Time to Gear Up for the Fall Sports Season

Fall sports season is quickly approaching. Before we know it, summer nights will be over and athletes will be reporting for preseason camp. If you are an athlete playing football, soccer, field hockey, tennis, golf and/or cross country now is the time to plan for the fall season. Below is checklist to help you prepare.

1. Pre-Participation Physical

• Physicals are valid for PIAA athletes June 1, 2012 to May 31, 2013.
• You can find the required Pre-Participation form at: http://www.piaa.org/assets/web/documents/Section%20VII%20Forms.%20CIPPE_...
• Do not procrastinate scheduling your appointment. Many physicians are booked out several weeks. You cannot begin participation in preseason until you have clearance by a physician.
• Why get your Pre-Participation Physical at Performance Spine and Sports Medicine?
  • Easy, efficient scheduling
  • Meet and familiarize yourself with our Sports Medicine Team
  • Includes
    • ImPACT testing – concussion management test
    • OptoGait testing – baseline physical performance test

2. Strength Training and Conditioning

• Make sure you report to preseason in shape
• You’ll standout among your teammates
• You’ll be able to focus on techniques and skills versus trying to get into shape.
• You’ll decrease the risk of injury. 
• Consult with PSSM’s Certified Athletic Trainer if you need help developing an appropriate program.

3. Athletic Equipment

• Get your apparel now!
  • Begin familiarizing yourself with new gear and ensure you are comfortable in it.
  • Preseason is not the time to “break in your gear”
• PSSM will be at Schuylkill Valley Sports in Newtown, PA on Saturday July 14th   from 9am-7pm performing free OptoGait assessments and offering injury prevention tips to customers. Truly a one stop shop for all athletes alike!

Stay ahead of the game and do not procrastinate in your preparation of the fall sports season! For more tips on how you can prepare, please contact Matt Shade MEd., ATC at mshade@pssmnewtown.com.