So I figured I would post this on the 4A board because it typically seems to be the most active. With this latest heat wave, it got me to thinking about schools, athletic trainers, coaches, AD's and if they follow the protocols or not. VHSL guidelines say that if the heat index is 95-104 NO equipment can be worn during outside practices and if over 105, there cannot be any outside practices. As I am typing I am also searching weather.com for current heat indexes throughout Virginia and cannot find many under 95.
So my question is, does your school abide by the VHSL guidelines and require athletes to either stay indoors, if that is an option, or practice without any equipment? I have several friends who are coaches and it seems to vary by school. Some have not been permitted to practice with even helmets this week, where as others have told me that they have important games coming up and they need to get the work in and are practicing with helmets and shoulder pads. Another question is, are schools that follow the guidelines then at a disadvantage if their opponent is getting in full practices, while they do walk throughs in a gym?
Just something that dawned on me as I sit in my air conditioned house, lol
So my question is, does your school abide by the VHSL guidelines and require athletes to either stay indoors, if that is an option, or practice without any equipment? I have several friends who are coaches and it seems to vary by school. Some have not been permitted to practice with even helmets this week, where as others have told me that they have important games coming up and they need to get the work in and are practicing with helmets and shoulder pads. Another question is, are schools that follow the guidelines then at a disadvantage if their opponent is getting in full practices, while they do walk throughs in a gym?
Just something that dawned on me as I sit in my air conditioned house, lol