All the more reason to get the numbers up like Coach wants to do. If you don't have to play both ways, speacialty team etc.... and can focus on one side of the ball, you can rest when the other side is playing. Water breaks at practice will not make them soft, helmets off will not make them soft, it does not mean they are not ready to play. You're correct, preparation is important, but so are the facilities, equipment. Next time you have an opportunity, check out the college level, pro level, see what they do in the extreme heat. These precautions are smart and the right thing to.