FAQ

Who is FM Athletics?
Fargo Athletics, Inc., was formed in 1972 to help promote youth football in the Fargo-Moorhead area.  We are proud to be looking ahead to our 53rd season in 2024! During the summer of 2023, our league registered over 1300 participants, who played on 56 different teams. The organization is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation and all board members are volunteers. 

The philosophy of FM Athletics is to provide an opportunity for all youth to play football, including those who might not otherwise have the chance.  It is the intent of the league to foster sportsmanship, team play and leadership.

​​​​​​​PARENT AND ATHLETE CODE OF CONDUCT

This document presents the expectations for conduct from athletes, parents, and coaches at FM Athletics Youth Football.  We hold athletes, parents, coaches and community members to a high standard of sportsmanship.  Enforcing this Code of Conduct allows FM Athletics to promote a safe, rewarding, and fun sport experience for our entire community.

Please read the document carefully before registering for each season.  Each participant and coach is required to acknowledge the Code of Conduct online before the season begins, and must abide by the Code of Conduct throughout the entire season.

Violations of the Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including : immediate removal from the practice, game, or related activity; and/or suspension from the league - either temporarily or permanently – to be determined by, and in the sole discretion of, the Board of Directors.

Code of Conduct for Players:

• I will exhibit good sportsmanship to players, coaches, officials, opponents, and parents at every game and practice, no matter win or lose.
• I will learn the value of commitment by participating in as many practices and games as I can.
• I will encourage my teammates and praise good efforts.
• I will arrive at practice on time and be ready to dedicate my attention to my coaches. 
• I will refrain from foul or offensive language.

Code of Conduct for Coaches:

• I will coach with the goal of creating a positive learning experience for players, and will display good sportsmanship at all times.  Winning games is secondary to building a positive youth sports’ experience for my players, parents of my players, and opposing teams.
• I will prioritize the safety and well-being of all players.
• I will not engage in an argument with a referee or official.  Any discussions or conversations with officials or referees will be in a respectful tone.
• I will treat opposing coaches and players with respect.
• I will report any violations of the Code of Conduct by parents, players or other coaches to the Board of Directors.

Code of Conduct for Parents:

• I will respect players, coaches, officials, spectators, and families at all times.
• I will respect the decisions of officials and coaches.
• I will not engage in any violence or verbal threats or use profanity.
• I will model good sportsmanship for all youth participants.
• I will do my part to keep sports fun and positive for every player.

General:

• Only players, coaches, officials, medical professionals, and Board members are allowed on the playing field or on the sideline in the players’ area.
• Coaches are required to submit to a record check, including individual inquiries as deemed necessary by the Board, prior to assuming coaching activities.
• All coaches must wear a lanyard provided by FM Athletics Youth Football at all games.  Failure to do so may result in the coach’s removal from the game, to be determined at the sole discretion of a Board Member. 

When does registration begin?
Registration will open March 22, 2024.

When does registration end?
All entries submitted after July 1st may not be accepted based upon availability and are subject to wait-list registration.

What is the age of eligibility to play?
Eligibility is determined by grade.  Students entering 4th grade (FALL of 2024) are eligible to register.  We offer programs through 6th grade.*

The league does not make exceptions for summer birthdays or allow "redshirting" of athletes.  Your student MUST be entering 4th grade in the fall of 2024 to be playing on a 4th grade tackle team. 

How do I register?
All registrations are processed online for the purpose of accuracy and expedience.  *Please note, date of receipt is one factor that is used to roster students.* 

Do you offer any discounts? 
We offer priority pricing up until May 15th, 2024. You will also be able to subsidize fees by $150 (per registrant) when fundraising peelers are sold. Please see the Fee Schedule listed below.  

Fee Schedule:

*PLUS $150 Fundraising Fee

Does my child have to do fundraising?
The league’s fundraising fee of $150 is paid up-front at the time of registration. Coaches will distribute 15 coupon peelers to each player at the start of the season, and then families are welcome to sell those items (at a face value of $10 each) to recoup funds AND/OR keep and gift the peelers.

Can I request a refund?  
Please refer to the league's refund policy HERE for details.  This waiver is signed at the time of registration. 

How are teams formed?  Can I request a coach? 
Players will be rostered on teams by division (grade). The league works to equitably place students from the same school together on teams. Because of the complexity of rostering 1400+ players, registrants (as well as coaching candidates) cannot be guaranteed placement on the same team or with the same coaching group each year. Additionally, we are unable to accommodate specific carpool or friend/teammate requests at this time.

What days will teams practice?
Practices are scheduled by each team’s coach and are held 3-4 days per week after school or in the evening. (No practices held on Wednesday evenings once school is in session).  Location is also determined by each team's coach.

What days will teams play?
Games are played on Saturdays (generally AM), Sunday afternoons, and some weekday evenings as field availability allows. All schedules are compiled by our league President, and released as soon as they are finalized (August).

NO games will be scheduled Labor Day Weekend.

When will I find out who my coach is and what team I will play on? 
Final rosters will be released to coaches at their meeting (July 31st,  2024).  They will begin contacting team members with practice dates/times and locations.  Coaches have been asked to reach out ASAP, but kindly allow a few days for coaching staff to be in-touch. 

How do we know if a game is rained out or canceled because of weather?
We will send email announcements to coaches and parents in the event of canceled or postponed games/practices. You may also check our homepage for weather related announcements.