August in Georgia can be brutal and we are certainly feeling it this year.  Please help us keep your kids safe by ensuring they are properly hydrated before and after practice. 

• Water prior to practice is the best option. 
• A rehydration drink such as Gatorade or Powerade are great for after practice along with more water. 
• Please limit/exclude sodas, energy drinks, etc from your child's diet during this period.

The WetBulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) is a measure of the heat stress in direct sunlight, which takes into account: temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover (solar radiation). This differs from the heat index, which takes into consideration temperature and humidity and is calculated for shady areas.

Forsyth County Parks & Rec and GFA take the WBGT reading daily to ensure if it is safe to participate in outdoor activities and if any additional precautions need to be taken.

The county heat policy for practice can be found at https://parks.forsythco.com/Programs/Athletics . Once you have navigated to this page, it can be found under the Youth League heading and General Youth League Policies.

GFA has opted to adopt the GHSA hydration policy with adjustments for our quarter times.  Below are the guidelines.

Kickoff WBGT reading equal or above 87 degrees:

1.  Officials will provide a MANDATORY three minute hydration time out at or near the 5 minute mark of 10 minute quarters.  Officials will provide a MANDATORY three minute hydration time out at or near the 4 minute mark of 8 minute quarters.

2.  Helmets must be removed for cooling.

Kickoff WBGT reading equal or above 90 degrees:

1.  Officials will provide a MANDATORY three minute hydration time out at or near the 4 and 7 minute mark of 10 minute quarters.  Officials will provide a MANDATORY three minute hydration time out at or near the 3 and 6 minute mark of 8 minute quarters.

2.  Helmets must be removed for cooling.

GFA, formerly FCYFA, is a support services organization, dedicated to giving back to communities by promoting the wholesome development of youth through their association with exemplary adult leaders in the sport of American football and cheer. Guidelines are established to ensure that players play in an atmosphere of learning with a competitive balance between teams.

NAYS Training