Heat Guidelines
MYSL policy on extreme heat
When the temperature reaches 100 degrees in the shade, games are cancelled on
a game by game basis. When the temperature reaches 95 degrees in the shade
a water break will be added at the midpoint of each quarter. Substitutions
will be allowed at this time. The clock would remain running during these
breaks. It is the responsibility of the field marshal on duty to monitor the
temperature and notify the coaches and the referees.
G.O.A.L
The U.S. Soccer Federation has developed the acronym - G.O.A.L. - which stands for:
- Get acclimated
Active kids' (and adults') bodies need time to gradually adapt to increased exposure to high temperatures and humidity. During this eight to 10-day acclimation process, it's especially important for kids to drink enough fluids.
- On a schedule, drink up
Thirst isn't an accurate indicator of fluid needs. Young athletes should be encouraged to drink on a schedule or at regular intervals before they become thirsty.
- Always bring a Gatorade
Especially during games and practices in the heat, replacing electrolytes and providing energy is crucial to keeping kids safe and going strong to enjoy their games.
- Learn the warning signs of dehydration and heat illness
If someone becomes fatigued, dizzy, nauseous or has a headache during exercise in the heat, have them stop, rest and drink fluids. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Fluid Guidelines
As one of the best means to preventing heat illness, the U.S. Soccer Federation recommends parents and coaches ensure children are
well hydrated before practice and games. During activity, young athletes should drink on a schedule - before they feel thirsty -
and consume five to nine ounces of fluid every 20 minutes (a child who weighs less than 90 lbs. needs five ounces of fluid and a
child weighing more than 90 lbs. needs nine ounces of fluid).
"It's crucial that kids drink enough fluids before, during and after activity," said Oded Bar-Or, MD, a contributor to the
development of the guidelines and professor of pediatrics and director of the Children's Exercise and Nutrition Centre at
McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. "Research we conducted shows that when drinking plain water, children
don't drink enough to avoid dehydration. Compared to water, kids will drink 90 percent more of a flavored sports drink with
electrolytes like Gatorade to fully rehydate. It's important parents and coaches have these types of fluids available for
children during activity."
More information can be found at...
The U.S. Soccer Federation Youth Heat Stress Guidelines were developed under the consultation of Oded Bar-Or, MD, professor of
pediatrics and director of the Children's Exercise and Nutrition Centre at McMaster University and Bill Prentice, PhD, PT, ATC,
professor of exercise and sports science and trainer for women's soccer at the University of North Carolina.
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