Dear H-W Generals Youth Football Parents:

The 2011 Hamilton Wenham Generals Youth Football (HWGYF) season is underway.

1) Football Players report to practice on Thursday 8/18/11 at 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at Patton Park in shorts, T shirts and molded rubber cleats.

2) All practices prior to the first game of the season will be Monday - Friday, 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at Patton Park.

3) Practice days will change to four (4) days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday) after our first game.

4) After the fourth game we will change to three (3) days a week (Tuesday, Thursday and Friday until the end of the season.

NOTE: Practice schedules may be adjusted during the season due to weather and other factors.

ALL PRACTICES ARE OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE TO THE SAFETY OF THE PLAYERS & CHEERLEADERS AND THE PERFORMANCE AS A TEAM. SHOULD PARENTS HAVE AN INDIVIDUAL CONFLICT WITH A SPECIFIC PRACTICE OR GAME THEY SHOULD NOTIFY THE TEAM'S HEAD COACH.

More information about the game schedule will be provided prior to the start of the season and will be sent to all parents and be posted on the website.

The first 3 days (August 18th, 19th and 22nd) of practice will be focused on conditioning and teaching/re-learning the proper techniques for playing this very challenging and exciting sport. It is important that all players arrive to each practice ready to go on time.  Each level of play (A Team 8th graders, JVA Team 7th & 8th graders, C Team 6th graders, JVC 5th graders and D Team 3rd & 4th graders) uses each practice session to teach specific lessons, and we build on those teachings each successive practice. Showing up late or missing practice altogether just puts the player in a catch-up mode which can be very difficult, especially for first time players.

Here is a list of items our players should be prepared to wear or bring on 8/18/11:

• Molded Rubber Cleats: Parents must provide properly fitted, “molded rubber non-removable cleats”. “Screw-ins”, metal or hard plastic cleats or plastic cleats with rubber tips are illegal and will not be allowed on the field, per CAYFL rules.
  
• • First three (3) Days: The three (3) of practice Players should wear shorts, T shirt and their football cleats.
  • Fit Day: The next Fit Day for all equipment is on Tuesday August 16th and starting Tuesday August 23rd players should arrive at practice in full football gear.
  • Water Bottle: We will have water bottles available, but recommend bringing your own for precautionary health reasons.
  • Medications with Instructions: Hand medication with Player’s Name to your Player’s Head Coach and he will store in the Med Kits on the field. Each Team has a Med Kit.

Football shoes and practice jerseys sellout fast so get these items by July and early August!!

Fit Day - Tuesday August 16th: Football equipment will be handed out on Fit Day - Tuesday August 16th from 7PM to 9PM.  Mouth guards will be given to every player, however, if your child has special orthodontic requirements, we recommend being fitted by your orthodontist for a special mouthpiece. We also recommend wearing an athletic cup for their protection as well once contact practice starts Tuesday August 23rd. If you have any questions regarding equipment issues, please email the Equipment Manager Jeff Fotta at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Football is a demanding sport, both mentally and physically and practices starting in the August heat will require all players to maintain sufficient hydration and fuel supplies to stay focused and alert. We strongly recommend a balanced diet, proper hydration, and adequate sleep for all of our players in order to keep their energy levels up and to get the most out of each practice session.

PARENTS: Please Read the FAQ's Regarding Playing Time and Additional Information.

Please contact Doug Smith or any of the Head Coaches or visit our website at www.generalsyouthfootball.com and also click on the FAQ link if you need assistance prior to then.  Thank you for your participation in H-W Generals Youth Football (HWGYF) and we are looking forward to a great season!!

Doug Smith
Commissioner - Hamilton-Wenham Generals Youth Football & CAYFL Officer