What Size Football Does High School Use? The size of the football matters because it changes how the game is played. A bigger football is tougher to throw and catch, making the game more about physicality. A smaller football is simpler to throw and catch, creating a more open and smooth game.
High school football rules specify using a ball that is 11 inches long and 21 inches in circumference. High School Football is a popular sport across the country, bringing families together to support their school teams. However, it is essential to know the regulations regarding the size of the football used in the game.
It’s football season, and High School Football players all over the country are enjoying the game they love. But there’s a lack of clarity about the rules. Various regions use different-sized balls and fields, making it challenging to know the right size. Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, understanding the different football sizes is crucial.
Did you know that the standard football size for high school is the same as the NFL? Typically, High School Football uses a size 9 football, which has been in use for many years. If you want to learn more about the rules of High School Football, check out this blog.
What size football is typically used in High School Football games?
High School Football games in different areas use various sizes of footballs. A soccer ball is smaller than an NFL football but has a larger circumference and more surface area, making it easier to kick and throw. That’s why they are often used in youth leagues and pickup games.
The standard American football is 11 inches long, 21 inches in circumference, and weighs 11.5 ounces. In High School Football games, the size of footballs may differ based on the level of play.
NFL players use a regulation-size football measuring 11 inches long with a circumference of 28 inches (or 11 7/8 inches), while college players use an extra-point ball measuring 10 3/4 inches long with a circumference of 27 1/2 inches (or 10 7/8).
What are the advantages of using the right size football for High School Football players?
Using the right size football for High School Football players has several advantages.
Develop proper technique –
The first benefit is that it helps players learn the correct technique. Using the right-sized ball allows them to practice proper throwing and catching skills, preventing the formation of bad habits that are hard to break.
The correct-sized football is one that you can easily hold, throw, and catch. A bigger football is better for kicking but more challenging to carry or run with. A smaller ball is easier to carry and run, but punting can be tricky as it’s not as easy to hold onto.
Prevent Injuries –
Another advantage of using the right-size football is that it can prevent injuries. When a player uses a ball that is too big or too small, they are at a higher risk of getting finger or hand injuries. This is because the wrong-sized ball can strain the joints and muscles in the hand and fingers.
Improving Performance –
Using the right size football can improve a player’s performance. If the ball is too big or too small, it can impact accuracy and distance, making it challenging to compete effectively at a high level.
Using the correct size football has several advantages for High School Football players. It ensures they develop proper techniques, avoid injuries, and enhance their performance.
Differences in Football Size Across Different Levels of Play.
When thinking about football, NFL might be the first thing that comes to mind. However, before playing in the NFL, players start at the high school level. High School Football games have different rules and regulations than professional games, so it’s crucial for players and coaches to be aware of the football size used during their season.
The NFHS oversees interscholastic sports in public and private schools throughout the US. They establish guidelines for required equipment in all sports, including footballs! As per these regulations: Football Size Dimensions are –
NFL
The size of NFL football is-
| Length | 11 Inches |
| Width | 7 Inches |
| Diameter | 21 Inches |
Collegiate/High School
The size of Collegiate/High School football is-
| Length | 11 Inches |
| Width | 7 Inches |
| Diameter | 21 Inches |
Youth (12-14 years old)
The size of youth School football is-
| Length | 11 Inches |
| Width | 6.5 Inches |
| Diameter | 19.5 Inches |
Junior (9-12 years old)
The size of junior School football is-
| Length | 10.5 Inches |
| Width | 6.5 Inches |
| Diameter | 18.5 Inches |
If you’re playing high school football, an official NFL-sized ball may not be the best choice because it’s too big. Instead, you should consider an intermediate-size football, which is between the official NFL size (21 inches in diameter) and a youth football (19.5 inches in diameter).
Having hands big enough to catch passes effectively is vital in high school football. If the ball is too big for your hands, you may struggle to hold onto it, leading to a higher chance of dropping passes due to weak grip strength. Using an appropriate-sized ball for your age range can help improve your catching ability.
What should players and coaches consider when choosing a high school football?
When selecting a High School Football, there are multiple factors to consider –
Age & Height
The first factor to consider is the size of your player. If they are tall and have long arms, it may be best to choose a larger football so they can catch it easily while still maintaining control.
For instance, if a player has big hands and fingers but is short in height, it would not be wise for them to use a larger ball as it might obstruct their view on the field during games.
Conversely, if someone has smaller hands but is tall in stature (like myself), choosing an intermediate-size football might be more suitable than going for a larger one.
Using something as large as full-sized NCAA balls can make catching difficult for players with smaller hands. Hand size limitations can be quickly reached, especially when catching off-target line drives while running routes across the middle field positions
Level of Play
The second consideration is the level of play. Higher levels may require a more advanced ball, while lower levels may be better suited for a less advanced ball.
Type Of Field
The third consideration is the type of field where the team will be playing.A smaller field needs a smaller ball, and a larger field needs a larger ball. Ultimately, the players and coaches should decide on the right size ball for their team.
How can using the wrong size football affect a player’s performance?
Using the incorrect size of football can affect a player’s performance in various ways.
Firstly, if the football is too big, the player might struggle to grip it and throw accurately. For High School Football, knowing the right size of the football is crucial for players to perform their best. The ball’s size affects a player’s ability to catch, throw, carry, punt, kick, receive, intercept passes, and even tackle or block opponents effectively.
Secondly, if the football is too small, the player might struggle to control it and prevent it from bouncing off their hands.
Thirdly, if the football is in the wrong shape, the player might have difficulty throwing it through the air with the right spin.
Lastly, if the football is made of the wrong material, it might not be strong enough to withstand the demands of the game.
The most significant distinction between youth football (ages 5-12) and high school football is the size and strength of the players. In high school, athletes are more substantial and stronger compared to younger kids. So, if a player used to play in youth leagues but has now grown into an adult body with adult strength and size, they probably need a larger football than what they used before!
Are there any rules about the size of football used in High School Football games?
The National Federation of State High School Associations has established the following regulations for footballs:
- It should have a circumference between 11 and 12 inches.
- The length, including laces and bladder (holds air), should be 28 to 29 inches.
- The weight of the ball ranges from 14 to 15 ounces, making it heavier than an NFL ball but lighter than some professional ones.
Any football outside of these dimensions is not considered official and cannot be used in an NFHS-sanctioned game.
What type of football do most high schools use?
The most popular football used in High School Football is the Wilson GST. It’s an official-size football used in both high school and college football. The ball has a pebbled surface and is made of composite leather, making it highly durable. It’s also easy to grip and throw, which is why most high school quarterbacks prefer it.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed reading our article on the football sizes used in High School Football.The NFHS sets the rules for football size in high school games. According to their rules, footballs should be 9-11 inches long and have a circumference of 18.5-20 inches. Slight variations may occur depending on the player’s age and skill level. For specific football size guidelines, it’s best to consult your area’s coach or athletic department.
FAQ
1. What size football is used in High School Football games?
High School Football games typically use an official-sized football. The circumference of the ball falls between 11 and 12 inches, and it should be 28 to 29 inches long, including the laces and the bladder (air holder).
2 . Why is using the correct size football important for High School players?
Using the right size football is crucial for High School players because it impacts their ability to grip, throw, catch, and control the ball effectively. A well-fitted football allows players to develop proper technique and avoid potential injuries.
3. How do I determine the right football size for a High School player?
Consider the player’s hand size, age, and level of play when choosing a football. Taller players with larger hands may need a slightly bigger ball, while younger or smaller players might benefit from a more manageable size.
4. Can players use an official NFL-sized ball in High School Football?
Generally, it’s not recommended to use an official NFL-sized ball in High School Football games. The NFL ball is larger, and High School players may find it challenging to handle, affecting their performance.
5. What is the most commonly used football brand in High School Football?
The Wilson GST is a popular football brand commonly used in High School Football. It’s an official-sized ball made of composite leather, offering durability, good grip, and ease of throwing.
6. Are there any regulations regarding football size in High School Football?
Yes, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) sets guidelines for football size. The ball must be within certain dimensions (11-12 inches in circumference, 28-29 inches long) to be considered an official ball for NFHS-sanctioned games.
7. Does football size affect a player’s performance in High School games?
Yes, the size of the football can impact a player’s performance.
8. What are the key factors to consider when choosing the right football size for a High School player?
Consider the player’s physical attributes (hand size, height), age, level of play, and the type of field they will be playing on to determine the best football size for them.
9. Can players use youth-sized footballs in High School Football games?
Players in High School Football should not use youth-sized footballs as they may be too small for the players’ physical development and level of play.
10. How can coaches and players ensure they are using the correct football size?
Coaches should review the NFHS guidelines and ensure that the footballs used in practices and games meet the specified dimensions. Players can try different football sizes to find the most comfortable and suitable one for their needs.
Remember, while football size is essential, player comfort and confidence are crucial for optimal performance on the field.
Read also – Are Dogs Allowed At High School Football Games?
