Program Philosophy -Rules/Expectations

Ridgewood Spartan Football Program Philosophy

“Winning isn’t the only thing, but wanting to win is” - Vince Lombardi


We are dedicated to making the Ridgewood Spartan Football program successful. Our definition of success will not be in win totals or conference championships. Instead, our success will be determined by our effort on and off the field. We want players, coaches, and community members who want to be a part of the program. Together we want to change the culture to one of competition and enthusiasm. Hard work, competition and accountability are the foundations of what we will build at Ridgewood. Outsiders will talk about 4 things when they mention Ridgewood Spartan Football:

  1. Our Effort
  2. Our Running Game
  3. Our Defense
  4. Our Excitement/Support for each other in success and failure


Ridgewood Spartan Football Rules/Expectations

Team Rules

Players are expected to be responsible representatives of the team and schools. Offenses will result in disciplinary actions to include but not limited to; suspension or dismissal from the team.


  • We are a team. Any bullying or hazing will not be tolerated
  • 5 minutes early is on time. If you show up at the scheduled time you are late.
    • Dressed and ready to go before the scheduled time
    • Always have tennis shoes at a practice or a workout, sandals/boots will not be acceptable attire
    • Being late or absent will result in missed game time
  • Tell a coach about any injury immediately
  • Any player with a D or F on any eligibility report during the season will have extra conditioning until the student is off of the report



Expectations For Coaches

  • Be a positive role model. Treat the athletes you would want your child to be treated.
  • Coach every player. Prepare each athlete to be the best they can be.
  • Communicate
    • If you correct a player for something make sure to explain why it needs to be done a certain way
      • Give feedback as often as possible
    • Make sure everybody is on the same page
  • Accountable
    • If we expect players to be there, coaches should be there
    • Arrive early, set the example


Expectations For Players

  • Treat everybody with respect
    • Teammates, coaches, opponents, officials, fans…
  • Meet team expectations (weights, summer work, team building events…)
    • Hold each other accountable
  • Treat the equipment with respect
  • Give your best effort at all times
    • Classroom, weight room, practice, games…
  • Give coaches your full attention when they are speaking
  • Show up on time and ready to go


Expectations For Parents

  • Be positive with your son, as well as other players on the team
  • Promote having fun and being a team player
  • Emphasize the importance of well-balanced meals and regular sleep patterns
  • Cheer for our team and players
    • Opponents and referees deserve to be respected at all times
  • Help support the Ridgewood Booster Club
  • Encourage your son to make it to off season workouts
  • Encourage your son to play multiple sports or join clubs
  • If your son has a problem with something football related have them come and talk to the coaches about the issue
  • If you have a problem with something football related talk with the athletic director and they will talk to the coaches