All volunteer guidesTeam Scout

Football · Before & after the game

Field Setup & Teardown Crew

You make the field game-ready before kickoff and put it away after. It's a quick, satisfying crew job — many hands, a clear checklist, and you're done before most people arrive.

Level
Anyone can do it
Time
~45 min setup · ~30 min teardown
Setup
Arrive 90 min early
Crew
Best with 4–6 people
Heavy items
Lift as a team
Teardown
Right after the game

Quick start

  1. 1

    Check the setup list with the lead

    Every program has its own list — pylons, down markers and chains, team benches, water tables, sideline ropes, trash cans, the flag, and the PA/scoreboard power. Walk it with the crew lead so nothing is missed.

  2. 2

    Set the field markers and sidelines

    Place the eight pylons at the goal-line and end-line corners, set the chains and down box on the visitor sideline, and run the sideline ropes or cones to keep fans back.

  3. 3

    Set up the team and support areas

    Benches, water tables and coolers, the medical/first-aid spot, and trash cans at the gates and concession. Confirm the scoreboard and PA have power and work.

  4. 4

    After the game, reverse it

    Once the teams clear, pull pylons, ropes, chains, and benches, empty and re-line the trash cans, and store everything where the lead shows you. Lock the shed.

Watch first

Watch: football game-day field setupSee a typical sideline and marker layout.

The standard setup list

  • 8 pylons placed at the goal-line / end-line corners.
  • Chains + down box on the visiting sideline.
  • Team benches, water tables, coolers filled.
  • Sideline ropes / cones to hold the crowd back.
  • Trash + recycling cans at gates and concession.
  • Scoreboard + PA powered and tested.
  • First-aid station set and stocked with the trainer.
  • Flag raised; field clear of debris.

Sources: NFHS field & equipment guidance