[HLin NC]

There are no rules under the playing rules of football by the NFHS regarding bands or halftime activities. This is an administrative issue that may be addressed by your specific state association or local policy.

The only rules regarding halftime are the length which is a minimum of 10 minutes and a maximum of 20 minutes. I would say that the band needs to be off the field prior to the clock striking 0:00 as there is a mandatory 3:00 min. warm-up for players where the teams MUST be on the field or face penalty. The proper way to administer the halftime clock is the ECO places the halftime period on the clock, winds it down to 0:00, then places the 3:00 and runs that period down. If its necessary, take the full 20:00 but the additional 3:00 is for the teams so no, the band can't play those extra 3:00.

If both bands wish to perform, the band directors are going to have to get together to see how much time each can take and that includes getting both on and off the field.

There are those officials who would flag a home team for their band not clearing the field. I personally would caution against that action as there are schools out there where the band is as big or bigger than the game itself- in support, or in money. Those kids work hard too and their families often come just to see the show.

You, the principal, and the band director need to get together and work it out. It should not be left for the officials to correct your school's administrative problem.