Field Status & Procedures

Player and spectator safety is always our top priority. The following policies apply to all Blizzard training sessions and matches.

Field Status

Saturday, April 25 – All CBSC Fields are closed due to snow. 
ValleyRidge and Rockywood game fields are closed and games are cancelled.
During inclement weather, field status will be updated by 4pm on weekdays and 8am on weekends.
A young soccer goalkeeper in black uniform with the number one on the back, wearing gloves, standing in front of the goal during a training session in the rain. Two orange soccer balls are in the goal, and colored cones are on the ground for drills. Other players are seen in the background on the field.

Blizzard follows Canada Soccer guidelines regarding lightning and severe weather.

The referee has final authority on delaying, suspending, or restarting a match due to weather conditions.

If you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance of lightning.

Immediate Action:

  • At the first sound of thunder, all players and spectators must move to a safe location.

  • Activities will not resume until 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder or lightning strike.

Lightning & Severe Weather

Two young girls playing soccer on a rainy day, one wearing a purple Adidas vest and the other in a black jacket, chasing a soccer ball on a wet field.

What Is a Safe Location?

A safe structure is:

  • A fully enclosed building with electrical wiring and plumbing
    (clubhouses, schools, community centres)

If no building is available:

  • A vehicle with a hard metal roof and windows closed is acceptable
    (not a convertible or golf cart)

Not safe:

  • Tents

  • Picnic shelters

  • Covered benches

  • Trees

  • Open fields

If Caught Outdoors

If safe shelter is not immediately available:

  • Avoid tall objects (trees, poles, light standards)

  • Stay away from metal objects (fences, bleachers)

  • Avoid standing water

  • Crouch low with minimal contact to the ground

  • Do not lie flat

Planning Ahead

Families are encouraged to:

  • Check the forecast before heading to the field

  • Identify the nearest safe shelter upon arrival

  • Be prepared for delays or cancellations

Weather conditions can change quickly, and evacuation of large groups takes time. Early action is essential.

Lightning Emergency Response

If someone is struck:

  • Call 9-1-1 immediately

  • Lightning victims do not carry electrical charge and can be safely touched

  • Begin CPR if necessary

  • Use an AED if available

Prompt response can be life-saving.

Goal Safety Policy

Preventable injuries can occur if soccer goals are not properly secured. All teams must follow these rules:

  • ALWAYS anchor goals securely to the ground

  • NEVER hang or swing from crossbars or nets

Coaches, volunteers, parents, and players share responsibility for ensuring goals are properly secured before use.

Goal safety is non-negotiable.