(2)
100% live action drills should begin no earlier than day 6.
(e)
Day 6–14, double-practice days must be followed by a single-practice day. On single-practice days, 1
walk-through is permitted, separated from the practice by at least 3 hours of continuous rest. When
a double-practice day is followed by a rest day, another double practice day is permitted after the
rest day.
(f)
On a double-practice day, neither practice should exceed 3 hours in duration, and no more than 5 to-
tal hours of practice in the day. During the 2 hour practice, there can be NO live action. Warm-up,
stretching, cool-down, walk-through, conditioning and weight-room activities are included
as part of the practice time. The 2 practices should be separated by at least 3 continuous hours in a
cool environment.
(g)
Because the risk of exertional heat illnesses during the preseason heat-acclimatization period is
high, we strongly recommend that an athletic trainer be on site before, during and after all
practices. (Adapted from Korey Stringer Institute, 2015)
2.3.5
Prevention of Heat Illness
(a)
Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) considers the combined effects of air temperature, humidity,
and solar radiation on the human body. WBGT should be measured (using a scientifically approved
device) for all sports when student-athletes may be at risk for exertional heat illness (EHI).
WBGT should be accessed every hour beginning 30 minutes before the beginning of practice.
(b)
As WBGT increases, minimize clothing and equipment.
(c)
Provide unlimited drinking opportunities during hotter practices. NEVER withhold water from ath-
letes.
(d)
Pre- and post-practice weigh-ins SHOULD be conducted.
NOTE: An athlete who is not within 3% of the previous pre-practice weight should be withheld from prac-
tice. These athletes should be counseled on the importance of re-hydrating. Pre- and post-practice weigh-
ins are recommended for all sports participating during periods of high heat and humidity.
(e)
If WBGT is at 90 or above suspend practice; contests may continue but must include mandatory
breaks as directed by gameday administrator.
2.3.6
Recognition of Heat Illness
(a)
Heat Exhaustion
(1)
The clinical criteria for heat exhaustion generally include the following:
(i)
Athlete has obvious difficulty continuing with exercise
(ii)
Body temperature is usually 101 to 104°F (38.3 to 40.0°C) at the time of collapse or
48
WBGT Index and Athletic Activity Chart
WBGT Index (F)
Athletic Activity Guidelines
Less than 80
Unlimited activity with primary cautions for new or unconditioned athletes or extreme
exertion; schedule mandatory rest/water breaks (5 min water/rest break every 30 min)
80 - 84.9
Normal practice for athletes; closely monitor new or unconditioned athletes and all ath
letes during extreme exertion. Schedule mandatory rest /water breaks. (5 min water/
rest break every 25 min)
85 - 87.9
New or unconditioned athletes should have reduced intensity practice and modifica
tions in clothing. Well-conditioned athletes should have more frequent rest breaks and
hydration as well as cautious monitoring for symptoms of heat illness. Schedule frequent
mandatory rest/water breaks. (5 min water/rest break every 20 min) Have cold or ice
immersion pool on site for practice.
88 - 89.9
All athletes must be under constant observation and supervision. Remove pads and
equipment. Schedule frequent mandatory rest/water breaks. (5 min water/rest break
every 15 min) Have cold or ice immersion pool on site for practice.
90 or above
Suspend all practices; Competition may continue with mandatory water breaks as des
ignated by gameday administrator.