• Players are permitted to wear cold weather attire such as gloves, (pullovers, sweatshirts, and cold weather undergarments can be worn under the jersey or tackle pants). 

• Cold weather attire that can be seen must be in team color scheme, and if logoed, youth appropriate.

• Hooded sweatshirts must be tucked in, not hanging loose.

• No waiver is required to wear cold weather attire.

• The purpose of this policy is to promote awareness and support for ALL cancers within TYFA, Spring and Fall, regardless of the level of public attention or popularity associated with a particular type of cancer.

• Players are permitted to wear Accessories in the appropriate colors to show support for a specific cancer causes. 

  • • Accessories for example are gloves, headbands, stickers, shoe laces, towels, socks, wristbands and the like in cancer awareness colors.

• Teams/organizations are not permitted to change their primary uniform (top or bottom) to show recognition.

• Items should be worn in a way that does not distract from the the team's "primary uniform".

• Simultaneous recognition of multiple cancers is acceptable provided it is done in a tasteful and respectful manner.

• Organizations should refer to established cancer awareness color guidelines for specific types of cancer. 

  • • Click HERE (Cancer Calendar) / Click HERE (Cancer Colors)

• If cancer awareness items pose a safety hazard, they may be restricted. Items cannot be pinned or attached to the game uniform with any material that may cause injury to the wearer or their opponents.

• Players cannot be forced to participate, and a team is still uniformed if some participate and some do not.

• The purpose of this policy is to allow organizations to memorialize someone or some event both Spring and Fall.

• Players are permitted to wear Accessories to show support for a specific memorialization. 

  • • Accessories for example are gloves, headbands, stickers, shoe laces, towels, socks, wristbands and the like.

• Teams may wear patches and similar items.

• If events are memorialized, they cannot be religious or political in nature. They must be youth appropriate.

• Teams/organizations are not permitted to change their primary uniform (top or bottom) to show recognition.

• Items should be worn in a way that does not distract from the the team's "primary uniform".

• Simultaneous recognition of persons or events is acceptable provided it is done in a tasteful and respectful manner.

• If awareness items pose a safety hazard, they may be restricted. Items cannot be pinned or attached to the game uniform with any material that may cause injury to the wearer or their opponents.

• Players cannot be forced to participate, and a team is still uniformed if some participate and some do not.

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Based on recent changes announced by the University Interscholastic League (UIL), the Texas Youth Football Association (TYFA) will now permit the use of Guardian Caps during official games and practices starting in 2025. This policy aligns with evolving safety standards at the high school and collegiate levels and reinforces TYFA’s ongoing commitment to player safety and well-being.

1. Helmet Compatibility and Appearance

• Guardian Caps must be worn over helmets that meet all critical specifications outlined below.

• All Guardian Caps MUST match the primary shell color of the helmet worn by the team to ensure uniformity in appearance.

• For example, if a team’s helmets are primarily red, the Guardian Caps worn must also be red.

• If Guardian Cap does not match the primary color worn by the team, it cannot be worn

2. Parental Waiver Requirement

• A signed equipment waiver is required from the parent or legal guardian of any player who wishes to wear a Guardian Cap during TYFA practices and/or games.

• TYFA will distribute the official waiver form once it is made available, along with instructions for submission.

3. Compliance with NCAA Rule 1-4-4-a

• All helmets (with or without Guardian Caps) must comply with the following NCAA equipment standards:

• Helmet Specifications:

• Must include a facemask and a secured four- or six-point chin strap. All straps must be fastened while the ball is in play.

• All team helmets must be of the same color and design.

• Helmets must include a warning label regarding injury risk and display certification from the manufacturer or reconditioner confirming compliance with NOCSAE safety standards.

4. Manufacturer Responsibility

Organizations are strongly encouraged to consult with their helmet manufacturer to understand any implications regarding warranty and liability when using Guardian Caps or similar aftermarket products.

TYFA’s decision to adopt this policy is in alignment with UIL and NCAA guidelines and reflects our continued efforts to support innovation in player safety while preserving competitive integrity.