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Vertical Hoops – Player Challenge Policy
Vertical Hoops is committed to fair play, integrity, and high-level competition. While we strive to ensure all teams follow eligibility rules, we recognize that it is not always possible to monitor every player and roster at all times.
To maintain fairness, Vertical Hoops has implemented a clear and efficient Player Eligibility Challenge Process for use during events.
Important Notes:
-Players cannot play for multiple programs on the same weekend.
-If a program has multiple teams in same division, player may not play on both teams on a weekend
-Challenges may only be submitted by coaches
-Challenges will not be accepted from players or parents
Official Challenge Process:
If a coach believes an opposing team is using an ineligible player, they must:
Notify the Site Director or
Text Tournament Director Mario Rivera (203-980-1982)
Please include:
Team name
Player number in question
Court number and Venue
Once submitted, Vertical Hoops staff will handle the review process.
Timing of Challenges:
Challenges must be made prior to the start of the game or at halftime
Challenges will not stop or interrupt gameplay
Ruling & Penalties:
If a player is deemed ineligible:
A technical foul will be assessed
The team will receive a game forfeit
If the challenge is unsuccessful:
A technical foul will be assessed to the challenging team
Eligibility Documentation:
Grade/ Age exception Date is June 1st
Example:
Player in 4th grade must be in 4th grade. if the our in 5th grade, they can not turn 11 til after June 1st
Teams that are challenged must be prepared to provide valid documentation for the player(s) in question.
Acceptable documents include:
Birth Certificate
Valid Report Card
If a player is currently registered or has previously been registered in the NSID system, Vertical Hoops staff may verify eligibility directly through the system.
Document Submission Timeline:
For pre-game challenges: documentation must be provided by halftime
For halftime challenges: documentation must be provided by the end of the game
If documents are not provided within this timeframe, the player(s) will be ruled ineligible
Coach Responsibility:
Coaches are strongly encouraged to carry eligibility documents for all players at all times during events
If you choose not to carry documents, it is highly recommended that you verify your team through the NSID system in advance
NSID Verification Link:
http://app.nationalsportsid.com/league/124978/vertical-hoops-weekend-games---player---team-verification
Challenge Limits:
Teams are allowed to challenge a maximum of two (2) players per game
This policy is in place to protect the integrity of the game while ensuring a fair, efficient, and professional event experience for all participants.
Vertical Hoops – 60 Minute Game Rules
Ball Size: (28.5") is used for 4th–6th grade, (29.5") for 7th grade and older
It is not up to game officials to coordinate ball size compliance. It is up to the coaches playing to coordinate correct ball size prior to the start of the game with the other team coach.
Time Rules
Two (2) 16-minute halves
Clock stops on all whistles
2–4 minute warm-up period
Running clock when a team is ahead by 20+ points in 2nd half with 12 mins left
All teams must be ready to play at least 10 minutes prior to scheduled game time
Zone Defense (4th–5th Grade Only)
No zone defense in the 1st half
Zone defense is permitted in the 2nd half
Pressing Rules (4th–5th Grade Only)
No pressing in the 1st half
Pressing is allowed in the 2nd half
Press must be dropped if leading by 20+ points
Fouls
6 fouls = player disqualification
8 team fouls = 1-and-1 bonus
No double bonus (2 shots) unless in the act of shooting
Timeouts
Each team is allowed 3 full timeouts per game
Overtime
5th grade thru varsity - First team to 4 points wins. No Clock.
4th grade and below: - First team to 4 points or 2 minutes
Technical & Flagrant Fouls
2 technical fouls = ejection for the remainder of the tournament (coach or player)
Flagrant fouls follow college rules
Fighting = technical foul + removal from the remainder of the tournament
No exceptions. No arguments
Dribble Drive
All event related questions should be directed to Jason Shea at jason@verticalhoops.com or call 203-535-9291.