Frequently Asked Greater 19 Questions

Why is SVJFAC in the G19 league?

There are many reasons why going to G19 was a good decision for SVJFAC. Given the growth of the program over the last 4 years it became clear that we couldn't field teams in most leagues that only have teams at three age groups. We had experimented with competitive and developmental teams in the past but had issues finding other programs that also had truly developmental teams. G19 is structured so that each community spreads their talent evenly across multiple teams at an age group. It also allows us to enter as many or as few teams as we want at a particular age group depending on how many register for that season.

Why is roster size limited?

The goal of G19 is for kids to play football, not watch from the sidelines. The roster limits allow teams to be big enough that they can effectively practice and have enough players to accommodate in-season injuries but at the same time are small enough that every kid gets an opportunity to play.

Who participates in the G19 league?

The current list of communities includes Seneca Valley, North Allegheny, Peters Township, Upper St. Clair, Bethel Park, Keystone Oaks, Thomas Jefferson, South Fayette and Canon McMillan.

Why are there different rules for the age groups in football?

The goal of G19 is to teach kids to love the game of football so they can continue to play and develop as a player and as a person. Just as you don't have 6 year-olds pitching to other kids in baseball (because they aren't capable of it yet), the G19 has scaled back football at the younger ages to better teach the fundamentals. As the children mature and grow, more of the game as it is played in middle school and high school is introduced. By the time they are 12, the game is the same as middle school football.

Why are there defensive restrictions at 6/7 and 8/9?

Anybody could develop a defense to stop a 6/7 or 8/9 year-old offense. By placing the restrictions on the defense it allows the offensive teams to execute a play on a more frequent basis. It also limits the ability of one very strong defensive player to totally dominate a game by disrupting the play before it has a chance to develop. Again, at the older age groups, there are no defensive restrictions and it is up to each team to figure out the best way to use that to their advantage.