Weather Policy

The safety of players, coaches, and spectators is the primary concern in any weather event that occurs during all matches sanctioned by West Elgin Soccer. The referee and/or site convenor will make the final decision on whether to play the game. Together a reasonable decision to play or not shall be made with the safety of the people at the field locations of the utmost importance.

Lightening Guidelines

If a severe weather warning has been issued by Environment Canada for a region that encompasses an West Elgin field, the referee or site convenor may cancel the game until the warning has been ended.
If a severe weather watch has been issued by Environment Canada for a region that encompasses an West Elgin field, the referee will consult with the site convenor and the coaches to decide what action to take.

1. Recognizing Lightning Threats

Rule of Thumb: If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to pose a danger.
Flash-to-Bang Rule: Count the seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder. If the time is 30 seconds or less (approximately 10 km away), suspend play immediately.

2. Suspending the Game

Announce the suspension of the game clearly and calmly.
Direct players, coaches, and spectators to seek safe shelter immediately.
- - Safe Locations: Fully enclosed buildings or metal-topped vehicles with windows closed.
  - Unsafe Locations: Open fields, trees, tents, pavilion, or near metal objects like fences or goalposts.

3. Resuming Play

Wait at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder or visible lightning before resuming the game.
Each subsequent instance resets the 30-minute timer.
When considering the resumption of the game, the site convenor will decide if the storm has passed far enough that the game can resume.

4. Cancelling the Game

The referee or site convenor will call the game.
If one game is called then all the games being played at that location will be called.
If the Game is called BEFORE half time: The Game MAY be rescheduled.
If the Game is called DURING or AFTER half time: The Game is considered “Official” and the score stands, as of the time the game was called.

5. Communication Tips

Inform both teams and coaches of safety procedures at the beginning of the match if weather is a concern.
Stay updated on weather forecasts and conditions before and during games.

Heat and Humidex

In the event of high temperatures or humidex warnings, the safety and well-being of all players, referees, coaches, and volunteers is the top priority.

To reduce the risk of heat-related illness, games will be cancelled when either of the following conditions are met at the scheduled kick-off time:

The air temperature is predicted to exceed 35°C, and/or
The humidex is predicted to be 40°C or higher

All players, coaches, and referees must bring an ample supply of water to every match to ensure proper hydration. During periods of elevated temperatures, referees will enforce mandatory water/rest breaks. Players are encouraged to access water from the bench sideline whenever needed.

Heat Response Guidelines

30°C and below = No additional action required.
31°C to 39°C = One mandatory 2-minute water/rest break per half, provided by the referee.
40°C and above (humidex or temperature) = Matches will be cancelled in advance to ensure the safety of all participants.

Rain or Shine, It's Soccer Time!

Don’t let a little rain dampen our spirits — soccer’s still on! Playing in the rain can be an exciting adventure (hello, epic sliding goals!), but we always prioritize safety and fun. Here's what to expect:

Dress for the Weather: Light rain jackets are great, but make sure kids can move easily. Hats with brims are awesome for keeping rain out of their eyes.
Mud Alert: Yep, things might get a bit messy! Slippery fields mean extra caution — and maybe a bonus post-game laundry challenge for parents.
Field Conditions: We keep a close eye on the fields. If they're too waterlogged or unsafe, we’ll communicate any cancellations or adjustments ASAP.

As long as there's no thunder or lightning, we're on! Let's make it a match to remember — rain puddles and all.

Notification

West Elgin Soccer will make every attempt to notify families should a game and/or practices are cancelled. Parents are notified through PowerUp, email or social media.

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