Are teams required to change goals during the game?

Teams are required to change goals between the first and second quarters, as well as between the third and fourth quarters. This rule is in place to ensure fairness and to account for any advantages a team might gain from wind, weather conditions, or field characteristics. By switching directions, teams have the opportunity to experience different playing conditions, which balances the game.

While it’s common for teams to switch goals at halftime, the requirement extends beyond that to include the start of the second and fourth quarters, maintaining the integrity of the competition throughout the entire game. This practice helps ensure that no single team is consistently forced to play against challenging conditions.