9 vs. 9 Canadian football Full regulation-sized field Four 15-minute quarters Balanced competition within the Island Football League structure Expanded offensive and defensive playbooks Standard Canadian rules adapted for youth development This level prepares athletes for the more advanced structure of Junior Bantam.

Peewee athletes begin transitioning from “everyone learns everything” to stronger positional skill-building. Players focus on: Safe, technical tackling and blocking Footwork, alignment, and assignment execution Route-running, coverage, and positional responsibilities Ball-handling fundamentals (QB/RB/WR skills where applicable) Reading plays and reacting with confidence Increased physical conditioning and discipline Athletes start building the foundation for competitive team roles at older levels.

Safety remains the highest priority. We follow Football Canada Safe Contact standards, including: Strict progression into contact drills Proper tackling form practiced consistently No reckless contact or full-speed collisions in uncontrolled drills Mandatory certified equipment for every player Coaches trained in safe tackling and safe blocking Immediate sideline removal for suspected injuries As athletes grow, coaches ensure physical development is matched with safe technique.

Coaching shifts to a more structured, competitive style while still prioritizing learning. One coach is allowed on the field for the first 3 regular scheduled games Playbooks become more detailed with increased complexity Athletes are expected to line up, communicate, and execute assignments independently Coaches emphasize discipline, accountability, and situational awareness Practice structure becomes more position-focused All teaching maintains a positive and supportive tone Peewee prepares athletes for the expectations of Junior Bantam and beyond.

Development and fairness still matter, but athletes begin experiencing a more competitive environment. 10-play rule in place. All players receive fair opportunities for playing time Athletes begin settling into more defined positions Sportsmanship remains a core value of the division Athletes must respect teammates, opponents, referees, and coaches Equal learning opportunities provided across the roster Player development remains the priority, even as competition increases.

To create a professional, organized game experience: Arrive 45–60 minutes early for warm-up and equipment checks Athletes must bring all required equipment, fully fitted Players are expected to know their assignments for the week Respect for coaches and officials is mandatory Parent conduct must support the environment — cheering only Athletes are encouraged to take ownership of gear, hydration, and readiness Peewee athletes begin practicing accountability and preparation expected at higher levels.

All Atom players must have: CSA-approved helmet Youth-sized shoulder pads Mouthguard (mandatory) Cleats (no metal) Proper football pants with pads Team jersey Optional: gloves, compression wear, performance gear Coaches and staff perform equipment checks at the start of the season and as needed. Spartans provide the following to every player at the beginning of each season: CSA-approved helmet Youth-sized shoulder pads Basic Mouthguard Proper football pants with pads Team jersey Players are required to provide their own: Cleats (no metal) Mouthguard (although we provide a basic mouthguard, we recommend considering buying your own mouthguard based on fit and preferences) Optional: gloves, compression wear, performance gear Players are not allowed to play if they do not have their full required equipment, whether that be during a practice or a game. Please arrive 10-15 minutes earlier than the scheduled start time to give yourself enough time to put your gear on.

The Peewee Division is where young players start to feel like real football athletes, learning structure, discipline, and team responsibility. Our mission is to help athletes: Grow technically and physically Understand game strategy and positional play Build confidence through execution Strengthen teamwork and commitment Develop resilience and leadership Prepare for Junior Bantam and competitive football Peewee is still about learning, fun, and development, just with added structure and accountability.