Ask an Official: Heat Rules

Summers are HOT in Texas. If you add in humidity, it can get miserable. Playing tennis in Texas in the summer you need to be aware of the danger signs of heat exhaustion. 

• Sweating more than normal

• Can’t keep the score

• Headache

• Muscle Cramps

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• weakness

When should I Retire?  The following are signs you probably need to Retire the match and play another day. 

• Cramping in more than one place. 

• Hot skin that is dry to the touch, you should be sweating

• Rapid Breathing and heartbeat

• Severe headache

• Dizziness, seeing spots before your eyes

   

What can be done to prevent Heat Exhaustion.  

• Drink plenty of water and sports drinks. Starting the day before your first match.

• Stay in the shade as much as possible. When you are not playing, stay out of the sun.

• Keep a small wet towel or small bag of ice in your cooler to put on your head and neck on the changeovers. 

• Eat properly. Your body needs fuel. 

Page 155 of the Friend at Court 2024 is the Heat Index Chart. This is how heat and humidity work together to make it seem warmer than the air temperature.