Purpose:
This wet weather procedure aims to guide the Ipswich Knights Football Club in making sound decisions when faced with adverse weather conditions, thereby prioritising player safety and safeguarding the integrity of our playing surfaces.
Scope:
This procedure applies to all scheduled training sessions and matches hosted by the Ipswich Knights Football Club at both Stan McCrea and Eric Evan’s Fields.
Procedure:
1. Ground Assessment:
In the event of wet weather, club officials will evaluate the condition of the playing fields to determine whether they are safe for play. If a field is found to be unsafe or unplayable, training or matches will be canceled, and the decision will be communicated promptly to all relevant parties.
2. Communication of Changes:
All cancellations or changes due to wet weather will be communicated via the club's Facebook page, coaches and managers page and the Field Status page on website. If updates are not feasible in a timely manner, a notification will be relayed to managers or coaches directly via calls or texts. Members and participants are urged to check these channels regularly for the latest information.
3. Match Cancellations:
In cases where a match is canceled due to wet weather, notification will be provided to the opposing teams/ clubs as soon as possible. Additionally, Football Queensland will be informed so they can update the cancellations on the Squadi app. The club will work collaboratively with all parties to arrange for rescheduling for U13+ games.
4. Training Session Cancellations:
If a training session needs to be canceled due to weather conditions, the corresponding coach or team manager will be informed first. They will then relay the message to their respective teams.
5. Emphasis on Safety:
The health and safety of players is the club's utmost priority during inclement weather. If games or training sessions are held during wet conditions, the club will ensure that fields are safe and appropriate gear is provided.
6. Continuous Monitoring:
Throughout training sessions or matches, officials will continuously monitor weather conditions and the status of the playing surfaces. Should conditions deteriorate or become unsafe, the club has the authority to stop play immediately.
7. Preventing Premature Closures:
To give fields the best opportunity to dry and prevent unnecessary closures, assessments will occur around 4:00 PM each day, unless rainfall necessitates an earlier decision. If no communication about field closures is made, it indicates that the fields are open for usage.
Conclusion:
The wet weather procedure for the Ipswich Knights Football Club reinforces our commitment to player safety and informed decision-making in adverse conditions. By adhering to this procedure, the club operates with diligence and care for all participants involved.
For real-time updates on field conditions, please visit our facebook page and Field Status page at the top of our website.