US Soccer Federation Heat and Hydration Policy
Youth soccer research from the University of Connecticut and serious cases of heat illness in the past few years across a variety of sports has prompted the U.S. Soccer Federation to issue an updated version of its "Youth Soccer Heat Stress Guidelines." The aim is to help parents, young athletes and coaches understand one of the most common and most preventable sports injuries – heat-related illnesses, including dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
USSF - Heat and Hydration Policy
DANGER: Dehydration
Athletes should be wary of the following indicators of dehydration: Dry and/or sticky mouth, dry skin, headache, dizziness/lightheadedness, extreme thirst, lack of sweat, racing heart, rapid breathing, fever.
WebMD – Dehydration
Mayo Clinic – Dehydration
DANGER: Heat Exhaustion
Common signs of heat exhaustion are confusion, dizziness, fainting, fatigue, headache, cramping, nausea, pale skin, profuse sweating, rapid heartbeat.
If you are experiencing these symptoms then it is essential to immediately get out of the heat and rest. If you are at the pitch then getting into an air conditioned car is best, the shade (out of the sun) is next - you want to find a cool and shady place. Drink water, in small sips. Begin loosening your clothing and use wet towels/cloths to cools the skin. Get home and take a cool shower. If the symptoms do not abate in thirty minutes then contact your physician as heat exhaustion can develop into heat stroke.
WebMD – Heat Exhaustion
Mayo Clinic – Heat Exhaustion
DANGER: Heatstroke
This is the most serious form of heat injury and is considered a medical emergency. The body is overheating and is usually the result of ignoring, or not efficiently reacting to, the signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion – although it can occur without these previous indicators. The body temperature is now approaching 104 Fahrenheit (40 Celsius) and the athlete now requires immediate emergency aid.
WebMD – Heatstroke
Mayo Clinic – Heatstroke