CCHS athletics work to prevent sports injuries

Churchill County High School athletics wrapped up the academic year with a low number of injuries but the department is planning to enhance workout routines in order to further prevent injuries during practice.

Athletic Director Brad Daum said concussions and injuries have decreased for most sports but most injuries occur during practice, not at an event. From all sports, concussions totaled six, Daum said.

He presented the updates Wednesday during the school board meeting, as Trustee Carmen Schank requested updates on sport injuries.

Daum said football had the most injuries this year but fewer concussions, totaling 2.

“Injuries happen the most in contact sports,” he said. “We have to eliminate live contact during practice.”

The tackle plan also has been changed based off of the Seattle Seahawks, Daum said; contact is initiated behind the head from the opponent being tackled, and is brought to the ground.

“We may see more knee and ankle injuries with this method but concussion issues are down because of it,” he said. “We don’t do live scrimmage anymore.”

Daum said four concussions were diagnosed in girls’ soccer. With regular inspections throughout the fields, complex, and indoor facilities, Daum said maintenance removed roots from trees exposed from the ground. He also said football helmets are reconditioned every year to be certified as safe to use.

Currently, sports teams engage in active warm ups including a light jog and end the workout with stretches. Daum also suggested possibly investing in ankle braces for volleyball, as well as for lineman, and halo headsets for soccer players to prevent concussions.

Daum also said the board should consider partnering with Banner Churchill Community Hospital.

“Washoe County schools partnered with Reno orthopedics,” he said about athletic training. “South Lake Tahoe and Truckee also have done something similar. If it means that we need grants to help, I’m willing to look.”