Tackle Football – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can register for tackle football?
Athletes U10–U18 (born 2007–2018) are eligible to register.
Can beginners play tackle football?
Yes! Many of our athletes are new to football. Our program is designed to meet players where they are, helping them build skills, confidence, and a strong foundation to prepare them for the next level.
When does the tackle football season run?
Preseason (January – April)
- 1 practice per week (included in registration fees)
- Held at various indoor facilities
Practice-Only Phase (April 1 – Mid-May)
- 2–3 practices per week
Game Season (Mid-May – End of July)
- One game per weekend
- 2 practices per week
- Additional walkthroughs or film review sessions may be added by individual team staff as needed
When and where are practices held?
- Practices are typically held Tuesdays & Thursdays or Mondays & Wednesdays, pending field permit approvals
- Location: Jacob Hespeler Secondary School
- Practice times vary by age group
What travel can we expect for games?
- Teams play 7 regular season games
- Typically 3–4 home games and 3–4 away games
- Travel may be anywhere within Ontario, depending on the division
Bus Transportation
- For the spring season, U14–U18 teams will travel by bus for games more than one hour away
Registration & Evaluation Process
What does my registration fee cover?
Your registration fee is all-inclusive and covers everything your athlete needs to begin their Lions journey.
Registration includes:
- Indoor pre-season training sessions
- Tryout and evaluation period
- Team selection process
- Full outdoor tackle football season
There are no separate tryout fees, no hidden costs, and no additional payments once your athlete is registered.
How do tryouts and evaluations work?
Player evaluations begin with the first pre-season training session and continue through the first few outdoor practices in April. This extended evaluation period allows coaches to assess each athlete’s skill development, effort, coachability, and growth over time — not just on a single day.
Any roster decisions will be finalized by the end of Week 2 of outdoor practices in April, though timing may vary by team.
U10 & U12
There are no formal tryouts at the U10 and U12 levels. Our focus is on development, safety, and positive participation. If there are any safety or participation concerns, an individual meeting may be requested to discuss the best plan forward for the athlete.
What happens if I miss the pre-season? Can I still try out for the team?
Absolutely! Evaluations will continue during the outdoor, on-field practices at the beginning of April.
If you expect to miss both the pre-season and early outdoor practices, please reach out to us. We’ll connect you with the appropriate coach to discuss how we can best include your athlete in the season.
What is the cost to register?
The tackle football registration fee is all-inclusive, meaning one registration covers your athlete’s full season.
Registration Fees:
- U10 & U12: $500 + mandatory league fees (aprox $42)
- U14 – U18: $1,000 + mandatory league fees (aprox $42)
Game Day Uniforms are an additional cost if required. Returning players may not require a new uniform.
The registration fee includes:
- Indoor pre-season training (January–April)
- Tryouts and evaluations
- Team selection
- Full outdoor tackle football season (practices and games)
- Helmet and shoulder pads
- Practice jersey and pants
- Mouthguard
- Swag package (contents vary by age group)
- Athletic therapist coverage at most practices and all games
Please note: $200 of the registration fee is non-refundable as it supports upfront program costs for preseason and tryouts such as facility rentals, equipment, staffing, and league commitments incurred upon registration.
What equipment is provided by the club?
The club provides:
- Helmet and shoulder pads
- Practice jersey and pants
- Mouthguard
- New this season: Swag package included with registration (contents vary by age group)
What equipment do families need to provide?
Families are responsible for:
- Football cleats
- Game-day uniform
- Game-day gloves
Additional equipment is optional.
Is medical support available?
Yes. An athletic therapist is present at most practices and all games.
Is tackle football safe?
Player safety is a top priority. Coaches are trained in proper contact techniques and concussion awareness. League safety standards and return-to-play protocols are strictly followed.
Is financial assistance available?
We believe every child should have the opportunity to play football. Families needing financial support are encouraged to contact registration@cambridgelions.ca. We can help guide you through accessing community funding (such as Jumpstart) and discuss personalized payment arrangements.
Support may also be available through our Sponsor a Lion program. If you or someone you know is interested in contributing, please contact sponsorship@cambridgelions.ca.
Who do I contact with questions?
Still have questions? No problem — we’re here to help.
Email secretary@cambridgelions.ca, and we’ll point you in the right direction.
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