Weather/Field Safety Guidelines

This document is intended as a guide for coaches and players for playing in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, this document is intended to also serve as a guide for match play, hydration breaks and participant safety during extreme weather conditions. The information provided herein is not a substitute for medical or professional care, and you should not use the information in place of a visit, consultation or the advice of your physician or other health care provider. For specific questions and concerns, please consult your healthcare provider or physician.

Field Closures and Game/Practice Cancellations Due To Poor/Unsafe Weather/Field Conditions 

All decisions regarding field closures, delays, or cancellations due to unsafe conditions are made by the KOPSC Vice President of Fields or an authorized Board member. Cancellations will be communicated to coaches via Spond by 5:00 PM on training nights and 2–3 hours prior to match kickoff (per league/tournament guidelines)*. Once canceled the session/game will be cancelled in Playmetrics. Coaches are responsible for notifying their team and opposing coaches.

*In the event that the Vice President of Fields or another designated member of the KOPSC Board has not closed the fields due to inclement weather or poor field conditions prior to game kickoff, the assigned official(s) will make the determination if a field is playable at game time.   Full pay is typically given if the referee shows up for a game that is cancelled, regardless of the reason (e.g., team no-show, weather, or other issues)

See below regarding make-up procedure

Heat & Hydration Guidelines 

KOPSC will following US Soccer’s Heat & Hydration Guidelines (Found here: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57125d942eeb814000fb1ca5/t/5a1c4fdc8165f542d6d78d16/1511804893401/1609024+Heat+Guidelines.pdf) when making a decision. Practices and games will be cancelled should the conditions be predicted to enter the “BLACK” Category at the start of practice/game. Our region is Cat 2.

Cold Weather Guidelines 

KOPSC will following US Soccer’s Cold Weather Guidelines (Found here:  https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57125d942eeb814000fb1ca5/t/59726b466f4ca33d3e9dab21/1500670790739/SOC_1609024+Cold+Weather+Guidelines-V2.pdf) when making a decision. Practices and games will be cancelled should the conditions be predicted to enter the “BLACK” Category at the start of practice/game.

Thunder/Lightning Guidelines

Practice and gameplay is to stop and everyone is to leave the field of play for 30 minutes following thunder or lightning. The clock resets with each instance of thunder or lightning. On site trainers or board members will alert teams to exit the field of play. If thunder or lightning occurs in the last 30 minutes of practice, practice will end immediately. Coaches are expected to contact parents if practice ends early.

Make-Up Games

It is the responsibility of coaches to work with the Director of Scheduling and the opposing team’s coach/manager to reschedule cancelled games. 

Make-Up Practices/Use of Clubhouse

It is the responsibility of coaches to work with the Technical Director, Director of Scheduling, and/or another designated Board Member to schedule time in the clubhouse for use during field closure and/or to schedule a make-up practice.