How Athletes are Coping with the Weather

image credit: u/its-a-process on Reddit

The ambient temperatures here in Culver City have been hovering in the mid-80s to mid-90s. However, ambient temperature does not account for direct sunlight or thermal radiation from track and asphalt surfaces. On the Culver City High School track, blacktop, and in the gym, the temperature can easily exceed 95 degrees, causing students to feel especially drained during sports practices.

Despite these dangerous conditions, the Athletic Department has failed to provide necessary water for its athletes in recent months. Culver City Cross Country  athletes run anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour in extreme heat, yet they are not provided the same basic hydration resources such as iced water given to other sports.

Indoor sports are suffering as well. Amelia Sabatini, a Culver City High School junior and varsity volleyball captain, noted that heat conditions in the gym were so unsafe that the school had to cancel practice for volleyball among other sports.

Staying hydrated can help prevent dizziness, dehydration, or possibly heat stroke.” Heat stroke is easily attainable with extreme physical exertion and heat. While sports are a fantastic way to build school community, student athletes should never be left to bake in extreme conditions without water. The Athletic Department must provide water to all sports, such as hydration stations near the track where many sports practice, especially in conditions like these.