For many athletes this may be their first impact sport, therefore the may not understand the difference between being sore and being injured.  

If you do not exercise regularly, it may take a little while for you to distinguish between muscle soreness and pain during workouts.

If the "hurt" feels like a jab, zap, tear, pull, if it causes you to suddenly stop running and if it prevents you from moving through a full range of motion, it is best to stop the exercise and seek medical attention through a doctor.

We recommend that athletes stretch every night.  Ice the sore area (20 mins on-20 mins off) and if need be rest for one-two days.  If the soreness persists after two days, please consult your doctor.

When an athlete is not able to participate in a practice or a meet, we will need an excused absence from the DR.  They will not be able to return to practice until they have been cleared by the dr as well.  Please have your athlete go home to rest after school.  

SHIN SPLINTS:  Most common injury.  Massaging the area with a tennis ball and ice every night are the two best options.  Rest may be recommended, however, you are looking at 4-6 weeks of rest before you will be cleared.  Remember, our season is only 8 weeks long.  Prevent shin splints now by purchasing a good pair of running shoes and stretching and icing the first two weeks of practice.