SECTION 6 AGE 3-4 RULES DIVISION RULES AND OFFICIATING
The 3–4 Division of Lone Star Legends Flag Football introduces the youngest athletes to the game in a safe,
structured, and encouraging environment. This level focuses on coordination, following directions, and
learning to love football while keeping the game recognizable and organized. Players learn teamwork,
attention, and early football instincts.
A. Field & Equipment
• Field size is 20 yards wide × 20 yards long, with a single 5-yard end zone. Games are to be played on one half of the standard age groups field.
• Cones mark sidelines, end zones, starting LOS (Yellow Cones), and line of scrimmage (yellow LOS cones only).
• No blitz cones are used at this level.
• A Pee-Wee Football is used. There is no passing in this division.
• Each player must wear league-issued flags, shirt tucked in, and proper footwear as outlined in Section 8.
• Play always begins at the 20 yard line and heads towards the one endzone.
B. Game Structure
• Games consist of two 15-minute halves with a 5-minute halftime.
• The clock runs continuously except for timeouts, injuries, or extended stoppages.
• Teams play 5 vs 5 (or 4 vs 4 if attendance requires). Even 3v3 or 3v4 can be played if needed.
• Each team has four downs to score from the starting line of scrimmage.
• If the offense does not score after four downs, the ball resets to the 20-yard line and possession
changes to the opposing team.
• Team standings and point totals are recorded during the season, but individual player stats are not
tracked.
C. Offensive Rules
• All plays are handoff runs only — there is no passing.
• The snap must be a toss snap or hand-off snap from an upright C.
• The QB must hand off to a running back or player in motion.
• One player may be in motion to receive the handoff.
• No fake handoffs or play-action movements are allowed.
• No QB runs under any circumstance.
• The play begins when the QB calls “Hike.”
• No blocking is permitted.
• All contact-avoidance and safety rules remain consistent with Section 3.
D. Defensive Rules
• No blitzing or defensive rushing before the handoff.
• The defense remains stationary until the offensive handoff occurs.
• The defensive coach should call out “Go!” as soon as the runner receives the ball to help players
recognize the start of the play.
• Defenders may pursue the runner freely, including behind the line of scrimmage, once the handoff is
made.
• No diving or flag pulling prior to the handoff.
• Standard contact-avoidance and incidental contact penalties apply.
E. Coaching & Player Rotation
• Coaches must rotate players frequently so all players get to play various positions and carry the ball.
• Each player should have at least one carry per game.
• Players who show greater enthusiasm, focus, and awareness may receive more touches.
• Two coaches per team are permitted on the field to help players with alignment and movement.
• Coaches may call out “Go!” after the handoff to coordinate defensive recognition.
• Parents may enter the field if a player becomes upset, uncooperative, or needs reassurance.
F. Officiating
• Each game will have one assistant referee responsible for timing, spotting, and ensuring fair play.
• The referee’s role is instructional, focusing on explanation rather than penalties.
• Minor violations should be met with resets and teaching moments rather than yardage penalties.
• Safety and player confidence are the top priorities.
• If a player runs the wrong direction for more than a moment the referee should blow the play dead.
G. League Philosophy
• The 3–4 Division is designed to teach basic football structure while keeping the game fun, simple, and
safe.
• Players experience real gameplay flow, including scoring and standings, but without the pressure of
advanced rules.
• The focus is on developing attention, coordination, effort, and enjoyment.
• Every child should leave each game smiling, encouraged, and more confident than when they arrived.
• Coaches and referees should model patience, excitement, and positivity at all times.
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