For those who sat through the rain at an area high school football game Friday evening in Dallas County, you now know the value of packing a poncho, umbrella, rain boots and the construction plans for the next Arc.

Not only did rain, wind and lightning damage area fields, they did even more so to the schedules — and in some cases the budgets — of area teams.

But, through it all, there were a few groups of individuals who were under the gun and faced with tough decisions.

When it comes to severe weather, the decision to play or not to play, lies in the hands of the referees. And, when the weather strikes as it did Friday night, they simply do not have a choice.

Out of the six games that were on the schedule in Dallas County Friday, only one played the entire game, another only played to halftime before being cancelled. The remaining four were rescheduled.

The decision made by the referees in the games that were rescheduled were done so after every other option — and time — was exhausted. State rules dictate just how long a game can be delayed and when a game must start or completed.

For those teams who took the time and spent the money to travel to the games that were ultimately rescheduled, the decision is a huge hit to their budgets; in some cases costing their programs hundreds of dollars in additional expense.

But, there is no about of money that can be placed on the safety of players or spectators. These games had to be delayed and rescheduled.

We truly appreciate the time and effort trying to get the games in Friday, but we appreciate more the concern and care exhibited by those in charge.