High Risk Sport

Hockey is an inherently dangerous sport.  Hockey is classified as a collision sport along with football and rugby.  A collision sport is defined as a sport where one of the objectives is to collide with an opponent or other inanimate objects.  Hockey is a fast paced sport that accentuates the differences in talent from player to player.  In high school athletics these differences in talent equate to differences in size and skill, therefore increasing the risk of injury.  Mid States is no different, the speed and skill of some greatly outweigh others, this is a dangerous combination.

Not sanctioned by state HS activities association.

The Missouri State High School Activities Association does not sanction hockey at the high school level, and therefore hockey does not fall under the direction of the individual high schools.  The high schools are not responsible for providing supervision, monetary support, nor medical coverage.  The governing body for high school hockey in St. Louis is Mid States Club Hockey Association, therefore it is up to Mid States to decide whether or not to mandate medical coverage at games.  Currently there is no requirements for medical coverage at games, nor any requirements for coaches to have basic first aid and CPR training.

“Playing through” a mild injury could lead to serious consequences

“Playing through” any injury without a proper evaluation, could lead to a serious injury with long-term effects.  Any injury suffered during competition needs to be evaluated by a healthcare professional.  Having an athletic trainer on the sidelines of every game gives each athlete the opportunity to have these mild bumps, bruises, sprains and strains evaluated immediately.  Evaluating an injury immediately following the occurrence greatly increases the chance of a proper diagnosis and allows for expedited treatment to occur.  Treating any injury quickly allows for a faster, safer return to competition.  Knowing what the injury is we can then justify a return with extra precautions in place, such as taping, bracing or padding.  

What can parents do?

Parents of the club athlete are the driving force for decision making when it comes to the club.  The most debated topic is money.  The additional cost for mandating medical coverage at each and every game is very minimal.  Once again, St. Louis Athletic Training Services is going to propose mandating medical coverage at games as well as mandating coaches be certified in CPR and First Aid.  To find out more about the proposal or to learn how your club can provide this necessary service, please email:  Mike@stlats.com

Injuries Happen

How many of you have been at a high school game this year and have seen an athlete suffer an injury?  Who went out on the ice to take care of that injury?  A coach, who has no medical education, not even first aid?  Injuries happen, that is one fact that will remain constant in athletics.  Certified Athletic Trainers are the only licensed healthcare provider who provides daily medical service to athletes at practice and competition. 

Not Just for Emergencies

Athletic trainers shouldn't be thought of just when an emergency occurs.  Athletic trainers are a valuable tool in the prevention of injuries as well as the recovery from injuries.  Having an athletic trainer on the bench or sidelines alleviates all pressure from the coaches as to whether or not an athlete may safely resume play.  It should also alleviate the immediate concern from family members to know that an injured athlete as been evaluated by a licensed medical professional, and that a treatment plan can commence immediately.  Athletic Trainers in the traditional settings (i.e. colleges and professional teams) see the athletes daily, evaluate every injury and provide the rehabilitation needed for them to return to play. 

Highlights of our proposal for Mid States Club Hockey Association:

One ATC per Game

One Athletic Trainer per contest.  Athletic Trainer would be stationed on the home bench or in the home penalty box.  Our AT's will arrive early to help stretch or tape players prior to game and will be available after each game to apply ice and evaluate any injuries that need attention.

Supplies

All medical supplies; tape, bandages, pre-wrap, etc. will be provided by St. Louis Athletic Training Services, LLC.  Each athletic training kit will be restocked daily, and transported to the hockey rink by the attending ATC.  We will also be providing an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) to have on hand at rink side in case of a cardiac emergency. 

Coaches Certification

St. Louis Athletic Training Services, LLC is an authorized provider of CPR and First Aide Certification through the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association.  We will provide CPR and First Aide Certification for one coach from each team (Varsity and JV).  Any other coaches who wish to become certified in CPR and First Aide may attend a course at a discount. 

Injury Tracking

Statistical tracking of injuries will help identify any points of emphasis that would make the game safer for athletes.  By using the same athletic trainers, and the same company for each team in the league, information for preventative measures can be passed along to the attending AT.