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UIL Football Suspension of Games Rule

EXCEPTION: 3-3-3-c: Delete the last paragraph in its entirety and replace it with the following paragraph:

  • For non-district games: If a non-district game is suspended at any point, both schools are expected to make a good faith effort to resume and complete the contest at the earliest mutually agreeable time, preferably the next calendar day. As a reminder, games are always restarted at the point of suspension. 

o   Any game that is suspended before the third quarter begins and cannot be continued for any reason shall be declared a no contest.

o   A non-district varsity football game that has progressed beyond halftime (i.e., the third quarter has begun) shall be considered an official contest. If both teams have made a good faith effort to complete the game and have not been able to finish the game or mutually agree to end the game at the point of suspension, the game shall be declared final with the score at the time of suspension. No team can be forced to play after Saturday.

o   Failure to make a good faith effort to resume a suspended contest may be subject to review by the UIL, with a range of penalties to apply.

  • Guiding Considerations:

o   Student-athletes prepare year-round for a limited number of contests; every reasonable effort should be made to complete the game.

o   Games originally scheduled for Saturday that are interrupted may have limited opportunities for resumption.

o   Significant travel distances for one participating team may limit the feasibility of resuming a suspended non-district game.

o   Non-district games immediately preceding district play may present scheduling constraints that require flexibility and understanding from all parties.

o   It is expected that administrators and coaches work within the above framework and spirit of the guiding considerations when making decisions related to games that are suspended or postponed.

o   Administrators and coaches should consult Section 1204 (j) of the UIL Constitution and Contest Rules for guidance related to paying officials for games that are postponed or canceled.

For District games, DEC policy will govern suspended games. The UIL strongly recommends that each DEC adopt policies that emphasize completing all district contests to preserve the integrity of district standings and ensure competitive equity.