Safety Tips For Your Young Athlete From Athletic Trainer Erik Collins

As someone who played football, basketball, and golf in high school, athletic trainer Erik Collins understands the physical demands on student athletes. In addition to the guidance he provides to the teams under his charge, he also has tips that parents can use to keep their young athletes in good condition to safely enjoy athletic competition.

“Protective equipment is so important to safety,” says Erik. “Players may not like wearing certain equipment, but it’s my job to educate them—and their parents—about why we need this protective equipment. It’s great when parents join me in encouraging their kids to use protective gear during games—and during practice.”

Watching for signs and symptoms of concussions is another area where parents are in a unique position to help protect their young athletes. “Sometimes, kids don’t know they have a concussion, and sometimes, concussion symptoms don’t show up until a few hours later when kids are at home,” Erik explains. “Parents know their kids best, and are in the best position to notice when something’s just not right. We educate the parents of our athletes about concussions so that they can recognize the warning signs and get help.”

“Another important step parents can take is to make sure their kids get enough sleep,” Erik notes. “Studies show that getting eight to 10 hours of sleep improves athletic performance and decreases the risk of injury. When these students get seven hours of sleep or less, the body doesn’t have a chance to recover, and reaction time isn’t as good, increasing injury risks.”

Providing balanced meals and adequate hydration is central to good health. “Children need a diet of fruit, vegetables, protein, carbs, and healthful fats,” says Erik. “Parents can also make sure that children hydrate in the evening before practice or a game. Send them to school with a water bottle too!”

Studies have shown that it’s smart to encourage students to participate in as many different sports as they can comfortably play. “I’ve worked at the college level,” says Erik. “I know coaches are looking for kids who have played more than one sport; it helps to build an all-around athlete and prevent the likelihood of burnout.”

Erik and the Summit sports medicine teams are monitoring the athletes in District 833 on the field to make sure each player is in good health and playing safely. Parents can do their part by following Erik’s tips on—and off—the field. “Staying in the best condition throughout the sports season is about doing the little things, taking care of your body, and being disciplined,” says Erik. “We are here to watch out for these kids, and to teach their families the best ways to support them too.”

Summit Orthopedics offers comprehensive sports medicine expertise

From Olympians to pro athletes to kids in youth sports and those that just want to be more active—Summit Orthopedics delivers expert care by fellowship-trained sports medicine physicians. If you are recently injured or concerned about ongoing pain, Summit Orthopedics sports medicine specialists have the expertise to evaluate your discomfort and develop a plan to quickly and safely help you get back to being active.

Start your journey to stronger, healthier athletic condition. Find your sports medicine expert, request an appointment online, or call us at (651) 968–5201 to schedule a sports medicine consultation.

Summit has convenient locations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We have state-of-the-art centers for comprehensive orthopedic care in Eagan, MN, Vadnais Heights, MN, Plymouth, MN, and Woodbury, MN, as well as several additional community clinics.

More resources for you

• Meet Athletic Trainer Sara Rock
• Supporting Our Community Through Medical Care For Student Athletes
• Ask Dr. Pepin: How Many Sports Should My Child Play?
• Ask Dr. Skendzel: When Can My Child Safely Begin Sports?

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