Protecting Children From Sports Injuries As School Starts Up

It has been a while since kids have enjoyed organized sporting activities at school. But, as the school year starts, it is a good idea to give your kids a “crash course” in how to stay safe while they play basketball, volleyball, football, and other sports. Remember, an ounce of prevention is always easier and cheaper than a trip to the emergency room.

Get Current With CHSAA’s Changes

CHSAA has made several modifications to keep kids safe from acquiring or transmitting COVID-19. Read the rules that apply to cross country, softball, tennis, basketball, hockey, swimming, diving, wrestling, soccer, football, lacrosse, and many other sports.

Go Over the Rules of the Game

Even if your child has played the same sport throughout their educational career, it is always a good idea to go over the game’s rules before the season starts. A few minutes spent on the sidelines can ensure your child doesn’t get benched for holding, checking, striking, or otherwise ending up on the foul side of the referee.

Check the Gear

Sporting equipment takes a beating during the season. And, it can deteriorate as it sits unused in the closet or in the garage. Always give your child’s helmets, pads, face shields, and other gear a thorough cleaning and inspection before the season starts. If damaged, repair it before play begins. If damaged beyond repair, replace it immediately. Further, make sure it fits properly. Your child is likely to have outgrown helmets and other gear that fit like a glove just a year or two ago.

Don’t Push It (Or Push Them!)

COVID-19 and the delayed or canceled seasons have put a lot of pressure on high school children hoping to obtain sports scholarships. While it may be tempting to push your child to catch up and stand out by taking risks to win the game or take the medal, it’s not a risk worth taking. You may put your child in physical danger and could derail a budding sporting future before it gets back on track. Instead, let your child ease back into their sport and proceed toward their goals at a steady and safe pace.

If you need a civil legal practitioner to pursue sports-related injuries, contact the team at Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., and we’ll tell you more about the legal services we offer parents and students in Boulder and along the Front Range.