Intramural Athletics Rule Book

House Athletics Rule Book (2008-2009)

MISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS
The Department of Athletics is committed to providing "Athletics for all Students." Competitive and recreational athletics are an integral part of the educational process and experience. Students should have opportunities to participate and compete as appropriate to their interests and skills.

Harvard values the lessons that have long been taught by athletic participation: the pursuit of excellence through personal development and teamwork; ethical and responsible behavior on the field and off; adherence to the spirit of rules as well as to their letter; leadership and strength of character; and sportsmanship - including respect for one's opponents, acceptance of victory with humility, and acknowledgment of defeat with grace. In teaching these lessons to its students, Harvard instills habits that will lead students to better and healthier lives. While winning is not an end in itself, we believe that the efforts by our intercollegiate teams to be their best will lead them to success.

Athletic participation is a way for students to grow and learn and enjoy themselves and to use and develop their personal, physical and intellectual skills. The entire Department, including coaches, medical and training staff, facilities and equipment personnel, and administrators, works to achieve these goals, honors the values of the College, and supports the principles of the Ivy League and the NCAA.

INTRODUCTION
Harvard University believes that a comprehensive athletics program provides physical, social and emotional benefits that is vitally important in a highly competitive educational environment. Since the number of students who can compete at the intercollegiate level is limited, an extensive program of intramural sports has been developed.

The program originated at the freshman level as early as 1919 and expanded to include upperclassmen in 1927. With the introduction of the House system in the early 1930's, the program continued to develop and evolve in order to meet the interests of generations of Harvard students.

THE FRESHMAN INTRAMURAL PROGRAM
Participation in freshman intramural athletics is an effective means of getting acquainted with a large number of classmates early in one's college career. Competition in this program is organized on the basis of dormitories and entryways grouped into leagues. Points are tabulated based on place of finish and the Yard Bucket is awarded to the top team at year's end.

The Freshman Dean appoints a proctor to work with the Intramural Director to coordinate the freshman program. It is the responsibility of these proctors to organize the dormitory units and advise the Director as to their program's needs. They conduct all necessary meetings, create the schedules and oversee publicity and communication.

HOUSE INTRAMURAL ATHLETICS
The House Intramural Athletics program provides competitive athletic participation for the members of the thirteen Houses: Adams, Cabot, Currier, Dudley, Dunster, Eliot, Kirkland ,Leverett, Lowell, Mather, Pforzheimer, Quincy and Winthrop. Freshmen are not eligible to participate in the House Intramural Athletics program.

Each year over 800 contests are scheduled in approximately 30 different sport leagues or special events. Points are awarded at the end of each season and the Straus Cup is presented to the first place House in May.

INTERHOUSE ATHLETICS COUNCIL
The Interhouse Athletics Council (IAC) is composed of an athletics secretary, of co-secretaries, from each House. The Council meets each Tuesday at 4:00 p.m. in the private dining hall at the Dudley House. The Council advises the Director on all matters concerning House Intramural Athletics, with each House having one vote. The House athletics secretary, usually a senior, is chosen by the House Master. He/she is customarily aided by one or two assistant athletics secretaries, usually juniors. The secretaries have immediate responsibility for carrying out the intramural program in their respective Houses, and they work closely with the House Masters and the Director of Intramural Athletics.

DIRECTOR OF INTRAMURAL ATHLETICS
The Director of Intramural Athletics has immediate oversight of the House Intramural Athletics program. He acts as secretary of the Interhouse Athletics Council and creates all schedules and secures the necessary facilities, fields, equipment and officials. The Director is also responsible for compiling and printing the league standings and point totals.

DIVISION OF SPORTS

HOUSE PROGRAM*

Major Sports Fall: Flag Football, Soccer, A-League Volleyball, Ultimate Frisbee
Minor Sports Fall: B-League Volleyball, Team Tennis
Special Events Fall: Charles River Run

Major Sports Winter: A-League Basketball, Women's Basketball, Squash, Ice Hockey
Minor Sports Winter: B-League Basketball, 6 Foot Basketball
Special Events Winter: Fencing Meet, Table Tennis Tournament, Kickball Tournament, Dodgeball Tournament

Major Sports Spring: A-League Volleyball, Softball, Men's A Crew, Women's A Crew
Minor Sports Spring: B-League Volleyball, Men's B Crew, Women's B Crew
Special Events Spring: Swim Meet, Spring Tennis, Soccer Tournament, Ultimate Frisbee Tournament, Flag Football Tournament, Charles River Run

* Note : From year to year, sports may be moved from one category to another depending on participation and availability of facilities.

FRESHMAN PROGRAM

Major Sports Special Events: Flag Football (fall & spring), Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Soccer (fall & spring), Ice Hockey (1 team), Ultimate Frisbee

Special Events: Charles River Run I, Charles River Run II, Fencing, Kickball, Squash, Swimming, Tennis, Table Tennis

Table of Points:

In those major and minor sports that conduct a playoff tournament after the completion of a round robin schedule, one (1) point will be awarded to the first round teams, two (2) points will be awarded to the second round teams and four (4) points will be awarded to the championship round teams (instituted 2009). In addition to the four (4) points earned for the championship round- an additional five (5) point bonus is awarded to the playoff champion (instituted December 8, 1986 ).

**PARTICIPATION POINTS ADDED FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

In addition to the points awarded for final standing based on actual meet or tournament points won, participation points are added: one (1) point per participant with a maximum of fifteen (15) for men and another fifteen (15) for women per House/dorm. ( all cross country events). Maximum of thirty (30) points per House/dorm. (Adopted October, 2008)

For all swimming and fencing events participation points are added: one (1) point per participant with a maximum of ten (10) for men and another ten (10) for women per House/dorm. Maximum of twenty (20) points per House/dorm.

Forfeit and Penalty Points Subtracted

Five (5) penalty points are subtracted for each forfeit of a scheduled game or match.

If an ineligible player has been used, contest is recorded as a forfeit with appropriate forfeiture points subtracted and in addition, penalty points are subtracted as follows: ten (10) points for participation of ineligible player in team play, individual play or special events.

Five (5) penalty points are subtracted if a House registers for a single elimination tournament and does not play. Ten (10) penalty points are subtracted if a House registers for a double elimination tournament and does not play. (Adopted December, 2008)

Ten (10) penalty points are subtracted if a House is dropped from a league. (Adopted December, 2008)

GENERAL RULES

I. Introduction

The following rules are the result of a compilation of rules handed down over the years, with revisions made as necessary by the athletics secretaries, the Director and the student officials. One policy strictly adhered to is that no rule changes may be made during the season for the sport.

Anyone who feels that the rule should be changed may either petition, through the House or dorm athletics secretary, to alter the rules or may directly present the case at a meeting of the athletics secretaries. The Director and the IAC may decide that a trial period is necessary before a rule change is adopted.

II. Code Of Conduct

ALL PARTICIPANTS IN THE INTRAMURAL SPORTS PROGRAM AT HARVARD ARE EXPECTED TO CONDUCT THEMSELVES IN A SPORTSMANLIKE MANNER AT ALL TIMES. VIOLATORS WILL BE SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINARY ACTION BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE INTRAMURAL SPORTS PROGRAM.

In order to insure the spirit and intent of the Code, the Director will take the following steps:

1. Instruct officials how they can help prevent problems and how they should be handled.

• Officials should report any problems immediately to the Director.

• The Director will meet with individuals involved to discuss the matter.

4. Depending on the severity of the incident, the first offense will merit a warning or, if deemed serious enough, suspension from all intramural play.

5. If a second incident occurs, the student is automatically suspended from all intramural play until the matter is resolved. This second incident will be reported to the Senior Tutor.

6. In very grave incidents, the Department of Intramurals will refer the matter to the Administrative Board for appropriate action.

Unsportsmanlike conduct includes:

1. Fighting. (Fighting will result in automatic suspension from all intramural play).

• Deliberately endangering another player or committing a flagrant foul.

• Abusive language and/or actions.

• Treating an official with disrespect.

Any player who is ejected or disqualified from a game for unsportsmanlike conduct or safety violations will automatically be suspended and ineligible to play in the next scheduled game. The ejected player must speak to the Director before he/she is again eligible to play in any intramural contests. Approved Ruling: This automatic suspension applies to disqualification due to accumulated penalties, such as two yellow cards in soccer or two technical fouls in basketball. It does not apply to disqualification due to blood, illegal equipment, or similar circumstances.

III. Disciplinary

There are to be no alcoholic beverages of any kind at intramural events. Spectators are to be reminded that alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the Athletic Department buildings.

IV. Eligibility

The following eligibility rules were unanimously passed at the meeting of the House athletics secretaries on October 1, 1979 :

1. No member of any varsity squad is eligible to participate in that sport during the current academic year. The deadline is the first contest in that sport (except for crew; the date will be determined by the IM Office).

An undergraduate who is ineligible for intercollegiate participation in a sport (eg. exhausted four years of eligibility, played professionally, etc.) is ineligible for House athletics in that sport. Exceptions must be approved by the House athletics secretaries. (Adopted Spring 1992) An undergraduate who is currently training with or competing for nationals, junior nationals or Olympics will also be ineligible for House athletics. (Adopted, 2008)

2. Tutors or affiliates are not eligible for a sport in which they exhausted four years of eligibility. Equivalence to varsity experience includes, but is not limited to, experience in international competitions and/or an international ranking. (Adopted, 2008) Affiliates include Senior Common Room members, residents and non-resident tutors, and currently employed House staff members. Alumni are not considered affiliates unless they fit into one of the categories listed above.

3. Intercollegiate coaches may not compete in the sport which they coach.

4. The only individuals eligible for intramural competition are students, tutors (resident or non-resident) or affiliates of the House. Freshmen are not eligible to participate in the House Intramural Athletics program. Students must be currently enrolled . A student not currently enrolled can petition the athletics secretaries for eligibility.

5. Participants must play for the House where they are carried on the House list. If an individual appears on multiple House lists, he/she must pick one House and remain with that House for all sports throughout the year. If the House does not participate in a sport they may play for another House only with the Director's approval.

6. If a House has two teams in a certain sport, women may choose to play on either the women's team or the men's team; they may not play on both the women's team and the men's team without the permission of the athletics secretaries.

NOTE: THE ATHLETIC SECRETARIES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR SEEING THAT THE ELIGIBILITY RULES ARE OBSERVED AND ENFORCED. ANY EXCEPTIONS TO THESE RULES MUST BE APPROVED BY THE SECRETARIES AND THE DIRECTOR.

Because the system of self monitoring was not observed as rigorously as desired, in the spring of 1975 the IAC voted to introduce penalties, in addition to forfeiture of the event, when an ineligible player participated. Such situations, which are unpleasant and usually cause bad feelings on both sides, are avoidable. Questionable eligibility of a player should be discussed,at the initiative of his/her athletics secretary, before the event.

V. PHYSICALS

A physical examination at the University Health Services is recommended before participation in intramural athletics.

VI. SWIM TESTS

Anyone interested in House crew MUST pass a swim test given at the Malkin Athletic Center . A swim card is required in order to gain access to Weld Boat House and to participate in the program.

VII. SCHEDULES

All schedules are prepared by the Director. The schedules are subject to change during the season because of changes in the intercollegiate schedules affecting availability of facilities, bad weather or other unforeseen problems which may arise.

Intramural teams may not schedule extramural contests without specific permission from the Director of Intramural Athletics.

VIII. TEAM CAPTAINS

Team captains will take the place of Head Coaches in all sports that reference Head Coaches. The team captain is responsible for ensuring that all players have signed into the game. The team captain is responsible for the actions of his/her team as well as any fans or spectators.

If the team captain cannot control him/herself, his/her team or fans, or is removed from the game for any reason, the official may appoint a new team captain.

Team captains are the only person authorized to protest a rule interpretation or eligibility.

IX. POSTPONEMENTS AND RESCHEDULING CONTESTS

Postponements of games because of bad weather will be decided by the IM Office by 2:00 p.m. on weekdays and one hour before the first game on weekends. After that hour, games may be postponed at the discretion of the Head Official. Postponed games will be rescheduled within one week of the original contest. The date of the make up contest must be mutually agreed upon by both teams.

Lightning Policy- Flash to Bang Method

To use the Flash to Bang Method, count the seconds from the time lightning is sighted ("flash") to when the clap ("bang") of thunder is heard. Divide this number by five (5) to obtain how faraway (in miles) the lightning is occurring. (Ex. 30 sec. count/5 =6 mile distance.

A Flash to Bang Time of thirty (30) seconds or less dictates the immediate suspension of practice/events and evacuation of all athletes and spectators to a safe area. (This is equivalent to 6 miles away or less.) Participants must go to Harvard Stadium and wait 30 minutes. DO NOT stand under the metal bleachers on Jordan Field!

Once it has been decided to stop an athletic practice/event, it is strongly recommended that all persons involved wait at least thirty (30) minutes after all lightning and thunder activity has ceased before resuming any athletic activity.


Rescheduling Policy -

Games up to the quarterfinals may only be rescheduled due to an Official House event, which includes guest speakers, House formals, or special dinners. Notification must be given no later than 48 hours before the event. Semifinal and final contests may be rescheduled by the mutual agreement of both teams provided that:


1. A time to make up the contest has been agreed upon by both team in advance.


2. The Head Official has been notified of the request to reschedule at least 48 hours in advance of the original game or new game time, whichever is earlier. The new time for the game must accompany this notification.


3. Official and field/court space are available at the requested time.


4. The rescheduled game is within one week of the original contest.


5. The game being rescheduled has not already been rescheduled.


6. If it a semifinal contest, any potential opponents in the finals have been notified as well.


7. Each House is limited to one reschedule per sport. All game rescheduling must be done at least 48 hours in advance and be approved by the IM Office.


X. INCOMPLETED SCHEDULES

All games postponed by the Director (i.e., because of weather, field conditions, etc.) must be re-scheduled and played within one week of the original game date. The initiative for scheduling make-up games must come from the teams involved. The Director will assume responsibility only for providing the facility and officials.

XI. MULTIPLE TEAMS (ONE LEAGUE)

In some sports a House may want to field more than one team. In such cases, a roster for each team must be turned in to the Director. Players may participate on only one team per sport.

If a team forfeits out of a season, the players on the forfeited team may only play for another team with the consent of the IAC.

Exception: If the team has forfeited all contests, any players on that team are allowed to play for another team without the consent of the IAC.

When a House has more than one team in a sport, the highest finishing team will count - other teams are awarded no points and do not displace teams from other Houses. In the event that two teams from the same House face each other in the playoffs, the winning team will assume the better record of the two teams.

The Director reserves the right to limit the number of teams a House may have in a particular league.

XII. MULTIPLE LEAGUES (ONE SPORT)

An individual player may be a member of only one team. (Players are allowed a one game grace period to determine the appropriate level of competition, which can only be taken in the first week of the season.) After the first game a player who has participated in an A-league game may not move to the B-league. However, during the regular season B-team players may be switched to the A-team and remain there. In general players may move up a level but never down, and there should be no movement once the playoffs begin.

Approved Ruling: 6 Foot Basketball and Women's Basketball shall be considered equal to a B-league. Players may not move from one B-league to another, except as provided herein.

XIII. SPECIAL EVENTS AND NEW SPORTS

The Director may schedule special events or new sports when he feels there is sufficient interest. Generally, in order for such activities to count in the Straus standings, the athletics secretaries must agree by a two-thirds majority (9 out of 13).

XIV. FORFEITS

At 5 minutes after the scheduled time of the game, the official will call for the captains' meeting. If the captain of a team is not present at this time, the team forfeits any pre-game procedures (e.g. possession of ball or direction).

The official shall start the game promptly at 10 minutes after the scheduled time provided that the team has at least half of the number of players to make a full squad (e.g. 3 in basketball, 6 in soccer) ready to play.

The official declares a team to have forfeited when the required number of players (described in the table below) are not in the game within 10 minutes after the game started (20 minutes after the scheduled game time). All forfeits declared by an official are final.

A team that forfeits its first two games will be dropped from the league.

A team will forfeit without the following number of players 10 minutes into the game.

Squash 3, Basketball 4, Ice Hockey 5, Flag Football 5, Soccer 8, Volleyball 5, Softball 8, Ultimate Frisbee 5

XV. PROTESTS

A protest of a rule interpretation only (not a judgement call) must be registered in the following manner. The captain of the protesting team notifies the official, at the point of protest, that the game is being played under protest. The official will confer with the official in charge (OIC) at the facility at which the game is played. The OIC can uphold the protest and the game shall be continued with the correct ruling, or refer the protest to the Head Official. In this case, the official notes the time of the protest and the reason. The captain then submits a letter of protest to the Head Official within twenty-four hours. If the Head Official does not uphold the protest, the team captain can appeal to the Director. In most cases, the Director will review the protested ruling with the varsity coach of the sport. If the protest is upheld by the Director or Head Official, the game is replayed from the point of protest.

Please note: If a protest is not filed accordingly and exceeds the twenty-four hour period the protest will not be upheld.

If there is a question of eligibility, the opposing team captain shall protest the eligibility of a player before the start of the game. If the protested player participates in the game and is later found to be ineligible, the offending player's team will forfeit the game.

XVI. PLAYOFFS

A record of .500 or better qualifies a team for post-season playoffs. The IM Office may include teams below .500 as they see fit. A team that forfeits at least 2 regular season contests is ineligible for playoffs no matter what their final record is.

XVII. FINAL STANDINGS

To determine final standings and Straus totals in each team sport at the end of the season, each win is weighed as '2' and each tie is weighed as '1'. Playoff tournament games count as additional games toward overall totals. When a House has been represented by more than one team, the placement of only the team with the best record counts toward the House's final standing in the sport.

XVIII. SPORT CHAMPIONS

When a playoff tournament is held after completion of a round robin schedule, the tournament winner is designated "Sport Champion" whether or not the team finishes first in the final standings. When there is no playoff, the team that finishes first in the final standings earns the title of Sport Champion.

XIV. HARVARD - YALE INTRAMURAL CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES

At the end of the fall season the Harvard Sport Champion in each sport meet the Yale first-place finisher whenever feasible. The Edward S. Harkness Trophy is given into the custody of the school which has won the majority of championship contests each year.

Because of the difference in academic calendars of Harvard and Yale, as well as rain-outs, etc., it often is necessary to designate a team to play the Yale representative before our season is completed. In this event, the team which is in first place at the time will represent Harvard.

Harvard - Yale games are played according to the rules of the home team

SPORTS RULES

BASKETBALL

N.C.A.A. RULES APPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING EXCEPTIONS:

Time: Two 20 minute halves running time, with stop-time during last three minutes of game.

Jump ball: At the start of the game. Subsequent jump balls will result in alternate possessions. Unlimited personal fouls , but officials have discretion to suspend players guilty of flagrant fouls or of abuse of this rule.

Team fouls: "One-and-one" will be in effect on the seventh team foul in each half. On the 10 th and subsequent fouls, 2 shots will be awarded unless the foul is committed during a 3-point attempt.

During the last three minutes of game, the penalty for any foul is two shots .

Time-outs: Three per game.

Overtime: Three minutes, stop-time. All fouls - two shots. One time-out.

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CREW

2009 Crew Handbook

Prerequisite: ALL PERSONS TAKING PART IN ROWING, IN ANY CAPACITY, MUST PASS THE 100-YARD SWIMMING TEST, GIVEN IN THE MALKIN ATHLETIC CENTER SWIMMING POOL, BEFORE GOING OUT ON THE RIVER.

Eligibility: One must not have practiced with an intercollegiate crew at any level of competition AFTER spring vacation.

One may not participate in a B-Boat race after having participated in an A-Boat race that season unless approved by the IAC, the Director or his designate.

Intercollegiate coxswains can row and intercollegiate rowers can cox with the permission of their coach.

EQUIPMENT

Only Harvard shells may be used. The oars are the property of the individual Houses. When repairs or replacements are needed, the Houses are responsible for arrangements and changes.

RACES

The National Association of Rowing Oarsmen Rules and Courtesies apply. If a House has only one crew, it must participate in the A-Boat races, unless otherwise approved by the IAC, the Director or his designate.

The A-Boat race is 1,500 meters distance, the B-Boat race is 1,000 meter. The races are conducted in the following manner: On the first day, the preliminary races are held. The winner and the second place finisher in each heat qualify for the finals. On the second day, the consolation race is held and that winner also qualifies for the finals. On the third day, the finals are held. The lane positions for the preliminary races are decided by lot. Intramural shells may not be used by a House crew for participation in a non-Harvard event without permission from the Director of Intramurals.

More than one B-Boat: The boat that finishes first receives points; other boats do not place in scoring.

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CHARLES RIVER RUN

The cross country run is located along the Charles River and is approximately 1.8 miles. There is no limit to the number of entrants per House. There are separate men's and women's races.

In both the men's and women's races the finishing rank of each House's ten fastest runners will be totaled to arrive at the final standings; the lower the number, the higher the standing. In addition, participation points are given, up to fifteen (15) for men and fifteen (15) for women, for a maximum of thirty (30) per House.

Only those runners who are eligible to win points for their Houses/dorms may participate in the cross country run. Runners whose eligibility is questionable should check with the coaches and the Director of Intramurals Athletics before the race. Penalty points may be assessed against Houses with ineligible runners. (Cross Country/Track running event participants will be allowed to participate in the race but they will not be able to place.)


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DODGEBALL

The game will be 15 on 15, games are 5 minutes. Boundaries are the basketball court.

The object of the game is to eliminate all opposing players by getting them "OUT".
Getting a player "out" may be done by:

1. Hitting an opposing player with a LIVE thrown ball below the shoulders.

2. Catching a LIVE ball thrown by your opponent before it touches the ground.

Definition- LIVE: A ball that has been thrown and has not touched anything, including the floor/ground, another ball, another player, official or other item outside of the playing field (wall, ceiling, etc)

3. Players are also out if they step outside the sidelines or cross the center line. A player may only leave the court only out the end-line and only to retrieve stray balls.

Players may block with a ball, and catching a ball brings one teammate back into the game.

Overtime procedures will be explained by the officials.


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FENCING

One day event. Tournament format. Collegiate rules apply. Weapons Classes: Foil only. Equipment Required: Rubber-soled shoes, gloves. Scoring: 7, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.


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FLAG FOOTBALL ("CONVENTIONAL RULES")

The Game:
Six (6) players represent each team. The official shall start the game promptly at 10 minutes after the scheduled time provided that the team has at least half of the number of players to make a full squad. The official declares a team to have forfeited when the required number of players (flag football-5) are not in the game within 10 minutes after the game started (20 minutes after the scheduled game time). All forfeits declared by an official are final. The game consists of four quarters of fifteen (15) plays each, divided into two halves. Teams will have five downs to score a touchdown.

Flags/Belts:

2 Velcro flags and the belt will be provided for each player. Each member of the team must wear the same color as the rest of his team for each flag. The belt must be fastened so the Velcro on the belt is facing away from the body. The entire belt must be above any and all clothing (shirts must be tucked under the belt) and should be snug around the waist to prevent the flags from moving. The flags should be worn at the sides of the player, over the hip, and should hang loosely from the belt. It is the players responsibility to comply with this rule. Players should avoid wearing loose clothing or clothing with pockets if at all possible, as this increases the chances of clothing being ripped.

Pregame:

The winner of the coin-toss shall decide between starting on offense or defense, or choosing the goal to defend. The other team may select whichever option the winner of the coin-toss did not select. At the start of the second half, the team which started on defense in the first half will start on offense in the second half. Teams change goals at the end of the first and third quarters.

The Scrimmage:

After the ball is signaled ready for play by the official by a whistle, a team has 20 seconds to scrimmage and snap the ball. The ball will be signaled ready for play as soon as it is placed at the disposal of the offensive team, and the defensive team has been given reasonable time to complete any substitutions and prepare for the next play.

PENALTY: Delay of Game. Immediate dead ball, 5 yards from previous spot, repeat down. Each player must remain entirely on his or her side of the ball before the snap.

EXCEPTION: The center may straddle the line in order to snap the ball.

PENALTY: Offense: Illegal Procedure. Lined up in neutral zone. Immediate dead ball, 5 yards from previous spot, repeat down.

Defense: Offside, 5 yards from previous spot, repeat down.

Only one player on the offensive team may be in motion during the snap, and it may not be forward.

PENALTY: Illegal Motion. 5 yards from previous spot, repeat down.

The center must snap the ball directly from the ground to another player in one continuous

motion to start the play. Hesitating during a snap or snapping from the air is illegal.

EXCEPTION: With the permission of the official, the center may snap from the air if the field is wet or muddy.

PENALTY: Illegal Procedure, illegal snap. Immediate dead ball, 5 yards from previous spot, repeat down.

Offense:

Rushing:

The offense may run the ball at any time. Laterals, Handoffs, Backward Passes:

The offense may pass the ball laterally or backward, or handoff at any time. An incomplete lateral or backward pass shall be considered a fumble.

Forward Passes:

The offense may pass the ball forward once pr play, before the ball crosses the line of scrimmage. Once the ball crosses the line of scrimmage, or after it is passed forward, the ball may not be passed forward. A pass's classification (forward, backward) shall be determined by its initial direction, and shall not change when deflected.

PENALTY: Illegal Forward Pass. 5 yards from spot of foul, loss of down.

It is illegal to intentionally ground a forward pass for the purpose of avoiding a loss of yards.

PENALTY: Intentional Grounding. 5 yards from spot of foul, loss of down.

Fumble:

If a player with possession of the ball loses possession, it is a fumble. It is also a fumble when a lateral or backward pass is incomplete, or a snap touches the ground. The ball is dead on contact with the ground and the new spot shall be the point of first contact with the ground.

EXCEPTION: If the ball is fumbled forward, the ball shall be spotted at the point of lost possession. If the ball is fumbled into the defensive team's end zone, it is a touchback.

Blocking:

No blocking of any kind is permitted by the offense. A block occurs when any member of the offensive team without the ball places him/herself in the path of a defensive player attempting to play the runner. No contact need be made if a defensive player is forced to run around an offensive player to avoid contact and attempt to make a play on the runner, blocking has occurred.

If an offensive player is inadvertently placed in a blocking position and immediately attempts to maneuver out of the way, any contact shall be declared incidental.

PENALTY: Blocking. 10 yards from spot of foul, loss of down.

Receiving:

Any offensive player is an eligible receiver. Receivers must have their first foot which hits the ground after gaining possession touch entirely inbounds, or the play will be ruled incomplete.

EXCEPTION: If a player would land inbounds without contact but is caused to land out of bounds because of contact with a defensive player, that player is ruled to have made the catch in bounds.

If a potential receiver steps out of bounds, he/she is no longer an eligible receiver, and therefore may not be the first to contact a forward pass.

EXCEPTION: If the receiver is forced out of bounds by a defensive player, he/she is allowed to

Immediately return inbounds with no restrictions.

PENALTY: Illegal Touching. Pass is incomplete, loss of down.

No offensive player may contact a defensive player attempting to intercept a forward pass once the ball is in the air, with the following exceptions.

• The ball is ruled uncatchable.

• The offensive player makes contact in an attempt to catch the ball.

• The ball has been touched by any player or official.

PENALTY: Offensive pass interference. 15 yards from previous spot, repeat down.

No offensive player may hold or otherwise impede any defensive player attempting to cover any offensive player before a forward pass has been made.

PENALTY: Illegal Contact. 10 yards from previous spot, repeat down.

Defense:

Defensive Rush:

The official will count out loud, one-one thousand, two-one thousand, GO. No player of the defensive team may cross the line of scrimmage before the official says GO.

If the ball is passed, lateralled, or handed off, or if the player with the ball begins to make forward progress toward the line of scrimmage, the official will immediately say GO before the count would normally finish. Defensive players must still wait for the official to say GO before crossing the line of scrimmage.

PENALTY: Offside. 5 yards, repeat down.

Defending the Pass:

No defensive player may contact an offensive player attempting to catch a forward pass unless:

• The ball is ruled uncatchable.

• The defensive player makes contact in an attempt to catch the ball.

• The ball has been touched by any player or official.

PENALTY: Defensive pass interference. 15 yards from previous spot, repeat down.

No defensive player may hold or otherwise impede any offensive player attempting to run a route before a forward pass has been made. There is no 5 yard grace period where such contact is legal.

PENALTY: Illegal Contact. 10 yards from previous spot, repeat down.

If a defensive player intercepts the ball in his/her own end zone and is immediately downed, a touchback shall apply and the ball shall be placed on the 20 yard line. If the defensive player attempts to advance the ball and is downed in the end zone, a safety shall be called.

Tackling:

The offensive player with possession of the ball is down, the ball becomes dead, and will be placed at the spot of the ball for the next play, when:

• Any part of the body except for the hand or the foot contacts the ground.

• Either flag is removed from the player's belt.

• The player or his/her clothing/equipment is touched by a defensive player, if the player's flags and belt are not in accordance to the above rules on Flags/Belts.

d) Any part of the body comes in contact with the ground out of bounds (lines are considered out of bounds).

Note: If the player is in the process of making a pass when any of the above occurs, the player is still considered down.

Spotting the Ball:

The ball should be spotted at least fifteen yards from either sideline. An incomplete forward pass shall be spotted at the previous spot. Otherwise, the new spot shall be where the ball became dead in the previous play.

Scoring:

Touchdown:

6 points are scored for a touchdown when an offensive player with possession of the ball brings the ball into the end zone or the area above it. As soon as the ball crosses the plane of the end zone while in possession of an offensive player, the ball is dead and no further action can nullify the touchdown.

Extra Point:

After a touchdown, the offense must choose to attempt an extra point or two point conversion.

Once the offense decides and the ball is marked for play, the decision cannot be changed. An extra point is spotted on the 3-yard line, and a two point conversion is spotted on the 10-yard line. The offense shall score one or two points accordingly if they get a touchdown, it shall count as two points for the defensive team. The extra point does not count as a play.

Safety:

If the ball becomes dead in the offensive team's end zone, or if a penalty is committed in the offensive team's end zone, the defense shall score two points and gain possession on their won 20-yard line.

Penalties:

Other Penalties:

No player shall tackle, attempt to injure, or otherwise intentionally roughly contact an opponent.

PENALTY: Personal foul, unnecessary roughness. 15 yards at the end of the play. Player is Ejected from the game.

No player shall engage in any unsportsmanlike conduct, including but not limited to:

• Intentionally delaying the game.

• Using uncomplimentary language toward any player, fan, or official.

• Gesturing, taunting, or otherwise inciting others to commit unsportsmanlike behavior.

PENALTY: Personal foul, unsportsmanlike conduct. 15 yards at the end of the play.

Enforcement of Penalties:

With the exception of penalties listed as immediate dead ball, the offended team is allowed to choose between the outcome of the play or the penalty. If a penalty is listed as repeat down and the penalty is accepted, the previous play shall not count against the 12 plays per quarter, and the down shall be the same as the previous play. If the penalty is a loss of down penalty, the playcounts against the 12 plays per quarter and the next down will be the next sequence. If a penalty is charged against the offense on an unsuccessful extra point, the penalty shall be applied to the kickoff. Likewise, if a penalty is charged against the defense on a successful extra point, the penalty shall be applied to the kickoff.

Downing At The End Of A Game:

If the offensive team is ahead and there are fewer plays left in the game than downs left for the offensive team, the offensive team may elect to concede their downs and end the game at that point. EXCEPTION: If the line of scrimmage is near enough to their own end zone that a safety is possible, the offense must play out any remaining downs until they advance the ball far enough away from the end zone.

Overtime:

If the score remains tied after regulation, the following method shall be used to break a tie: Each team will get one series of five downs starting at the 50 yard line. Both teams will try at the same goal. If the defensive team intercepts the ball and runs for a touchdown, the game is over and the defensive team wins. If the defensive team gains possession but does NOT score a touchdown on the play, the series is over and the next team will attempt their series.

If the score remains tied after the first extra period, teams will then take two-point conversions until one team scores and the other does not. The winner of a new coin-toss will select between trying first or second, or the direction both teams will attempt to score. The other team will select the other option.


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HOCKEY, ICE

Required:

Equipment: Helmet, mouthguard, elbow pads, shin pads, gloves and ice hockey skates. HELMET WITH FACE MASK MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES WHILE SKATING. Helmet and goalie equipment are provided. Participants must wear regular ice hockey skates only. Figure skates are not allowed.

N.C.A.A. Rules apply, with the following exceptions:

A game will consist of two twenty -minute periods, running time. Sudden death overtime in playoffs only. Teams change ends after 10 minutes.

Body checking is not allowed. Skaters must play the puck - playing the man without regard for the puck is a penalty.

Any player who receives three minor penalties may be dismissed from the game.

Fighting will result in automatic dismissal from the game and suspension from all intramural play.


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KICKBALL

The following rules have been taken from the WAKA (World Adult Kickball Association) rulebook. Some rules have been modified to meet the regulations of Harvard Intramural’s Kickball Tournament.

1.) The Playing Field:

a. The distance from home plate to second base and from first base to third base is 84 feet and 10 ¼ inches or about 28 paces. The distance between any base and home plate shall be measured from the back corner of each;
b. The pitching strip is in the center of the diamond, 42 feet 5 1/8 inches or about 14 paces from home plate, and directly aligned with the 1st-3rd base diagonal;
c. The kicking box is a rectangle with the front of the box aligned with the front of home plate and the back of the box aligned with the sideline cones behind home plate;
d. The kicker is not required to start in the kicking box, however the kick must occur within the kicking box.
e. The strike zone extends to 1 foot on either side of home plate, and 1 foot high.

2.) Equipment:

a.) Athletic shoes are required. Metal cleats are not allowed.
b.) Players may wear protective equipment providing it does not offer the wearer an unfair performance advantage. Any equipment deemed by the Referee as a performance enhancement must be removed or the player will be removed from play.

3.) Referees:

a.) When available, at least two participants referee each game: a Head Referee, and a First Base Referee. The Head Referee governs all game and issues all final rulings, and has final authority on equipment issues. Other Referees may assist these officials when available.
b.) Referees have jurisdiction over all playing issues.

4.) Teams:

a.) Each team must field at least eight (8) players and no more than eleven (11).
b.) Teams must field a minimum of six (6) men and two (2) women.
c.) Each team shall have one Captain and one Co-Captain who are jointly responsible for the team. The Team Captains must ensure that:
- all team players present must kick in the written scorebook order, but do not have to field. The first infraction of this Rule by a team will result in an out for the next kicker in the written scorebook order. A second infraction by a team will result in a forfeit of that game. The kicking lineup does not require a specific sex order.
- only the Captain and Co-Captain may dispute calls with the Head Referee.
- the team Captains or assigned team members will exchange their team written scorebook kicking orders prior to the start of the game.
- refusal to provide the written scorebook kicking order when requested by the opposing team or any referee will result in a forfeit of that game.

5.) Regulation Games:

a.) Regulation games last (5) full innings, or a maximum of 45 minutes (running time), whichever one comes first. In the event of a tie score at the end of the game, this will result in a sudden death.
b.) A team failing to field at least six (6) men and two (2) women within five minutes after scheduled game time will forfeit that game.
c.) A team can score a maximum of ten (10) runs per inning. If a team scores ten (10) runs in a single inning, their turn is over and the team changes from offense to defense.

6.) Pitching:

a.) No “Bouncies!” A bouncy called as such results in a ball and is:
- a pitched ball that does not touch the ground at least once before reaching the kicking box;
- a pitched ball that exceeds one foot in height from the bottom of the ball during the last bounce prior to reaching the kicking box;
- a pitched ball, prior to reaching the kicker, that exceeds one foot in height from the bottom of the ball immediately after passing through the strike zone;
- a pitched ball that is higher than one foot at the plate.
b.) The pitcher must start the act of pitching within the pitching mound. The pitcher must stay behind the pitching strip until the ball is kicked. No part of the pitcher’s front foot may be in front of or across the front edge of the pitching strip. Failure to abide by this rule results in a ball.
c.) No player may field forward the pitcher other than the catcher until the ball is kicked, and no player may advance forward the 1st-3rd base diagonal until the ball is kicked. Failure to abide by this rule results in a ball.
d.) The strike zone extends to 1 foot on either side of home plate to the side of the kickball, and 1 foot high to the bottom of the kickball. A pitch outside the strike zone is a ball.
e.) The ball must be pitched by hand.

7.) Kicking:

a.) All kicks must occur:
- at or behind home plate;
- within the kicking box.
b.) Bunting is allowed.

8.) Running and Scoring:

a.) Runners must stay within the base line.
b.) Fielders must stay out of the base line.
c.) Neither leading off base, nor stealing a base is allowed. A runner off of his/her base when the ball is kicked is out.
d.) Hitting a runner’s neck or head with the ball is not allowed!! If a player intentionally violates this rule, he/she will first receive a warning by the Referees. If he/she violates the rule again, he/she will be kicked out of the game and not permitted to play until the team’s next game. Any runner hit in the neck or head is safe, and advances to the base they were running toward when the ball hits the runner. If the runner intentionally uses the head or neck to block the ball, and is so called by the Referee, the runner is out.
e.) Tag-Ups are only required before advancement on a caught ball.
f.) All ties will go to the runner.
g.) Running past another runner is not allowed.

9.) Strikes and Outs:

a.) A count of three (3) strikes is an out.
b.) Foul balls never count as strikes.
c.) A count of four (4) fouls is an out.
d.) A count of three (3) outs by a team completes the team’s half of the inning.

10.) Balls:

A count of four (4) balls advances the kicker to first base.

11.) Ball in Play:

Once the pitcher has the ball in control and on the mound, the play ends.

12.) Injury and Substitutions:

a.) In cases of injury or illness, a time-out may be requested for participant removal and replacement with a substitute of the same sex. If the participant later returns to play, the participant must be inserted in the same fielding and written score book kicking order position previously held.
b.) All runner substitutions must be of the same sex.


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SOCCER:

N.C.A.A. Rules apply, with the following exceptions:

Two-20 minute halves; last three minutes of game stop-time.

1. Teams consist of 11 players. (Fewer than 8 constitutes a forfeit).

2. There is a maximum of 9 male players or 9 female players allowed on the field at one time.

Overtime: Ten minutes running time. Switch goals after 5 minutes. If tie continues at end of ten minutes, the tie is broken by 5 penalty kicks per team.


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SOFTBALL, SLOW-PITCH:

N.C.A.A. softball rules apply, unless otherwise stated.

At least 8 players from each team must be present to start the game. Team in field may have maximum of ten players in position. Teams MUST have a catcher. When a team shows up with more than ten players they must all bat, but proper rotation must be maintained.

Free substitution is allowed, except that player may not return to game until one complete inning has intervened. The returning player must maintain his original position in batting order.

If additional players arrive late, they must be inserted at the end of the lineup. If the end of the lineup passes while a player is present and he/she has not batted, he/she is ineligible to play for the remainder of the game.

Batting order consists of all those presently playing, i.e., not necessarily just 10, but 15, 16 or 17.

No metal cleats of any type allowed!

Pitching:

The ball must be pitched at a moderate speed underhand, below the hip, with a perceptible arc of at least three feet from the time it leaves the pitcher's hand until it reaches home plate. The ball should not reach a height of more then ten feet during the pitch. The ball must be pitched with an open hand and all four fingers holding the ball. No spinning is allowed. Palm must be facing batter at all times.

Excessive speed in delivering the pitch requires a warning to the pitcher on first occurrence, and removal of the pitcher from the game on second occurrence.

The Strike Zone is that space above home plate which is not higher than the batter's shoulder no lower than his knees. It will also consist of the area behind home plate marked by the home plate extension base. If the ball lands on the home plate extension base the pitch will automatically be called a strike.

Two strikes will constitute a Strike-out.

Three balls will constitute a Walk.

An illegal pitch shall be declared a Ball.

A batter who bunts or otherwise intentionally hits a soft ground ball with an unnatural swing Shall be declared out. The ball is dead and all runners must return to their bases.

When running the base paths, all players must avoid defenders and all sliding is prohibited. First base is the only base that may be overrun and this is to be done to the right side of the base. Defenders are required to stay clear of base paths at all times. If any defender (including the catcher) attempts to block a base, the runner will be automatically ruled safeDefenders may not block a base, even with possession of the ball. If the defender is blocking the base, then the runner may not be declared out for contact unless there is malicious intent.

The field of play will be described by the umpire in the captains' meeting, and varies from field to field. When a ball is hit or thrown outside of this area, it shall be considered out of play.

No base stealing is allowed. A runner leaving a base before the pitched ball has reached home plate shall be considered leaving early, and can be appealed to the umpire.

If the visiting team is up by more than 10 runs at the end of any inning starting with the fourth or the home team is up by more than 10 runs at any time during the bottom half of any inning starting with the fourth, the game will be called due to the mercy rule and subsequent innings shall not be played.


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SQUASH:

U.S.S.R.A. Rules apply.

All matches are scheduled for the Murr Center or QRAC courts. Matches may be played at a House court, if mutually agreed upon.

There are five individual matches per team match. Ranked rosters must be presented by each team at time of match. If fewer than five players from team show up by scheduled time of match, those present must play in ranked order giving competition to top-ranked member(s) of other team and taking loss(es) by forfeit from lower-ranked member(s) of other team. To accomplish this adjustment, matches may not begin until scheduled starting time unless all five players from both teams are present.

Players supply racquets and balls. Squash goggles are required. All players must wear non-marking shoes on the courts- NO black/dark soled shoes are allowed.

Scoring-
Games: 15 points, win by 2.

Individual match: 3 of 5 games

Team match: 3 of 5 individual matches


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SWIMMING:

N.C.A.A. rules apply.

Swim meet runs one night. All events are timed finals.

Swimmers may enter a total of 3 events, including a maximum of 2 individual events.

There are separate men's and women's races in each event:

200 - yard Medley Relay

50 - yard Butterfly

50 - yard Freestyle

50 - yard Backstroke

50 - yard Breaststroke

100 - yard Freestyle

100 - yard Individual Medley

200 - yard Freestyle Relay

200 - yard Co-Ed Relay

Scoring of finals: Individual events - 8, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1

Relay events - 16, 12, 10, 8, 6, 4, 2

Each team designates a captain who checks entries, complaints, etc.


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TABLE TENNIS:

A team consists of 5 players.

Registration procedure: Each participant representing their house must sign-in at the registration table located at the tournament prior to the match.

Officiating: Harvard Table Tennis Club will have officials present at each table. The Head IM Ref will have at least two IM refs to act as tournament supervisors.

Scoring: Each match will be played to 21 points, win by 2. The serve will switch every five points. There will be a scoresheet at each table with the official.

Individual matches consist of the best 2 out of 3.

A team match consists of 3 of 5 individual matches.

Harvard Table Tennis Club will provide the equipment: balls, net, paddles and table.


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TENNIS -TEAM:

U.S.L.T.A. Rules apply.

Each match consists of 1 men's singles, 1 women's singles, 1 co-ed doubles - all different players.

No ad scoring - 2 out of 3 sets.

Winning team is responsible for reporting score to Intramural Office.

Players must supply racquet and balls.


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ULTIMATE FRISBEE:

The Ultimate Players Association's Official Rules of Ultimate rules shall apply, with the following exceptions:

Teams consist of seven players. There is a maximum of 5 men allowed on the field.

Game consists of two 20 minute halves, stop-time the final 3 minute. At the official's discretion, time may be stopped if the frisbee goes far out of bounds and must be retrieved. In the case of a tie, a 5 minute overtime will be played (final 3 minutes stop-time).

Coin-toss determines which team throws off (pulls) at start of first half. Receiving teams pulls to start the second half.


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VOLLEYBALL:

N.C.A.A. rules apply with the following exceptions:

Match is won by first team to win two games. Each game shall be to twenty-points; winning team must have a margin of two points over other team.

Each team may call one 1-minute time-out per game. There shall be a two-minute rest between each game.

Coin-toss for first serve and choice of court. Receiving team in first game has first serve in following game. Change courts after each game. If a match goes to a third game, team that won toss shall serve.

Team may arrange order of players at start of each game. Team rotates in order immediately after winning the serve. Rotation is clockwise. Player at front-right rotates to back-right and serves.

All games shall be scored "rally-point," where either team may score a point regardless of which team is serving.

In accordance with new N.C.A.A. rules, a serve that strikes the net and continues over shall be considered good and in play.

If the ball touches an object above the playing surface and remains on the same side of the net, it may be played as if there were no interference. If the ball crosses the plane of the net before or after striking an object, it shall be considered out by the last team to touch the ball.

Each team can have a maximum of six players on the court (game can begin with 5 players).