Here is a note from Wayne Wilkerson, the referee assigner for the West Michigan Soccer Referee Association that provides referees for our WMYSA games.
From: Wayne Wilkinson
Sent: Monday, April 27, 2009 8:54 AM
Subject: Thunder or Lightning
It appears that we made it thru another stormy Saturday in Michigan and got most of our games completed. From the reports that I have heard almost everyone followed the saftey laws. I just wanted to take a moment and let you know what the Saftey Rules are so you can share them with your parents and the visiting team if they ask.
At the first instance of thunder or lightning the game must be stopped, all players and coaching staff must leave the field immediatly and seek shelter, and parents will be advised to do the same. NO PLAYER, COACH OR OFFICIAL is allowed to reenter the field until 30 minutes after the last instance of thunder or lighting. Some parents asked why we are concerned about lightning that has appeared to have past our area. The rules are very specific. If we can see it or hear it there is a present danger! Lightning is lightning. Thunder is thunder.
If the game delay creates a problem for the officials where they can not get the existing game completed before they have to go to their second match, the first match will be terminated.
I had a few parents from other areas state that officials did not reset their watches when lightning was "already past us". My response was that I doubt that they were being accurate and if they were they need to immediatly start some proper training for their local officials. Please share this information with your parents. Remember, we are only doing this for the SAFTEY OF THEIR CHILDREN AND OUR OFFICIALS.
Thanks for your continued support!
Wayne Wilkinson
Assigner |
