordinator and the USFFG or their designee.  The head official will be introduced, and their role, responsibilities, and authority will be reviewed.  Any sport's rule changes will be discussed.

This is an opportunity to answer questions and solve misunderstandings.  This meeting will significantly improve the flow of competition that follows.  The time and place for this meeting and a notice requiring attendance will be posted on the website prior to the start of the games.

B.  Orientation: In all sports other than those with Captains/Coaches' Meetings, there will be competitor orientation.  This may be a meeting the day before or the day of competition and will follow the same guidelines as the Captains/Coaches' Meeting.  In some cases, in lieu of a meeting, the information may be written and handed out or placed in the competitor's registration packet.

C.  Mandatory Meetings:  Some sport rules make these meetings mandatory for competitors or Captains.  If so, notice will be given in the Notification Letter.

a. Missing a Mandatory Meeting:  If sport rules designate a Coaches/Captains meeting or a competitor meeting as mandatory and if this is announced in the notification letter, failure to attend disqualifies the team or competitor from competing in that sport/event.  A competitor/team that has been disqualified for missing a mandatory meeting may only be reinstated by the USFFG State Director or Vice President of Competition.  Reinstatement may be predicated on the understanding that the competitor/team is responsible for all information disseminated at the mandatory meeting and that protests for violations of topics that were reviewed at the mandatory meeting will automatically be found against that competitor/team.

D.  No Entry or Changes Once Competition Begins:  In all sports/events, once competition begins in an event, the USFFG shall NOT accept a new entry, substitution, addition or event change, for that event.

E.  Missing Competition:  If an individual or a team "no shows" for its first game and has not made contact with the sport coordinator prior to the start of the first game, they shall forfeit the rest of their games.  Disqualification from the event or forfeiture of a game/match for missing competition will not be changed.

F.  Late Competitors & Scheduling: Competition will adhere to scheduling as published, or referred to, at the participant / Captains meetings. Sports, events, games and/or matches will not be delayed to accommodate late competitors.  Be on time and have your Participant ID prior to arrival.

G.  Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be condoned during, before or after competition.  Any behavior that brings discredit upon the USFFG or the Firefighting services in general, will not be tolerated.  Any physical or verbal assaults on officials, competitors, spectators, coordinators or ex-officios will meet with immediate and the severest of penalty.  (See Disciplinary Action, Pg. 17-19).  Unsportsmanlike conduct of non-competitor Firefighters or other supporters may reflect on their competitor associates and the continued participation of that individual or team.

XV.  Disciplinary Action / Intervention:

The USFFG may impose Disciplinary Action on any person or persons under the auspices of the USFFG and may take  action known as Intervention. Disciplinary Action will be defined as any violation of USFFG Rules, for reasons of safety, security, or for inappropriate or unprofessional conduct.

Allegations of Misconduct/Incidents that do not require immediate Intervention will follow the "APPEALS AND PROTESTS" section of the Rule Book or may be independently brought to the USFFG.

A:Types of Discipline:  Written Reprimand, Probation, Suspension and Permanent   disqualification.

1.  Written Reprimand is given/sent to the involved person(s) by the USFFG Attorney or Executive Staff as discipline for incidents that require a behavioral change and/or if repeated, is cause for an escalation of discipline.

2.  Probation is a conditional eligibility status which requires that there be no further incidents requiring discipline.  Any like incidents will result in an escalation of discipline.  If a team or doubles team is placed on probation, this probationary status will apply to all team members, coach(s) and the team captain. Probationary status will follow each of these individuals into any USFFG activities for the term of the probation.

If a Team is formed which includes participants currently on probation, that Team is deemed to be on probation if any of these conditions exist:

a) The coach or captain is on probation.

b) 50% or more of the team members are on probation.

3.  Suspension means a person or team is ineligible to participate.  If a team or doubles team is placed on suspension, the term of the suspension applies to all team members, coach (es), and the team captain. Suspension may be administered for a game/match, multiple games/matches, an event, a sport, the current USFFG or future USFFG's.

4.  Permanent Disqualification is disqualification for life.

If an incident occurs in team play and an individual team member (or members) is identified as the responsible party, the USFFG may impose Disciplinary Action on the team or only the individual team member(s), depending on circumstances, as determined by the USFFG.

B.  Intervention:  This is defined as action taken immediately to mitigate or stop an impending incident.  Any USFFG Sport Coordinator, State Director, or USFFG Executive Staff member will administer this. These decisions will remain in effect until reviewed by the USFFG Executive Staff.  The type of Intervention will most often be a warning, an ultimatum, temporary suspension from play and/or temporary expulsion from the venue.  A panel of three or more non-involved Regional Coordinators, State Coordinators, or Executive Staff will review any Intervention affecting play as soon as possible.  This panel of three will reaffirm, modify, or withdraw the action taken during the Intervention process.

Other incidents may require Intervention by the USFFG.  These incidents may be brought to the attention of the USFFG by any means including Protests from competitors or coaches/representatives, the Sport Coordinators or the Executive Staff.  A panel of three or more (as defined above) will review these incidents, and this panel may elect to initiate an Intervention.

A summary documented in writing shall be filed with the USFFG for future reference. The USFFG will hold a Hearing(s) as set forth in the "Hearings and Protests" section and make a ruling according to USFFG Rules.  This process, its timelines and notifications designated under "Hearing" shall be followed.  An incident file, which includes all reports and findings, of all such Disciplinary Actions, will be created and reviewed by the USFFG Executive Staff and / or Attorney.  This file will be retained by USFFG for a reasonable period past the term of any penalty imposed.

XVI.  APPEALS, HEARINGS, AND PROTESTS

A.  Appeals:  A proceeding by which a cause is brought before the USFFG for re-examination or review.  It shall be the policy of the USFFG that when any incident occurs where an action against a participant is pending and the nature of the action is such that immediate adjudication is not required, the recipient is entitled to a hearing before the USFFG prior to a decision being made.

Any action taken by a USFFG Director(s), Coordinator or Executive Staff member, which is construed by the recipient to be punitive in nature, can be appealed to the USFFG.

B.  Hearings:

1.      If an incident occurs during the course of the USFFG which causes or may cause an action to be taken, the individual(s) involved may be notified verbally or in writing. A hearing to determine the disposition and possible penalties will be held during the course of the USFFG event if time permits.

2.      Occasionally, an incident may occur during the course of the USFFG that are considered special circumstances.  These circumstances include: an individual(s) involved is unavailable, time does not allow for a hearing during the event, or circumstances surrounding the incident do not come to the attention of the USFFG, or evidence is not available until after the close of the Games.  The individual(s) involved shall be notified in writing.  Such notification shall include the nature of the incident, date, time and location along with the persons involved. A hearing into the matter, with the date and time outlined, to determine the disposition and possible penalties, will be held.

3.      If an incident occurs at a time other than during the USFFG event, the USFFG shall determine if such incident is an appropriate subject for a hearing and possible punitive action.  If determined, the individual(s) shall be notified in writing as stated in #2 above and a hearing scheduled.

If, in any of the above situations, the USFFG determines that punitive or disciplinary action(s) shall be taken, the individual(s) shall be notified in person or by registered mail of the USFFG.  They will be given thirty (30) days in which to request an appeal before the USFFG.  Such appeal may also be presented in writing instead of a personal appearance if the appellant so chooses.  Failure to request an appeal or submit an appeal in writing within thirty (30) days will result in automatic institution of the recommended action. Following a hearing or appeal, the individual(s) involved shall be notified as soon as possible of the disposition reached by USFFG or in all cases within fourteen (14) days.

It shall be the USFFG's discretion as to whether or not an individual's agency Chief Administrator is notified of an incident involving a USFFG participant.

C.  PROTESTS:  A Protest is an objection lodged with an official, such as one against a player because of ineligibility.

Official's/referee's calls, consistent with the rules of the sport, are not protestable.

All Protests must be lodged with the Sport Coordinator, or his designee, immediately after the violation.  If the Coordinator or the group within the rule of sport designated to hear protests, cannot resolve the Protest, the competitor will be allowed to compete under protest.

The Protest shall then be submitted in writing to the USFFG within one (1) hour of the initial protest.  A twenty-five ($25.00) dollar filing fee will be assessed. If the presentation of awards is affected by the possible results of the Protest, the awards shall be withheld pending the USFFG decision. The committee will convene and issue a ruling as soon as feasibly possible, which may not occur until the game has been completed.  The protest fee will be returned if the protesting party prevails in the ruling.  The protest committee decisions are final and binding

All individuals or team representatives shall be notified of all findings by the USFFG as soon as possible and in all cases within three (3) hours.  All USFFG decisions are final.

XVII.   Awards

The USFFG will determine the number of medals to be presented in all events with awards being presented for participants finishing from 1st through 3rd place.

In every sport/event, there will be a presentation of medals for all winners present.  The Sport Coordinator or his/her designee will conduct the presentation.  The presentation should be at the event venue and immediately follow the final competition.

EXCEPTION:   When a Protest is lodged that might affect the awarding of medals; the Sport Coordinator will hold those medals pending the outcome of the Protest.

In Team events, an entrant must have physically appeared at the sports' venue as a competitor or team member to receive a medal.  A person shall not receive a medal simply by virtue of the fact that they paid their fees and are listed on the Team Roster.  The Sport Coordinator should be able to verify this by his/her sport venue check-in sheets.

XVIII.  RESULTS

1.  Posting of Results at the USFFG Host Headquarters:  Each day's results must be posted at the Headquarters as soon as possible after the conclusion of that day's competition.

2.  Event Venue:  Bracket Boards showing continuing competition must be kept current at each venue where the sport/event is being held.  Competitors will rely on this information to check-in at the correct time and location for their next competition. Each day's results should be posted at the each sport venue for viewing by competitors as well as spectators.  In Bracketed sports/events that continue to the next day, results MUST be posted promptly at each sport/event venue and the Host headquarters results area each day.

3.  Final Results:  Results from a sport/event are not final until approved by the USFFG.  Medals may have to be adjusted if found to be incorrectly awarded.  Final Results shall be published on the USFFG website.

Roles and Responsibilities of Key USFFG Personnel

SPORT COORDINATOR:  The Sport Coordinator is the person assigned by and representing the USFFG who is responsible for organizing the competition within a given sport.  Other titles for this position have been used in the past, however the USFFG prefers the title "Sport Coordinator" and will only use that title in the Rule Book.  The Sport Coordinators are the "line officers" that collectively have the greatest impact on the success of USFFG and its athletic competitions.  The USFFG will attempt to select only the most competent individuals to hold this title.  Integrity,commitment, perseverance, resourcefulness and leadership are required traits. Sport Coordinators must have the ability and willingness to listen and learn as they work with Host administrators and the USFFG Executive staff to organize and conduct their sports.  Sport Coordinators must insure that all aspects of the sport/event are handled in a professional manner consistent with USFFG rules, and traditions of that sport.

Sport Coordinator Presence:

The Sport Coordinator or Assistant Sports Coordinator MUST be present at each sport venue during all scheduled times competitors are present at the venue.

The Sport Coordinator shall not compete in any event (including his/her own sport) where the actual time of competition conflicts with the time necessary to coordinate the assigned sport unless there is a named Assistant Coordinator with the expertise and authority to act in their absence.

A Sport Coordinator must not allow a situation to exist that could jeopardize the safety of competitors, officials, spectators, or others present.

A complete Results Form must be delivered to the State Director immediately following the conclusion of the sport/event. The results form shall include: medal winners, participants who did not receive their medals, finishing times, and weights.

Note:  The sport coordinator may encounter arguments such as  "we've always done it this way" or "this is the way we did it last year."  As difficult as it is not to be influenced by this kind of approach, the sport coordinator's responsibility is to hold the sports/events according to the prescribed rules.  This will result in a better overall competition from year to year.

Credentials Official: In all Team sports the USFFG will supply a Credentials Official that will be present at each venue where these competitions are being conducted.  The Credentials Official is responsible for verifying that each player in each game is properly identified and credentialed (Participant ID).  At check-in or before each game, each team's coach/captain will present the Credentials Official with Participant ID's for all team members on the roster that are present and playing in the game (players may present their credentials individually but the coach/captain must see that each player in the competition has presented their credentials).  The Participant ID's will be returned to the team's coach/captain immediately after each game unless there is cause to investigate the participation of an ineligible player or conduct of a participant is brought into question.

ANY TEAM NOT FULLY COMPLYING WILL BE CONSIDERED PLAYING WITH AN INELIGIBLE PLAYER AND THEREFORE FORFEITS THE GAME.