Play With The Best!

Play With The Best!

Frequently Asked Questions

When do I register?
Registration opens on Feb. 1 for returning cheerleaders and Feb. 7 for new families.

What do I need?

No-show socks, white athletic shoes and Nike Pro shorts (or equivalent).

Where is Francis Field and the equipment shed?

Many practices and activities, including the Homecoming bonfire and equipment pick up, occur at Francis Field, 801 E. Francis Road in New Lenox. Our equipment shed is the smaller building directly west of main building when you enter the property.

What can I expect from a practice?
Sideline cheer practices occur early in the season and are generally held outdoors. Plan ahead to have bug spray and water on hand. Hair should be pulled back and nails should be kept short. Times are similar to football practice times.

Elite practices are indoors and in evenings for most of the season, and some practice locations do not have space for parents to watch. We do invite parents in for special performances on occasion, so you can see what your child has been working on.

What can I expect on a game day?

Games start in the middle of August and run every weekend through early November. They could be held on either Saturday or Sunday. Generally, games start mid-morning with the Super Lightweight teams and progress to the older teams as the day goes on.

There are eight regular season games and up to four additional playoff games. Usually, about four of those are home games, held at Lincoln-Way Central (Knights) and Lincoln-Way West (Warriors).

For home games, we have bleacher seating, indoor restrooms and concessions provided by Joey’s Red Hots. Games are played in all weather, unless there is lightening nearby.

The game schedule for the season will be released as soon as it is provided by our league.

Volunteer Duties:

Each family is required to volunteer for four credits during the season. There is a $200 fee charged PER CREDIT each time one is not fulfilled. The cost to opt out of volunteering for the season is $750 and that option is available at the time of registration only.

NLYFA is an entirely volunteer-run organization, from our coaches to our announcers. That’s why we need you to pitch in throughout the season.

Volunteer jobs range from collecting trash and running gameday raffles, to shooting videos and organizing homecoming events. You will receive a sign-up link at the beginning of the season, and you can visit our YouTube channel for instructional videos of our most common jobs.

What is involved in Homecoming?

We love having a great time with our football families! So, just like the high schools, we host a special Homecoming weekend each year.

Teams from all levels – both football and cheer -- will gather at Francis Field for a bonfire and pizza party. You’ll want to bring your family, folding chairs and bug spray. Then be ready for a good time!

On game day, there will be special festivities, decorations and prizes.

What is the End-of-Season Banquet?

This is our chance to recognize the hard work your kids put in throughout the season! Your team will gather for a meal, slideshow and awards to celebrate the year’s accomplishments.