Cold Weather Safety Protocol Update for Zone 2
As part of our ongoing commitment to the health and safety of our players, Eleftheria Pancyprian Soccer Club is adopting U.S. Soccer's cold weather policies for all Zone 2 team trainings and friendly matches, effective January 1, 2025. This change aligns our policy with the guidelines applied by the leagues we participate in for games, ensuring consistency and comprehensive safety measures across all activities.
What’s Changing?
This new policy will replace the current practice of canceling trainings when the temperature drops to 34 degrees or lower. Instead, we will be using a more nuanced approach based on the Wind Chill Temperature (WCT) Index, which takes into account both temperature and wind conditions.
WCT Index chart provided by U.S. Soccer.
Green/Yellow Conditions: Training will continue as scheduled.
Orange Conditions: Training will be canceled by 3 p.m. on the same day.
Recognize to Recover: Guidelines for Cold Weather Safety
U.S. Soccer's Recognize to Recover program has outlined vital recommendations for players, coaches, and referees to follow when training or playing in colder conditions. Although these guidelines are not intended to replace medical advice, they are crucial for preventing cold-related injuries and ensuring the well-being of everyone involved.
Cold Weather Safety Tips for Players and Coaches:
Stay Dry: Wet conditions can heighten the risk of cold-related injuries, so it's essential that players change into dry clothing if they get wet. Keep a clear recycling bag in your soccer bag keep your other belongings dry during wet weather activities.
Dress for the Cold: Proper layering is key to maintaining body warmth. Players should layer their clothing in a way that allows for adjustments based on their activity level and the weather conditions. Additionally, each player should have a heavy winter jacket to wear after training to ensure they stay warm once the session is over.
Stay Hydrated: While cold weather reduces our thirst response, it’s just as important to stay hydrated in winter as it is in warmer months. Try bringing warm water in your water bottle to stay warmer and ensure hydration is maintained throughout training.
As we head into the colder months, we encourage all members of the Eleftheria community to familiarize themselves with these safety tips and take proactive steps to stay safe. If you have any specific health concerns or questions, please consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re properly prepared for cold weather conditions.
At Eleftheria, we are committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all players, and these changes are a step forward in that mission. Stay safe, stay warm, and let's continue to support each other through this winter season.
