Why High School Football Should Become a Winter Sport in Florida.

Florida’s high school football season has long been a fall tradition, but the time has come to reconsider its scheduling. Moving football to the winter and shifting basketball to the fall could address a growing list of challenges that impact both player safety and game continuity.

One of the main reasons for such a change is the high number of football game cancellations due to severe weather. Florida’s hurricane season typically peaks in the fall, aligning directly with football season. This not only disrupts the regular season but also impacts practice schedules and team preparedness. Tropical storms and hurricanes can cause last-minute cancellations, frustrating teams and fans alike, and reducing opportunities for players to showcase their talents.

Another significant concern is the extreme heat in Florida during the early months of the football season. High temperatures and humidity increase the risk of heat-related injuries, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Players, many of whom train in full gear, are often exposed to dangerous conditions that can severely affect their health. Despite hydration protocols, heat-related incidents are still common.

By shifting football to the winter months, teams could avoid the peak hurricane season and play in cooler, safer conditions. Additionally, basketball, which requires indoor facilities, would be a better fit for the fall, as it would be unaffected by outdoor weather challenges.

This schedule shift would not only enhance player safety but also improve the overall quality and continuity of high school sports seasons across Florida. It’s time to rethink tradition for the well-being of the athletes.