Membership Page
CONTACT The COMMISSIONER IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING Americas Most Professionally Operated MINOR LEAGUES
Page Index
1. Procedures for membereship by new teams
A. What Benefits are provided for being an SSFL Member?
2. Procedure for interested players
3. Procedure for membershpi in the SSFL Officials Association
Procedures for League Membership
FOR INTERESTED TEAMS, PLAYERS AND OFFICIALS
The SSFL is interested in adding teams who are committed to high standards of sportsmanship, dedicated to their community, have the ability to present entertaining, professional run games, provide low cost family entertainment, and who foster and demand character development in their players.
1. TEAMS - Candidates for team membership are advised to contact League Commissioner:
David Rice
Email – Commissionerssfl@aol.com for information and assistance in the application process.
- Log onto the SSFL Standards and Rules pages on the menubar to ascertain if your team meets all requirements. Upon completion of the check list to insure that SSFL Minimum Standards and Rules are satisfied, a letter requesting membership which includes a statement that the organization meets or exceeds Minimum Standards and will follow SSFL Rules.
- Completion of the Membership Application Form and payment of first dues installment.
Application Fee: $250.00
This is the owners committment for membership and is returned to all owners at the end of the season who remained in league compliance
SOUTHERN STATES FOOTBALL LEAGUE, INC.
Mailing Address: Office Address:
PO Box 1384 950 North Collier Blvd.
Marco Island, Fl 34146 Sun Trust Bank Building
Marco Island, Fl 34145
Membership Application
Applicant Information
Team Name____________________________________ Contact Person/Title________________________________
Web Site Address_______________________________
St. Address____________________________________ Email Address_____________________________________
City__________________________________________ State________________________ Zip_________________
Telephone ( )________________________________ Fax ( )____________________
Years in Operation_____________ Prior League Affiliations____________________________
Florida Corporate Name _________________________ President_________________________________________
Liability Insurance Secured? ______________________ Insurance Co._________________Tel.( )______________
Game Field____________________________________ Field Administration________________________________
Street Address__________________________________ City____________________State______ Zip____________
Uniforms: Team Colors___________________________ Helmet Color_____________________________________
Color of Light Jersey_____________________________Color of Dark Jersey_______________________________
NFL Numbering Required – Acknowledged by initialing____________
Field Under Contract?
Facilities/Equipment Available Yes or No Comments/Alternatives
Field Lights __________ _________________________________________________
Score Board/Time Clock __________ _________________________________________________
Stands on both sides __________ _________________________________________________
Goal Posts/Protective Pads __________ _________________________________________________
End Zone Corner Pylons __________ _________________________________________________
Down & Distance Marker Set __________ _________________________________________________
Press Box __________ _________________________________________________
Public Address System __________ _________________________________________________
Concession Stand __________ _________________________________________________
Lighted Parking Facility __________ _________________________________________________
Entry Ticket Booth __________ _________________________________________________
Fence Around Playing Field __________ _________________________________________________
Officials Room __________ _________________________________________________
Indoor Team Dressing Room __________ _________________________________________________
Showers for Visiting Team __________ _________________________________________________
Water Access __________ _________________________________________________
Public Rest Rooms __________ _________________________________________________
Referees on field microphone __________ _________________________________________________
I certify that I have not knowingly withheld any facts in completing this form.
Upon verbal commitment to joining the SSFL, Commissioner Rice will contact the team owner to set up a visitation date to inspect the game field and meet with those personnel selected by the owner such as other team administrators, board members and coaching staff.
Authorized Signature_______________________Title_____________________Date________________
Printed Name_____________________________
SSFL Membership Agreement
I (or) We, as owner (s) and Operating Officer(s) of the football organization named, as documented in the State of Florida, agree to membership in the SSFL for the 2010-2011 season. All persons listed on the State of Florida corporate documents must sign this agreement.
As a member of the SSFL, I (or) we agree to abide by SSFL by-laws, playing rules, minimum standards, rules and regulations and decisions of the league commissioner. I (or) we, agree to provide all requested information and provide funds as per league deadlines. I (or) we, agree to demand and enforce the highest standards of sportsmanship from staff and players and to provide a family entertainment atmosphere in the community.
Fees & Refund
A $250 fee is to accompany the application prior to the Commissioners visit.
A $500 refund will be made to all members at the conclusion of the season who have honored
all scheduled games and payment plan schedules less any fines due to violations of
established rules and standards.
An optional payment plan is available to owners with the first payment due Sept. 1, 2010
The annual fee total is $2750.00 is reduced to $2250.00 at the conclusion of the season
based on the refund policy upon completion of the seasons scheduled games.
Violation of rules may result in probation, suspension or expulsion. Fines and legal fees associated with the need to pursue balances due are the responsibility of the individual(s) signing this agreement. Team owners assume full responsibility for the actions of team players, staff and patrons in relation to all football activities associated with SSFL membership. Owners hold harmless the SSFL its officers, agents and staff and assume all legal responsibilities related to any claim made against the SSFL, its officers, agents or staff.
Documents required to be on file with the Commissioners office before participation in an SSFL game include: State of Florida Corporate Documents
Membership Agreement
Proof of Liability Insurance
Contract or letter of agreement for game field including post season tournament
Emergency Medical Plan for Home Games
Team Web Site
Required Information per the SSFL Communication Sheet
Organization and/or Corporate Name ___________________________________
I (or) we agree to pay the league fee as noted above that includes services and equipment supplied by the league as per the benefits listed on the SSFL web Site. I (or) we have reviewed all information on the SSFL web site regarding benefits, rules and standards and agree to all said information.
by Dave Rice, SSFL Commissioner
Signature____________________________Printed Name___________________Date_______________
Team Owner(s)
Signature(s)__________________________Printed Name___________________Date ______________
___________________________Printed Name___________________Date_______________
Include with Membership Application
Financial Stability is the major factor in having a successful business and owning a Minor League Team is just that, a business venture. As Commissioner, I am available at your convenience to discuss financial issues in a confidential and helpful way. If I can be of assistance to help you shore up the finances of your team, the more likelihood the team will remain in existence for seasons to come. Estimating Expenses and Income and comparing the results is the first way to start. I hope these lists stimulate the development of a balanced if not a profitable outcome.
If you have additions to the list, please forward them to me as it will only help others in the future.
Income $ Total Income
Combine Fees _____ $ per tryout_____ # of Candidates_____ __________
Player Fees _____ $ per player_____ # of Players _____ __________
Fund Raising Project(s) _____ __________
Consession Stand _____ __________
Season Tickets _____ __________
Game Tickets _____ __________
Merchandise Sales _____ __________
Sponsorships _____ __________
Owner Investment _____ __________ Income Grand Total $ __________
Expenses
Insurance _____
Security _____
Game Field Rental _____
Practice Field Rental _____
League Fees _____
Corporate Fees _____
Staff Salaries _____
Announcer _____
Video _____
Gate Staff _____
Trainer _____
Other _____
Equipment _____
Extra Game Balls _____
Practice Balls _____
Sideline Crew Vests _____
Coaching Uniforms _____
Player Uniforms _____
Telephone _____
Web Site _____
Travel _____
Advertising _____
Printing Tix _____
Printing Posters _____
Stadium Banners _____
American Flag _____
Office Supplies _____
Referees Microphone _____
Concession Expenses _____
Bank fees _____
Laundry _____
End of Season Banquet _____
Travel to Meetings _____
Expenses Grand Total $ _____
League Franchise Fee
TBD
Note
Organizations accepted will be posted on the team page. Prior to the first game, the following documents are
required:
- Document of ownership (Incorporation, sole proprietor or partnership)
- Documentation indicating a confirmed game field
- Documentaion of liabillity Insurance
- Team Web Site
- Emergency medical plan of action
Final Step - The Commissioner and member representative(s) visits and inspects the game field and facilities and meets with team administrators
A. Benefits of Membership
* The Focus is on players and teams in the SSFL. Promotion of individulal players who exhibit exceptional
athletic ability and teams who win with class, are distinguished on the SSFL web site and to national
football organizations, college programs and professional teams. Past success in efforts to promote league
players, coaches and officials is well documented.
* The only Minor League Championship played in a nationally known venue...the Florida Citrus
Bowl. Amenities: U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard, 7 NFL trained SSFL officials on the field, 2
SSFL officials as game clock operator and recorder, SSFL officials as chain crew,
professional game announcer, half time awards presentations to All Star players, officials, ball
boys, Hall of Fame inductees and past members, Commissioners Cup Award, entertainment,
professionally operated snack bar, security and ticket personnel, field access for fans post
game for photo ops.
* Exclusive to the SSFL - SSFL Hall of Fame honoring excellence in performance for players,
coaches, staff, and executives. Ceremony is held prior to the championship game in the Citrus
Bowl and includes: induction ceremony, awards presentation, comments by each inductee,
champagne toast, luncheon, individual photographs, class photograph, complimentary game
ticket, reserved seating for the game in the air conditioned press box and individual
introductions of all attending Hall of Fame members to the fans at half time.
* Comp Game Tickets to: All Star players and their guest, 10 tickets to each organization for their
staffs and guests.
* Six Custom made SSFL Game Balls by Wilson, created to NFL Standards.
* At no cost for SSFL teams and no cost to the viewer: team game videos may be placed on the
SSFL web site and archived for free viewing simply by clicking onto the game of choice.
Available to anyone world wide.
* The most comprehensive league information web site available in Florida.
* Discount prices for football equipment is available from companies and obtained by contacting
the League Office
*SSFL Store - 70 gift items featuring the logos of all teams, league and Rice Bowl.
* Annual invitation to select SSFL team(s) to particiapte in National Bowl Weekend.
* Outstanding officals crews are trained and scheduled by the SSFL Officials Association under the
direction of the SSFLOA Supervisor of Officials. NFL identification numbered shirts required for
all officials.
* Weekly officials reports for each owner complete with game details inlcuding: list of officials by
position, name and number, score by quarters, penalties by quarters, penalties listed by time
remaining, team, foul called, player #, official calling the player, disciplinary actions listed,
general information such as game time start/finish, field conditions, weather, estimted
attendance, chain crew competency, game ball quality, required field set up evalution, host a
administration performance, ball persons available and secure officials room provided.
* Reasonable payment plan for dues available in (6) installments to insure that all benefits are guaranteed
throughout the season.
* All benefits will be provided annually as listed below for all teams in league compliance.
* Organizations who are expelled or self eliminate from the league forfeit dues as the benefits expenses are
shared equally be the membership.
* Provides experienced league leadership through the position of Commissioner and staff with extensive NCAA
athletic coaching and administrative backgrounds and 48 years in football and athletic administration.
* Membership is maintained by following SSFL Standards and Rules. A no tolernce policy is in affect.
* The number of teams as members is deemed less important that the quality of organizations and the ethical
conduct of team leadership. The reality between numbers and actual teams is distorted but common in
Minor League Football.
* Provides an administrative staff of professionals including administrative assistant to the Commissioner,
accountant, legal advisor and staffing for the Rice Bowl.
* Provides training to new member owners and staffs. Meet with accountant, legal advisor, officials, and
present team owners and staffs to obtain information to make the transition into the SSFL seamless.
* Provides advance agendas prior to all meetings listing all items for discussion and decision.
* Provides Press releases.
* Provides updated communications to all SSFL members, staffs, officials and Hall of Fame members regarding
league news and information.
* Provides communications to colleges, universities and professional football organizations regarding recruiting
opportunities for SSFL players.
* Provides meeting rooms for league meetings.
* Provides beverages and food for league meetings.
* Provides Rules and Standards for membership and enforces compliance.
* Provides a regular season schedule of a maximum of 10 games with opponents with similar interests and
resources.
* Provides a post season single elimination tournament of the top 8 teams, ultimately defining the top two team
for the Championship.
* Provides all costs for the Championship Rice Bowl played annually in the Florida Citrus Bowl.
* Provides all league related administrative expenses to include: office rental, liability insurance for league
staff, dedicated telephone, fax and internet access, cellular service, travel costs for attendance by league
staff at games, meetings, national conferences, recruitment of new teams, professional meetings,
corporate fees, legal fees, accountant fees, taxes, post office box, fax machine, postage, telephone
service, internet service, web site maintenance, rental of office copier,, fax machine and office supplies.
* Provides NFL Style Sideline Control hat to all teams.
* Provides SSFL All Star Helmet Decals to all All Stars on each team indicating the number of years
achieved as an All Star
* Provides the Commissioners Cup to the organization demonstrating excellence in professional and
administrative management.
* Provides SSFL Championship Rice Bowl trophy.
* Provides SSFL Championship Runner Up trophy.
* Provides Coach of the Year Award to the Coach of the Rice Bowl Championship Team.
* Provides MVP Awards for the Offensive and Defensive Players of the Game in the Rice Bowl.
* Provides 4 All Star Ball Boy Awards
* Provides All Star Award plaques to SSFL Players selected from each team who are honored at the Rice Bowl.
All Stars are selected by their coaches and owners. All teams are represented on the All Star Team.
* Provides 7 awards to the All Star Crew officiating the Rice Bowl.
* Provides plaques to Hall of Fame inductees.
* Provides 10 Comp Tickets to each SSFL teams for their staffs to the Rice Bowl.
* Provides affiliations with the American Football Association, Minor Legue Football News, NFL Alumni
Association and National Football Events.
What we do not do.
* We do not have less than 7 on field officials for all games. Anything less puts teams at jeopardy of missed
calls and player safety. It also inhibits officials from performing their duties to the best of their ability.
* We do not permit unchecked and scrutinized league or team message boards demeaning the ideals of
football, football teams, administrators, coaches, players and leagues.
* We do not schedule based on teams past success or expected seasons success. Scheduling top contender to
play weaker opponents and not playing each other in order to protect a teams record is not accepted.
* We do not publcize logos of companies identified as sponsors suggesting financial support when they are
actually companies supplying services or products for a fee.
* Due to the economic times, we do not plan events requiring players and staffs to incur personal expenses
such as hotel rooms, travel costs, entertainment and meals. RATHER, our focus is on football only. If team
owners wish to add activities or events, by majority vote of the membership such events may be approved
along with a majority vote to increse dues to cover event costs.
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2. PLAYERS - Interested players are instructed to contact the owner of the team they are interested in playing for.
1. Click onto the TEAM PAGE.
2. Contact information such as owners name, telephone number, email address and team web site are provided.
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3. OFFICIALS - Prospective Officials wanting information on becoming an SSFL Officials Association member are to contact:
Mr. John Walters, SSFL Supervisor of Officials.
Email: jcwalters@verizon.net
Cell: 813-928-8441
LOG ONTO THE OFFICIALS PAGE FOR INITIAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE SSFL OFFICIALS ASSOCIATION AND
SUPERVISOR JOHN WALTERS.
