AYSO880 Weather Policy

Soccer is an all weather sport. We do not cancel games simply because it is raining or snowing - we play in the rain and snow. This is at all levels, from playground through 19U. Always assume GAME ON unless you hear from the Regional Commissioner via email. Teams should come to their assigned field ready to play.

Please note that game status is subject to change and cancelation updates may not be posted on the website or our social media in time for your game.

Cancelations in advance can only be made by our Regional Commissioner. All other cancelations are a game time decision by the referee or in the absence of a referee, the coaches. Games can be canceled due to: 

-Thunder and Lightning
-Extreme Heat
-Extreme Cold
-Tornado Warning
-Standing Water on the Field
-Ground so wet that play will be dangerous to players or damage the fields; or 
-Other conditions making play dangerous or impractical

The weather can change in a very short time. We do NOT cancel games for rain, snow or cold unless the field is unplayable, but that determination cannot be made until game time.

If the game is canceled before the start of the game or before the end of the first half, field availability permitting, the game will be rescheduled. If the second half was started when it was stopped, then the Regional Commissioner will determine the outcome of the match according to AYSO Area8C interplay guidelines.

When it gets cold or wet, the players can wear warm clothing under their uniforms, including knit hats and gloves. If they wear a hooded sweatshirt, the hood must be tucked into the jersey.

If you are unsure if your game has been canceled, you can reach out to one of the region Coach Admins via text.

8U and below- Zak DeHondt- 248-752-5085
10U and up- Mike Bottini- 586-243-3781 


Thunder/Lightning
According to the AYSO Severe Weather Play Guidelines, thunder and lightning are treated in THE EXACT SAME MANNER. Our first concern in the presence of lightning is the safety of our players and families.

If lightning is seen or thunder is heard, the referee—or, if no referee is present, the coaches—shall immediately stop the game.

All players, spectators, coaches, and referees must clear the field immediately and seek safe shelter. Vehicles are considered safe shelter. Sheltering under trees or in pavilions is not safe and is strongly discouraged.

Games must not resume until 30 minutes have passed since the most recent sighting of lightning or sound of thunder.

Each new instance of thunder or lightning during the delay period resets the 30-minute waiting period.

In many cases, the initial weather delay may result in termination of the match, particularly if another game is scheduled to use the same field.

Although it may sometimes appear that the danger has passed or that the threat is minimal, the full 30-minute waiting period must always be observed for safety reasons.


Hot Weather
When temperatures and humidity are high, the risk of heat-related illness increases. Coaches and referees should closely monitor weather conditions and be prepared to pause or delay games to protect player health.
Proper hydration is essential in hot weather:

-Players should drink water before, during, and after games and practices
-Players should not wait until they feel thirsty to drink
-Water should be easily available at all times
-Coaches and referees may allow extra water breaks, in addition to normal substitution stoppages

Players showing signs of overheating or dehydration (such as dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, or confusion) should be removed from play immediately and allowed to rehydrate and cool down. Player safety always comes first.


Cold Weather
Cold weather increases the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, and injuries caused by numbness, but these risks can be reduced with proper preparation. Coaches and referees should be ready to delay or end games if conditions become unsafe.

Cold-Weather Clothing Guidance
To help players stay warm and safe:

-Players should dress in layers
-A warm base layer (such as thermal or moisture-wicking clothing) is recommended
-Long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and hats should be worn when appropriate
-Clothing should be dry and weather-appropriate; wet clothing should be changed as soon as possible
-Extra warm clothing should be available on the sidelines between periods of play

Players showing signs of being too cold—such as shivering, numbness, pale skin, or slowed movement—should be removed from play immediately and warmed up.

Field Safety in Severe Weather
Weather such as freezing rain, hail, snow, sleet, or heavy rain can quickly make fields slippery and unsafe. Loss of footing can lead to serious injuries.

Fields should be checked before and during games. If weather conditions cause the playing surface to become unsafe, coaches and referees should be prepared to stop or delay play right away.