While some players around the country never have to worry about dressing properly for snowy weather, everyone at some point plays in the rain.

Last weekend was our first rainy game of the season. It felt like it took more time to think through how our son should dress and what extra clothes and items to bring for him than it did to actually play the game.

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Let’s start with what to wear during the game. I always suggest wearing a cotton or water-absorbing shirt of some sort under the jersey to help soak in the water. I’m not sure how much it actually changes the performance of a player, but unless you’re a swimmer, it always feels better while you’re playing if your body isn’t soaking wet. Your child might also appreciate wearing a pair of leggings for the same purpose.

If they have an opportunity to make a change at halftime of a rainy game, bring along an extra shirt and leggings to swap out. Another good suggestion is to bring an extra pair of socks and a roll of paper towels to stuff the cleats with to try and soak up some of the water during the break. That way, at least the player’s feet are dry to start the second half. If your child has an extra pair of cleats, obviously that’s the ideal situation.

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For after the game, bring a complete change of clothes. Whether they change in a locker room, bathroom or makeshift area in your car, win or lose, they’ll be glad to get out of their wet clothes for the ride home. And don’t forget to bring a couple bath towels. By the end of the game, no matter what they’re wearing under their uniform, their bodies will be soaked.

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Most kids don’t mind playing in the rain and in fact many enjoy it. Doing the little things before, during and after the game will make the experience even more bearable.

Jon Buzby has been involved in and writing about youth sports for the past 30 years, originally as a coach and board member with his now-adult son and most recently "just as a dad" with his 9- and 11-year-old sons. Jon is an award-winning writer and his latest book, “Coaching Kids Made Easier,” is available on Amazon. Send comments or future blog topics you'd like to see to JonBuzby@hotmail.com and follow him @YouthSportsBuzz on Twitter.