PHOENIX (AZFamily) — As severe weather moves into the Valley, anyone planning outdoor events this weekend may need to adjust their plans.
High school football games scheduled for Friday could see the brunt of the storms, depending on when and where they hit.
The Arizona Interscholastic Association told Arizona’s Family that safety will be the top priority. If lightning is detected nearby, games will stop for 30 minutes, and everyone will be asked to take shelter. Players and fans are advised to stay away from metal bleachers and gates.
At Centennial High School in Peoria, players are already bracing for the possibility of storm delays.
“Getting better with every game,” varsity guard Karmello Calloway said as he watched the junior varsity team play under the hot sun Thursday night.
Calloway said he loves the unpredictability of the sport — but the weather adds another layer of challenge.
“When playing in the rain it’s harder to do and harder to pass the ball,” he said. “If you’re having a good drive, you get tight and muscles start to cramp.”
Storms can also change the way athletes approach the game.
“Can’t really juke or move certain ways,” Calloway said. “Very slippery.”
For players and fans alike, football in Arizona comes with ups and downs — just like the weather.
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