Stonewall Sports DC (the “Chapter”) makes every effort to make sure that games/matches are played as scheduled.  However, there are circumstances beyond the control of the Chapter which necessitate delaying or even canceling games/matches altogether.  This policy outlines the criteria for and procedures for announcing cancellations.

Grass + Turf Field/Court Conditions

The DC Department of Parks + Recreation, the National Park Services, and/or the Chapter may declare grass or turf fields or courts “unplayable.”  Most often this is due to the fields or courts being excessively wet; however, it could also be due to extreme dryness, ice buildup or snow accumulation. Playing on grass fields or courts which are excessively wet or dry can damage or kill the grass and potentially require fields to be left unused for several months of recovery.  Playing on fields that are unplayable is also a violation of the permits that have been secured.

Members will be notified via current communications channels. While the Chapter will strive to provide as much advance notice as possible, this notification will come no later than ninety (90) minutes prior to the start of the first game/match of the day.

Weather Conditions

Outdoor games/matches may be played in less than ideal conditions including falling drizzle, rain, sleet, snow, and severe heat.  These conditions may or may not  be cause to cancel games/matches either outdoors or indoors.  Weather forecasts can change rapidly leaving some uncertainty as to whether games/matches should continue as scheduled.  Again, the Chapter wishes to adhere to established schedules as much as possible.  However, leadership may determine in advance that the weather forecast is severe enough that it will be a threat to member safety and may cancel games/matches.  Members will be notified via current communications channels when this occurs. When it is clear that adverse weather will prevent play (due to an unwavering prediction of severe weather), games/matches will be canceled the evening prior when possible  and members notified via current communications channels.  Regardless, the notification will come no later than ninety (90) minutes prior to the start of the first game/match of the day.  

Visible lightning at outdoor fields/courts during play will automatically result in a pause of all games/matches being played at that time until 30 minutes after the last lightning strike was observed. Subsequent games/matches to be played later that day will be paused, delayed, or canceled separately if weather conditions continue.  Onsite cancellations may be needed due to changing weather conditions. Onsite cancellations can be declared by any Officer or Committee Member or other designated official, e.g., umpire. If team captains believe an onsite cancellation is necessitated, they should raise their concerns with an Officer or Committee Member or other designated official. If an onsite cancellation is declared, it will immediately apply to all games/matches on all fields.

Other Reasons

There may be other instances when games/matches need to be canceled, e.g., government closures, double bookings, or blockage by authorities.  When it is clear that something beyond the control of the Chapter will prevent play, games/matches will be canceled the evening prior when possible and members notified via current communication channels.  Regardless, the notification will come no later than ninety (90) minutes prior to the start of the first game/match of the day.  

Rescheduling Games

Seasons may have a built-in “bye” week and/or a backup week to provide space for games/matches that may need to be rescheduled due to cancellations.  The relevant Commissioner will determine how to reschedule games/matches appropriately based on the progression of the season at the time of the cancellation.  Conditions may arise though that rescheduling missed games/matches may not occur.