• Younger athletes sweat less and acclimate slower than adults to warmer environments.
• Basic first aid for heat cramps, syncope and exhaustion is to cool the athlete as quickly as possible.
• Early recognition and intervention are key in avoiding these situations.
• Athletes should gradually acclimate or adjust to the heat.
• Avoid practicing during peak temperature times (11am – 3pm)
• Water breaks should be given more frequently in warmer, more humid weather.

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No matter what your competition level, nutrition is key for fitness.  Here are some basics: 

• Eating for fitness means low fat, higher carbs and plenty of fluids.
• Carbs are the main source of energy for working muscles.
• There is no “Magic Meal”. One good meal before the game can’t make up for bad eating habits.
• The pre game meal should be easy to digest, not make the stomach work harder.
• Over the counter suppliments are not regulated by the FDA. Don’t be fooled by the sales pitch.

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Conditioning and training helps prevent injury.  Did you know?

• 50% of injuries that happen can be avoided if the athlete is properly conditioned.
• Ideally, high school soccer players should participate in year round conditioning programs.
• There are 4 training seasons for a high school sport.
• For younger children, below high school age, preseason conditioning is the most important.
• Preseason exercises should begin with emphasis on stretching while the athlete gets into playing condition.
• There are many soccer players who do not train appropriately and are inactive in the off season.

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As a part of our relationship with Nationwide Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine, monthly articles on sports medicine will be provided to educate the club’s parents and players.  This month the focus is on the sprains and strains of sporting injuries:

• Sprains and strains are some of the most common types of injuries in any sport.
• Sprains occur to ligaments, while strains involve muscles or tendons.
• Severity of the injury is best determined by a Physician or Certified Athletic Trainer
• Immediate first aid for all sprains and strains follows the acronym RICE - Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.
• If the athlete can’t bear weight (for about four steps), further evaluation and x-rays will be needed.

For more detailed information, please click here to read the complete article.  Don’t let minor/treatable injuries plague your soccer season.  Take action and stay in the game!