Nothing will ruin a tournament (or vacation) faster than getting a serious sunburn on any part of your body. It's painful, debilitating, and dangerous. Let's take a look at something:
Now I'm no meteorologist, but something tells me that the potential for getting burned to a crisp is pretty high here. No one is going to tell you to put on sunscreen, you are going to have to do it yourself. Gone are the days of being "assisted" by an adult putting lotion over your face and neck as a kid. I do this today to my kids and it is really great fun ... they hate it.
Too much exposure to the sun can also cause heat stroke and exhaustion. Neither is fun and also can lead to serious health issues. This is on top of missing the entire tournament because you forgot to drink water, wear sunscreen and get the proper rest.
I'll be honest, multi-day tournaments are brutal. Back to back games with little rest in between can lead to disaster unless you are constantly vigilant about what shape you are in. It is also a good idea to watch out for your team, and have them watch out for you.
So while I am not a doctor (but did play one on TV once), here are some simple tips to think about:
Drink water, drink water, drink water. And when you are full, drink water.
Get the right amount of rest, or as much as you can at night.
When you don't have to be in the sun, get out of it.
If you have to be in the sun, wear a hat, sunglasses, and light clothing.
Oh yeah ... WEAR SUNSCREEN.
This stuff may seem remedial, but I knew a referee who was sidelined for regionals after day 1 because he got a burn on the top of his feet after taking of his shoes. He could not walk easily, never-mind run. His tournament was officially over at that moment.
Protect yourself form the elements. There are brutal consequences.
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