How Student-Athletes Can Stay Healthy This Spring
The Winning Gameplan: How Student-Athletes Can Stay Healthy This Spring
Written by: Scott Coleman, SWVHS Communications Manager, and Rikki Evans, APRN, FNP-C
As student-athletes gear up for spring sports, staying healthy is just as important as training hard. Rikki Evans, APRN, FNP-C, a provider at Southern West Virginia Health System, shares expert advice on injury prevention, proper nutrition, and overall-wellbeing for young athletes.
Preparation is Key
“Being Prepared is a big part of being successful, and with sports, it’s no different,” says Evans. “Proper nutrition, hydration, adequate rest, and conditioning all play a role in preventing injuries and maintaining peak performance.” She emphasizes that stretching, practicing good habits, and listening to one’s body can make all the difference in an athlete’s season.
Fueling Performance with Nutrition & Hydration
Nutrition and hydration are essential for athletic success. “That’s your energy, what fuels you,” Evans explains. “Poor nutrition and inadequate hydration can negatively impact performance, increase the risk of injury, and simply make you feel unwell.” Ensuring student-athletes consume balanced meals and stay hydrated helps them stay strong, recover quicker, and avoid preventable setbacks.
The Role of Parents/Guardians and Coaches
Parents/guardians and coaches play a crucial role in supporting young athletes’ well-being. “Be available, be present, and check in with them, not just about sports, but other areas of their life too,” Evans advises. Emotional and mental support is just as important as physical care in helping student-athletes thrive.
Managing Health Conditions While Playing Sports
For students with chronic conditions such as asthma or allergies, self-awareness is key. “Know your body, recognize your limits, and rest when needed,” says Evans. Proactive management, including carrying any necessary medications and communicating with coaches can help athletes safely participate in sports.
Recovering from Injuries: Patience is Power
Returning from an injury too soon can lead to further complications. “You can’t be your best when you aren’t feeling your best,” Evans warns. She advises athletes to follow their healthcare provider’s guidance, take recovery slowly, and listen to their bodies to ensure a full and safe return to play.
The Importance of Sports Physicals
Sports physicals can help catch potential health concerns before an athlete begins training. “It’s a general exam that ensures an athlete is ready for participation,” explains Evans. Having this preventive checkup can make a big difference in identifying any underlying issues that may impact performance or safety.
Bringing Health Care Directly to Students
One of the greatest advantages of school-based health care is accessibility. “Rural healthcare is about making care convenient,” says Evans. “Having clinics ins schools means students and staff can receive medical attention without having to leave campus.” Parents can sign and return consent forms to allow their child to receive care during school hours, helping manage illnesses or injuries when parents are working or unavailable.
Balancing School, Sports, and Mental Health
Managing school, sports, and extracurricular activities can be overwhelming for student-athletes. Evans reminds students that balance is key. “Find what’s important to you. If an activity becomes more stressful than enjoyable, it may be time to take a step back,” she says. “Kids often feel pressure to be great at everything, but the reality is, you don’t have to. Do what you enjoy and ask for help when you need it.”
Rikki Evans, APRN, FNP-C is a provider at Van Elementary Health Center and Van Junior & Senior High Health Center, where she works with student-athletes to ensure they have the health care and support they need to thrive.
As spring sports kick off, prioritizing health and well-being will set student-athletes up for success both on and off the field. To learn more about our school-based health services, including how to enroll your child and the benefits of having access to care directly within the school environment, please visit www.swvhs.org/service/school-based-health/ . Our website provides detailed information about the services we offer, how to complete the enrollment process, and the steps for ensuring your child receives timely and convenient care. We are committed to making healthcare accessible and supportive for students and their families.
About Southern West Virginia Health System (SWVHS):
Southern West Virginia Health System is a comprehensive healthcare organization dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare services throughout Southern West Virginia. SWVHS offers a full spectrum of medical care, including family medicine-based primary care, specialty care, pharmacy services, and school-based health care, all designed to meet the evolving health needs of the region’s residents.
For media inquiries, contact:
Scott Coleman
Communications Manager
Southern West Virginia Health System
(681)479-0809
Scott.coleman@swvhs.org
