Frequently Asked Questions

In an effort to help both new and returning Escondido Pop Warner families better understand our program, we have published the following most frequently asked questions.

General Program Information:

Q: What is Escondido Pop Warner?

• Escondido Pop Warner (EPW) is a non-profit youth football and cheer organization focused on teaching fundamentals, teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship in a safe and structured environment.

Q: What is the mission of Pop Warner?

• Pop Warner aims to develop well-rounded youth by combining athletics and academics while promoting character, leadership, and teamwork.

Registration and Eligibility:

Q: Who can register?

Any child meeting Pop Warner age and eligibility requirements may register. Participants must provide:

• Proof of age (birth certificate)

• Medical clearance

• Scholastic eligibility (minimum 2.0 GPA)

• Completed registration forms

Q: What are the age divisions?

Pop Warner uses age-based divisions (e.g., 8U through 13U for football, and similar age brackets for cheer). Placement is based on age as defined by Pop Warner rules, with a cutoff date of July 15, 2026.

Fees and Financial Support:

2026 Registration Divisions and Pricing

Division

• Football - Flag Football $350.00

• Football - Tackle Football (8U-13U) $600.00

• Cheer - Junior Tiny Mite $250.00

• Cheer - Tiny Mite $450.00

• Cheer - Junior Pee Wee $710.00

• Cheer - Pee Wee $710.00

• Cheer - Junior Varsity $710.00

Q: What does the registration fee cover?

Only a portion of the registration fee goes toward covering the actual costs of running our program. The rest is supported through fundraising and the generosity of our community, which helps keep things affordable for all families. Here is where those funds go:

• Cheer: Uniforms, practice gear, and equipment needed for games and performances • Football: Helmet reconditioning, safety equipment, and uniforms

• Coaching: First Aid/CPR certifications, clinics, and training for our staff

• Conference Fees: League and competition fees, jamborees, playoffs, insurance, and participation costs • Field Use: Practice and game fields, lighting, and medical supplies

• Insurance: Coverage for all league equipment and operations

• Referees and EMTs: Officials and medical personnel for all home games

• Scholarships: Financial assistance for families in need

• Photos: A standard photo package for every participant

• Miscellaneous: General operating expenses like registration space and supplies

Q: Is financial assistance available?

Yes. Families may receive financial aid. To apply, please attend an in-person registration and reach out to our treasurer at treasurer@epwwolfpack.com.

For additional financial aid resources, please contact San Diego Children in Need at childreninneedsd.org. SD Children in Need is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides financial assistance to families to support children's participation in youth sports activities.

Q: What is the refund policy?

• Standard Refunds

• All refund requests must be submitted in writing no later than July 31st or prior to the first scheduled game of the season, whichever occurs first.

• A non-refundable deposit of $200.00 (for the 2026 season) will be retained to cover administrative costs and uniform expenses. Uniform fees are strictly non-refundable once uniform orders have been placed, regardless of participation status.

• Refund requests submitted after the stated deadline will not be considered.

• The Executive Board, by a two-thirds vote, may at its sole discretion refund part or all of a participant's registration fees in extenuating circumstances.

• Injury-Related Refunds

• At the discretion of the Executive Board, if a participant is unable to continue due to an injury sustained while participating in EPW football or cheer, any approved refund will be issued in the form of a credit applied toward the participant's registration fees for the following season.

• If the participant does not return to Escondido Pop Warner, the Executive Board may, at its discretion, approve a partial monetary refund. Any such refund will:

• Exclude the $200 administrative fee

• Exclude uniform and equipment costs

• Be prorated based on participation and timing of withdrawal

Season and Schedule:

Q: When does the season start and end?

The season runs from July 15 through late October/mid-November, with potential extension into early December or beyond for advancing teams.

• Practices typically begin around July 15

• The first scrimmage (pre-season game) is generally held on the last Saturday of August • Regular season games begin the following week and run for approximately 10 consecutive weeks • Flag football wraps up in late October, with teams playing around 8 games

• Tackle football teams and cheer squads that advance to playoffs, bowl games, or competitions may continue into early December, and even longer if they reach the National Championship level

Q: How often are practices held?

Before Labor Day:

• Up to 10 hours per week

• No more than 2.5 hours in a single day

After Labor Day:

• Up to 6 hours per week

• No more than 2 hours in a single day

Breaks and Hydration:

• A 10-minute break every hour is required

• Water breaks are available anytime they are needed

• Breaks do not count toward practice time

Joining Late:

• New players must complete a conditioning and acclimation period (approximately the first 10 to 15 hours of practice) before transitioning to full participation

Q: Where are practices held?

All practices are held at Kit Carson Park in Escondido. Practice times are scheduled between 5:00 and 8:30 PM. Your Head Coach will provide specific details at the team meeting.

Q: Where are games played?

Games are held across San Diego County and parts of Riverside County, typically within 15 to 60 minutes of travel. Home games are played at Orange Glen High School.

Teams and Rosters:

Q: How are teams formed?

Teams are formed based on age divisions and roster needs. Pop Warner does not allow tryouts; all participants are placed on teams fairly.

• Minimum roster size for tackle football: 18 players

• Maximum roster size: 35 players

Q: Are players guaranteed playing time?

Yes. Pop Warner enforces a Mandatory Play Rule (MPR) to ensure all players participate. Playing time is determined by roster size.

Q: Can my child play on multiple teams or in other leagues?

Dual participation in other football or cheer leagues during the same season is not allowed. However, players may participate in an additional sport such as soccer or baseball.

Equipment and Safety:

Q: What equipment is provided?

Football:

• Practice jersey and pants

• Game jersey (keep), game pants, and socks

• Girdle with 2 knee pads, 2 thigh pads, 2 hip pads, and tailbone pad (keep)

• Helmet and shoulder pads

• Mouthpiece and chin strap

• EPW Spirit shirt

Cheer:

• Uniform

• Pom poms

• Spirit wear

Q: How does EPW keep athletes safe?

EPW follows all Pop Warner Little Scholars Official Rules and West Coast Conference Policy and Procedures, which include but are not limited to:

• Certified and reconditioned helmets

• Mandatory coach certifications in CPR/First Aid and Safe Sport (Mandated Reporter/Concussion Awareness)

- Football coaches: USA Heads Up Football certification

- Cheer coaches: Youth Cheer and Dance Alliance (YCADA) certification

• EMT present at all home games

• Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) available at both the practice fields and home games, located at the snack bars at each location

Q: Is medical insurance provided?

Yes, but it is secondary insurance, meaning it applies after your primary insurance. During home games, an EMT is on-site to provide emergency first aid at no cost.

Academics - Little Scholars Program

Q: What is the Little Scholars program?

Every player in Escondido Pop Warner is involved in our Little Scholars program. We require each participant to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 (70%, or a C average), which is verified by the year-end report card. If a participant does not meet the 2.0 GPA requirement, a Scholastic Eligibility Form is required.

The National Little Scholars program is a recognition program sponsored by Pop Warner nationally. To qualify, a GPA of 96% or above and a completed application are required. National Little Scholars are selected nationally and announced on April 1.

Coaches and Organization:

Q: How are Head Coaches selected?

Head coaches are approved annually by the board. Selection is based on qualifications, certifications, and alignment with EPW values. Association approval is required for all coaches, returning or new, prior to each season. Coaching is a privilege, not a guaranteed position, and a previous winning record does not factor into the selection process.

Q: Are coaches certified?

Yes. All coaches and staff must:

• Pass a thorough background check (Live Scan)

• Complete required training (Heads Up Football for football coaches, YCADA for cheer coaches) • A minimum of 2 coaches per team must maintain CPR/First Aid certification

• Complete Safe Sport certification (concussion awareness and mandated reporter training) Parent and Volunteer Expectations

Q: Are parents required to volunteer?

Volunteering is not mandatory. However, games may not be played and teams may forfeit if certain required roles are not filled, per West Coast Conference and EPW policy.

Q: What volunteer roles are needed?

EPW is run entirely by volunteers, and any and all help is appreciated. Roles include:

Team Staff (maximum 10 members per team):

• Head Coach / Assistant Coach

• Team Parent

• Business Manager

Game Day Roles:

• Spotter and Checker (track Mandatory Play Rule compliance)

• Chain Gang (away games only, on opposing team's side)

• Photographer

• Film Operator (teams are required to record and upload game film)

No prior experience is needed for game day roles. Guidance is provided by referees, and volunteers are expected to remain neutral and follow official directions.

Q: What behavior is expected from parents and spectators?

All participants must follow Pop Warner's Code of Conduct, which promotes respect, sportsmanship, and a safe environment for everyone. Violations may result in removal or suspension.

Board Members and Leadership :

Q: Who runs Escondido Pop Warner?

Escondido Pop Warner is run by a volunteer Board of Directors, which includes the Executive Board and Appointed Directors. These individuals oversee all operations, finances, and program decisions.

Q: What positions are on the Executive Board?

• President

• Executive Vice President / VP of Operations

• Vice President - Football

• Vice President - Cheer

• Secretary

• Treasurer

These roles are responsible for the overall leadership and direction of the organization.

Q: How are Board Members selected?

Executive Board Members are elected by the general membership (parents and guardians). Elections take place annually in October. Each household receives one vote (up to two per household), and voting is conducted by secret ballot.

Q: Who is eligible to run for a Board position?

Candidates must:

• Be a current member in good standing (parent, guardian, or volunteer)

• Submit their nomination before the election deadline

• Have a willingness to support and grow the program

Q: How long do Board Members serve?

Executive Board Members serve 2-year terms. Terms begin January 1 following the election.

Q: What happens if a Board position becomes vacant?

The Executive Board may appoint a replacement or hold a special vote to fill the position.

Q: What do Board Members actually do?

The Board is responsible for:

• Managing league operations and finances

• Approving budgets and fundraising activities

• Ensuring compliance with Pop Warner rules

• Supporting coaches, teams, and families

• Maintaining a safe and positive environment for all participants

Q: What are Appointed Directors?

Appointed Directors are selected by the Executive Board to help oversee specific areas such as:

• Equipment

• Safety and Insurance

• Fundraising

• Communications

• Scholastics

They support the league's day-to-day operations.

Q: How often does the Board meet?

The Board meets at least once per month. Additional meetings may be held as needed.

Q: Can parents attend Board meetings?

Yes. General Membership meetings are held annually, and families are encouraged to stay engaged and involved in the organization.

Q: Can a Board Member be removed?

Yes. A Board Member may be removed by a two-thirds vote of the Executive Board if their actions are not in the best interest of the organization.

Q: How can I get involved or join the Board?

• Attend General Membership meetings

• Volunteer within the program

• Submit your name during the nomination period for elections

Fundraising and Team Activities

Q: Does EPW require fundraising?

No. EPW may request participation in an annual fundraiser. Fundraising helps offset costs and supports both football and cheer programs.

Q: Can teams raise their own funds?

Yes, with Board approval. All funds belong to the organization and must follow EPW financial policies. Teams will also have the opportunity to run a concession stand at a designated home game. All money earned will be credited to the team. Further information will be shared at the Mandatory Team Parent Meeting.

Communication:

Q: How will I receive updates?

Before and After the Season:

• Emails via Sports Connect to the account email used for player registration

• Social media updates on Instagram (escondidopopwarner) and Facebook (EPW)

During the Season:

• Head Coach and VP team parent meetings

• Team communication apps (GameChanger, Band, TeamSnap, etc.)

• Website and social media updates

Before Practice Starts:

• After teams are formed, your Head Coach will host a mandatory team meeting for all parents, players, and cheerleaders. You will meet the full team staff, review team rules, goals, coaching philosophy, and have all questions answered. An EPW Board member will also be present.

Media and Participation:

Q: Can my child be photographed or filmed?

Yes. All games are required to be filmed. Additionally, photos and video may be used for promotional purposes including local newspapers, team highlight videos, social media, and our website, for the sole purpose of promoting participation in Pop Warner and recognizing outstanding academic and team achievement. Parents may submit a written opt-out request if they do not wish their child to appear in promotional materials.