In order to promote a safe and healthy environment for the players, the Club policy is that coaches not use alcohol, illegal drugs or tobacco products before or during games and practices. In addition, the Club strongly urges all coaches, parents and spectators to abstain from the use of alcohol, illegal drugs and tobacco products at all games and practices. Note that the use of alcohol or tobacco products is not permitted on school district property.
LOSC follows the policies and guidelines of OYSA in all disciplinary matters. Grievance issues that are not resolved through our problem resolution protocol will be referred to OYSA for resolution. Any player or family who has a grievance should contact the the club.
Purpose:
The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safety of all participants, including players, coaches, officials, and spectators, during inclement weather conditions. The Lake Oswego Soccer Club (LOSC) is committed to providing a safe environment and will take necessary precautions in the event of adverse weather conditions.
Policy Guidelines:
1. Weather Monitoring:
- LOSC staff and coaches will monitor weather forecasts and conditions closely, particularly during the rainy and winter seasons.
- Decisions regarding cancellations or modifications to practices, games, or events will be made as early as possible, taking into account the most current weather information.
2. Rain and Wet Field Conditions:
- Practices and games may continue during rain unless field conditions are deemed unsafe (e.g., standing water, mud, slippery surfaces) or if there is a risk of damage to the field.
- The club will communicate field closures or changes to the schedule through email, text messages, and the LOSC website.
3. Lightning and Thunder:
- If lightning is seen or thunder is heard, all outdoor activities will be suspended immediately, and participants will be directed to seek shelter in a safe location.
- Activities will not resume until 30 minutes have passed since the last lightning strike or thunderclap.
4. Air Quality:
- In the event of poor air quality due to wildfires or other environmental factors, LOSC will follow the guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local health authorities.
- Activities may be canceled or moved indoors if the Air Quality Index (AQI) is deemed unhealthy for outdoor activities.
5. Extreme Cold and Heat:
- During periods of extreme cold or heat, LOSC will consider modifying or canceling activities to prevent cold-related injuries or heat-related illnesses. The City of Lake Oswego closes fields at 95 degrees and above and 32 degrees and below. We will cancel training sessions on artificial turf if temperatures are within these extreme limits.
- Coaches and staff will ensure that players have access to appropriate hydration and are dressed appropriately for the weather conditions.
6. Communication:
- LOSC will communicate any changes to the schedule or cancellations due to inclement weather through email, text messages, and the LOSC website.
- Parents, players, and coaches are encouraged to check these sources regularly for updates, especially during periods of uncertain weather.
Responsibility:
It is the responsibility of all LOSC coaches, staff, players, and parents to adhere to this inclement weather policy and prioritize the safety of all participants.
Conclusion:
The Lake Oswego Soccer Club is dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable soccer experience for all members. By following this inclement weather policy, we can ensure that our activities are conducted safely and responsibly, regardless of weather conditions.
It is important to understand that this is where conflict between the club and the parent can arise. Parents almost always look at situations from a ‘what is best for my kid’ perspective.
The club and the coaches mainly look at situations from a ‘what is best for the club, the team, and the players within the team perspective’.
Soccer is a team sport so it is important to appreciate that when you become part of a team you also forego some of your opportunities individually.
If you have an issue that is of concern it is recommended that you talk to the coach.
This is the easiest way to resolve an issue as the coach will know why they are making decisions.
If you contact the club office then the office will likely have to speak with the coach to determine the nature of the issue.
It is important to speak with your coach if you have an issue.
Email is okay to clarify facts but a meeting in person is better if an in depth discussion is going to be entered into.