Coaches – As we begin practice this week we want to be aware of the heat, and the adverse effects it can have on our players. We must ensure we are doing our best to monitor and protect them. Our local high school team uses a wet bulb monitor to determine heat index on site, but since we don’t have access to that technology we suggest using a heat index app on your phone. I use the Heat Index app with a red icon with a yellow sun which lets you identify an exact location. Heat index is different from air temperature because it includes the current relative humidity as well – it’s the “feels like” weather conditions. Below is the MCSA policy which will be the same that our local Dynamo teams will be utilizing and is similar to what our High Schools teams use.
YOU MUST ADHEAR TO THIS HEAT POLICY FOR ALL MCSA ACTIVITIES
Marshall County Soccer Association Heat Policy
- Water breaks are at the coach’s discretion when the heat index is under 95°F
- Mandatory water breaks for 10 minutes following every 30 minutes of activity when heat index 95–99°F
- Mandatory water breaks for 10 minutes following every 20 minutes of activity when heat index 99–104°F
- Outdoor activity is suspended when the heat index is 105°F or higher.
Some other recommendations for keeping players safe in hot weather include:
• Providing unlimited access to water and other fluids – if an individual asks for water, let them get a drink and come back to the activity
• Having towels and ice available for cooling if heat index could reach 95+
• Monitoring athletes carefully for signs of heat illness, such as weakness, fatigue, headache, nausea, dizziness, or slurred speech
• Re-checking the heat index temperature every 30 minutes if the temperature is close to approaching those outlined in the policy
Thank you in advance for helping keep our players safe. Feel free to reach out with any questions.