Heat-Related Illnesses a Concern for Local Football Coaches and Trainers

As temperatures soar this week in the Mitchell area, local football coaches and trainers are on high alert for heat-related illnesses in players. Today's heat index is forecasted to reach 100 degrees and above, and the warm temperatures could continue into this weekend's season-opening games.

The South Dakota High School Athletic Association website provides valuable resources for coaches and trainers to prevent and manage the risk of heat-related illnesses. Coaches and trainers are using these resources to alter practice schedules, provide adequate hydration, and monitor players for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Key Takeaways:

• Heat-related illnesses are a significant concern for local football coaches and trainers, particularly during the hot days of summer and early fall.
• The South Dakota High School Athletic Association website provides a heat index calculator and lists practice modifications to avoid heat illness and injury.
• Coaches and trainers are emphasizing the importance of player hydration, recommending that players drink water throughout the day and avoid carbonation and caffeine.
• Players should be monitored for signs of heat-related illnesses, including dizziness, lightheadedness, and cramping, and receive immediate medical attention if necessary.
• A trainer will be present at every game to monitor player health and provide assistance if needed.
• Referees are using heat timeouts during the first few weeks of the season to help prevent heat-related illnesses.

Statistics:

• Today's heat index is forecasted to reach 100 degrees and above in the Mitchell area.
• The South Dakota High School Athletic Association website reports that heat-related illnesses are a significant concern for football players during the hot days of summer and early fall.
• According to the SDHSAA, 10-minute water breaks for every 30 minutes of practice can help prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• The color of urine can be used to check a player's hydration levels: the clear the urine is, the more hydrated the player is.

Sources:

• The Daily Republic (Mitchell, S.D.) at www.mitchellrepublic.com
• South Dakota High School Athletic Association website
• Interview with Mitchell High School athletic trainer Clayton Gropper
• Interview with Gregory head football coach Brian Allmendinger
• Interview with Tripp-Delmont/Armour football coach Kelly Hansen