Weather Policy
Procedure in case of inclement Weather Conditions:
Weather conditions are the responsibility of the game officials, coaches, and club administrators. All should be aware of the potential dangers posed by different weather conditions and work together to keep the players and other participants as safe as possible.
Conditions in one location may be very different from another, especially the further apart the two locations are. The coaches are responsible for keeping informed of the weather conditions at home and at the game site.
The Coach or a Club member is responsible for communications with the opposing coach and MDSL Games Coordinator by telephone, text or email, at least 2 hours before game time, (as referees must be given ample notification), in order to ascertain whether the scheduled game can be played or is cancelled before starting the trip to the opponent’s field. Any cancellations under 2 hours will result in the Home Club being responsible for any game related referee fees.
Please NOTE:
If no contact takes place between the games chairman and club, then games will be presumed to be ON as scheduled and only Referee on site can then cancel a game.
However the Games Coordinator may cancel games in the case of inclement weather conditions and unplayable field due to weather conditions.
Inclement weather may include:
- heavy rain
- snow
- extreme winds
- sleet, icing
- extreme cold temperatures (in the case of U8-U12), and other conditions deemed unsafe by the Games Coordinator.
Unplayable Field due to Weather:
The home club shall report to the Games Chairman on any days when the play-ability of the field may be in question. If the Home team deems the field is unplayable he or she must notify the games chairman and his opponents no later than 2 hours prior to game time. Any notification under 2 hours will result in the Home Club being responsible for any game related referee fees.
However please note that the game official (referee) shall have the authority to call off the game if the weather or field conditions appear to make the playing of the match impossible or unsafe.
Hot Weather:
Heat is a problem when it prevents the body from cooling itself. The hotter the body gets, the more likely it is to increase fatigue levels, develop cramps and increase the possibility of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The hotter and more humid the weather, the faster these problems can develop. Temperatures as low as 65 degrees, with a relative humidity of 100%, can be serious.
- a. Mandatory water breaks
- b. Shorten the games if needed
Coaches and referees are encouraged to monitor the conditions.
Games Chairman:
Justin Reid