I’ve noticed an increase in people wearing cooling gear in summer games (understandably). For the most part, it’s something like a bandana that is tied around the neck. Occassionally, though, it is a long, loose scarf. The scarves are not well tied and fall onto the track during gameplay. I’m confident I can tell someone that they cannot wear a scarf onto the track for safety reasons, so I’m not worried about what to do.
What I am wondering is:
Has anyone else noticed this?
If so, is this something that needs to be addressed.
I’m guessing the scarf is a type of cooling towel. Mine is a long scarf shape.
I would suggest starting with reminding teams at the captains and coaches meetings that they need to be aware of bandanas and other cooling items. If the scarf is tied on and doesn’t fall off it falls into the same category as the bandana. They cannot be pinned. If it becomes a problem and becomes a track hazard, it could be treated like any other equipment malfunction. In Sanctioned events I would personally be more strict than in scrimmage events.
Personally, if it’s so hot that several folks need additional cooling I would be concerned and start thinking about ways to mitigate. Extra OTO’s, hydration reminders, warning folks about heat stroke. If you have venue controls, extra fans (even paper fans), extra towels, coolers of ice, extra water, drink packs, dimming unneeded lighting, etc.
Bring up the heat at the meetings before and at halftime. See where people are at and what they need.