Thousands of high school football players take to the field under the Friday night lights so we can enjoy America’s favorite pastime. It’s great entertainment, but if you’re the parent of one of those players, you want to feel confident they’re staying safe. And the same goes for parents of volleyball and basketball players, swimmers, cyclists and other high school athletes.
We’re here to empower you with actionable steps you can take to help keep them safe. Here’s how.
Get a Thorough Sports Physical
Having a full sports physical before the school year starts is always a good idea. And because doctors and high-impact sports leadership are on the same page in terms of recognizing the importance of preventing repeated concussions, they'll likely recommend your child has baseline testing for a concussion.
It’s important because athletic trainers and other health care providers can compare athletes' symptoms to their own baseline imaging test if they suffer a concussion during the season.
Make Sure They Stay Hydrated
Young players must stay well-hydrated, especially when the temperature is rising. Student-athletes who play outdoors should understand the dangers of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Their coaches should also require mandatory water breaks and limit the amount of time they spend practicing in hot and humid weather.
You can also do your part at home by encouraging your student-athlete to drink frequently. To stay hydrated, they should drink water or sports drinks consistently for several days before a high-heat day.
Insist on Protective Equipment
If your child’s sport requires protective gear like helmets, shin, and mouth guards, it’s for a good reason — they could get hurt. The best way to keep your kiddo on the field, court or other playing area is to ensure they wear it.
Advocate for an Athletic Trainer
Injuries are greatly reduced when athletic trainers are available to implement prevention programs, yet so many schools don’t have them. If your child's school is one of them, it's time to take a stand. Student-athletes deserve sports medicine care — not only because they're athletes but also because they're growing children, which means an untreated injury could be permanently damaging.
Encourage Continued Physical Activity During the Off-Season
When athletes play multiple sports throughout the year, they can stay in shape and prevent overuse of their body from just one sport. If they don't want to play another sport during a certain time of the year, urge them to start a fitness routine.
Educate Them About Lightning Safety
Young athletes should know that the National Weather Service recommends staying off phones and electric devices when lightning is in the area. Make sure your child is aware of the potential health ramifications of being struck by lightning and that their coach is committed to keeping them safe from a lightning strike.
Get Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Training
According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival after sudden cardiac arrest. You never know when your child or teammate will need emergency care; it can only help to have one more person around who knows CPR.
Our Expert Team Is Ready to Help
At AdventHealth, your child’s safety is our top priority. Our Sports Med and Rehab care program is ready to help your student-athlete recover from injury safely and get back in the game. It offers ways to help them avoid future injuries.
