Frequently Asked Questions - General

Who can participate?

Teams are formed by grade level, with football open to PV district children, kindergarten through 6th grade, and cheerleading for those in kindergarten through 8th grade

Where are practices held?

Practice starts in August at PV Main Campus (509 Gravel Pike, Collegeville, PA).

What is the practice schedule?

Each practice varies by team but can be held Mon-Thurs, 6-8 PM. Tackle football holds USA Football mandatory heat acclimation practices starting the first week of August. Coaches will communicate the practice schedule with parents before August.

What is the game schedule?

Schedules are finalized by mid to late August, with home games on Sundays and away games on either Saturday or Sunday. The tackle football season begins with the Summer Brawl scrimmage in late August (no cheerleaders), followed by up to eight regular-season games. Tackle football playoffs and the championship may extend into early November. The cheer season concludes with the Cheer-Off in November.

Where are games played? 

Home games are at PVHS Stadium, and away games are within ICFL team districts, usually no more than a 30-minute drive. Field locations will be shared via your team app or email once the schedule is set.

What equipment is provided and what needs to be purchased?

FLAG FOOTBALL: PVYFC will provide a game jersey, foam helmet, and flag set (returned at season's end). Cleats and a mouth guard need to be purchased.

TACKLE FOOTBALL: PVYFC provides a jersey, game pants (kept), pads, and a helmet (returned at season's end). Players must purchase cleats, a mouthguard, practice pants, a practice jersey, and a cup.

ALL CHEERLEADERS: PVYFC provides a bow (kept) skirt, top, and set of poms (returned at season's end). Cheerleaders must purchase white cheer sneakers & white ankle socks, an orange crop top, gray leggings, and a cheer jacket or black zip-up hoodie for cold and inclement weather. For ordering information and suggested links, please click here.

What is the weather cancellation policy?

Coaches may hold practice in the rain, but the district can close fields if necessary. Cancellations will be communicated by your coach or team parent. Hosting teams determine game cancellations, though turf games typically proceed as scheduled. For safety, no practices or games are allowed during lightning, and fields must remain clear for 30 minutes after the last strike.

What paperwork is required?

For a complete list of required paperwork, please visit our Forms page.

Are parents obligated to volunteer?

Each family will be assigned a chain or snack stand shift before or after their child’s game. As a volunteer-run organization, we rely on parent support—thank you! There are also numerous other ways you can be involved, just ask!

What kind of fundraising opportunities are there?

Each season, families participate in our annual mum and popcorn fundraisers and contribute to their team’s Perky Bowl basket. Additional fundraising events are held throughout the season, with a schedule of key dates provided to help you participate.

Are there sponsorship opportunities?

Absolutely! As a non-profit, we're always grateful for sponsors and appreciate their support. Check out ways you can help sponsor our league @ https://www.sponsorhelper.com/sponsor/pvyfc

What if I have more questions?

For football or cheer questions, contact your coach, commissioner, or board members (info on the PVYFC website). Experienced parents are also a great resource!

Frequently Asked Questions - Football

How are player positions determined?

Coaches determine positions based on team needs and player safety. Players should speak with their coach if they have concerns. Everyone will have the opportunity to play.

How much play time will my player get?

Each player will play at least 10 plays per game, per the ICFL requirement.

What training has each coach received in order to qualify as a PVYF coach?

All PVYF tackle football coaches must complete annual USA Football training and certification under the Heads Up program, which emphasizes safe tackling techniques inspired by rugby. This program is the national standard from youth to the NFL, focusing on proper tackling, player safety, injury prevention, and fitting equipment.

Certification includes extensive online and practical training with mandatory tests. No coach may participate without completion. Additionally, all coaches must pass a background check with the ICFL.

Learn more at www.usafootball.com/programs/heads-up-football.

Are there any safety procedures that I should be aware of as a parent?

We emphasize the importance of proper sleep, nutrition, and hydration for all players. Before evening practices, ensure your child eats a light meal, drinks water, and brings ample hydration.

While coaches are trained in injury management, they cannot monitor every player at all times. Parents play a vital role in player safety—please report any concerns to the coaches for immediate evaluation. Our coaches, who are also PVYFC parents, prioritize the well-being of all players.

For additional safety information, visit www.usafootball.com/programs/heads-up-football.

Frequently Asked Questions - Cheer

What should my cheerleader wear to practice?

Cheerleaders should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that allows for free movement. In warm weather, a t-shirt or tank top with shorts is recommended, while colder conditions require long pants, and a jacket or sweatshirt. Crop tops, sports bras, jeans, jean shorts, dresses, or skirts without built-in shorts are not permitted. Sneakers and socks are mandatory for all practices; flip-flops, sandals, slippers, crocs and dress shoes are not allowed.

What does my cheerleader need to bring to practice?

All they need to bring is a water bottle and SPIRIT!!!!

What will my cheerleader learn?

Cheerleaders will learn chants, cheers, sideline dances, halftime routines, and stunting, all tailored to their grade level. Our program focuses on building skills progressively, ensuring each athlete develops confidence, coordination, and teamwork in a fun and supportive environment.

What happens if my cheerleader misses a practice?

Regular attendance is crucial for skill development, team coordination, and ensuring your child is prepared. Missing practice may impact participation in routines, so we strongly encourage attending all scheduled practices whenever possible. Your child's coach will decide how to safely integrate them into routines if they miss practice.

What is Cheer Off?

Cheer-off is a fun end-of-season showcase where all cheer squads from the ICFL perform, it is not a competition. Participation is optional. Cheerleaders who intend to participate should plan to attend all indoor practices. Cheer off is normally held the Sunday before Thanksgiving.