Refs in every professional game in the world use electronic communication, so that has become part of their equipment just like whistles, flags and stop watches.

Hydration is a key element in proper sports safety, and a good hydration strategy will also improve performance.

Crystal Dunn is a New York kid. She developed in an environment that no longer exists.

This is the time of year we need to review some aspects of heat illness, and a potentially deadly form of heat injury called exertional heat stroke. A recently published study of NCAA athletes revealed that heat illness is most common in preseason training, and that tackle football has the highest incidence -- but athletes in all sports are potentially at risk.

It can be OK to practice in 100-degree weather, or it could be dangerous. It depends on the humidity factor.

What happens when a game suddenly goes south and you as the ref might not even understand why?

Let's get something straight: Defense does not win championships.

After 28 seasons of youth coaching, I have arrived at a candid bit of self-realization.

The tournament final started in pleasant conditions, a nice respite from two days of refereeing in a broiler.

With the soccer ref shortage across the United States, assignors often have to find every warm body so they can cover all the games.

Clear communication, in both directions, is key to the parent-coach relationship.

Refs should deal with dissenting coaches by utilizing the Ask, Tell and Dismiss protocol recommended by US Soccer.

Readiness for return to sports activity after ACL surgery depends on many factors.

Refs are paid to blow their whistle and keep control of the game for the safety of the players.

The goal is obvious -- coaches should be focusing on development, not winning, at these early ages.