Rules & Regulations

🎓 Section 1: Player Eligibility

• All players must be enrolled in a recognized higher education institution (college, university, trade school, or accredited program).
• Players must be 24 years old or younger at the time of registration.
• Proof of enrollment and age verification must be submitted to the conference office before the start of the season.
• Players found in violation of eligibility requirements will be immediately disqualified.

📝 Section 2: Registration Process

• Teams must submit a completed registration form to the NJCP Conference Office prior to the start of the season.
• Rosters must be finalized and submitted no later than two weeks before the first scheduled game. Any roster changes after submission must be approved by the Board of Directors.
• Registration fees, if applicable, must be paid in full before participation is allowed.

📅 Section 3: Scheduling

• The NJCP Conference Office will release the official schedule prior to the start of the season.
• Each team is required to play a minimum of six (6) league games to qualify for postseason play.
• Games may be rescheduled only under extraordinary circumstances and must be approved by the Board of Directors.
• Teams failing to meet scheduling obligations may face penalties, including disqualification from postseason play.

🏆 Section 4: Playoff Format

Teams that meet eligibility and participation requirements will qualify for the NJCP Conference Championship Tournament.

Seeding will be determined based on regular season records, with tiebreakers decided by:

1. Head-to-head results
2. Point differential
3. Strength of schedule

• The championship will be a single-elimination format.
• The winner of the championship game will be awarded the NJCP Conference Trophy.

⚖️ Section 5: Code of Conduct

• All players, coaches, and staff must uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship and integrity.
• Unsportsmanlike behavior, harassment, or misconduct will not be tolerated.
• Disciplinary actions will be determined solely by the NJCP Board of Advisors.
• Decisions made by the Board of Advisors are final and binding.

📘 Section 6: On-Field Rules

• All games will be played under official NCAA football rules and regulations.
• Referees and officials are responsible for enforcing NCAA rules during NJCP Conference games.
• Any rule modifications must be approved by the Board of Directors prior to the season.

🚨 Section 7: Penalties

Teams or players found violating eligibility, registration, or conduct rules may face:

• Suspension from games
• Forfeiture of wins
• Disqualification from postseason play
• Permanent removal from the conference (in severe cases)

Appeals may be submitted to the Board of Directors within 7 days of a ruling.

🏛️ Section 8: Governance

The NJCP Conference is overseen by the Board of Advisors, who hold authority over:

• Rule enforcement
• Disciplinary actions
• Scheduling disputes
• Championship organization

The Advisors' decisions are final and binding for all member teams.