The Lower Perk Longhorns are known throughout our area for producing some of the finest youth tackle football teams and players.   The success of our football program, however, is due to the quality of our coaches and volunteers.  Many of our coaches have over ten years coaching experience, some even more. Young or inexperienced players receive personal one-on-one coaching on the fundamentals of contact football, quickly bringing them up to a level to compete. Experienced players receive advanced instruction on the intricacies of the game.

Along with football instruction, emphasis is placed on other, intangible factors which affect the game, including sportsmanship, loyalty, teamwork and a positive attitude. Our coaches also emphasize academic success in school.  Football is offered in for childrean ages 5-15 (players are assigned to teams based upon their age as of July 31st), with a maximum weight limit at each level.

PRACTICE SCHEDULES

First Practice: First Week in August; Regular Season: 10 Games or more (does not include pre season games or playoffs), Normal Practice Schedule Mon- Fri 6:00-8:00 pm, School schedule is usually 2-4 days per week (Coaches will dictate final practice schedule for their specific team).  Practice is five days per week, Monday through Friday.  Practice is held at our football facility located off of Rt 113 in Collegeville.  Times are generally 6:00-8:00 p.m. Some teams may vary slightly on times.

Check with one of your child's coaches for the exact times. Once school starts, practices are limited to three days per week, usually Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, still from 6:00- 8:00 p.m. Your coach will advise you of the exact practice schedule.
Since football is by its nature an all-weather sport, and since we play football games in rainy weather, we will usually practice in the rain. Of course, if the rain becomes severe, or there is lightening/thunder in close proximity, practice will be temporarily suspended or canceled, for the safety of everyone. Your coaches will discuss specifics on procedures each team will use regarding inclement weather.

FIRST DAY OF PRACTICE - WHAT TO EXPECT

Those who have participated in Lower Perk Longhorns football know generally what to expect that first day, and first week, of practice. Your coaches will advise you on what equipment, if any, to bring to practice the first day. Some teams wear some or all of their equipment, others may not wear any the first day.

The first week is spent on physical conditioning and acclimation to the weather and the equipment. Football players would be well advised to get plenty of exercise during the summer months, especially out in the sun. It is very hot in August, and if you have been spending the summer in the air conditioning, being a couch potato, you are going to have a difficult time getting used to the heat.

A portion of the first day of practice will be filled with administrative and welcoming duties. You will meet your new coaches and fellow players, and learn the philosophy of your team. Your coaches may discuss a number of other items as well.

Bring plenty of water to practice. You will get a number of water breaks during practice, so don't expect someone to provide you with drinking water. Also, don't bring any glass bottles or containers. You can pick up small insulated personal water coolers for very little money. Or bring water in a plastic jug. But remember, NO GLASS OF ANY TYPE.

OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN

Weigh in is held before each game

There are no exceptions to this rule. Each football player will be permitted to remove such articles of clothing as appropriate to make weight. No extra weight or allowances are permitted. Each player must make weight. By rule, no one is permitted in the weigh-in room except for the player being weighed and LPLONGHORNS officials. Coaches, parents, and spectators are prohibited.

Every player must attend the official weigh-in. If there is any reason that you cannot attend, due to vacation plans or otherwise, you must get in touch with your coach as soon as possible. If a player does not attend weigh-in, he will be removed from the roster for that game.