Being Prepared for Sports Injuries

Notice: This article was written by Steve Jordan, Coach's Notebook. Email the author at sjordan@alaskalife.net.

We all love to participate in basketball (or you wouldn't be reading this page!). Its a great way to have fun and stay in shape. But, in addition to having fun and competitive, we need to be responsible about protecting children from injuries. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons estimate that, every year, over 565,000 kids under 15 are injured playing basketball. 

The first example of a basketball injury that usually comes to mind is probably a twisted ankle or perhaps an abrasion. Such injuries are very common. But, coaches can play a major role in preventing more serious injuries by evaluating their practice and game environment. When you arrive at your practice gym, take a quick look around. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Is the floor dirty? Do see trash lying around? 
2. What about equipment left from other activities, such as chairs, mats, balance beams, soccer nets, etc.?
3. Are there cords, ropes or other tripping hazards around?
4. Did the players leave their clothes on the floor near the playing area?

If "yes" is the answer to any of these questions, take action and clean up the area. If possible, find the janitor and borrow a broom. Most janitors will be happy to have you help out. Move obstacles to a safe place or into the hallway during your practice. Get the kids involved in the clean up. Don't let them shoot around while you do the work. Don't be shy - you're on a mission for safety!

Are nearby pillars, water fountains, stage decks covered by padding? If not, inform your basketball organization immediately. Be sure to use the words "safety and children" in the same sentence and you will probably get results. A letter using these words is very effective because administrators know that if something happens they'll see another letter with the words "safety, children and damages" in it.

Next, look at your players. Are their shoes tied? Do they have grooming instruments in their hair? How about jewelry? Observe the same ornamentation standards in practice that are enforced in a game. Once the kids realize you're serious, they'll comply without grumbling.

Every coach needs to be prepared, at least on a rudimentary level, for the common injuries to players. The youngest kids seem to get through the seasons pretty well, but as the players grow older and push their bodies to new limits, injuries are inevitable. Basketball coaches can expect their players to suffer sprains, bruises, scratches and abrasions. These injuries will happen to your players no matter what, so it makes sense to be prepared for them. Although its much less common, you may see a player suffer a serious knee injury or perhaps a concussion. How will you deal with that?

There are two ways to prepare for injuries, get the proper training and have an emergency first aid kit on hand at all games and practices. If you fail to do either or both of these actions, you will certainly regret it once an incident occurs. Most youth leagues require first aid training for all coaches and administrative personnel. The YMCA league I often work with provides a first aid kit for each team. If your organization does not, ask them to. At the least, buy your own kit. Get one first aid kit for your team and one for your home.

The Coach's Notebook does not intend to instruct you in the practice of first aid. However, in the interest of safety for your children, the following links are provided for your perusal. First Aid training is available in most cities. Look in your Yellow Pages under First Aid Instruction and First Aid Supplies.

Cost of First Aid classes run from $0 to about $50. Your youth basketball organization may provide annual classes, as may the Red Cross. Ask your employer if they will pay for the class (its in your mutual interests) or see if they offer certified classes at the office.

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