Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By registering a player, participating in programs, or using the Cape Ann Nor'easters website, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not participate in our programs or use our services.

2. Program Registration and Eligibility

• Players must meet the age and grade requirements for their assigned age group (5U through 18U).
• All registrations are subject to acceptance by Cape Ann Nor'easters and league approval.
• Parents/guardians must provide accurate and complete information during registration.
• All players must have valid ZORTS registration and insurance coverage as required by league regulations.
• We reserve the right to refuse or terminate registration for any reason, including but not limited to incomplete information, violation of our Code of Conduct, or non-payment of fees.

3. Fees and Payments

• Registration Fees: All program fees must be paid in full by the specified deadline unless a payment plan has been arranged in writing.
• Uniform Costs: Uniform orders are separate from program fees and must be paid when ordered.
• Refund Policy: Refund policies are determined by the specific league or tournament in which we are participating. We do not control refund terms and will follow the policies set by each league or tournament organizer. Please contact us for specific refund information for your program.
• Late Payments: Late payment may result in suspension from practices and games until the account is current.
• Financial Assistance: Families experiencing financial hardship should contact us to discuss scholarship or payment plan options.

4. Code of Conduct

All participants, parents/guardians, coaches, and spectators are expected to:

• Demonstrate good sportsmanship and respect for players, coaches, officials, and opponents
• Refrain from abusive language, violence, or threatening behavior
• Follow all league rules and regulations
• Respect the decisions of coaches and officials
• Support a positive and inclusive team environment

Violation of the Code of Conduct may result in suspension or permanent removal from the program without refund.

5. Attendance and Participation

• Players are expected to attend all scheduled practices and games unless excused for illness, injury, or emergency.
• Coaches reserve the right to determine playing time based on attendance, effort, attitude, and skill development.
• Excessive absences may result in reduced playing time or removal from the roster.
• Parents/guardians must notify coaches of planned absences in advance when possible.

6. Health and Safety

• Medical Information: Parents/guardians must disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or medications that could affect participation.
• Injury Risk: Football carries inherent risks of injury. By participating, you acknowledge and accept these risks.
• Insurance: All players must have adequate health insurance coverage. Cape Ann Nor'easters is not responsible for medical expenses resulting from injuries.
• Emergency Care: In case of emergency, we will attempt to contact parents/guardians immediately. If unreachable, we are authorized to seek emergency medical treatment.
• Concussion Protocol: We follow strict concussion protocols. Players suspected of concussion will be removed from play and require medical clearance before returning.

7. Liability Waiver and Release

By registering a player, parents/guardians agree to:

• Release and hold harmless Cape Ann Nor'easters, its directors, coaches, volunteers, and affiliates from any and all claims, demands, or causes of action arising from participation in programs or activities.
• Acknowledge that football involves physical contact and carries risk of injury, including serious injury or death.
• Assume all risks associated with participation, including but not limited to injuries from contact, falls, equipment, and field conditions.
• Waive any right to sue Cape Ann Nor'easters for injuries or damages except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

8. Photo and Media Release

By participating, you grant Cape Ann Nor'easters permission to photograph and video record players during practices, games, and events, and to use such images and videos in promotional materials, on our website, and on social media. If you do not wish to grant this permission, please contact us to submit your opt-out request in writing.

9. Volunteer Requirements

We encourage family participation in team activities. Volunteer opportunities include coaching, team management, fundraising support, and event assistance. All volunteers working directly with players must complete background checks as required by our youth protection policies.

10. Weather and Cancellations

• Games and practices may be cancelled due to inclement weather, field conditions, or other safety concerns.
• Cancellation notifications will be sent via email and posted on our website and social media.
• Refund or credit policies for weather-related cancellations are determined by the specific league or tournament in which we are participating.
• We will make reasonable efforts to reschedule cancelled games when possible.

11. Intellectual Property

The Cape Ann Nor'easters name, logo, team colors, and all related branding are the property of the organization. Unauthorized use of our intellectual property for commercial purposes is prohibited without written permission.

12. Website Use

• Our website is provided for informational purposes and program management.
• You agree not to misuse our website or attempt to gain unauthorized access to systems or data.
• We reserve the right to suspend or terminate access to our website at any time.
• Content on our website is subject to change without notice.

13. Privacy

Your privacy is important to us. Please review our Privacy Policy to understand how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.

14. Modifications to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms of Service at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. Continued participation after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.

15. Governing Law

These Terms of Service are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Any disputes arising from these terms or participation in our programs shall be resolved in the courts of Massachusetts.

16. Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms of Service, please visit our Contact page.