After much consideration, Georgetown County Parks and Recreation decided this week to postpone its 2023 fall youth sports season due to extreme heat.
"Our top priority is the safety of the children, so we are canceling conditioning and postponing all fall sports athletics this month," said Jason Walters, Recreation Coordinator. "The good news is we will be extending registration until Aug. 31 and plan to start season practice on Sept. 4, with the hopes of it cooling off some by then."
The county's decision was based on the S.C. High School League's policy. However, as the county does not have wet-bulb equipment at each of its facilities to take accurate daily readings, it relied on heat index forecasts. The county considered moving conditioning indoors, but the number of program participants and scheduling conflicts with other programs make that impossible.
Anyone who would like to register for fall youth football programs should visit gtcparks.org or call 843-545-3320.
Department staff will remain in touch with registered participants as the season nears for important dates including player evaluations, coach certification, equipment distribution and practice and game schedules.
"We are eager to get football started in the county, but we must do it safely," Walters said. "We thank you for your understanding, and look forward to seeing everyone on the field in September."