Santa Margarita Pop Warner

Frequently Asked Questions for Football

Parents please read this entire page as it contains important information:

Q: When does the season begin?
A: August 1

Q: When will our Head Coach contact us?
A: Mid-May to Early June

Q: How long does the season last?
A:4 months. The season begins the first weekday in August and continues through the month of November. Some teams (Jr. Pee Wee and above) may play into December depending upon playoff schedules.

Q: How many day/hours do the players/cheerleaders practice?
A: Tackle players will practice 4 to 5 days a week during August (10 hours per week). After the Labor Day Holiday, practice is reduced to 3 days a week(6 hours per week). Flag players will practice 3 to 4 times a week 1 hour per day. Cheer teams normally practice the same days and hours as their assigned football team.

Q: How many games will be played?
A: 10 for tackle and 8 for flag. Additional games will be played if the team makes playoffs. (for Jr Pee Wee level and above)

Q: When and where are games played?
A: All games are played on Saturdays. Home games will be played at Tesoro HS, Trabuco Hills HS, San Juan Hills HS, and Santa Margarita HS. Away games will vary by location - our Conference covers Orange and L.A. Counties. Playoff games may be scheduled on Sundays.

Q: Is there a refund policy if my player changes his mind and decides not to play?
A: Refunds for Documented medical and relocation only and before August 1st only per policy in "General Information" section of website.

Q: Can I register after the "Final" registration date?
A: Registration forms will be accepted, however your child may be placed on a waiting list for a team placement.

Q: How much volunteer time is expected from parents?
A: Parents are encouraged to volunteer for league and/or team activities for the duration of their team’s season, which includes playoffs and bowl games. Parents are also encouraged to assist during game day (field security, parking lot patrol, chain gang, field set up/take down, spotter duty, score board). Parents will also need to help at Opening Day Carnival. Volunteers run SMPW. All parents need to help in some capacity

Q: Is it mandatory to fundraise?
A: Yes, NEW and IMPROVED for 2023

Q: Can I request a certain Coach or Team?
A: Yes, but there are no guarantees that you will be placed on requested team.

Q: Do I need a waiver if I live out of the boundaries of SMPW?
A: Yes you will need a waiver (signed by the President of the League of the area in which you live) to register with SMPW. Please see a Board Member for more information and we can help you get the waiver.

Q: Who should I contact if I have questions about football registration?
A: Please contact our League’s Player Administrator via the contact tab on the website or send to [email protected]