LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Starting Aug. 1, the University Interscholastic League will require Texas schools to use wet bulb globe temperature readings to determine whether it is safe for students to exercise or practice outdoors.
The wet bulb globe temperature metric estimates the combined effect of temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation using readings from three thermometers. The UIL recommended its use in 2023; it is now a requirement for all Texas schools.
Activity guidelines are broken down into five categories using wet bulb globe temperature as the leading measurement. The chart varies depending on geographic region, and West Texas falls under a Class Two classification. As wet bulb globe temperature rises, more restrictions are applied — up to and including cancellation of outdoor activities for the day.
Schools are also required to take temperature readings 15 minutes before practice begins. Equipment that allows for full body immersion in ice water must be available in the event a student experiences heat illness or distress.
Shallowater Athletic Director and football coach Rodney Vincent said his school is prepared for the transition.
“It’s not going to be a big transition for us at all because I’ve got Jeremy Davis as my athletic trainer, he’s one of the best in the state,” Vincent said. “Two years ago, we started working on it when it was recommended and we followed it.”
While wet bulb globe temperature has been used by many schools since 2023, it will now be the required measurement for outdoor activities starting this year.(UIL)
Vincent said his teams have largely avoided extreme heat conditions in recent years by scheduling practices early in the morning. He acknowledged, however, the toll that prolonged heat exposure can have on student athletes.
“We just think that that extreme heat over time, as you get into that playoff season, we think it takes a toll on an athlete,” Vincent said. “Our number one thing here is we’re gonna keep our athletes safe.”
Vincent also stressed the importance of coaches deferring to athletic trainers and staying informed of UIL guidelines.
“Real important that coaches follow the lead of their trainer and if they don’t have an athletic trainer, making sure you’re aware of all of those guidelines,” Vincent said. “I just think that the UIL guidelines are going to be a good thing across the state.”
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