Coming up on 2H (12/1-12/2)

November 30, 2012

Winter is upon us, and we're also in the midst of transitioning our Second Half coverage from one set of sports seasons to the next. Both will be highlighted this weekend. 

Keep an eye out for a feature on Grand Rapids Christian receiver Drake Harris. And Sunday, watch for the return of our series "Making - and Answering - the Call." This week we'll publish our first of three stories on MHSAA officials who have taken their games to college and professional levels as well. 

Heat Ways: School Sports Prepared for Oncoming Wave of High Temps, Humidity

By Geoff Kimmerly
MHSAA.com senior editor

August 27, 2024

With temperatures and humidity expected to rise exceptionally today across most of downstate Michigan, decision-makers across school sports are prepared to take precautions to keep all involved in our activities safe as we ride out this latest heat wave.

The MHSAA’s Model Policy for Managing Heat & Humidity is required only during postseason activities, but has been adopted by several schools across the state for preseason and regular-season practices and competitions.

The plan directs schools to begin monitoring the heat index at the activity site once the air temperature reaches 80 degrees and provides recommendations when the heat index reaches certain points, including ceasing activities when it rises above 104 degrees. (When the temperature is below 80 degrees, there is no combination of heat and humidity that will result in a need to curtail activity.) Other precautions include the addition of mandatory 10-minute water breaks and the removal of equipment (including helmets and shoulder pads in football).

The model heat & humidity policy is outlined in a number of places on the MHSAA Website, including as part of the Heat Ways publication linked on the “Health & Safety” page.

PHOTO Otsego High School trainer Taylor Austin tracks field conditions Monday during a soccer match. (Photo by Gary Shook.)