1. Introduction

This guidance is designed to ensure the well-being and safety of players, officials, and spectators during adverse weather conditions. It applies to all matches (home and away), training sessions, and tournaments. Pitch conditions and travelling conditions to venues also need to be considered. The welfare of players, officials and spectators are Long Ashton Junior Football clubs primary concern during adverse weather conditions. 

The Club will support Club Officials regarding their decisions to cancel or postpone matches in the interests of player/spectator/official’s  welfare. 

2. Purpose

To establish clear guidelines for assessing and responding to inclement weather, including but not limited to heavy rain, snow, ice, extreme heat, strong winds, thunder and lightning, to minimize risks associated with unsafe playing conditions.

3. Key Principles

Safety First: The health and safety of participants must always take precedence over the completion of matches or training.

Consistency: Decisions must be fair, reasonable, and consistent across all activities.

Communication: Clear and timely communication with all members involved is crucial.

4. Weather Conditions and Guidelines

4.1 Rain and Waterlogged Pitches

Matches or training must be cancelled if waterlogging makes the pitch unplayable or poses a risk of injury.

Coaches and match officials should inspect the pitch at least 2 hours before kick-off and make a decision whether the pitch is safe to use.

Consider the forecast in the proceeding hours before the kick off/training session start time.

Allow plenty of time and assess the whole pitch using the appropriate footwear for the pitch surface.

A ball should be used to determine if the pitch is playable (movement and bounce). If the ball has its’ natural path badly affected by the state of the pitch, then the session should be cancelled.

Consider drainage capabilities in the event of standing water.

Consideration should be given to player safety, ball movement, and the likelihood of further deterioration.

Rotate substitutes so players are not stood still for long periods in cold/wet conditions.

It is the responsibility of parents/carers to ensure their child/young person is dressed appropriately for the weather conditions for both matches and training sessions.

4.2 Snow, Ice and Cold weather conditions. 

Matches and training must not proceed if snow or ice renders the pitch unsafe.

Check forecast for projected temperatures regarding timings of match/training.

Frozen pitches are a slip hazard and increase the risk of injury.

Consider the age of players when playing in cold conditions (younger players may not be running around so much and are at risk of getting cold quicker).

Consider that players with certain pre-existing health conditions eg asthma may be more vulnerable in adverse weather.

Consider player comfort – if play goes ahead, ensure the correct cold weather gear is worn e.g. thermal moisture wicking layers/skins, waterproof outer (for substitutes or injured players), gloves and hats, appropriate footwear for the pitch surface.

Inspections must be conducted by referees and club officials at the earliest opportunity.

Gritting or snow clearance may be undertaken, but only if it restores the pitch to a safe condition.

Rotate substitutes so players are not stood still for long periods in cold/wet conditions

4.3 Thunder and Lightning

In the event of lightning, all activities must be stopped immediately, and participants should seek shelter in a safe, enclosed area and inside if possible.

Activities may only resume 30 minutes after the last lightning strike is observed within the vicinity.

Also see Thunderstorm Guidance for Grassroots Football from the English FA.

4.4 Extreme Heat

Activities must not proceed if temperatures exceed 30°C unless adequate measures (hydration breaks, shortened playing times, etc.) are implemented.

Ensure players have drinking water available.

Players should be dressed appropriately, parents/carers are responsible for supplying suncream, water bottles and hats (for substitutes if appropriate).

Players/coaches and spectators to seek shade whenever possible.

Consider the pitch surface and if there is an increased risk of injury due to very hard ground. Players must have the correct footwear for the surface.

Coaches and referees must monitor players closely for signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration and seek medical assistance if they are feeling unwell.

4.5 High Winds

Matches and training must be postponed if high winds create unsafe conditions, such as flying debris or unstable goalposts.

Consider travel risks and check weather forecast for the area.

High winds can disrupt the match as the ball can get blown back.

4.6 Fog

Consider travel risks and whether it is safe and reasonable for players and others to travel.

Consider visibility while playing, a lack of visibility may make it unsafe to continue.

5. Decision-Making Authority

• Match Officials: Responsible for making the final decision on match day, in consultation with club representatives.
• Club Officials: Responsible for assessing training sessions and non-official activities.
• League Authorities: May issue directives or enforce policies during widespread adverse weather events.

If there is a red or amber weather warning and advice given from authorities/Met Office that it is dangerous to go out, travel should be avoided, the decision to cancel a match can be made the day before.

6. Communication Protocol

Decisions must be communicated to everyone (parents, coaches, and referees) as soon as possible using the appropriate means of communication or team app (Spond, email, text).

Officials should provide updates promptly if conditions change.

Consider travel time of opposition team and make decisions to allow advanced warning

7. Contingency Plans

Whenever possible, reschedule postponed matches or training to an appropriate date.

8. Responsibilities of members

• Clubs: Ensure pitches and facilities are well-maintained and safe.
• Players/Parents: Monitor weather forecasts and adhere to decisions made by officials.
• Referees: Conduct thorough pitch inspections and make informed decisions in the best interest of safety.

9. Review and Compliance

• This policy must be reviewed annually to reflect updates in FA guidelines and best practices.
• Clubs and leagues are expected to comply fully and address any breaches promptly.

Effective Date: January 2025

Review Date: January 2026

This policy ensures grassroots football in the UK prioritizes safety and consistency while maintaining the spirit of the game.