What is Pleasanton Junior Football League (PJFL)?
Pleasanton Junior Football League is a nonprofit youth sports organization serving Pleasanton and the surrounding Tri-Valley community. Founded in 1969, PJFL provides youth football and cheerleading programs focused on skill development, teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, and character development.
What programs does PJFL offer?
PJFL currently offers Tackle Football, Co-Ed Flag Football, 7v7 Football, and Cheerleading, along with football camps and other player-development opportunities throughout the year.
Does my child need previous football or cheer experience?
No. PJFL welcomes athletes of different experience and skill levels. Programs are designed to help young athletes learn fundamentals, improve their skills, build confidence, and have fun as part of a team.
Is PJFL only for Pleasanton residents?
PJFL primarily serves Pleasanton and the Tri-Valley area. Some programs allow non-Pleasanton residents to participate as well. Registration requirements and fees may vary by program, so check the current registration information before enrolling.
Are girls allowed to play football?
Yes! PJFL’s Flag Football and 7v7 programs are co-ed and open to both boys and girls.
Registration
How do I register my child for PJFL?
Registration is completed online. Visit the PJFL Registration page to see currently available programs, registration periods, and links to the appropriate registration forms.
When does registration open?
Registration dates vary by program and season. PJFL announces registration openings on the website and through league communications. We recommend registering early because roster availability may be limited.
How much does registration cost?
Registration fees vary depending on the program and season. Visit the Registration page or individual program page for current pricing and information about what is included with registration.
Does PJFL offer payment plans?
Payment plans are available for Tackle Football. Families interested in payment options should review the current registration information or contact PJFL for assistance.
What is PJFL’s refund policy?
Refund policies vary by program. For example, PJFL’s current Flag Football information states that registration is refundable minus a 10% processing fee up until the first day of practice. Families should review the specific refund terms displayed during registration before completing enrollment.
Tackle Football
What ages can play PJFL Tackle Football?
Pleasanton Hawks Tackle Football is open to players ages 7–14. Players of all skill and experience levels are welcome.
Are tackle teams organized by school grade?
No. Tackle players are placed based on factors including birthdate, weight, and experience, following applicable league guidelines. Placement is not based solely on school grade or buddy requests.
What league do the Pleasanton Hawks play in?
PJFL Hawks Tackle Football competes in the East Bay Youth Football & Cheer Conference (EBYFC). PJFL joined the conference in 2021.
Does my child need to be certified to play tackle football?
Yes. Tackle athletes are required to complete the applicable player-certification process before participating. PJFL currently uses National Sports ID (NSID) for age, grade, and eligibility verification.
What documents are needed for tackle football certification?
The current PJFL tackle information lists items including a player headshot, proof of age such as a birth certificate or passport, a school document showing current grade, and a current medical or sports clearance. Check the Tackle Football page for the current season’s exact requirements.
Where are tackle football practices and games held?
PJFL uses Ken Mercer Sports Park and Patelco Sports Complex in Pleasanton for practices, games, and league events. Away games may be held at other EBYFC member locations throughout the region.
Flag Football
Who can play PJFL Flag Football?
PJFL’s Co-Ed Flag Football program is open to boys and girls in 2nd through 8th grade.
Is Flag Football full contact?
No. Flag Football is a non-contact version of football designed to teach fundamentals, teamwork, sportsmanship, and game strategy in a fast-paced environment.
What format does PJFL Flag Football use?
PJFL currently operates an 8v8 co-ed Flag Football program.
What comes with Flag Football registration?
Current program information includes an NFL-branded player jersey and shorts, flag belt set, regular-season games, playoffs, and football camps. Exact inclusions can change by season.
When is Flag Football season?
The current season schedule runs approximately August through November, with evaluations during the summer, a Jamboree during the season, and playoffs toward the end of the season.
When are Flag Football games?
Games are generally played on Saturdays, with practices held during the week.
Where is Flag Football played?
Flag Football practices and games are primarily held at Ken Mercer Sports Park in Pleasanton.
7v7 Football
What is 7v7 Football?
7v7 is a fast-paced, non-contact football format focused heavily on passing, receiving, defensive coverage, agility, decision-making, and football IQ. It’s a great opportunity for players to continue developing their skills outside the traditional football season.
Who can play 7v7?
PJFL’s 7v7 program is open to boys and girls in grades 2–8.
Is 7v7 good for tackle and flag players?
Yes. 7v7 can help quarterbacks, receivers, defensive backs, and other players develop timing, route running, coverage skills, agility, and game awareness that can transfer to both tackle and flag football.
Cheerleading
What ages can participate in PJFL Cheer?
PJFL Cheerleading is designed for youth participants approximately ages 7–14.
Does my child need cheerleading experience?
No. Previous cheer experience is not required. PJFL Cheer focuses on confidence, athleticism, teamwork, and spirit in an inclusive environment.
When is cheer season?
The fall cheer season generally runs August through November, alongside the football season. Cheerleaders participate at both home and away football games, with potential playoff and championship appearances.
How often does cheer practice?
The current program calls for one required weekly practice and an additional optional weekly practice during the regular season, with additional preseason activities and clinics.
Does PJFL offer free cheer camps?
Yes. PJFL periodically offers free cheer camps and clinics. Dates and locations vary, so families should check the Cheer page for upcoming opportunities.
Practices, Games & Locations
Where does PJFL practice?
PJFL primarily uses Ken Mercer Sports Park and Patelco Sports Complex in Pleasanton.
Where is Ken Mercer Sports Park?
Ken Mercer Sports Park is located at 5800 Parkside Drive, Pleasanton, CA 94566. It is a primary location for Flag Football, Tackle practices, camps, evaluations, and game-day activities.
Where is Patelco Sports Complex?
Patelco Sports Complex is located at 7001 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton, CA 94566 and is used for practices, games, and other PJFL activities as scheduling requires.
Are all games played in Pleasanton?
Flag Football is primarily local. Tackle Football and Cheer also participate in away games through EBYFC, so families should expect some travel during the season.
Camps
Does PJFL offer free football camps?
Yes! PJFL offers FREE football camps that give young athletes an opportunity to experience the league, learn fundamentals, meet coaches, and develop their skills in a fun environment.
Are the free camps only for experienced players?
No. Camps are designed for different skill levels, including athletes who are completely new to football.
How do I register for a free camp?
Upcoming camp registration is available through the PJFL website. Space may be limited, so families are encouraged to register early.
Coaches & Volunteers
Can parents volunteer with PJFL?
Absolutely. PJFL is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization and relies on coaches, parents, board members, game-day volunteers, and community members to operate its programs.
Do I need coaching experience to become a PJFL coach?
No previous coaching experience is required. PJFL provides coaching resources and training, including USA Football Youth Coach Certification and CPR/First Aid training for applicable coaching positions.
How can I volunteer?
Visit the PJFL website’s volunteer/contact information to inquire about coaching, game-day support, committees, board positions, and other opportunities. PJFL’s Board page also lists current open volunteer positions.
Equipment & PJFL Gear
Does PJFL sell official Hawks gear?
Yes. PJFL offers official Hawks apparel and accessories for players, cheerleaders, parents, and fans. Available items can include shirts, sweatshirts, hats, bags, water bottles, decals, and special-edition gear.
Where can I purchase PJFL gear?
PJFL gear may be available online as well as at select games and league events. Check the PJFL Gear page for current merchandise.
Does PJFL have an official player duffel bag?
Yes. PJFL currently offers the Pleasanton Hawks Official Team Duffel Bag for $60. It features a spacious main compartment, water-resistant construction, adjustable shoulder strap, and player-name customization.
Safety & Player Development
Is player safety a priority at PJFL?
Yes. PJFL emphasizes a safe, structured environment along with sportsmanship, proper fundamentals, teamwork, discipline, and respect. Tackle players also participate under EBYFC rules and eligibility requirements.
What does PJFL focus on besides winning games?
PJFL’s stated mission extends beyond competition. The league emphasizes teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship, respect, leadership, confidence, and character development so that lessons learned through sports carry beyond the field.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help!
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, reach out to the PJFL team. Whether you have questions about registration, team placement, schedules, coaching, volunteering, equipment, or which program is right for your child, we’ll help point you in the right direction.